Tran Van Thanh rides a motorbike from Nghe An Province to HCM City to witness the grand military parade on the National Reunification Day. Photo by Long Nhat Media.
Tran Van Thanh, a 77-year-old war veteran from Vinh City, Nghe An province, has set off on a solo motorbike journey to HCM City, determined to witness the grand military parade marking the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification on April 30.
Images of the elderly man, his wrinkled face framed by a military uniform, riding his motorbike with the national flag flying behind, have moved many across Vietnam. His quiet determination and patriotic spirit are capturing people's hearts along the way.
Tran Van Thanh stops for a rest in Quang Tri Province. Photo by Xuan Son.
Speaking to Vietnamnet, Thanh said this journey had been a long-cherished dream, and the timing felt right.
"I've always wanted to drive to the old battlefields in Quang Tri, explore the famous landmarks of Vietnam, and witness the 50th anniversary parade in HCM City," he shared. "I invited fellow veterans and friends to come, but they couldn't join due to age and health issues. I chose not to take a bus or taxi, and I wanted to explore every inch of this land on my terms."
Thanh remained resolute despite his wife and children's concerns about his age and stamina. On the morning of April 17, at precisely 10.20 am, he set off with a few clothes, personal items, a pot, and a hammock strapped to his motorbike.
He explained that the journey is about freedom and connection.
"I ride slowly. When I'm tired, I stop. Sometimes, I'll stay at a guesthouse; other times, I'll string up my hammock somewhere shaded and rest."
By April 20, reporters caught up with Thanh in Quang Nam, where he enjoyed a meal and shared stories. He assured them his health and spirits were in great shape. He rode around 200 kilometres daily and said he feels no back pain or fatigue.
"I'm thrilled. Each place I pass brings new beauty and memories. I reconnect with old friends and soak in the scenery," he said with a smile. "I estimate I'll reach HCM City by the 28th or 29th, just before the parade. After that, I'll decide what to do based on my health and finances."
A veteran of the anti-American resistance, Thanh fought in the Quang Tri battlefields during the war. While he has returned several times to visit these places with comrades, this is his first solo road trip, an extraordinary act of remembrance, freedom, and quiet resilience.
The road from Vinh City to HCM City is over 1.300 km long, following National Road 1A.
