Spirit of Peace and Cooperation: Precious Asset of Vietnamese and US Peoples
	Over 200 Valuable Documents Displayed at 'Mountains and Rivers Connected One Strip' Exhibition

In the 1960s, when I was in my twenties, I took part in the movement opposing the war in Vietnam. We believed the war was wrong, rooted in inequality and the unjust treatment of human beings. Within that context, viewing the war critically and joining the anti-war movement came very naturally to me. Around 1966, I refused to be drafted. I took part in numerous protests and anti-war activities throughout the 1960s and 1970s.

Frank Howard Joyce – Head of the delegation of the US National Council of Elders. (Photo: Dinh Hoa)

In April 1970, I was part of a peace delegation that traveled to Hanoi and the outskirts of the city, where we met many Vietnamese people and witnessed firsthand the impacts that the US and the war were inflicting. Part of our purpose was to return to the US and tell the real story of what was happening in the war, something American media at the time did not accurately reflect.

I still remember those days in April 1975, when we poured into the streets to celebrate. We were proud of the Vietnamese people, and also proud of what we had done as peace activists, of the journey for peace that most of us have remained committed to until today.

In April 2025, I had the chance to return to Vietnam. This marked my fifth visit, and each time I return, I am struck anew by the country’s remarkable development, its enduring resilience, and its vibrant energy. It is truly impressive!

To be here again during such a meaningful commemoration is profoundly significant for me. I was able to witness the anniversary of Vietnam’s national reunification, to be here with colleagues and friends. More importantly, I can once again return to the US and share the story of Vietnam’s miraculous recovery and development since 1975.

From the very beginning of my involvement, I have always felt welcomed here as an American citizen. That feeling remains unchanged today. I see more and more American tourists coming to Vietnam, and it’s clear that they, too, feel that warm welcome. Experiencing the spirit of peace in Vietnam always moves me and gives me renewed energy.

I am deeply happy and proud to be in Vietnam for the fifth time. What a joy it is to have been able to return here five times in my life. With each visit, I learn more from the Vietnamese people about the meaning of peace and how to build it.

Youth as Peace Ambassadors and Bridges of Friendship This is the message shared by Vice President of the Viet Nam Union of Friendship Organizations (VUFO) Dong Huy Cuong with delegates participating in an ...

Peace Boat and Vietnam "Continue Writing the Story of Peace" On April 30, the 120th voyage of the Peace Boat organization, departing from Yokohama (Japan), will dock at the Ha Long International Cruise Port, Vietnam, ...