Eighty years have passed since the historic autumn of 1945, when the Declaration of Independence was read aloud, giving birth to the Democratic Republic of Vietnam and opening a new era of independence and freedom for the nation. September 2 forever remains a brilliant milestone in the nation’s history, an eternal flame that lights up the pride, aspirations, and indomitable spirit of millions of Vietnamese hearts.

The year 2025 marks a significant milestone as the country commemorates its 80th National Day. This is not only a time to honor the generations who sacrificed for independence but also an opportunity for today’s youth to cultivate patriotism, pride, and responsibility towards the homeland. In that joyful spirit, students at all levels of Sakura - Olympia School System engaged in meaningful and creative activities to celebrate this special occasion.

At Sakura Kindergarten, the little ones took part in arts and crafts activities themed around National Day, such as making paper hats and decorating red flags with yellow stars. With their nimble hands and rich imagination, they recreated familiar symbols of the nation. The festive atmosphere was further enlivened by musical performances, where children sang songs about their country with pure and innocent pride.

Children of Sakura Kindergarten with the national red flag and yellow star.

Creative paper hats made by young SOers.

The performance “What Could Be More Beautiful” was presented by Himawari students.

At Olympia School, Primary students joined the experiential program “Echoes of Independence Day.” From the dance to historical footage, and the solemn moment of hearing President Ho Chi Minh’s voice declaring independence—all stirred deep emotions and ignited the flame of national pride in the students’ hearts. That pride was vividly expressed in their creative exhibition projects: a colorful map of Vietnam, conical hats embodying Vietnamese identity, a model of the national flag-raising ceremony, and a bilingual newspaper on the Declaration of Independence. These works reflected not only knowledge and creativity but also gratitude and a strong aspiration for the future. In their bright eyes and radiant smiles, one could see the image of a new generation continuing the journey of their predecessors, ready to write the next glorious chapters of the nation’s history.

Olympia Primary students excitedly joined the “Echoes of Independence Day” program.

Students watched historical footage to better understand the meaning of Independence and Freedom.

During the program, they created their own innovative projects.

The “Echoes of Independence Day” exhibition.

Meanwhile, Middle School students had the opportunity to watch the film The Red Rain—a cinematic work that recreates the heroic 81-day-and-night battle to defend the Quang Tri Citadel in 1972. On the screen appeared the faces of twenty-year-old soldiers, the fleeting cries of “Mother,” and young bodies immersed in the Thach Han River—all portraying ultimate sacrifice for the survival of the nation. Inside the cinema, today’s young generation fell silent, carrying in their hearts a deep sense of emotion and gratitude. After the screening, students wrote reflections to share their feelings and lessons learned, thereby reinforcing the values of courage, sacrifice, and solidarity. For SOers, The Red Rain was more than just a film—it was a solemn reminder that today’s freedom was bought with the blood of past generations. From this realization, students made a simple yet proud promise: to study with diligence, live with compassion, and grow with integrity, so they may continue writing the glorious history of their nation.

Middle School students had the chance to watch the film The Red Rain.

The Red Rain fell on the screen and quietly lingered in the hearts of SOers.

Reflections written by SOers about the film.

The series of activities celebrating National Day at Sakura - Olympia not only provided students with valuable experiences but also instilled patriotism, national pride, and a sense of responsibility toward their community. These are the very foundations that will help them grow into confident individuals, ready to integrate and contribute to society in the future.