03/06/2025
The recognition of the Lao Royal flag evokes emotions of joy and tears of happiness, as it symbolizes the formal acknowledgment by the U.S. government in Georgia of the Secret War in Laos. This war was a lesser-known facet of the Vietnam War, backed by President Kennedy, aimed at halting the spread of communism to Singapore and Australia. It primarily targeted potential and existing runways for communist aircraft, including efforts to destroy the Ho Chi Minh Trail, which ran from Cambodia through Laos to Vietnam, supplying arms, military support, and goods to communist forces opposing Western-backed kingdoms.
In fact, the CIA played a crucial role in this conflict, as it was engaged in a war that served the interests of both the United States and the French Parliament. Historically, France had occupied much of Southeast Asia and had established monarchies modeled after European systems, which ultimately contributed to the conflicts in Vietnam and Laos.
So, what makes this flag so special? The Kingdom of Laos was in the process of transitioning to a democracy and drafting its own constitution, much like the United States. However, communist forces fought back, leading to a prolonged struggle. The U.S. and European allies were confident in their ability to win the war. As a result, they significantly bolstered Laos’s economy and military overnight, providing the best possible defense. However, they failed to account for one crucial factor—the seemingly endless waves of troops sent from China.
On the other hand, despite its challenges, the Vietnam War and the Secret War in Laos played a critical role in preventing the spread of communism to Singapore and Australia by eliminating their aircraft runways with mines and artillery projectiles. As the 50th anniversary approaches this April, it is a poignant reminder that sometimes, the greatest act of kindness is a simple expression of gratitude. Because with the Lao Royal Army, Vietnam veterans, and the CIA Australia and Singapore would have been a communists country today.
