Remembering role of pack-bikes in Dien Bien Phu Victory

During the 56-day campaign, people from across Vietnam were called to support the battle. The people of Thanh Hoa province sent more than 120,000 workers with 11,200 pack-bikes and 1,300 boats to transport supplies. This was critical, as transportation played a most vital role in the victory at Dien Bien Phu.

The pack-bike was able to move in rugged terrain without fuel and was easy to repair and to disguise in all types of weather conditions.

Initially, each pack-bike could carry 100kg of supplies, but after numerous innovations and improvements the bike’s capacity was increased to 200-300kg.

A one-metre bamboo pole was fastened to the handle to improve its performance and the frames were reinforced with iron rods or planks. The tires were covered with cloth to make them more durable.

At the exhibition, visitors can see the bike owned by Trinh Ngoc. This bike was known for its record capacity of 345.5kg.

Close look at the pack-bike owned by Mr Trinh Ngoc

There are also photos of lines of pack-bikes pushed by workers who used to make regular runs back and forth along the 500km route from Thanh Hoa Province to the battlefield in Dien Bien.

Thanh Hoa workers transporting supplies for troops in Dien Bien Phu in 1954

Numerous rivers crossed the path from Thanh Hoa to Dien Bien Phu 

Hats, military uniforms, sandals, bags used by transport workers

During a visit to Thanh Hoa Province on March 16, 1957, President Ho Chi Minh praised the efforts of local people during the Dien Bien Phu Campaign. "Thanh Hoa province has contributed 120,000 workers to transport food and supplies to solders during the campaign, and so the people of Thanh Hoa can be proud of their great contribution to the victory," he said.

Photos of Thanh Hoa soldiers killed in Dien Bien Phu Campaign 

Alongside items relating to the Dien Bien Phu Campaign, the exhibition also showcases photos, documents and other items from the people of Thanh Hoa people related to the French and American wars since 1945.