The fall of Saigon in April 1975 marked not just the end of the Vietnam War but also the beginning of a harrowing exodus for many Vietnamese. As the communists took control, former officials were sent to brutal reeducation camps, and the economy suffered under an American embargo. This traumatic transition saw thousands flee on overcrowded boats, facing dangerous journeys. Many became refugees, stripped of their identities and homes. While some were airlifted to safety, the majority faced dire conditions to escape their homeland's oppressive new regime.
The communist victors changed the beloved name of Saigon to Ho Chi Minh City, and exacted revenge on the South with brutal reeducation camps.
Overnight, we became wanderers deprived of land and home, purged of our identity and essence as thousands fled Vietnam.
We lost our homeland half a century ago, and in the process, gained the world after Saigon fell to communist forces.
A small 40-foot craft often packed 150 people, stacked on top of each other, enduring a horrific journey on the open sea.
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