One of the topics discussed during the MACVSO training conference involved a group of Veterans many Minnesotans may know little about: Veterans of the Secret War in Laos.
Beginning in the early 1960s, the United States supported covert military operations in Laos during the broader conflict in Southeast Asia. Hmong, Lao, and other local forces were recruited into Special Guerrilla Units (SGU) and irregular forces that operated alongside and in support of U.S. efforts. Because the operations were conducted largely outside public view, the conflict became known as the “Secret War.” These forces performed dangerous missions including disrupting enemy supply routes, defending strategic locations, and assisting with the rescue of downed American airmen.
Recognition came slowly. Federal law eventually provided limited recognition for certain Hmong and other individuals who served in these units, including a path to naturalization through the Hmong Veterans’ Naturalization Act of 2000 and, later, eligibility for burial in a VA national cemetery for qualifying individuals.
Minnesota has now taken an additional step. State law recognizes qualifying Minnesota residents as “Veterans of the Secret War in Laos” and directs the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) to verify eligibility for a limited group of state Veterans benefits.
Generally, the law applies to qualifying Minnesota residents who served honorably with SGU or irregular forces operating from Laos in support of U.S. Armed Forces between February 28, 1961, and May 14, 1975. It also recognizes certain individuals naturalized under the federal Hmong Veterans’ Naturalization Act.
After verification, eligible Veterans may qualify for state benefits including an SGU Veteran designation on a Minnesota driver’s license or identification card, certain funeral honor guard support, burial privileges at Minnesota State Veterans Cemeteries, grave markers, Veterans preference in employment, and free copies of certain vital records.
The process begins with a VA pre-need determination for national cemetery burial eligibility. That federal determination is then used by MDVA as part of Minnesota’s verification process. If VA cannot verify eligibility, Minnesota also provides a special consideration process using other evidence of service.
Applications for Minnesota eligibility must be submitted by December 31, 2030. County Veterans Service Officers and MDVA can assist with the process.
This recognition is about more than benefits. It formally acknowledges service performed on behalf of the United States during a difficult chapter of history that remained largely unseen for many years.
Brad Anderson and Melissa Crandall are the Lake County Veterans Service Officers and can be reached at 218.834.8326 or Vets@LakeCountyMN.gov
Karen Christianson is the Cook County Veterans Service Officer and can be reached at 218.387.3639, or karen.christianson@cookcountymn.gov
