Governor Gretchen Whitmer is a lifelong Michigander. She is a lawyer, an educator, former prosecutor, State Representative and Senator. She was the first woman to lead a Senate caucus. But the most important title she boasts is MOM. Inspired by her family, she’s devoted her life to building a stronger Michigan for everyone.
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May 14, 2023
WHEREAS, this recognition is to commemorate Hmong combat soldiers who served under the direction of the United States Military and clandestine forces from 1961 – 1975, in the Secret War of Laos during the Vietnam War; and,
WHEREAS, we join with members and friends to thank Hmong Veterans of America for their service; and,
WHEREAS, the Special Guerilla Unit Veterans and Families of Michigan, Inc. (SGUVFM) is a Hmong Veteran organization in Michigan representing combat Veterans and their families; and,
WHEREAS, the mission of the SGUVFM is to improve the economic conditions, educational attainment, health, and civil rights of the Hmong community in Michigan; and,
WHEREAS, the Hmong SGU Veterans were vital during the Secret War in Laos by providing intelligence and troops to one of the nation’s largest operations, rescuing American soldiers, and blocking North Vietnam from using the Ho-Chi Minh Trail to South Vietnam; and,
WHEREAS, it is estimated that at least 35,000 Hmong SGU Veterans were killed during the Secret War, and the remaining Hmong population in Laos have been victims of ongoing retaliation and genocide since the war ended; and,
WHEREAS, on May 14, 1975, the American Central Intelligence Agency withdrew from Laos, and the Hmong Veterans and their families began their journey to new beginnings; and,
WHEREAS, the United States provided political asylum, refugee status, and citizenship to these Veterans for their contributions; and,
WHEREAS, the Hmong SGU Veterans Recognition Day will be recognized in Michigan on May 14, the day the Hmong evacuated from Laos in search of a better future; and,
WHEREAS, the SGUVFM continues to recognize Hmong Veterans with performances of the color guard, Casket Teams, band and bugler, 21-gun rifle salute, raising the American flag, and honoring next of kin;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 14, 2023, as Hmong Special Guerilla Unit (SGU) Veterans Recognition Day in Michigan.