An exhibition showcasing 550 souvenirs in the wartime opened at the Hanoi-based Museum of Vietnam Military History on February 2 as witnessed by State President Nguyen Minh Triet.

The exhibition entitled ‘War Souvenirs Last Forever’ was held by the General Department of Politics under the Ministry of Defence on the occasion of the Lunar New Year festival and the 80th founding anniversary of the Vietnamese Communist Party (February 3).

The exhibition includes memoirs, letters and picture diaries which are imbued with historical and humanitarian values. In addition, it displays documents about Vietnam’s first 13 generals appointed by late President Ho Chi Minh.

On the occasion, collector Duong Phu Hien displayed his family’s collection of 99 ancient swords and five bronze drums dated during the Dong Son time.

Major General Le Ma Luong, director of the museum, said the souvenirs on display were made of various materials and collections from individuals, organisations and even foreign veterans.

To welcome the 1,000th anniversary of Thang Long-Hanoi, the museum plans to hold an exhibition reminding 10 well-known battles in the history of Hanoi, including the fight against the US air forces which took place in Hanoi in December 1972.

The exhibition opens till the end of May. (VNA)