Candlelit vigil for war dead and wounded

Over 1,000 youth union members attended the candle lighting ceremonies in Hanoi and Quang Tri to pay tributes to the 71st War Invalids and Martyrs' Day on July 27.

Over 1,000 youth union members attended the candle lighting ceremonies in Hanoi and Quang Tri to pay tributes to the 71st War Invalids and Martyrs' Day on July 27.

Thousands attend the vigil

Hanoi Youth Union worked with other central agencies, Hanoi Capital High Command, and Vietnam Border Defence Force to hold the ceremony at Mai Dich Cemetery. Heroic mothers and families of the soldiers were also invited to talk with city leaders.

Candles were lit on nearly 2,000 graves. Nguyen Hoang Mai Linh, a student at the College of Trade and Tourism, said, "This is the first time I have paid tribute to the soldiers. I feel really moved and grateful for their sacrifices for our independence."

The General Political Department of the People's Army also worked with Quang Tri Province authorities to hold the music show and candlelit Vigil at Road 9 National Cemetery where nearly 11,000 soldiers are buried. The music show was divided into three parts including the memory of Road 9, the everlasting song about Road 9 and finally the documentaries about war.

At the ceremony, the organisers gave away five saving accounts that worth VND10m (USD400) and five houses to disadvantaged families. 60 gifts that worth VND1m (USD40) each were given to the children and families.

Quang Tri has 72 war cemeteries with over 55,000 graves. Since 6 pm, members of the provincial youth union lit candles on every grave.

The candle will be kept alight at Thach Han throughout July 26 to 27.

Some photos of the ceremonies:

  

  

  

Candles lit in Hanoi

Heroic mother Do Thi Nhuan

  

Quang Tri held candle lighting ceremony for fallen and wounded soldiers on July 26