FALL OF SAIGON

The Fall of Saigon, also known as The Liberation of Saigon, marked the end of a 19-year-long war that bitterly divided the entire country. Few know that the Catinat building, especially the small kitchen in our Storyteller House, was a witness to the historical event. For those who are curious, peering into the kitchen window is like gazing back in time, a journey into a world that is far gone but has become an indelible part of our heritage.

In only two days from April 29 to 30 1975, approximately 7,000 American civilian and military personnel were evacuated by helicopter airlifts from various locations in and around Saigon. The rooftop of the apartment building at 22 Ly Tu Trong Street - right next to the Catinat Building - was chosen as a departure assembly point, and later became famous by the picture of Hubert Van Es capturing the American helicopter evacuation.

Very few people know that behind our counter lies a small window frame with a view of the iconic spot. Though it may seem like an ordinary rooftop to most, our Storytellers know that it holds a special story waiting to be told. It reminds us of the deep scars left by the war, but also of our country’s remarkable achievement in reconciliation and forging a path toward a new era of peace and unity.