The publication is reproduced in full below:
HONORING THE LIFE OF COLONEL VANG FONG
______
HON. JIM COSTA
of california
in the house of representatives
Wednesday, June 30, 2021
Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Colonel Vang Fong. Vang passed away on February 17, 2021 in Fresno County. Vang was a husband, father, and grandfather and a leader in the Secret War in Laos.
Vang was born on January 1, 1944 in Rhawv Zeb, Xieng Khouang, Laos to Cheu Xang Vang and Nai Lor. He was one of eight children. In the year of 1960, Vang left school at the age of 12 to join the CIA's Secret Army in Laos. He was chosen by the late Brigadier General Vang Pao in 1962 to attend military training at Savannakhet. It was there that Vang obtained the CCB/Premier Degree from Pham Khaum.
Vang was stationed to Long Cheng, Laos. After hard work and dedication to protect all around him, he quickly rose rank and he was promoted to W-4 Chief Warrant Officer. After a brief period as W-4 Chief Warrant Officer, he was named to Lieutenant Colonel in 1964. Nine years later, he was appointed to represent the second military region at Luang Prabang, Laos.
His love for his family encouraged him to make a decision on the subject of moving. He moved in 1980 and his family resettled in Hamilton, Montana. After living in Montana, he then had everyone move to Huntington Beach, California to reunite with the rest of his family. This move inspired Vang to be active in whatever community he resided in. He was a member of the Lao Veterans of America; incorporated since 1989, and the Special Guerrilla Units (SGU) Veterans and Families, incorporated since 2009.
Even while Vang worked alongside the late General Vang Pao to ensure equality, social justice and opportunities for Hmong families in America, he still enjoyed being around his family. In 1964 he married Mylee Vang, and in 1968 he married Kao Lee. Throughout his life, he raised 10 children.
Vang was well-respected in the Hmong community for his courage and leadership in protecting many people during the Secret War in Laos. Vang participated in numerous events. He participated in the Central Valley Veterans Day Parade in Fresno, California, where he settled for the remainder of his life. His love for his culture was evident and admirable to many in the community.
Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Colonel Vang Fong. His service and contributions to the Nation and State of California will not be forgotten. He will be fondly remembered in the Central Valley. I join his family and friends in celebrating Vang's life.
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SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 114
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