Over the past seven decades, the wartime relics of Điện Biên have been carefully preserved, serving as enduring symbols of Vietnam’s resistance and a testament to its unyielding spirit. Today, Điện Biên is not only a place steeped in history - it is also a sacred destination for both domestic and international visitors. Every May, thousands return to Điện Biên to honor the fallen and pay homage to their legacy.

For many locals, pride in Điện Biên is inseparable from the nation’s heroic past. Hoàng Hương Ly, a native of Điện Biên Phủ city, shared that every visit to the museum and historical sites serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by previous generations. “Even though I’ve been to these places many times, each visit is an emotional journey - an opportunity for remembrance and deep gratitude”, she said.

“I feel incredibly proud to have been born and raised on this land”, continued Ly. “I will study and strive to live up to the legacy of those who came before us and contribute to a stronger, more prosperous homeland”.

Though the war ended over seventy years ago, the mention of Điện Biên Phủ still stirs strong emotions. That pride only grows as the once-devastated battlefield transforms - now donning a new face of progress and modernity in this era of national reform and rise. Amid rapid development, Điện Biên Province keeps the memory of its past alive - nurturing a spirit of national gratitude and reflection through education and commemoration. The flame of tradition still burns bright, passed on to new generations and visitors alike, lest we forget the sacrifice made on this hallowed ground.

Kiều Thanh Huyền, principal of Thanh Trường Kindergarten in Điện Biên Phủ city, said: “Through field trips to historical sites, we aim to instill patriotism and love for our homeland in the hearts of children. These activities help them understand and appreciate the sacrifices of fallen heroes, so they can grow up with a sense of purpose and dedication to building a better future for our country”.

Not only Điện Biên locals, but visitors from all corners of the nation arrive here with reverence. Seeing wartime artifacts and walking through historical sites evokes a powerful pride in the bravery and sacrifices of Vietnamese soldiers and civilians during the Điện Biên Phủ Campaign. This land bears eternal witness to a milestone that changed the course of history- a glowing chapter in Vietnam’s struggle for independence and freedom.

Veteran Lưu Văn Chấn from Vĩnh Phúc province, visiting Điện Biên in May, shared his thoughts after touring the old battlefield: “We are deeply proud of our ancestors. Behind the Điện Biên Phủ Victory was unimaginable hardship - blood, sweat, and tears from tens of thousands of soldiers and logistics workers. Their selfless sacrifices paved the way for one of the proudest chapters in our national story. Today, the modern yet hallowed land of Điện Biên continues to honor and carry forward that priceless legacy for generations to come”.

During these historic days of May, the entire nation turns its heart toward Điện Biên - a land that brought about a decisive turning point in Vietnam’s anti-colonial resistance. From all corners of the country, people of every age and background come here in heartfelt remembrance. Many were born into peace and have never known war, yet they are drawn to this place to see the relics, hear the stories, and truly understand - through heart and soul - the heroic 56-day and night campaign and the monumental sacrifices it required.

After viewing the relics and the panoramic mural, Đoàn Bảo Khánh, a tourist from Hanoi, expressed his emotions: “This is my first time in Điện Biên, and I am deeply moved. Hearing about our ancestors’ feats fills me with gratitude for the peace we now enjoy. As part of the younger generation, we must remember their sacrifices and work hard to contribute to the country’s development. More importantly, we must pass on this patriotic flame to those who come after us”.

Seventy-one years have passed since the legendary victory, yet Điện Biên remains a sacred symbol of Vietnamese resilience and indomitable will. The enduring relics here serve as solemn reminders to today’s generation of the sacrifices made for independence and freedom. In the spirit of this historic May, that pride burns brighter than ever - becoming a powerful force that inspires every Vietnamese to honor and build upon their heroic legacy.