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TL;DR: On December 22, 1944, in the Trần Hưng Đạo forest (Cao Bằng), the Vietnam Propaganda Liberation Army was founded under the directive of leader Ho Chi Minh, with 34 members. This was the predecessor of the Vietnam People's Army, and December 22 is now celebrated as its founding day.
What was the historical context before 1944?
After the Việt Minh Front was established in May 1941, the revolutionary movement grew strongly, requiring a main armed force to protect bases and prepare for a general uprising. Previously, guerrilla units and the National Salvation Army operated sporadically, but there was no concentrated regular army.
In December 1944, leader Ho Chi Minh issued a directive to establish the first main force, named the Vietnam Propaganda Liberation Army. He emphasized: "This army must be a regular army, disciplined, trained, organized, and led."
Major development milestones of the predecessor forces of the Vietnam People's Army.
| Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 22/12/1944 | Establishment of the Vietnam Propaganda Liberation Army with 34 people | Trần Hưng Đạo forest, Cao Bằng |
| April 1945 | First victorious battle | Phai Khắt and Nà Ngần, Cao Bằng |
| 15/5/1945 | Merged with the National Salvation Army to form the Liberation Army | |
| August 1945 | Participated in the General Uprising to seize power | |
| 1950 | Renamed to the Vietnam People's Army | |
| 1954 | Victory at Điện Biên Phủ, defeating the French colonialists | |
| 1975 | Liberated the South, reunified the country |
How did the founding ceremony on December 22, 1944 happen?
On December 22, 1944, in the Trần Hưng Đạo forest (now in Tam Kim commune, Nguyên Bình district, Cao Bằng province), the Vietnam Propaganda Liberation Army officially held its founding ceremony. The unit consisted of 34 cadres and soldiers, commanded by comrade Võ Nguyên Giáp.
The initial structure included one company, divided into three platoons, with a Party cell in leadership. Weapons were rudimentary, mainly rifles, pistols, knives, and spears, but the fighting spirit was high.
What does the name "Propaganda Liberation Army" mean?
The name reflected two tasks: propaganda, mobilizing the people, and direct combat for liberation. The army was both an armed force and a working team, closely tied to the people.
What were the key development milestones?
- December 22, 1944: Founding of the Vietnam Propaganda Liberation Army with 34 members.
- April 1945: First battles at Phai Khắt and Nà Ngần (Cao Bằng), achieving victory.
- May 15, 1945: Merged with the National Salvation Army to become the Liberation Army, the main force of the Việt Minh Front.
- August 1945: Participated in the General Uprising to seize power.
- 1950: Renamed the Vietnam People's Army.
- 1954: Victory at Điện Biên Phủ, defeating the French colonialists.
- 1975: Liberation of the South, reunification of the country.
What does December 22 mean?
December 22, 1944, is observed as the Founding Day of the Vietnam People's Army. It is also the All-People's National Defense Day, aimed at promoting patriotism and solidarity between the army and the people.
Annually, commemorative activities, meetings, and visits to veterans and families of martyrs are held solemnly, reflecting the tradition of "When drinking water, remember the source."
What are the current roles of the Vietnam People's Army?
In the renovation period, the Vietnam People's Army continues to fulfill its roles as a fighting army, a working army, and a production labor army. It participates in building the all-people's national defense, firmly protecting the Fatherland, and also engages in disaster and epidemic prevention, helping people develop the economy.
The army also proactively advises the Party and State on military and defense affairs, defense diplomacy, contributing to a peaceful and stable environment for national development.
