[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 73 (Thursday, June 6, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E978]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     HONORING THE LAO-HMONG PEOPLE FOR THEIR LOYALTY AND FRIENDSHIP

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. MARK UDALL

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 5, 2002

  Mr. UDALL of Colorado. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of the 
Lao-Hmong American Coalition to thank my colleagues in both the House 
and Senate for their unanimous vote in favor of a National Lao-Hmong 
Recognition Day. Mr. Yang Chee, president of the Lao-Hmong American 
Coalition, has asked me to relay his own deep gratitude to the United 
States Congress for passing this historic proclamation.
  During the Vietnam War, the Lao-Hmong people were one of this 
country's most loyal allies. They fought alongside U.S. soldiers 
against the communists and the North Vietnamese, sacrificing their 
lives for freedom and democracy. Many of these brave people now call 
this country their home, becoming an integral part of American society. 
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mr. Chee and all of the 
Lao-Hmong people for their dedication to this country and its ideals.
  Mr. Speaker, the resolution proclaiming National Lao-Hmong 
Recognition Day was passed unanimously through both Houses of Congress. 
Once again, I thank my colleagues for their support, and it is my hope 
that President Bush will join us in expressing the gratitude of this 
nation to the Lao-Hmong people.
  This long-overdue day of recognition will take place in July. May it 
promote a sense of understanding and appreciation for the sacrifices 
made in the name of freedom and democracy. I urge all Americans to take 
a moment on this day to thank our brave and loyal friends, the Lao-
Hmong.

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