What is July 27th? The Meaning of Invalids and Martyrs’ Day

What is July 27th? Annually, July 27th is Invalids and Martyrs’ Day, an occasion for the whole country to remember and express gratitude for the contributions of heroes and their sacrifices for national independence. To explore more meaningful information and the profound humanitarian values of this special holiday, don’t miss Kamereo’s article below!

What is July 27th?

July 27th is Invalids and Martyrs’ Day in Vietnam, aiming to commemorate and show gratitude to the heroic martyrs and invalids who sacrificed and contributed to national independence. Throughout the arduous wars of resistance, millions fell or suffered lifelong injuries. Therefore, July 27th every year is an occasion for the entire nation to express deep gratitude for these immense contributions.

History of Invalids and Martyrs’ Day

The history of Invalids and Martyrs’ Day originates from the early years of the resistance war against French colonialism. Facing the perilous situation of the country, in early 1946, the Association to Aid Fallen Soldiers (later renamed the Association to Aid Wounded Soldiers) was established with the aim of supporting and remembering the soldiers who sacrificed in the struggle for independence. This was one of the first organizations to show gratitude to those who shed their blood for the Fatherland.

By June 1947, the National Committee for the Organization of Invalids’ Day was established, paving the way for the official recognition of a day each year to commemorate the contributions of invalids. On July 27, 1947, President Ho Chi Minh signed Decree No. 71-SL, designating this day as annual Invalids’ Day. Uncle Ho also sent a letter calling on the entire nation to show affection and responsibility towards those who contributed.

From July 1955, July 27th was renamed Invalids and Martyrs’ Day to recognize the sacrifices of martyrs alongside invalids. After the country’s reunification in 1975, July 27th was officially recognized as Invalids and Martyrs’ Day nationwide, becoming an occasion for people across the country to commemorate and express gratitude.

Meaning of Invalids and Martyrs’ Day on July 27th

Invalids and Martyrs’ Day on July 27th carries many profound meanings, strongly impacting generations of Vietnamese people, clearly shown through the following aspects:

• Expressing deep gratitude: This is an occasion for the Party, State, and all Vietnamese people to express boundless gratitude for the immense contributions of the heroic martyrs who dedicated their youth and blood for the independence and freedom of the Fatherland.
• Affirming patriotic spirit: This day reminds us of the resilient and indomitable will, ready to sacrifice for national independence, of previous generations.
• Strengthening national unity: Invalids and Martyrs’ Day is also a symbol of the solidarity and unanimity of the entire Vietnamese nation in the struggle for independence and national reunification.
• Educating tradition: This is a valuable opportunity to educate the younger generations about patriotic traditions and national pride, helping them emulate the heroic martyrs.
• Evoking gratitude: July 27th helps evoke deep gratitude towards the invalids and sick soldiers who contributed and sacrificed a part of their bodies for the Fatherland.
• Consolidating relationships: It contributes to consolidating the great national unity bloc and strengthening the close blood ties between the Party, the State, and the people.

Indeed, the meaning of July 27th is immense, especially for the younger generation who are living, studying, and working in a peaceful society. Although the war has long passed, the pain and losses remain. Invalids and Martyrs’ Day is an occasion to educate the younger generation about the tradition of “when eating a fruit, think of the person who planted the tree,” to live responsibly and gratefully.

Activities to Express Gratitude on Invalids and Martyrs’ Day

To express deep gratitude to the heroic martyrs and invalids/sick soldiers, many meaningful gratitude activities are often widely organized across the country on July 27th. These activities are not only acts of remembrance but also practical actions to repay the immense contributions of those who sacrificed for the Fatherland:

• Organizing incense offering ceremonies and wreath-laying: Solemn rituals are performed at martyrs’ cemeteries and memorial monuments to remember the deceased.
• Visiting and giving gifts: Organizations, localities, and individuals organize visits, give gifts, and offer encouragement to families of invalids, martyrs, and those who rendered meritorious services to the revolution, demonstrating care and sharing.
• Organizing cultural performances and exchanges: These programs aim to remember and honor the noble sacrifices of heroic martyrs, while also creating a warm and intimate atmosphere.
• Participating in volunteer labor: Many people, especially the younger generation, participate in cleaning and renovating martyrs’ cemeteries and memorial steles, contributing to preserving the resting places of the heroes.
• Donating to funds: Donating to gratitude funds and building houses of compassion for policy-beneficiary families is a practical way to support those who are still alive and their relatives.

Suggestions for Meaningful Messages of Gratitude on Invalids and Martyrs’ Day

July 27th is an opportunity for each of us to express our sincere gratitude through heartfelt messages. Below are some suggestions for you to convey your respect and gratitude:

• Deep respect and profound gratitude to the heroic martyrs who sacrificed their blood for the independence and freedom of the Fatherland. We will forever remember your immense contributions!
• Please accept our deepest gratitude to the invalids and sick soldiers who dedicated their youth and a part of their bodies for the country. Your sacrifices are shining examples for the younger generation to follow.
• Invalids and Martyrs’ Day is an occasion for every Vietnamese child to engrave the immense contributions of those who fell and those who still bear the scars of war. We promise to follow in your footsteps and build an increasingly prosperous nation.
• The sacred blood of the heroic martyrs has adorned the glorious history of the nation. We vow to live worthy of that noble sacrifice.
• The scars on the bodies of the invalids are living proof of patriotism and indomitable will. We wish you good health and to be a firm support for your descendants.
• Every sacred inch of the Fatherland is imbued with the blood and bones of the heroic martyrs. This gratitude is extended to those who brought about today’s peace.
• The silent sacrifices of the heroic martyrs have brought us a peaceful life. We bow before your souls and send our most sincere thanks to the families of martyrs and invalids.
• Current and future generations will forever remember the immeasurable contributions of the heroes who gave their lives for the country. Our aspiration is to preserve and promote the values you have created.
• On Invalids and Martyrs’ Day, we wish good health and express deep gratitude to all invalids and families of martyrs. You are forever the pride of our nation.
• Forever proud of the outstanding children of Vietnam who bravely sacrificed and contributed to national independence. This gratitude will be expressed through actions, through efforts to build a strong Vietnam.

Conclusion

Thus, the article above has provided specific information, helping you answer the question of what July 27th is and understand more clearly the immense meaning of Invalids and Martyrs’ Day. This day is not only an occasion to remember and express gratitude but also a reminder of the value of peace, independence, and deep gratitude to the generations who sacrificed. Additionally, to update more useful content about other holidays, don’t forget to regularly visit Kamereo’s Festivals section!