Introduction

Nestled at the foot of Ngang Pass, Vung Chua – Yen Island lies in Quang Dong Commune, Quang Trach District, Quang Binh Province, just 7 km from National Route 1A. This quiet coastal area, embraced by Mount Tho Son and facing the East Sea, looks across to Yen Island – a haven for nesting swallows throughout the year.

In 2013, Vung Chua – Yen Island was chosen as the final resting place of General Vo Nguyen Giap, Vietnam’s first Commander-in-Chief. Since then, it has become a significant memorial site, drawing millions of visitors – students, veterans, and citizens – to pay their respects.

General Vo Nguyen Giap – A Distinguished Son of Quang Binh

Born on August 25, 1911, in An Xa Village, Le Thuy District, Vo Nguyen Giap came from a Confucian family and soon displayed a sharp intellect and strong sense of patriotism. Initially a teacher and journalist, he joined the revolutionary movement and became a brilliant disciple of President Ho Chi Minh, who entrusted him with the critical mission of organising and leading Vietnam’s armed forces.

Legendary Victories and Lifelong Contributions

His most iconic achievement was commanding the Dien Bien Phu Campaign (1954), defeating the French stronghold and leading to the Geneva Accords, ending the First Indochina War. Western media dubbed him the "Red Napoleon" – a comparison to the greatest military strategists in history.

During the Vietnam War, he played a vital role in major campaigns, including:

• The Route 9 – Southern Laos Campaign (1971)

• The historic Ho Chi Minh Campaign (1975) that unified the nation

Altogether, he led nine major campaigns, shaping the victories of Vietnam’s two great wars for independence.

Beyond military achievements, General Giap also served as Minister of National Defence, Deputy Prime Minister, and oversaw education, science, and health. He proposed the foundation of Vietnam’s university system and led post-war science and technology recovery. Notably, he signed the decree to establish Hanoi University of Science and Technology (1956) – Vietnam’s first technical university.

Vung Chua – Yen Island: His Eternal Resting Place

Honouring both his personal wish and family’s request, General Giap was laid to rest at Vung Chua – close to his homeland, facing the sea, and imbued with serenity and humility. His grave, harmoniously set within nature, is modest yet profoundly symbolic.

Every year, especially on national holidays like April 30th, July 27th, September 2nd, and October 4th (his death anniversary), countless visitors gather here to reflect and honour his legacy.

“I lived and fought for the people. When I die, I want to rest close to my motherland, with the sound of waves from the homeland’s sea.”
— General Vo Nguyen Giap (as recalled by his family)

Lessons for Future Generations

From his life and work, Vietnamese students and young people can draw timeless lessons:

• Patriotism begins with responsibility – He chose national service over a safe academic path.

• Knowledge is power – He became a great military leader through intellect and courage, not military background.

• Humility and integrity – Despite holding top positions, he lived modestly and close to the people.

Visiting Vung Chua – Yen Island is not just a field trip, but a moment of deep reflection – about the past, the future, and one’s duty to the nation.

“There are moments that make history –
And a lifetime that will never forget them.”
— To Huu (Vietnamese poet)

 Notable Works by General Vo Nguyen Giap

• "Dien Bien Phu – Rendezvous with History" (2004)
  A detailed memoir of the preparation and strategic pivot in the 1953–1954 campaign.

• "The General Headquarters in the Spring of Victory" (2000)
  A narration of his leadership in the Ho Chi Minh Campaign.

• "Fighting in Encirclement" (2002)
  Recollections from his early revolutionary days and escapes from imprisonment.

• "Culture and Development" (1995)
  Essays and speeches on the role of culture in national progress.

• "Ho Chi Minh – A Man, a Nation, an Era, a Cause"
  A deep tribute and analysis of President Ho Chi Minh’s life and impact.

Other works include:

• "Unforgettable Years"

• "Ho Chi Minh Thought and the Vietnamese Revolutionary Path"

• "People’s War – People’s Army"

• "Some Memories of Uncle Ho"

                                 Phong Nha Việt