The comradeship forged in the ranks of the Vietnamese People's Army during the protracted resistance wars against French colonialists and American imperialists has become an enduring tradition. This sacred bond remains a defining characteristic of the generations of soldiers who followed President Hồ Chí Minh. Whether in times of war or peace, this comradeship is a foundational element of our army's revolutionary heroism, fostering theu nity that enables soldiers to overcome challenges and excel in their missions. The August episode of Proud Melodies, themed Comrade, will vividly portray the comradeship of soldiers from the past and present.
This program is a collaboration between the Propaganda Department of the General Department of Politics and Entertainment Program Production BDepartment of Vietnam Television (VTV) to mark the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Vietnam People's Army and the 35th anniversary of the National Defense Day.
The August episode of Proud Melodies is structured in three chapters entitled "Your Homeland is Salty, Sour Land"; "Gun Beside Gun, Head Close to Head" and "Comrade".
Interwoven throughout the program are documentaries that highlight comradeship across Vietnam, from the love story between a female volunteer and a truck driver on the Truong Son trail, to the vibrant friendships of young students on the fierce battlefield, to the touching act of a soldier naming his daughter after a comrade who fought in the Battle of Dien Bien Phu. These stories once again celebrate the solidarity and mutual support among soldiers in hardship, further enriching the historical tapestry of our nation.
Featured in the program are notable figures associated with different historical periods. Among them is composer Dao Huu Thi, known as the "composer of Truong Son" with over 100 popularsongs. On stage, artifacts like his pith helmet, handwritten sheet music from the battlefield, and youthful photo albums serve as tangible reminders of his wartime experiences. Particularly poignant is his live performance of songs about camaraderie on the guitar, each song telling a story of camaraderie, love, pain, and hope shared by soldiers.
Hosts Duc Bao and Hong Nhung will interact with composer Dao Huu Thi, the Truong Son composer, who has created more than 100 timeless songs.
A highlight of the program is the unexpected reunion of Mr. Trinh Duy Luan and two comrades, representatives of the National Economics University Veterans Association, discussing their efforts to honor and connect with fallen student soldiers. Letters exchanged between the soldiers vividly illustrate the deep comradeship that endured despite the brutal warfare that made communication difficult. The promise that ”if we survive, we’ll visit each other’s families", became a driving force for veterans seeking to reunite after the war.
Mr. Trinh Duy Luan (center) with his two comrades. Photo: VTV
Nearly 50 years after their enlistment, these veterans have fulfilled their old promises. They have overcome numerous hardships to visit the homes and graves of their fallen comrades. These journeys are not only a return to the past but also a tribute to those who sacrificed for the country’s independence and freedom.
Mr. Doan Xuan Ngoc, nephew of martyr Doan Xuan Quang, a classmate of Mr. Trinh Duy Luan K11 class at the University of Economics. Photo: VTV
Music has been not only a passion but also a companion, helping these veterans overcome loss and grief and to continue creating. Additionally, the stage of this edition of “Proud Melodies” will witness reunions and emotional exchanges with the families of the martyrs, presented in a heartfelt and nostalgic manner.
As usual, music will serve as the thread that links the stories and documentaries in the program. With seven familiar songs—"Comrade Medley", "March Together to Glory & We Go to War Today", "Students March to the Battlefield", "Comrade", "Red Flower", "The Soldier’s Heart", and "Vietnam in My Heart"—arranged by composer Hoang Anh Minh in a fresh style. The program will also feature beloved artists such as People’s Artist Tan Minh, the group Dong Thoi Gian, singers Ta Quang Thang, Hoang Hong Ngoc, Pham Thu Ha, Tung Duong, the National Economics University Veterans Association, and professional choirs, who will perform new and emotionally charged songs.
The program's stage design will be equally captivating, with a large LED screen providing dynamic backdrops to match each song's setting.
Whether in war or peace, the comradeship among soldiers remains a profound and sacred bond that deeply moves and educates younger generations about the traditional values of solidarity and mutual support in our nation. The August edition of “Proud Melodies” will evoke not only the spirit of comradeship but also the unity and patriotism of the Vietnamese people.
Tune in to Proud Melodies in August, airing at 20:40 on August 11 on VTV1.
