Historical Context Before 1944
After the Viet 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."
Founding Ceremony on December 22, 1944
On December 22, 1944, in the Tran Hung Dao forest (now in Tam Kim commune, Nguyen Binh district, Cao Bang province), the Vietnam Propaganda Liberation Army officially held its founding ceremony. The unit consisted of 34 cadres and soldiers, commanded by comrade Vo Nguyen Giap.
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.
Meaning of the Name "Propaganda Liberation Army"
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.
Key Development Milestones
- December 22, 1944: Founding of the Vietnam Propaganda Liberation Army with 34 members.
- April 1945: First battles at Phai Khat and Na Ngan (Cao Bang), achieving victory.
- May 15, 1945: Merged with the National Salvation Army to become the Liberation Army, the main force of the Viet Minh Front.
- August 1945: Participated in the General Uprising to seize power.
- 1950: Renamed the Vietnam People's Army.
- 1954: Victory at Dien Bien Phu, defeating the French colonialists.
- 1975: Liberation of the South, reunification of the country.
Significance of December 22
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."
Current Roles and Functions
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.
Conclusion
December 22, 1944, is an important milestone marking the birth of the first revolutionary armed force, the predecessor of the Vietnam People's Army. From 34 initial soldiers, the army has continuously grown, achieving many victories, contributing to the protection and construction of the country.
