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The honor guard did its part, firing blanks into a clear October sky, as a pretend family watched.
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Members of chapter 8 of the Wisconsin Lao Veterans of America present arms while practicing during a moch funeral service Sunday on Isle la Plume. The group was training to provide military color gaurd, a rifle team, an escourting team, and bugler for future funeral services for Lao Veterans.
PETER THOMSON photo |
A group member learned how to properly fold the American flag before it was presented to the family. A few words were said, and "Taps" was played.
And so went the second veteran burial practice of Chapter 8 of the Wisconsin Lao Veterans of America Inc. on Sunday at the parking lot north of the Municipal Service Center on Isle la Plume.
"We practice to be ready to honor our veterans who pass away," said Xay Dang Vang, chairman of the La Crosse County branch of Chapter 8, through interpreter Chong Moua Vang, the group's secretary.
Many Lao veterans have passed away already, Xay said, but they were not recognized as such. The state made the recognition of Lao veterans official in March 2004, when the senate passed a resolution for the proper burial of Lao veterans, he said.
"This is very important to Lao veterans who served in the Vietnam War to have this presented to these people," Xay said.
In order to be recognized as a Lao veteran at a funeral, the veteran must register with the state organization, Xay said. Including the La Crosse County chapter, there are 30 chapters of the Wisconsin Lao Veterans of America Inc.
To get the word out about the organization and registration, Xay said the group is using the radio and networking through other veterans. There are about 2,000 Lao veterans in Wisconsin, he said.
The group has scheduled additional practice dates on Oct. 31 and Nov. 7 at the Isle la Plume location.
Xay said he is appreciative of the city's assistance in their practice location.
"There is closure at last," he said.
Autumn Grooms can be reached at (608) 782-9710, ext. 357, or agrooms@lacrossetribune.com.
