Pinh Village revives from the memories of war

Nestled at the foot of the limestone mountains in Thanh Thuy Commune, Pinh Village, now known as Thanh Son Hamlet, once served as a vital rear base for the Vi Xuyen Front during the northern border defense war. Affectionately referred to by veterans as the “Capital of Soldiers,” the village was a strategic gathering point for major military units before they advanced to the frontline positions.

Pinh Village has become a “red address” for educating younger generations about the nation's revolutionary traditions.

When fierce fighting erupted in 1984, local people were evacuated to make way for military operations. Thanks to its sheltered terrain, Pinh Village became home to command headquarters, logistics depots, ammunition warehouses, and a frontline field hospital. Today, wartime relics, including the former field hospital, Tham Nghia Cave, the Binh Tri Thien barracks, and the Cooc Nghe artillery site, remain preserved as powerful reminders of the sacrifices made in defense of the nation’s northern frontier.

Following the restoration of peace, villagers returned and rebuilt their homes from scratch. Fields were reclaimed, stilt houses were reconstructed, and daily life gradually returned to normal. Thanh Son Hamlet is now home to 150 households with 862 residents from five ethnic groups. Average annual income has reached approximately VND 35 million per person. In addition to agriculture, many households have developed homestay and catering services, creating new sources of income through tourism.

In recent years, the hamlet has promoted community-based tourism by combining its rich historical heritage with the cultural identity of the local Tay ethnic community. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil mountain landscape, experience traditional stilt-house living, and hear first-hand accounts of the fierce battles fought at the Vi Xuyen Front and the soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Every July, thousands of veterans from across Vietnam return to Pinh Village to pay tribute to their fallen comrades and revisit the former battlefield. Once scarred by war, the village has been transformed into a symbol of resilience, peace, and gratitude, where green rice fields and the laughter of children stand as enduring reminders of the value of peace and the sacrifices that made it possible.

Thanh Thuy