The Secret War in Laos

What is the Secret War?

A 10-year, U.S. involved ground and air campaign targeting communist cells in Laos with the help

of the mountain people.

History of Southeast Asia

• 1954 – Collapse of French control in Indochina

• Independent nations emerge– Advisors sent from U.S.

• 1961 – U.S. enters War in Vietnam

What’s happening in Laos?

• 1954 – Geneva Accord– Laos is independent– No foreign troops or bases allowed

• A Divided Nation– Pathet Lao – communist will support N. Vietnam– Royal Lao Government (U.S. endorsed)

Why the Secret War in Laos?

• Ho Chi Minh Trail– Stop supplies– 1961 – President Kennedy

orders CIA to recruit a secret army.

Who are the recruitments?

• The Hmong, including children– Reputation as great fighters

• Led by General Vang Pao

Why would the Hmong help?

• Fear of life under communism

• Possible self-rule • Promise from U.S. - the

Hmong would be protected if Vietnam was lost.

How did the Hmong help?Gather intelligence

Rescue downed pilotsFight a Guerilla warfare

The Failure• April 1975 – Fall of Saigon• Airlift U.S. officials and General Vang Pao and

2500 top Hmong

Consequences….

• 10% of Hmong population in Laos is killed• The Hmong that supported the U.S. will be

hunted by the Pathet Lao• Will make refuge in the jungle of Laos or Thailand

Those that Flee

Major obstacle - The Mekong River

New Journey

• Refuge camps in Thailand• Migration – U.S., France, Canada

Legacies of Secret War

• Historic bombing of a nation• U.S. cluster bombs still active in Laos• Oppression of the Hmong continue in Laos

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