Lao Special Guerrilla Unit ( SGU )

• Origins in the Secret War: The Lao Special Guerrilla Unit (SGU) was formed during the 1960s as part of the CIA’s covert operations in Laos, also known as the “Secret War,” which ran parallel to the Vietnam War. • Hmong Majority: The majority of SGU fighters were ethnic Hmong, recruited by the CIA because of their resilience and local knowledge, under the leadership of General Vang Pao. • Anti-Communist Mission: The SGU’s primary mission was to fight the communist Pathet Lao and North Vietnamese Army (NVA) forces, disrupting the Ho Chi Minh Trail and providing intelligence. • Extensive US Support: The United States provided extensive support, including arms, supplies, training, and air support, but the SGU was not officially recognized as part of the US military. • Child Soldiers: Due to high casualties, SGU units sometimes recruited boys as young as 12 years old, making them one of the youngest fighting forces of the era. • Unique Air Operations: SGU members often coordinated with Air America and US Air Force for airstrikes, rescue missions, and supply drops in difficult terrain. • Major Battles: SGU units participated in fierce battles such as the defense of Long Tieng, which served as their main base and the CIA’s headquarters in Laos. • Evacuation and Aftermath: When the US withdrew in 1975, many SGU members and their families fled to Thailand to escape reprisals, leading to large Hmong refugee communities in the US. • Recognition Struggles: Despite their contributions, SGU veterans and their families have struggled for years to gain recognition and benefits from the US government. • Legacy and Remembrance: The bravery and sacrifices of the SGU are commemorated in Hmong-American communities and memorials, with annual events such as the Hmong New Year often including tributes to SGU veterans.