• Vietnam celebrated its 80th independence anniversary with a significant military parade in Hanoi.
• The celebration included nearly 16,000 soldiers and extensive military equipment showcases.
• In a historic move, Vietnam announced cash handouts to all citizens and a mass release of prisoners.
• The event demonstrated international camaraderie, including honor guards from China and Russia.
• Young citizens participated enthusiastically, expressing national pride with flags and cheers.

Vietnam marked the 80th anniversary of its declaration of independence from French colonial rule with a massive military parade in Hanoi, attended by tens of thousands of citizens. The event, noted for its significant turnout and emotional fervor, saw participants wearing red shirts and waving national flags in a show of unity and nationalism. Communist Party General Secretary To Lam addressed the crowd, celebrating Vietnam's progress toward becoming a "powerful, prosperous and happy nation" by 2045, after decades of conflict and struggle, according to Al Jazeera and Channel News Asia.

The parade showcased modern military capabilities, featuring advanced equipment like Russian-made Mi-171 helicopters, Sukhoi Su-30 fighter jets, and domestically produced drones. Additionally, nearly 16,000 soldiers, including honor guards from China, Russia, and other countries, participated in the celebrations. Notably, the historical speech took place at Ba Dinh Square, the same site where revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh declared independence in 1945. To Lam reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to "defend the independence, freedom, sovereignty, and territorial integrity" of Vietnam, in remarks that resonated with the audience, as reported by Reuters and India Times.

In a significant gesture of goodwill, the government announced an unprecedented cash handout of 100,000 dong (approximately $3.80) to all 100 million citizens, which could cost about $380 million. Additionally, President Luong Cuong revealed that approximately 13,920 prisoners, including 66 foreigners, would be released as part of the celebrations, demonstrating the administration's focus on public welfare during this momentous occasion, according to Al Jazeera and Reuters.

The celebratory atmosphere also drew significant participation from the youth, with many camping overnight to secure spots for viewing the parade. People expressed their pride, waving flags and enjoying festive beverages like boba tea. "It's something to be proud of. This is what our grandparents battled for," said Nguyen Thi Thu Huyen, a 22-year-old, reflecting the generational pride in Vietnam's progress since its independence. This reflects a more vibrant narrative of national identity among younger generations, as noted by India Times and Channel News Asia.