Artifacts on display at National Museum of History. (Photo: Thuy Tien/VOV)

The exhibition’s three main sections portray the aspiration for unification, the strategic leadership of President Ho Chi Minh and the Communist Party of Vietnam in guiding the nation to victory, and the crucial support from the North for the Southern front lines, alongside the international solidarity that bolstered Vietnam’s struggle.

Visitors are introduced to the jubilant atmosphere and joy of national reunification. Associate Professor Dr. Bui Hoai Son, Permanent Member of the National Assembly’s Committee for Culture and Education, said, "The exhibition makes a significant contribution to fostering patriotism by drawing on the historical memories of our predecessors and the invaluable lessons we ‘ve learned."

A historic moment was recalled when Tank 390 crashed through the Independence Palace’s gates in Saigon, now Ho Chi Minh City. Veteran Ngo Sy Nguyen, the gunner of the Tank crew, said, "The Ho Chi Minh Campaign was a resounding and swift victory, achieving exceptional results. At the forefront of the eastern advance, the 2nd Corps deployed tanks 843 and 390, commanded by Captain Bui Quang Than and Political Commissar Vu Dang Toan."
"Following a plan devised by Bui Van Tung, our Tank 390 crossed the Thi Nghe Bridge, navigated seven intersections, turned left toward Independence Palace, proceeded along Red Cross Road, and accelerated, crashing through the Palace gates. That image embodies the strength of the Vietnam People's Army and the Vietnamese people's yearning for peace. This moment was the culmination of 21 years of hardship and sacrifice."
The model simulating the tank’s entry into Independence Palace, and the raising flag on its roof. (Photo: Thuy Tien/VOV)

Moved by the images and artifacts, evidence of the nation's resistance war displayed at the exhibition, Ho Viet Ha, a visitor from Hanoi, said, "I came here filled with emotion, as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the South’s liberation. Having grown up during the war, I experienced it firsthand. I served in the army and traveled from North and South to protect our Fatherland. I deeply understand the value of the resistance war for independence."

"I remember the people of Hanoi gathering around Hoan Kiem lake, who erupted in applause each time news informed of another liberated province. I was so moved, tears welling up. Today, I revisit these images and reflect on a profound question: How could the Party and President Ho Chi Minh lead the entire nation towards liberation?"

The exhibited red flag with a yellow star, the model simulating the tank’s entry into Independence Palace, and the raising flag on its roof, all evoke special emotions not only for veterans but also leave a lasting impression on young people.

Visitors watch the exhibition. (Photo: Thuy Tien/VOV)

Another visitor said, “What impressed me most was the ceiling adorned with many fluttering yellow-star flags, creating a sense of national unity as we approach the 50th anniversary of Vietnam’s reunification. This exhibition creates a unique feeling, particularly the simulated flag-raising atop Independence Palace. It showcases to young people that history is a boundless source of inspiration, one that can be explored and implemented across diverse fields such as engineering and technology.”

A young spectator shared, “Visiting the exhibition filled me with emotion and pride in our historic victory of 50 years ago. As young people, the future generation of this nation, we are acutely aware of our role and responsibility in shaping the country's future. We must dedicate ourselves to diligent study and practice to build an increasingly developed and prosperous nation, one worthy of the sacrifices our predecessors made to secure the present we enjoy.”

The exhibition is open until August. The artifacts on display serve as a powerful reminder of the Vietnamese people's enduring aspiration for peace and national unification.