Hanoians and the broader Vietnamese community eagerly participate in socio-cultural activities this month to commemorate one of the most significant events during the American War, the “Hanoi-Dien Bien Phu in the Air” victory in 1972.

An exhibition opened in Hanoi on December 11 to recall the heroic atmosphere of the 12 day-and-night battle against the US B-52 bombing campaign of the capital in December 1972, the defeat of which led to the end of US involvement in the war in Vietnam.

On display are nearly 100 invaluable photographs and a number of documentaries highlighting the bravery and determination of resilient Hanoians who protected their skies and beloved city.

The exhibition also dedicated a space to pictures of the present capital city, giving spectators a comparative view of the city’s vast changes over the 40 years following the war.

A range of campaigns have also been launched nationwide to remind younger generations of the significance of the victory, thus encouraging them to live up to their predecessors’ heroic traditions and make further contributions to national development.

To mark the occasion an underground chamber beneath world cultural heritage site, the Thang Long Royal Citadel in Hanoi, will be open to visitors on December 20.

Built in 1965, the 65 sq.m. chamber served as the working office for senior officials of the Party, the Defence Ministry and the Vietnam People’s Army during the fight against the two US bombing campaigns of northern Vietnam, the peak of which was the 1972 B52 bombing blitz in Hanoi.

In addition, a film week on this theme is scheduled to start nationwide with the screening of “Hanoi - 12 Days and Nights” and “A Memory of a Time” on December 13.

VNN/VNA