On Friday evening, May 22, we headed to the west steps of the State Capitol for a memorial candlelight vigil to commemorate the 40-year anniversary of the Secret War in Laos. Veterans from Stockton, Sacramento, and Chico arrived in uniform to honor the Hmong, Mien, and Khmu soldiers who lost their lives while supporting our nation’s Vietnam War efforts.
Photo: Opening moments of candlelight vigil. Photo by Cua Ly.
Thanks to the organizing efforts of Elk Grove City Councilmember Steve Ly and Assemblymember Jim Copper, community members, including Sacramento’s Vice Mayor Allan Warren and Sacramento City USD’s Superintendent Jose Banda, stepped up to the podium to recognize the veterans for the high price they paid for their allegiance to the United States and to assure them that their contributions to the Vietnam War would not be forgotten.
For a window into the two-hour event, watch the short (9-minute) video below:
An event highlight was Steve Ly’s announcement that the City of Elk Grove had passed a resolution honoring the veterans of the Secret War.
Photo: Steve Ly announces Elk Grove Resolution to honor Secret War in Laos.
We look forward to supporting the resolution by continuing to expand our Time of Remembrance Vietnam War Interview Archives and by facilitating district and regional workshops.
Gail and Kathleen
