Hanoi (VNA) – The Central Military Commission and the Ministry of National Defence paid homage to and reported the army’s achievements to late President Ho Chi Minh at his mausoleum in Hanoi on December 14, in celebration of the 80th anniversary of the Vietnam People’s Army (VPA) and 35th anniversary of the All-People Defence Festival (December 22).

The event was chaired by General Phan Van Giang, Politburo member, Deputy Secretary of the commission, and Minister of National Defence.

Reporting on the VPA's 80-year achievements, Sen. Lieut. Gen. Trinh Van Quyet, Secretary of the Party Central Committee, member of the commission's Standing Board, and Chairman of the VPA’s General Department of Politics, said that under the absolute and direct leadership over all aspects by the Communist Party of Vietnam, the guidance and training of President Ho Chi Minh, as well as with the support of the Vietnamese people, and the patriotism and military strategy of the nation, the VPA has joined hands with the entire Party and people to surmount countless challenges to secure great victories in the struggle for national liberation, the building and safeguarding of the socialist Fatherland, and the fulfilment of glorious international missions.

He stated that the VPA has always been the core force in safeguarding the country’s independence, sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. It has protected the Party, State, people, and socialist regime, and also excelled in its roles as a combat force, a working force, and a production force. In all circumstances, VPA officers and soldiers have remained steadfast, united, and ready to overcome difficulties and fulfil all their duties.

In recognition of its extraordinary accomplishments over the past eight decades, the army has been honoured with the Gold Star Order – the highest honour of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam – five times, the first-class Military Exploit Order once, the first-class Labour Order twice, and numerous other noble rewards from the Party and State.

Quyet said to continue their exemplary service contributing to the country’s progress into a new era of the nation's rise, military leaders, commanders, and personnel pledge to stay absolutely loyal to the Fatherland, Party, State and people, and steadfast in the goals, ideals and path toward socialism chosen by the Party, President Ho Chi Minh, and the people.

They will also maintain high revolutionary alertness, keep a good grasp and precise assessment of the situation, and successfully deal with any circumstance to firmly protect national independence, sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. Besides, focus will also be put on improving the quality of training, exercise, education and training to ensure combat readiness; building a clean and strong Party organisation of the army; and building a revolutionary, regular, elite, and modern army of the people, according to the official.

ꦍ At the ceremony, participants laid wreaths in tribute and paid their respect to President Ho Chi Minh./.