President Nguyễn Xuân Phúc greets war veterans and Vietnamese Heroic Mothers at the ceremony. — VNA/VNS Photo Thống Nhất

HÀ NỘI — President Phúc attended the 75th anniversary of War Invalids and Martyrs Day on Sunday, along with State leaders and 450 representatives of millions of people who contributed to the revolutions. 

Minister of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs Đào Ngọc Dung said that the support for war veterans has resulted in significant achievements over the past 75 years, including more comprehensive and inclusive benefit policies. 

Currently, there are more than 9.2 million known contributors to the revolutions, of which there are 1.2 million who have lost their lives to the war, more than 139,000 Vietnamese Heroic Mothers, over 1,300 recognised heroes in the armed forces and labour forces, nearly 800,000 soldiers would in the wars and 320,000 others who were exposed to toxic chemicals, while approximately 111,000 war veterans were imprisoned or exiled by the enemies. 

Speaking at the event, President Nguyễn Xuân Phúc express his gratitude and said that throughout the course of history, millions of people have dedicated their youth and bravely sacrificed their lives for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the fatherland. 

The wars were over, but their consequences still remain in various areas and families across the country, said the president. 

He gave high regard to war veterans, martyrs and their families for overcoming challenges, and making positive political and social contributions to their localities. 

In commemoration of the 75th anniversary of War Invalids and Martyrs Day, a budget of VNĐ400 billion (US$17 million) has been dedicated to gifts for over 1.3 million people who contributed to the revolutions. 

The entire political system and organisations, individuals and communities have mobilised resources for constructions that pay tribute to the martyrs, while also focusing on the search and identification of martyrs’ remains. 

President Phúc said: “Vietnamese people will always remember and be proud of the unyielding will of the previous generations who sacrifice their lives to the country, bringing us independence and peace of today.” — VNS