The sacred national flag salute ceremony at Ba Dinh Square

Over the past 20 years, since May 19, 2001, the national flag salute ceremony every morning at Ba Dinh Square has become a familiar sight for all citizens in the capital city of Hanoi.

The national flag flying surrounded by the music of the national anthem at Ba Dinh Square.
The national flag flying surrounded by the music of the national anthem at Ba Dinh Square.

In addition to famous relic sites and landscapes, both domestic and international visitors to the capital hope not to miss this solemn ceremony.

At about 5:50am, when the honour guards prepare to carry out the ceremony, the door of President Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum opens and the famous quote “Nothing is more precious than independence and freedom” appears.

The guards’ formation consists of 37 soldiers. The military victory flag leads the formation, followed by 34 comrades representing the first 34 soldiers of the Vietnam People's Army.

The soldiers’ faces clearly express the solemnity. This is a sacred mission assigned by the Party, State and people.

Three soldiers holding the red flag solemnly step onto a podium in preparation for the main ritual.

All preparatory acts are implemented seriously and in an orderly fashion.

The soldier, who holds the red flag, waiting for the command and the national anthem.

When the national anthem begins to play, the national flag is slowly lifted up. Accordingly, once the national anthem ends, the national flag reaches the top of the flagpole.

Although the ceremony is held daily, its solemnity has never been lost.

Guards marching in front of President Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum before the end of the ceremony.

The national flag flying ceremony at the historical Ba Dinh Square, reminding the Vietnamese people of the sacrifices of previous generations for national independence and peace as well as inspiring patriotism and national pride among them.