May 4, 1954: Preparations for detonating at A1 Hill are completed

The engineering team successfully completed the task of digging a tunnel and putting explosives into the heart of A1 Hill. Next, a group of men comprising Nguyen Phu Xuyen Khung (group leader), Nguyen Diet, Luu Viet Thoang, and Nguyen Van Bach was assigned the task of detonating demolition explosives when ordered.

Upholding the courageous spirit, the entire engineering team was not afraid of sacrifices to carry out the mission. One of whom was Luu Viet Thoang, who was later honoured as a Hero of the People's Armed Forces for his bomb disposal achievements.

On the enemy side, the 3rd Company of the 1st Foreign Parachute Battalion came to reinforce the 2nd Company stationed at Eliane 2 (A1) on the early morning of May 4, 1954; the 1st Battalion of the 13th Foreign Legion Demi-Brigade retreated.

On May 4, 1954, Cogny radioed de Castries some instructions on the retreat under the General Commander's decision, giving de Castries the right to choose the method and time for retreat when receiving the order: first of all, tanks, cannons, secret documents, codes, and radio equipment must be destroyed. Until the order is given, de Castries must maintain resistance on the spot, refrain from any thoughts of retreat, strictly keep the plan secret, and prepare for its implementation with utmost caution.

Implementing Navarre's decision, on May 4, 1954, de Castries met with senior officers in Muong Thanh to disseminate the Albatros plan. At the meeting were Langlais, Lemeunier, Bizard, Vadot and Séguin-Pazzis. After discussion, the French Command in Dien Bien Phu decided to divide its troops into three arms when fleeing. The withdrawal plan was expected to be implemented at 8:00 pm on May 7, 1954.

In Hanoi, General Commissioner Dejean and General Commander Navarre studied the plan for a ceasefire in Indochina.

(Source: NDO)