On July 25, during the national day of mourning for General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, people from all across Vietnam expressed their sorrow in their own ways. At the National Funeral Home, his hometown in Dong Anh, and at the memorial service in Ho Chi Minh City, mourners shared stories of a humble and dedicated leader, known for his integrity and service to the nation.
Among the crowd was Doan Thi Ngoc Loan (65), a member of the Veterans' Association from Phuc Xuyen Village, Phu Xuyen District, Hanoi. She said, with tears in her eyes, "Since hearing of General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong's passing, it feels like losing a family member." She had traveled a day earlier and stayed nearby to ensure she could pay her respects.
At Lai Da Village's communal house in Dong Hoi, Dong Anh District, Hanoi, the General Secretary's hometown, people lined up early in the morning to maintain order and wait their turn to honor him.
In Ho Chi Minh City, the memorial service was held at Thong Nhat Hall, where people began arriving as early as 4 a.m.
Ha Thi Hoa from Thu Duc District shared her feelings: "Since learning of his passing, I haven't been able to sleep. I admired him for his simplicity, sincerity, and dedication to the nation." Although the public was scheduled to pay respects starting at 1 p.m., she wanted to come early to ensure she had a chance.
Le Thi Kim Cuong, 63, from Ho Chi Minh City, expressed her sorrow: "We received the news of his passing while with a group of over 60 people. Everyone was in disbelief and deeply saddened."