1. December 22nd Speech #4
Honorable delegates!
Dear comrades and students...
Amid the joyous and proud atmosphere of the entire Party, people, and armed forces, we commemorate the highest achievements marking the anniversary of the establishment of the Vietnam People's Army (22/12/1944 - 22/12/202x) and the National Defense Day (22/12/1989 - 22/12/202x). On behalf of the History Department at ........ High School, I would like to review the glorious history of the Vietnam People's Army.
It was .... years ago when a pivotal event in the history of Vietnam's revolution occurred: the founding of the Vietnam Propaganda Liberation Army, the predecessor of our current Vietnam People's Army. The founding of the Communist Party of Vietnam in 1930 marked a turning point, ending the crisis in leadership and the direction of the national salvation movement. In the brief political program adopted at the Party's founding conference in February 1930, the Party and President Ho Chi Minh spoke about the creation of a "workers' and peasants' army".
In the political platform adopted at the First Central Committee meeting in October 1930, the Party further emphasized the task of "arming the workers and peasants." During the revolutionary wave of 1930 - 1931, exemplified by the Soviet movements in Nghe-Tinh, the "Red Self-Defense Teams" were formed, marking the beginnings of our revolutionary armed forces.
From 1939, as the global situation changed, the Vietnamese revolution adopted a new strategy, prioritizing the fight against imperialism and preparing for an armed insurrection. Revolutionary movements intensified in both urban and rural areas, with several armed organizations forming, including the North Son Guerrillas, Southern Guerrillas, Ba To Guerrillas, and the national salvation armies (1st on 14/2/1941, 2nd on 15/9/1941). The rapid expansion of revolutionary armed forces called for a unified central army.
Before the formation of a unified main army, President Ho Chi Minh sent instructions to General Vo Nguyen Giap, stating that the name "Vietnam Propaganda Liberation Army" signified a political rather than military focus. He emphasized that though small at first, it would become a shining example of liberation. On December 22, 1944, in the breathtaking backdrop of the Vietnam-Bac Forest, near Hoang Hoa Tham and Tran Hung Dao communes in Cao Bang province (now Tam Kim commune, Nguyen Binh district), General Giap, on behalf of the Party and President Ho Chi Minh, solemnly declared the establishment of the Vietnam Propaganda Liberation Army, initially consisting of 34 soldiers, led by Captain Hoang Sam, with Xich Thang as the Political Officer and Hoang Van Thai handling intelligence and plans. Under the red and yellow flag, the army took an oath of loyalty to the nation and the revolution, committing to sacrifice everything for the cause of national liberation. Two days after its founding, the Army launched successful raids on the Phai Khat and Na Ngan posts in Cao Bang, destroying enemy troops and seizing weapons, marking the beginning of the army's tradition of victory.
In April 1945, the Party decided to unify all armed forces under the Vietnam Liberation Army. After the August Revolution of 1945, the Vietnam Liberation Army was renamed the National Defense Army. In 1950, it became the Vietnam People's Army.
Thus, the Vietnam People's Army was born out of the nation's patriotic tradition and the indomitable will of its people, founded and nurtured by the Communist Party of Vietnam and President Ho Chi Minh. Over the years, it has grown stronger, overcoming foreign invaders and achieving resounding victories that have elevated the nation's glory. On October 17, 1989, the Politburo declared December 22nd as both the anniversary of the Vietnam People's Army and the National Defense Day, marking a new stage in the development of the armed forces and national defense.
After over 70 years of growth and victories, our army's triumphs include battles like the Siege of Phai Khat, the Dien Bien Phu victory in 1954, and the historic reunification of the country in 1975. From early days with minimal resources, the army has consistently embodied heroism, from soldiers fighting with makeshift weapons to those making ultimate sacrifices in the name of the nation’s freedom and independence.
Today, the spirit of the "Uncle Ho's Soldiers" shines bright, embodied by soldiers who courageously rescue people from natural disasters and continue to serve selflessly, showing the enduring power of unity, discipline, and commitment to the people. We remember and honor the heroes who fought for independence and peace, and we pledge to carry forward the legacy of the Vietnam People's Army, ensuring the prosperity of our homeland.
Dear students, as you are the future of the nation, I encourage you to draw strength from the rich history of our revolution and army. Together, we must build a stronger Vietnam, ensuring the fulfillment of President Ho Chi Minh’s vision for an independent, peaceful, and prosperous country.
Finally, I wish all teachers good health and happiness, and I wish all students great success in their studies, training, and contributions to our nation.
Thank you very much.

2. Speech on December 22nd, No. 5
Dear comrades in the Party Committee, and the leaders of the Provincial Military Command!
Dear former leaders of the Provincial Military Command!
Honorable delegates and attendees!
In recent years, alongside the continuous growth and strengthening of the Armed Forces and the Military Region’s Armed Forces, the youth of the Provincial Military Command have consistently upheld the military’s traditions, effectively fulfilling the roles of a combat force, a working force, and a productive labor force. The youth have always been a reliable reserve force for the Party, constantly taking the lead in successfully completing the political missions of their units and organizations.
The youth, as soldiers, have adhered to the Party's military policies, continuously educating themselves to build strong political will, maintaining absolute trust in the Party’s leadership, staying vigilant, and combining combat training with readiness and discipline. They foster internal unity and solidarity with the people, all while upholding the Party’s values and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam’s goals.
Our tradition is one of boldness in taking on heavy responsibilities, of tackling difficult and challenging tasks, of thinking creatively to accomplish our objectives. The youth have a deep bond with each other, and with the people, working together in solidarity, particularly in tough times of crisis, danger, and hardship. Our tradition values education, a thirst for knowledge, and continuous self-improvement to contribute to the Party’s and the nation’s causes.
On this occasion, I would like to express the sincere gratitude of the youth of the Provincial Military Command and the mass organizations for the leadership and guidance from the Party Committee, the Commanding officers of the Provincial Military Command, and the Provincial Youth Union, as well as the guidance and support from the Youth Committee of Military Region 2. We appreciate the continuous efforts to create opportunities for the youth to contribute, affirming our role in the development of a strong Party, agency, and military unit.
Comrades,
The global and regional situation remains highly complex, with hostile forces implementing “hybrid warfare” strategies, alongside military deterrence, to sabotage our revolution. Natural disasters, extreme weather conditions, and the impact of social vices continue to challenge the lives of our people and particularly the youth of the Armed Forces.
In light of these circumstances, the youth of the Provincial Military Command are committed to implementing the following goals:
Firstly, strengthening the political, ideological, and organizational strength of the youth organization, particularly focusing on grassroots youth organizations. We aim to build a team of capable, knowledgeable, and respected youth leaders.
Secondly, we will remain steadfast in our loyalty to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, to the Party, the State, and the people. We will continue to be determined in our mission to defend the country and combat any external threats.
Thirdly, we will uphold strict discipline, and foster strong, blood-tied relationships with the people, working towards unity and shared goals across all ranks and levels.
Fourthly, we will build a self-reliant, frugal, and strong military, one that respects and protects the common good, while cultivating a healthy, humble, optimistic, and honest way of life.
Fifthly, we will foster a spirit of lifelong learning and self-improvement, as well as successfully implementing the movement “Learning and following the moral example of President Ho Chi Minh.” We aim to complete all tasks successfully and achieve new, higher goals.
Comrades,
Proud of the glorious history of the Vietnam People’s Army, we, the youth of the Provincial Military Command, are committed to studying, applying science and technology, volunteering for community service, and actively contributing to the defense of our nation. We will uphold the traditions of the Dien Bien Phu victory, continue to be active in protecting national security, and live up to the honor of being “The People’s Soldier,” with the spirit of loyalty, unity, courage, and victory.
Thank you!

3. Speech on 22/12 No. 6
Esteemed delegates, respected leaders, and dear teachers,
Today, as we join the entire nation in celebrating the founding of the Vietnam People's Army on December 22, 1944, I am honored to speak on behalf of over 1000 students from our school on this significant occasion.
First of all, I would like to extend my warmest wishes to the veterans, and to our teachers, I wish you good health, happiness, and success.
In the years of struggle before the August Revolution in 1945, and during the long wars against French colonialists and American imperialists, our army remained loyal to the country, dedicated to its people, and ready to fight and sacrifice for the independence and freedom of the nation. Through every challenge, our soldiers never faltered and always triumphed, earning the enduring title of 'Uncle Ho's Soldiers'. The image of these soldiers has always been beautiful and noble, etched in our hearts and lives. Many beautiful and moving poems and songs have been written about them:
Some soldiers
Left their humble homes in the autumn, never to return
Some soldiers
Went off in the spring, never to come back
Their names etched in the rocks of the mountains
The clouds turning into bamboo trees...
The image of Uncle Ho’s soldiers is that of simple men, equipped with basic tools, yet resilient, indomitable, forged in the flames of war. They were present at all battlefronts, making heroic feats. Despite the most difficult conditions, whether under heavy fire or the harshest circumstances, their spirit remained unwavering. Numerous inspiring examples of endurance, sacrifice, and unparalleled bravery continue to inspire generations to come.
Through all the hardships and the explosions of bombs, life has gradually transformed. However, for many veterans, the burden remains heavy. The negative aspects of the market economy have led some young people astray, indulging in unhealthy lifestyles. Therefore, as those who have gone before, the veterans today continue to play a vital role in preserving the nation's proud traditions, guiding the younger generation towards noble ideals.
As the years pass, the glorious tradition of the Vietnam People's Army remains a cornerstone of our national defense. The essence of 'Uncle Ho's Soldiers' reflects the finest qualities of the Vietnamese people.
We, the young generation born in a time of peace, have not fully grasped the hardships and sacrifices of the previous generations. Yet today, in this meaningful exchange, we send our deepest gratitude to the veterans who sacrificed their youth for the nation's independence, bringing peace and freedom to Vietnam. We thank them for their constant care and for igniting a flame of love and hope in us.
We pledge to study hard, gain knowledge, and contribute to the nation’s development. We will carry on the legacy of our ancestors, becoming the new heroes in a time of peace, ensuring the independence and prosperity of our country.
Once again, I wish the veterans, the distinguished guests, our teachers, and fellow students good health and success. Thank you!

4. Speech on 22/12 No. 1
Honorable delegates, esteemed comrades!
In the joyous and proud atmosphere of our Party, people, and military, today, the People's Committee of [District] is proudly commemorating the [years] anniversary of the founding of the Vietnam People's Army (22/12/1944) and the [years] anniversary of the National Defense Day (22/12/1989). On behalf of the Party Committee and the local leadership, I extend my warmest greetings and best wishes for health to all distinguished delegates and comrades. Comrades, after over 70 years of development, struggle, and triumph, the Vietnam People's Army has become a heroic force of our nation, excelling in both combat and support roles, fulfilling both national and international duties. It has earned the praise of President Ho Chi Minh, who said: “Our army is loyal to the Party, devoted to the people, and always ready to fight and sacrifice for the independence and freedom of the country, for socialism. It completes every task, overcomes all difficulties, and defeats any enemy.”
On this solemn occasion, with great respect and boundless gratitude, we honor the memory of President Ho Chi Minh, the founder and mentor of our army, who led the fight for national independence and reunification; we remember the great generals Võ Nguyên Giáp, Nguyễn Chí Thanh, Hoàng Văn Thái, Văn Tiến Dũng, Lê Trọng Tấn, the legendary commanders of our army. We also express our deepest respect and gratitude to the fallen heroes, Vietnam's heroic mothers, war invalids, veterans, youth volunteers, wartime laborers, couriers, and all the people and comrades who fought, sacrificed, and dedicated their lives to the revolutionary ideals of the Party and the nation, bringing peace, independence, and freedom to our homeland today.
Comrades,
In response to the nationwide movement, today the [District] People's Committee is honored to launch the [years] celebration of the Vietnam People's Army, alongside the [years] anniversary of the National Defense Day. On this momentous occasion, and as we usher in the New Year, I, on behalf of the Party Committee and local leadership, call upon all veterans and residents to actively participate in maintaining national security and defense, upholding strong political beliefs, and striving to achieve sustainable, comprehensive development and international cooperation in this new era. On behalf of the Party Committee and local leadership, I again extend my warmest and most meaningful wishes to all present. I wish all delegates, comrades, especially our veterans, peace, happiness, and success. May this ceremony be a great success!
Thank you sincerely!

5. Speech on 22/12 No. 2
Honorable delegates, esteemed comrades!
Today, in the spirit of pride and joy shared by our Party, people, and military, we gather to solemnly commemorate the [years] anniversary of the founding of the Vietnam People's Army (22/12/1944), as well as the [years] anniversary of the National Defense Day (22/12/1989).
On behalf of the Party Committee and the leadership of [District], I extend my warmest greetings and best wishes for health to all distinguished delegates and comrades.
Comrades,
It was [xx] years ago, on December 22, 1944, in the forests of Trần Hưng Đạo, Tam Kim commune, Nguyên Bình district, Cao Bằng province, the Vietnam Propaganda and Liberation Army – the precursor to the Vietnam People's Army – was founded. This event marked a monumental moment in the history of the Vietnamese revolution. For the first time in history, the workers and people of Vietnam had a new-style army, organized, educated, and led by the Communist Party of Vietnam and President Ho Chi Minh. This was an army of the working class, born from the people and fighting for the people, courageous, heroic, and always ready to sacrifice for national independence, socialism, freedom, and the happiness of the people.
Under the leadership of the Party, and inheriting the indomitable, heroic fighting tradition of our people, from its early days with just thirty-four soldiers armed with “bamboo poles, old rifles, and homemade weapons,” our army displayed intelligence and bravery in defeating French outposts at Phay Khắt and Nà Ngần. It quickly grew in strength, joining the people in the successful August Revolution of 1945, seizing power for the people, and establishing the Democratic Republic of Vietnam – Southeast Asia’s first workers' and peasants' state.
During the long and arduous struggle against French colonialism, guided by the spirit of “For the nation, we fight to the death,” our army, alongside the people, achieved major victories, the most notable being the legendary Dien Bien Phu battle, which sent shockwaves worldwide.
In the struggle against American imperialism, our army combined the strength of the people with the power of the times. Despite numerous hardships, sacrifices, and overwhelming challenges, our forces triumphed, achieving victory after victory, culminating in the historic Spring Victory of 1975 and the Hồ Chí Minh Campaign, which led to the complete liberation of the nation and the reunification of our country. Soon after, we, along with the Party, the people, and the military, successfully defended our northern and southwestern borders against foreign invaders, safeguarding our national sovereignty and territorial integrity, while helping liberate the Cambodian people from the Khmer Rouge genocide.
As the nation entered the era of building and protecting the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, our army has consistently fulfilled every task assigned by the Party and the State, continuously building a strong, politically reliable, disciplined, and modern military force, always prepared to defend the country in any situation.
Comrades,
Decades of success in people's wars under the leadership of the Party have firmly established the principles of total national defense. In line with the wishes of the people, on October 17, 1989, the Party Central Committee issued Directive No. 381-CT/TW, declaring that December 22, the founding day of the Vietnam People's Army, would also be National Defense Day. This day has since become a traditional celebration of our nation’s defense, honoring and promoting the noble image of “Uncle Hồ’s Soldiers,” a distinctive feature of Vietnam’s culture in the modern age. It is a day to reinforce our patriotism, unity, and the commitment of the Party, people, and military to build and protect our socialist homeland in the new era.
The construction of a people-centered national defense is fundamental to strengthening our national power and ensuring our sovereignty. It is the outcome of thousands of years of struggle and resilience of our people, and remains the consistent guiding thought of the Party, as emphasized in the Party's Resolution No. 8 of the 11th Congress, marking it as a key component of our national strategy to safeguard the country in this new phase.
Comrades,
Over the course of [xx] years of development, the Vietnam People’s Army has grown into a heroic military force, fulfilling its roles as both a combat and service army. It has always excelled in national and international duties, living up to President Ho Chi Minh’s famous words: “Our army is loyal to the Party, devoted to the people, and ready to fight and sacrifice for the independence and freedom of the nation, for socialism. No task is too difficult, no enemy too strong, and no hardship too great.”
In this solemn moment, with the utmost respect and infinite gratitude, we honor the memory of President Ho Chi Minh, the founder and leader of our army, who fought for national independence and reunification. We also honor the great generals Võ Nguyên Giáp, Nguyễn Chí Thanh, Hoàng Văn Thái, Văn Tiến Dũng, Lê Trọng Tấn, whose contributions to our victory will forever be etched in history. Our respect and gratitude extend to the fallen heroes, Vietnam’s heroic mothers, war invalids, veterans, youth volunteers, wartime laborers, couriers, and all those who fought and sacrificed their lives for the revolutionary ideals of the Party and the people, securing the peace, independence, and freedom we enjoy today.
On this occasion, on behalf of the Party Committee and leadership of [District], I once again wish all delegates, comrades, and especially our veterans, health, happiness, and success. May the achievements of our nation continue to grow and prosper.
Sincerely, thank you!

6. Speech on December 22, Number 3
"Peace, independence, freedom" are three sacred words that our nation has had to sacrifice over thousands of years of hardship and heroic history. Over four thousand years of building and defending the country, our ancestors achieved many feats during the resistance against invading forces, recording glorious victories in the golden history of our people. These achievements remain a source of pride for the children of Vietnam. Therefore, our beloved Vietnam has commemorated many important national holidays. One of these is December 22nd, the founding day of the Vietnam People's Army. Alongside the celebrations of... years since the establishment of the Vietnam People's Army (12/22/1944 - 12/22/20...) and ... years since the nationwide defense day (12/22/1989 - 12/22/20....), Vietnamese youth in general, and the youth of ... in particular, are working hard to study well and work diligently to contribute to building a stronger and wealthier homeland.
December 22nd is a traditional holiday for the entire nation, recognizing and honoring the immense contributions of the military in the construction and protection of our Socialist Republic of Vietnam. 72 years ago, on December 22, 1944, the Vietnam Propaganda Liberation Army, the predecessor of the Vietnam People's Army, was established. The birth of our army was a significant historical event in the Vietnamese revolution. For the first time in history, the working class and the people of Vietnam had a new-style army, organized, educated, and trained by the Communist Party of Vietnam and President Ho Chi Minh; an army of the people, by the people, for the people, with a working-class essence; fighting for national independence, socialism, and the happiness of the people.
The commemoration of ... years since the founding of the Vietnam People's Army and ... years of nationwide defense day is an opportunity for us to reflect on the glorious and heroic history, the heroic victories of our army and people. Alongside our pride in an army that has fought and won many battles, we also gain a deeper understanding of the development and growth of the Vietnam People's Army, the difficulties of the fierce battlefields, and the courageous sacrifices of the sons and daughters of Vietnam. Recognizing those sacrifices, this important holiday serves as a time to honor all those generations who gave their lives for the nation's glory, for the independence and freedom of our homeland, a time to remember the fallen and strive to fulfill our duties as the living. Through this, we are inspired with national pride, strengthening our love for our country and socialism. Most importantly, within these noble feelings is a sense of self-reliance and resilience, overcoming all challenges and difficulties to strive to study, train, and build a prosperous and powerful Vietnam.
Countless generations of fathers and ancestors eagerly answered the sacred call of the Fatherland. They left behind elderly mothers, young wives, and small children to go to war. They carried the sorrow of parting but remained steadfast in their determination to fight for the independence and freedom of the nation. This willpower has been immortalized in the poetry and prose of countless patriotic artists: "The one who leaves does not look back – Behind them, the sunny steps are covered with fallen leaves." These resolute people gave up their youth and spilled their blood and sweat to liberate the country. They now rest forever in the embrace of Mother Earth, so that we today can live in independence and freedom. The peace, happiness, and development we have today are the results of the immense sacrifices made by the heroes and martyrs of the past. To repay these sacrifices and to carry on the tradition of "drinking water, remembering the source," we must follow President Ho Chi Minh's teachings: "The wounded soldiers, the families of soldiers, and the families of martyrs are the ones who have contributed to the country and the people; it is our duty to show gratitude, love, and support them."
We learn from history and the memories of those before us, and we deeply understand the value of peace, independence, and freedom, which have been won by the blood and sacrifice of many generations. Surely, we have been moved by the vivid writings and diaries of martyrs like doctor Dang Thuy Tram, or by the emotionally powerful film "Don’t Burn" about the sacrifices for ideals and the struggle for truth, for the hope of peace of so many Vietnamese youth. This fiery spirit has been nurtured over thousands of years, and it burned brightly when the country was in danger, and it is still preserved and carried forward by today’s youth because it is the essence of our tradition and national spirit. ... years have passed, and the glorious tradition of the Vietnam People's Army still shines brightly. The nature of the "Hồ Army" is the finest and most resilient spirit of the Vietnamese people. The image of the Hồ Army soldier, with the noble ideals of "Sacrifice for the nation’s survival" and "Crossing the Trường Sơn mountain range to save the country – with hearts full of hope for the future," will forever be the most beautiful image in the hearts of the Vietnamese people. They are shining examples of endurance, sacrifice, and courage that will continue to inspire future generations.
We – the younger generations, born and raised in peacetime, may not fully understand the hardships and sacrifices of those who came before us. But today, in this solemn and respectful moment, with infinite love and gratitude, we respectfully remember the great President Ho Chi Minh, the genius leader of our Party and our people; the national hero; the world cultural figure; and the beloved father of our people's armed forces. We express our deep respect and gratitude to the heroes, martyrs, wounded soldiers, sick soldiers, veterans, youth volunteers who bravely fought, sacrificed, and devoted their lives to the revolutionary ideals of the Party and the nation, to the cause of building, fighting, and winning of the Vietnam People's Army. We also honor the Vietnamese heroic mothers who gave birth to, nurtured, and sacrificed their children for the Fatherland, enduring unimaginable grief and pain, always supporting, protecting, and fighting alongside our armed forces. We thank the Hồ soldiers for their continued care, their inspiring light of hope for today’s youth.
Tradition and morality are values that we, as young people, must never forget, but instead must remember for a lifetime. They are the guiding principles of every young person in their studies and training. Following the example of our martyrs, we must turn the tradition of patriotism and revolution during the national defense war into the strength and determination of Vietnam to overcome poverty and backwardness. The country is on the path of renewal, and our generation of youth is honored to be the pioneering class continuing the mission of building and protecting the Fatherland. Therefore, it is our duty to promote unity, creativity, volunteerism for the community, and a civilized lifestyle while continuously studying, training, and contributing to the construction of a richer and stronger nation; to repay the sacrifices of the previous generations. Youth nationwide, as well as youth in ... in particular, pledge to carry forward the flame of tradition ignited by the previous generations, to become the next Nguyễn Văn Thạc, doctor Đặng Thùy Trâm of peacetime, to safeguard the independence and peace that our predecessors fought for, and to contribute to building Vietnam as a country of global power as President Ho Chi Minh always envisioned. This is how we strive for noble ideals and actions to contribute to the renewal of our country under the leadership of the Party, living up to the sacrifices of our heroes and martyrs, and for the eternal happiness of our nation.

