Images of the elderly man, deeply lined face under a military uniform, riding a motorbike from central Vietnam to the south with the national red flag fluttering behind him, have stirred emotions and national pride among many viewers.

Speaking to VietNamNet, Mr. Thanh revealed that he had dreamed of this motorbike journey to the South for a long time, and now was the perfect opportunity to fulfill it.

He hoped to revisit former battlefields in Quang Tri, explore renowned Vietnamese landmarks, and, if all went well, arrive in time to witness the grand parade celebrating 50 years of national unity in Ho Chi Minh City.

“I asked some brothers, friends, and former comrades to join me, but they couldn’t because of their age and health. I didn’t want to take a bus or taxi either - I chose a motorbike because I want to experience every inch of this country,” he shared.

Mr. Thanh’s family was initially concerned about the plan. At 77, they doubted he had the physical strength for such a long and taxing journey. Still, he remained resolute in pursuing his wish.

He brought along some clothes, personal items, a cooking pot, and a hammock.

“I want to be in full control of my trip,” he said. “I just ride leisurely, take breaks when I need them. Sometimes I’ll rent a guesthouse room, other times I’ll just hang my hammock in a cool, shady spot and rest.

“This afternoon (April 20), I stopped for lunch at a grilled veal restaurant in Quang Nam. I feel great - my health and spirits are still very good,” he said with a laugh.

Each day, Mr. Thanh covers about 200 kilometers. Despite the long hours on the road, he said he doesn’t feel back pain or exhaustion. At each stop, he enjoys the scenery and reconnects with friends and familiar faces.

“I’m very happy. I estimate I’ll reach Ho Chi Minh City by April 28 or 29 in time for the parade. After that, we’ll see - depends on my health and financial situation,” Mr. Thanh added.

On the afternoon of April 18, Xuan Son, 58, from Quang Tri and Mr. Thanh’s nephew, welcomed his uncle to his home with pride and affection. Seeing his uncle’s dusty face, old motorbike, and minimal belongings, Mr. Son was both moved and concerned.

“My uncle said he wanted to revisit the old battlefield in Quang Tri and explore the country. He stayed with us for a day before resuming his journey on the morning of April 19,” Mr. Son said.

Mr. Thanh is a war veteran who fought in the resistance against the US in the B5 battlefield area of northern Quang Tri. According to Mr. Son, his uncle had returned to the battlefield many times in the past, usually with veteran groups. This was the first time he had done it alone on a motorbike.

“I suggested he stay a few days and then return home, or if he still wanted to continue, he should take a bus for safety. But he insisted on continuing the trip on his own,” Mr. Son shared.

Thanh Minh