Acknowledgment of the Secret War in Laos
May 15th, 1997
May 15th, 1997

How Long Ago?
27 years, 9 months, 27 days ago
Location
Arlington, Virginia, United States
Category
Military & Warfare
War/Conflict
Vietnam War
People
- U.S. Congress members
- Hmong veterans
- CIA operatives
Links & References
Tags
Acknowledgment of the Secret War in Laos
The United States government officially recognized the 'Secret War' in Laos, held a dedication ceremony for a memorial honoring Hmong and other veterans involved. This significant event honored the contribution and sacrifices of those who fought alongside U.S. forces during the Vietnam War. The memorial serves as a testament to the bravery of these veterans who played a crucial role in covert operations across Southeast Asia during a tumultuous period.
Hmong veterans recognized for their sacrifices.
Memorial dedicated in Arlington National Cemetery.
U.S. acknowledges covert operations in Laos.
Ceremony aimed to foster reconciliation and respect.
What Happened?
The acknowledgement of the 'Secret War' in Laos marked an important moment for U.S.-Lao relations and recognition of the Hmong community's contributions during the Vietnam War era. The 'Secret War' was a covert military operation involving the CIA, U.S. military personnel, and the Hmong people from the late 1950s to the early 1970s. It aimed to combat North Vietnamese influence in Laos and support U.S. efforts during the broader Vietnam War. The dedication of the Laos Memorial took place in Arlington National Cemetery, an appropriate site for honoring veterans. The U.S. government invited Hmong veterans and their families to participate, highlighting the significant sacrifices made by these individuals.
The memorial features a granite wall inscribed with the names of Hmong and Laotian veterans who served. The dedication ceremony was attended by prominent figures including U.S. lawmakers and veterans’ organizations, symbolizing a formal acknowledgment of the contributions of these individuals in a conflict largely overlooked in mainstream U.S. historical narratives. This effort represented an effort to reconcile past grievances and restore dignity to those who served in silence and with little recognition, fostering dialogue around the experiences of refugee communities in the United States today.
Why Does it Matter?
The dedication of the Laos Memorial and the acknowledgment of the Secret War serve as critical reflections on U.S. involvement in Southeast Asia. This moment is interesting as it sheds light on the complicated histories of U.S. foreign policy, the legacy of armed conflict, and the experience of immigrant communities. It paves the way for ongoing recognition and respect for the sacrifices made by Hmong veterans and the importance of marginalized narratives in American history.
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