FLAG CEREMONY - D1K11

Written by Ha Gia Han (D1K11)

English interpretation by Cat Tien

D1K11 captures the youthful moments when our young hearts beat in unison, unafraid of getting hurt or facing obstacles, and always eager to live our lives to the fullest.

In the gentle chill of the morning, our class - D1K11 - stood here for our final flag salute session. Emotions overflowed along with smiles, eyes, and even silent sentences packed with memories. We recall the days when we innocently entered this school with so much excitement. Then, as each poinciana blooming season passes by, we gradually mature under the attentive guidance of our beloved teachers. 

First and foremost, we formally convey our deep gratitude to our two exceptional teachers who contributed to creating a brilliant D1K11 today. Mr Hai was the first teacher who guided, advised, and supported us in every single step we took. And Mr. Liam Duong - who accompanied us during our most beautiful period of youth, and created so many good memories and joy, making D1K11’s youth shine brighter than ever. Every lecture you deliver, every reminder you make, we see your love and hope for us. Today, on this special occasion, D1K11 would like to express our gratitude to our cherished teachers and school by presenting a spiritual gift - the cultural art program - “Dang Viet”.

We, the Vietnamese people, have probably all been captivated by the ancient poems of artist Ho Xuan Huong, as well as Han Mac Tu‘s profound words. These poems appear to flow through the blood and soul of each person, delivering a deep sense of pride. And today, D1K11 would like to present that spirit by opening the program with two folk songs, “Moi Trau” và “Buon Trang”.

“Moi Trau” is like a simple love song, like a loving invitation, touching the deepest emotions in each of us. The rhythm seems to pour every drop of affection into people’s hearts, evoking the basic, genuine beauty of humans and our nation. Next, “Buon Trang” - with a gentle melody like a slowly floating moonlight, transporting us back to the majestic mountains and forests where nature, earth, and sky blend, radiating the colors of the soul of the countryside. These two songs will be performed through Hong Quan‘s emotional voice. We hope that through every note of music, we will convey our love for our homeland so that the richness of the Vietnamese soul will resound eternally.

Following that, Kim Thu, Ngoc Khue, Le Khanh, and Hong Quan sing the song "Viet Nam Muon Mau". Each line is a stroke of color that paints a vivid picture of the homeland. Golden rice fields, winding roads through deep blue mountains, and the enormous sea and sky combine to form the pride of a calm and vibrant country.

Following the program is a wonderful gift to the teachers. When we reflect on the past journey, we are deeply moved and appreciative of the teachers' lessons; those teachings will always be the fire that illuminates the path ahead of us. On the occasion of the final flag salute session, D1K11 would like to present the teachers a modest gift - "miniature versions of D1K11", succulent pots overflowing with life, affection, and will. We hope that whenever you remember this present, teachers will think of their young, charming students, children who have grown up with their care, and love.

To close the program, D1K11 would like to showcase traditional dances to the teachers and students that represent a rich cultural image of the three regions' homelands: north, central, and south. Each dance tells a unique story while also including vibrant Vietnamese culture. The North's dance is passionate and graceful; the Central region's dance is soft but strong; and the Southern dance is happy, liberal, and expresses profound human love.

This flag salute session will leave an unforgettable impact on each of our hearts as grade 12D1 students. We would want to convey our heartfelt appreciation to our teachers for loving, teaching, sharing, and guiding us from innocent youngsters to more mature than before. Thank you - those who wrote a wonderful, brilliant youth full of joy and memories. We have unforgettable youth days when the wind blows and the rain falls, and we are together, sharing every drop of sunshine and rain while cultivating unfulfilled aspirations. Tomorrow, on every journey, we shall see the silhouettes of the CTU Elite High School and our dear teachers. Thank you, teachers and friends, for coming and sharing the beautiful and sacred moments of our student years with us.