North Charlotte Today

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Thom Tillis and his colleagues have introduced the bipartisan Hmong Congressional Gold Medal Act, a piece of legislation aimed at recognizing the distinguished service of Hmong veterans who fought alongside American troops during the Vietnam War.

"The Hmong bravely risked their lives to help our servicemembers during the Vietnam War," said Senator Tillis. "Today, more than 10,000 Hmong people call North Carolina home, and we are beyond grateful for their patriotic service and cultural contributions to our state. It is my honor to work to pass this bipartisan legislation to recognize Hmong veterans for their heroic actions."

During the Vietnam War, as the conflict spread into Laos, the CIA recruited and trained Hmong soldiers to assist American troops in their fight against the communist North Vietnamese and Pathet Lao. Despite the great risks to their own safety and that of their families, Hmong soldiers fought on the ground, flew combat missions, gathered intelligence, disrupted the Ho-Chi-Min Supply Trail, and rescued American pilots who were downed behind enemy lines.

The sacrifices made by the Hmong people were immense, with their soldiers dying at a rate ten times higher than that of American servicemembers in Vietnam. Many Hmong villages were destroyed by the North Vietnamese, forcing the displacement of numerous Hmong individuals. In 1975, over 150,000 Hmong fled Laos as the nation fell to communist forces. Due to their ties with the American military, many Hmong sought refuge in the United States, starting anew and building a life in their new home.

Over the years, Hmong populations and their rich cultural heritage have become deeply rooted in communities across the United States. Currently, there are over 327,000 Hmong individuals living in the country.

The Hmong Congressional Gold Medal Act aims to honor and recognize the bravery and sacrifices of Hmong veterans by awarding them the Congressional Gold Medal, one of the highest civilian honors in the United States. This legislation acknowledges the crucial role played by the Hmong in the Vietnam War and serves as a testament to their commitment and dedication to the American cause.

The bipartisan nature of this legislation demonstrates the widespread recognition and appreciation for the Hmong veterans and their contributions. It is a testament to the unity and support across party lines for the recognition and appreciation of those who risked their lives to protect American interests during the Vietnam War.

As this legislation moves forward, it is hoped that it will receive the necessary support and bipartisan cooperation to ensure that the service and sacrifices of Hmong veterans are properly recognized and honored.

To learn more, click on this link: https://www.tillis.senate.gov/2023/11/tillis-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-recognize-the-service-of-hmong-veterans-during-the-vietnam-war