HCM CITY — HCM City is hosting an exhibition of commendation records and valuable historical documents of war veterans to express deep gratitude to those who sacrificed for national independence.

The exhibition, entitled “Hồ sơ khen thưởng kháng chiến chống Pháp” (Commendation records during the resistance war against French colonial forces), is co-organised by the municipal People’s Committee and the city’s Historical Archives Centre.

It is part of the programme to mark the 79th anniversary of War Invalids and Martyrs' Day (July 27, 1947 – 2026), and the 50th anniversary of Sài Gòn – Gia Định being officially named after President Hồ Chí Minh (July 2, 1976 - 2026).

Nguyễn Mạnh Cường, Vice Chairman of the municipal People’s Committee, emphasised that during the resistance war against French colonial forces, the Party Committee, authorities and people of Sài Gòn – Gia Định bravely fought alongside compatriots nationwide, making great contributions to the nation's glorious victory. The contributions are recognised in archival files preserved across many generations.

Cường said, “Every document, every piece of war memorabilia, or medal on display tells a story about love for the homeland and the country, and portrays people who devoted their youth to the independence and freedom of the nation.”

He added that the preservation of archival commendation records and the efforts of specialised forces in the 500 Days and Nights Campaign to locate remains, collect DNA samples and identify previously unknown martyrs affirmed the enduring tradition of gratitude of today’s generation.

The Historical Archives Centre is currently preserving more than 11,000 commendation records of individuals who participated in the resistance war.

Hundreds of valuable archival documents and artefacts from the collection are on display at the exhibition.

The showcase includes documents on the revolutionary struggle of the Party Committee, authorities and people of Sài Gòn – Chợ Lớn – Gia Định during 1858–1954, as well as historical figures connected to the founding, defence, and identity of the city.

The exhibition also displays photos highlighting the city’s achievements across all fields over the past 50 years since it was named after President Hồ Chí Minh.

Phan Long Hồ, the centre’s deputy director, said, “The staff spent so much time and effort to research, review and cross-check tens of thousands of files and arrange meetings with historical witnesses and families of those who have rendered service to the revolution to collect and consolidate data."

Hồ said the centre identified 5,848 individuals who received prestigious awards.

He added that the centre accelerated the application of digital technology and launched a direct search system at the exhibition to help people easily access and quickly look up information.

Nguyễn Thái Minh Trang, a member of the Hồ Chí Minh Communist Youth Union, shared: “Through the exhibition, I deeply feel the value of today’s independence and freedom and learn valuable lessons from history and national heroes.”

At the exhibition, the organisers presented 34 certified copies of commendation dossiers to individuals and families of those who have rendered service to the revolution.

The exhibition will open to the public at 951 Lê Khả Phiêu Street in An Lạc Ward until December 31. — VNS