On the morning of December 20, the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam, the National Assembly, the President, the Government, the Central Committee of the Vietnam Fatherland Front, and the Central Military Commission–Ministry of National Defense held a national ceremony marking the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Vietnam People’s Army (VPA) and the 35th anniversary of the All-People's National Defense Festival.

General Secretary To Lam, Secretary of the Central Military Commission, attended the ceremony alongside Party and State leaders, former leaders, and representatives from ministries, agencies, and localities. Also present were senior revolutionary figures, Vietnamese Heroic Mothers, Heroes of the People’s Armed Forces, Labor Heroes, members of the diplomatic corps, international organizations, and representatives of the military and veterans from several countries.

A historic foundation

In his address, General Secretary To Lam reviewed the formation and development of the Vietnam People’s Army.

Under the directive of leader Ho Chi Minh, the Vietnam Propaganda Liberation Army Team, the predecessor of the VPA, was founded on December 22, 1944. The team quickly demonstrated strategic brilliance and daring in its first battles at Phai Khat and Na Ngan, establishing a legacy of resolute victory.

Just eight months later, the team joined local armed forces and the people nationwide in a general uprising, seizing power across the country and bringing about the success of the August Revolution of 1945. This historic achievement led to the establishment of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam.

Under the leadership of the Party and President Ho Chi Minh, the military rapidly grew in strength and achieved significant victories.

From an initial force of 34 members, the VPA expanded to six infantry divisions, an artillery division, and numerous main force regiments. This growth enabled consecutive victories in major campaigns, culminating in the historic victory at Dien Bien Phu, forcing France to surrender.

By the time the VPA celebrated its 10th anniversary, it had defeated professional expeditionary forces with centuries of experience, showcasing the intellectual and military artistry of Vietnam.

During the socialist construction era in the North, the VPA transitioned into a regular, modern military force. It consisted of ground forces, naval forces, air and air defense forces, and strategic army corps. This modernization proved critical during the arduous and fierce resistance war against the United States.

Entering the period of national reconstruction and defense, the military played a central role in overcoming the consequences of war, fostering economic and social development, and defending national sovereignty. It has consistently upheld its triple mission: combat force, workforce, and production force.

General Secretary To Lam underlined the military's responsibility in safeguarding independence, sovereignty, unity, territorial integrity, the Party, the government, and the socialist system. The VPA remains a trusted political and combat force, fully loyal to the Party, the State, and the people.

In recent years, the VPA has restructured into a streamlined and strong force, laying a solid foundation for building a revolutionary, regular, elite, and modern military.

Advances in defense industry technology have enabled the successful production of advanced weaponry and dual-use equipment, contributing to the country’s industrialization and modernization.

International integration and defense diplomacy have also yielded comprehensive results, bolstering Vietnam's position in bilateral and multilateral frameworks.

General Secretary To Lam expressed pride in the VPA’s growing strength, ability to operate in strategic spaces, and mastery of new forms of warfare. The military continues to inherit and develop Vietnam’s unique military traditions, demonstrating exceptional readiness and capability.

The General Secretary emphasized that December 22 is not only an occasion to honor the VPA’s illustrious history but also a day to showcase national unity in defense and development.

He presented the Ho Chi Minh Order to the Vietnam People’s Army, recognizing its extraordinary contributions to the revolution and the nation.

Moving forward, General Secretary To Lam stressed the importance of maintaining the Party’s absolute leadership, the State's centralized management, and a steadfast commitment to national independence and socialism.

He called for the integration of national and international strengths, fostering self-reliance and global collaboration. Additionally, he highlighted the importance of cultivating high-quality human resources, preserving Vietnam’s unique military artistry, and ensuring that the VPA remains prepared to confront both traditional and non-traditional security challenges.

By adhering to the principle of "people first, weapons second," the VPA will continue to thrive, contributing to the peace, security, and prosperity of Vietnam and the region.