Prensa Latina news agency tells the story of a Vietnamese soldier who traveled 1,200km to return to the old battlefield.

On April 24, the Prensa Latina news agency (Latin America) published an article about veteran Tran Van Thanh (76 years old), who is traveling more than 1,200km by motorbike from Vinh city (Nghe An) to Ho Chi Minh City to attend the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification (April 30, 1975 - April 30, 2025).

The article depicts a soldier in a faded uniform, riding an old motorbike, carrying a red flag with a yellow star fluttering on his back. His luggage consists of only a small suitcase and a box of cooking utensils.

Article about veteran Tran Van Thanh on Prensa Latina. (Screenshot: Mai Anh)

Mr. Tran Van Thanh fought in Quang Tri Citadel from 1968 to 1974. He departed on April 17 from Vinh City (Nghe An) to Ho Chi Minh City. He traveled about 150-200km each day. On the way, he stopped to burn incense in memory of his comrades at martyrs' cemeteries and old battlefields. At first, he hid it from his family, saying he took a bus. But when the journey was widely shared on social media, he received enthusiastic support from people everywhere. "When I went to a restaurant, they didn't take money, and they bought me drinks. Everyone encouraged, supported, and helped me to get to Ho Chi Minh City in time for April 30," Mr. Thanh said.

Prensa Latina news agency quoted Mr. Thanh as saying: “I want to ride a motorbike not only to visit the old battlefields, but also to witness the development and changes of the villages, provinces and cities along the route after 50 years of national reunification. The hot weather these past few days has been a bit tiring, but I am very happy to see the scenery of my homeland and country becoming more developed and civilized.”

Mr. Tran Van Thanh and his belongings on the journey from Vinh City ( Nghe An ) to Ho Chi Minh City to watch the parade on April 30. (Photo: Provided by the character)

Prensa Latina assessed that Mr. Thanh’s journey has become an inspirational phenomenon. The online community has shared touching moments of his journey, continuously updated information, expressed their willingness to support and sent him wishes for “a thousand miles of peace”. This journey is not only a personal story, but also has become a vivid symbol of the connection between the glorious past and the present, demonstrating the passionate patriotism and immortal spirit of the Vietnamese people.

Source: https://thoidai.com.vn/hang-thong-tan-prensa-latina-ke-chuyen-nguoi-linh-viet-vuot-1200km-tro-lai-chien-truong-xua-212973.html