76-year-old war veteran traveling 1,300km by motorbike to Ho Chi Minh City for Reunification Day parade

Images of Thanh wearing a military uniform and riding his old motorbike with the national flag waving proudly behind him, have been widely shared on social media, stirring emotions and admiration for the spirit of a former soldier.

Netizens have tracked his route and many have offered him places to rest along the way.

On Monday afternoon, Dang Hieu Lam, chairman of the People’s Committee of Quang Trung Ward in Vinh City, confirmed that the man seen in these images is Tran Van Thanh, a resident of the ward.

Thanh served in the resistance war against the U.S. in the B5 battlefield in north-central Quang Tri Province.

In his local community, Thanh is known as a gentle, exemplary veteran who actively participates in social and community movements.

According to his family, he departed on April 17, starting his journey from Vinh City at 10:00 am on his old motorbike.

Riding motorbike to see the country

Thanh shared that his decision to ride a motorbike instead of flying or taking a train or bus was not due to financial constraints, but a personal wish.

"I want to ride a motorbike not only to revisit old battlefields but also to witness first-hand the changes and development of villages, provinces, and cities along the route, 50 years after national reunification," Thanh explained.

To ensure his safety and health, he limits his travel to about 200km per day. 

Alongside personal belongings, he carries cooking utensils, a small stove, motorbike repair tools, a water kettle, and the national flag, which he mounts on the back of his vehicle.

The journey takes him through the sun-drenched central region of Vietnam. 

He recounted the physical challenges posed by the scorching midday heat.

"The most difficult parts were the mountain passes, especially Ngang and Hai Van. At my age, I’m not as sharp as before, so navigating these roads is quite tough," he said.

At Hai Van Pass, his motorbike stalled, but nearby locals came to his aid.

"Despite the heat and fatigue, I’m very happy to see the homeland’s landscapes and progress. People along the way are kind and welcoming," Thanh said, adding that he keeps in regular contact with his family for their peace of mind.

Throughout his journey, he has received help from strangers whenever he faced hardships or lacked food and water.

Thanh believes that traveling by motorbike allows him to truly appreciate the beauty and growth of Vietnam since reunification.

"I feel like a liberation soldier once more, heading south for peace. Attending this historic parade is what motivates me to overcome the challenges of the journey," he shared.

Every stretch of the road he travels on his motorbike, with the national flag flying behind, is a tribute to his deep love for the country.

Thanh joined the military in 1968 and served in the B5 battlefield in Quang Tri before retiring in 1991.

During his trip to Ho Chi Minh City, he paused in Vinh Linh, Quang Tri to pay respects at the former battlefield and offer incense for his fallen comrades.

It has been a long time since he returned to the old battleground. 

The memories of those intense war years for independence and peace are still vivid, he said.

“Whether we are veterans like me or younger generations living in peace, we must remember the heroes and martyrs who sacrificed their lives for our freedom," Thanh said.

"The journey to Ho Chi Minh City is born from a soldier’s patriotism.”

His daughter, Tran Thi Hong Yen, a teacher at Luong Dinh Cua Middle School in Nha Trang City, south-central Khanh Hoa Province, revealed that the family initially believed he was traveling by coach.

“Dad told us he would take a coach, but he secretly set off by motorbike, Yen said.

"We are very worried about the dangers of such a long trip.

"I’m constantly checking in with him, and I’m relieved and proud that he is close to completing this meaningful journey."

She added that despite their efforts to dissuade him, Thanh insisted on traveling this way, believing it was symbolic and meaningful for someone who once lived through war with the support of the people.