From the Declaration of Independence in 1945 to the fierce battle of Tuc Dup Hill in 1968, from golden pages of history to today’s footsteps of visitors, the spirit of Independence has never faded.

As Vietnam marks the 80th anniversary of its National Day (September 2, 1945 - September 2, 2025), the nation's collective memory echoes once more with the immortal words of the 1945 Declaration of Independence. That sacred moment in history affirmed the Vietnamese people's right to freedom, independence, and their aspiration to shape their own destiny.

Etched deep into the oath of independence, the hills of An Giang still resound with an epic story soaked in the blood and sacrifice of revolutionary soldiers at Tuc Dup Hill.

128 days and nights of fierce resistance

In 1968, a prolonged 128-day battle broke out on the limestone peak known as Tuc Dup Hill, located in O Lam commune, An Giang province.

The 216-meter-high limestone hill, riddled with treacherous caves and fortified by an indomitable spirit, became an “unyielding fortress” despite repeated assaults and tons of bombs and artillery fired by US and South Vietnamese forces. Every step, every cliff on Tuc Dup bore the mark of the unrelenting spirit: “As long as there is land and people, we fight.” The hill became a living monument to the oath of independence carved into stone.

Everything here still bears the imprint of those who held fast to their sacred vow. A soldier clutching his submachine gun amid a smoky battlefield, female militia members and nurses silently tending wounds in underground shelters, meals of cassava laced with tears, letters from home burned before they could be read to avoid detection by the enemy’s light - these moments wove an epic where every heartbeat, every breath echoed the word “Independence.”

Throughout 128 harrowing days and nights, Tuc Dup Hill became the focal point of a relentless US air assault. Hundreds of bombing raids poured destruction onto the hill. Waves of B-52 bombers roared overhead, dropping cluster bombs on the small yet defiant outpost, engulfing it in a sea of fire and smoke.

Despite being heavily outnumbered and severely under-equipped, the revolutionary forces, with iron will and flexible tactics, stood firm under the rain of bombs. After more than four months of dogged resistance, the army and people eliminated 4,700 enemy troops, destroyed 11 tanks, shot down two fighter jets and four helicopters, and annihilated nine 105mm artillery pieces. The enemy suffered a financial loss equivalent to USD 2 million - a testament to the failure of force against unwavering determination.

The 128-day battle on Tuc Dup Hill was not only a resounding military achievement but also a symbol of defiance, acknowledged by the Central Committee of the Communist Party with eight golden words: “Steadfast resistance, firmly defending Nui To.” It marked a pivotal moment, showcasing the exceptional growth of An Giang’s armed forces in the fight against US intervention.

Tuc Dup today - A sacred destination for patriotic remembrance

Though the war is long over, Tuc Dup Hill remains a “red address” on the journey of remembrance. Scars of battle remain - bullet marks on stone walls, wartime tunnels once used as surgery stations, food depots, and meeting rooms. Each name is simple yet haunting: “Women’s Cave,” “Medical Cave,” “C6 Shelter”… each a chapter of history, a silent story of profound sacrifice.

Continuing the spirit of August

Today, Tuc Dup is one of An Giang’s premier tourist attractions. It serves not only as a place of remembrance but also offers unique experiences for both domestic and international visitors. Guided tours blend historical exploration with eco-tourism and are continuously being expanded and improved.

With lush green forests and tranquil lakes, Tuc Dup now stands as a “green lung” in the wilderness, where visitors can reconnect with nature while learning about history through immersive storytelling. The hill becomes both a sacred and lively space, nurturing patriotism and national pride in younger generations. Each visit, each incense stick lit deep within the caves, is not just an act of remembrance but a call to honor the past and inspire the future.

As visitors walk the path of remembrance, eyes fixed on the national flag flying atop the summit, the spirit of August continues to be written into the soul of every Vietnamese citizen.

Phong Nguyen