Major Cher Pao Vang
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In 1961, Major Cher Pao Vang began his military career as an Auto Defense de Choc (ADC) soldier in Military Zone 10A with his brother Nhia Ying Vang and clansmen in the Phaket region, Laos. As the Secret War escalated, Major Vang was recruited into the CIA’s Special Guerrilla Units (SGU) and went to military training for an entire year from 1965-1966 at the Mouang Cha army base. He was placed into GM 22, Battalion 5, and remained there until 1969.

In late 1969, Major Vang was sent for more combat training. Upon his return to the battlefield, he joined GM 27, Battalion 7A. This was when he was promoted to the rank of Major. In September of 1972, Major Vang was sent to fight and defend the military base at Bouam Long, which was commanded by Colonel Cher Pao Moua. Major Vang was shot and killed as he and his soldiers fought against the Pathet Lao and NVA troops at the Phouxa fortress. His body was not recovered until three months later, when the enemy was suppressed. He died protecting freedom for his country.

Above photo: Portrait of Major Cher Pao Vang taken in mid-1960s. Below photo: Major Cher Pao Vang with his children. (Photo courtesy Vang Family)