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12/21/2005

Lao Hmong American War Memorial Unveiled

FRESNO, Calif., Dec. 21 /Christian Wire Service/ -- On Wednesday, December 21st at 11:30 am at Fresno County Courthouse Park (West of the Courthouse, near the Fountain), Mayor Alan Autry and various community dignitaries will unveil a Memorial created to honor the Hmong/ Laotian soldiers who fought heroically alongside the Americans during the Vietnam Conflict in Southeast Asia.

"We must never forget the loyalty and sacrifice of the Lao Hmong people and their steadfast support of our American soldiers during the Vietnam War. They were unwavering defenders of freedom then and remain so today. The people that we once called allies we now proudly call our friends and neighbors," stated Autry, "I am humbled by the outpouring of support and the generosity of the community in the creation of the Memorial." During the 2002 Hmong International New Year celebration in Fresno, Mayor Autry made a commitment to the Hmong community to undertake the construction of such a memorial. On Wednesday, the Memorial will be publicly unveiled.

A 6-foot life-size bronze sculpture elevated on a 3-foot solid granite base depicts two Hmong soldiers aiding an injured American fighter pilot. The Memorial was made possible by the efforts of the City of Fresno, County of Fresno, the Lao Hmong American War Memorial Committee and many community donations. Major contributors include: Table Mountain Rancheria, Lao Veterans of America, the Fresno County Office of Education, and Hmong International New Year. Representatives from each of these organizations will be participating in the dedication celebration.

Photographer and war-correspondent, Dr. Jane Hamilton-Merritt composed a commemorative book exclusively for the Memorial. The book narrates the history, incredible heroism, resilience and hope of the Hmong/Laotion people. The books will be available on Wednesday for a $15 minimum donation.

Complimentary parking will be available at Garage 7 (Spiral Garage) located on the northwest corner of Van Ness and Inyo.

A private donor reception will be held on Tuesday, December 20th at 5:00 pm at the Fresno Convention Center New Exhibit Hall in Room 2015. The reception will honor the major donors who contributed to the Memorial. Guest speakers at the reception include Dr. Jane Hamilton-Merritt and General Vang Pao, who led the efforts to assist the Americans in Vietnam.