Today, that same vibrant and sacred atmosphere is spreading powerfully to the heart of the South - Hồ Chí Minh City, a place named after the beloved leader. Despite being thousands of kilometers away, the people of Điện Biên, along with the whole country, are turning their hearts towards Hồ Chí Minh City with love for the homeland and national pride as the nation celebrates its reunification.

Around this time last year, the “mountainous city” of Điện Biên Phủ donned a new coat. From the roads leading into the Mường Thanh Basin to historical sites like A1 Hill, Đờ Cát Tunnel, and the Điện Biên Phủ Victory Monument, flags and flowers were everywhere, and people from all over the country gathered. The people of Điện Biên, from the elderly to the youth, radiated an unexplainable pride. Today, in Hồ Chí Minh City, the same vibrant atmosphere fills the streets as preparations for the anniversary are underway, weaving through every corner and story of the people. This lively and festive mood, which seemed exclusive to the heart of the South, now spreads and touches even those in faraway border regions.

Today, in Điện Biên, although life has returned to its regular pace after last year’s grand celebrations, the love for the homeland and national pride still burns in the hearts of every citizen. This is reflected not only in words and thoughts but also through actions and meaningful, creative “trends” among the youth here.

One of the most popular trends recently has been taking photos in áo dài (traditional Vietnamese dress) featuring patterns of the red flag with yellow stars and the map of Vietnam, in honor of the 50th anniversary of the full liberation of the South and the reunification of the country. Along the flag-lined streets, on historic windy hills, or simply amidst the endless green fields of Mường Thanh, images of graceful Điện Biên girls in these sacred áo dài have become a beautiful symbol, touching the hearts of many. It is a silent declaration of love for the country. Wearing this áo dài, each young person feels connected to history, to the glorious past, and to their responsibility for the future.

Embracing the “trend” early, Nguyễn Thị Lan Anh from Thanh Xương commune, Điện Biên district, took a series of photos in an áo dài featuring the map of Vietnam. Along with a hat adorned with the red flag and yellow stars, the young girl hoped to capture beautiful, meaningful pictures to share on April 30. Lan Anh shared: “Together with the people across the country, the people of Điện Biên are also excitedly looking towards this important anniversary. I also wanted to do something to show my love for the country on this joyful day of national reunification. Wearing the áo dài with the map of Vietnam, I truly felt moved. It felt like I was part of the historical flow, embracing the sacred pride of the nation. It’s not just about wearing a beautiful outfit, but it makes me feel that I need to live meaningfully, to strive and contribute to be worthy of the sacrifices of the previous generation, worthy of this flag and colors.”

Not only the áo dài, but images of children from Điện Biên wearing the green uniform of Hồ Chí Minh’s soldiers, standing solemnly, have also become a meaningful trend expressing love for the country on this important day. The worn, faded uniform in museums is now “revived” on the shoulders of the younger generation. It’s their way of showing respect and admiration for the soldiers of Điện Biên from the past. Additionally, short videos capturing the beauty of Điện Biên, with streets adorned with flags and revolutionary music playing, have also become ways for Điện Biên’s youth to spread their love for their homeland and the southern region. These “trends” are not just superficial activities but reflect a deeper truth: The love for the homeland has been deeply embedded in the consciousness of the people of Điện Biên, especially the younger generation. They are not only proud of the past but also know how to creatively express that pride in ways that fit with modern times, spreading positive values within the community.

The pride and affection of the people of Điện Biên for the South is not just confined to activities at home. During these days, in Hồ Chí Minh City, there are also remarkable representatives from Điện Biên taking part in the parades and processions to celebrate this grand occasion.

Representing the province in the important parade are four female soldiers from the Provincial Military Command. Among these “steel flowers,” one figure stands out - soldier Toán Toán De, a Hà Nhì girl from Sen Thượng commune, Mường Nhé district. Soldier Toán Toán De shared: “It is a great honor and pride for me to contribute even a small part to the grand ceremony commemorating the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the South and the reunification of the country. This pride is not only mine but also belongs to my family, friends, and the people of Điện Biên. When we first traveled to the South on the North-South train, we were supported by the people all along the way, feeling their warmth and love. We felt even prouder when standing in the ranks of the Vietnam People’s Army and performing this task. The first time we practiced for the parade in Hồ Chí Minh City left a deep impression on me. The parade, ‘walking in the heart of the people,’ brought immense pride and gratitude for the generations who sacrificed for the peace we have today.”

The sincere and emotional words of Toán Toán De not only paint a vivid picture of a determined Hà Nhì female soldier but also represent the hearts of many sons and daughters of Điện Biên, and Vietnam, who are looking towards this important anniversary with all their pride and responsibility. The presence of the Hà Nhì girl from Mường Nhé, along with other Điện Biên female soldiers, in the heart of Hồ Chí Minh City during this grand celebration is like a thread binding the historical land of Điện Biên to the heart of the South. They carry not only discipline and youthful energy but also the affection, trust, and pride of the people of Điện Biên, contributing to the national celebration.

The South is always in the heart of Điện Biên, like a natural law, like blood flowing back to the heart, and like a deep, unwavering love for the homeland. No matter where they are or what they do, the people of Điện Biên will always watch over, support, and take pride in the development of the beloved South and the entire country on its path to integration and progress. The flame of Điện Biên that once blazed still shines brightly, guiding today’s generation to boldly move forward in building the homeland and the nation.