“Triumphant Smile”

11 years ago, Vietnam Pictorial did an article about Mrs. VoThiThang who is famous for “Triumphant Smile” which was deeply imprinted in the memory of the times. On August 22, she passed away at the age of 69. To honour her, Vietnam Pictorial would like to introduce to readers the article printed on Vietnam Pictorial No.3, 2003.

Mrs.Vo Thi Thang (in 2003). Photo: VNP's file

How could a young girl just over 20, sentenced to 20 years’ hard labour, have such a gentle and innocent smile of self-confidence! That’s why, some wonder whether or not Vo Thi Thang was real; her smile had become virtually surreal. However, to those who know the land and the people living on this soil, this is quite simple and understandable. That smile belongs to Mother – the Vietnamese Motherland.