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Hmong Dancers performing at the same event on Memorial Day.
I was fortunate and honored to be able to be a part of the first ever Hmong T-28 Pilot Reunion
since the end of the war. More coming in the future on that. I did not create this video, but was given permission by creators to share. I cannot amend the video because I do not have permission to do so. I also no longer have the contact information of the creators. I'm sure the creators meant well. However, please note below another person's thoughts regarding the text toward the end. * Toufong Vang -7 months ago Please amend your description of the Hmong Tiao Pha Khao (T-28 pilots) as limited in education. As it stands, it dishonors them and the Hmong people. Contrary to mischaracterizations like that, the Tiao Pha Khao were well educated and among our people’s brightest. They were fluent in Hmong, Lao, and, frequently, Thai. Many studied French. Some had learned English. They were full officers in the Royal Lao Air Force with all of the requisite training and recognition. We Hmong sacrificed the best among us. This is how a U.S. Air Force intelligence officer, stationed at Long Cheng remembered the pilots, “[T]he Hmong T-28 pilots were at the very top of the profession.” A retired USAF colonel who flew in Laos and Vietnam during that time—and earned 5 Distinguished Flying Crosses—had this to say about my father, Major Vang Sue, “Your Father was a hero who was respected by so many. He was respected by General Vang Pao, Raven FACs, Air America, Green Berets, Jolly Greens and others who viewed his pilot exploits.” And nothing offends the surviving Hmong Tiao Pha Khao more than to be referred to as uneducated. I was fortunate and honored to be able to be a part of the first ever Hmong T-28 Pilot Reunion
since the end of the war. More coming in the future on that. |
Veterans and others sharing their stories
The views and opinions expressed are those of the interviewees, event speakers and guest posts, and do not necessarily reflect the views of Thuy Smith Outreach.
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