[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 20 (Wednesday, February 9, 2011)]
[House]
[Page H559]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                              {time}  1210
       HONORING THE LIFE AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF GENERAL VANG PAO

  (Mr. DENHAM asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute.)
  Mr. DENHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and 
accomplishments of General Vang Pao. General Pao passed away on 
Thursday, January 6, 2011, and today marks the sixth and final day of 
the Hmong spiritual practices which are traditionally conducted by the 
Hmong community after the passing of an individual. I stand here today 
to support the internment of General Vang Pao in Arlington National 
Cemetery.
  The accomplishments and service that General Vang Pao has given to 
the United States are not only numerous, but are everlasting. Not only 
was General Vang Pao determined to protect his country, but he served 
to protect the lives of American soldiers. He fought to cut off the Ho 
Chi Minh Trail so that supplies could not be utilized to fuel the 
enemy's war efforts. He provided aid and support to downed American 
pilots, in addition to defending American outposts.
  The leadership of General Vang Pao helped save thousands of U.S. 
servicemembers' lives and was an influential force during the Vietnam 
War. The dedication and service of the general not only earned him the 
title of Lord Protector of the country, but has also made him a hero in 
both the Hmong community and the United States of America.

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