FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
3 April 2026
Contact: jin.choi@mail.house.gov
Washington, D.C.— Yesterday, Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44) introduced a resolution to recognize and honor our Cambodian veterans and the Khmer Republic Armed Forces for their service and sacrifices in support of the U.S. Armed Forces and freedom in Southeast Asia. The resolution recognizes the contributions of Cambodian veterans during the Vietnam War era, who had served in the Khmer Republic Armed Forces (KRAF) and fought side by side with the U.S. and allied forces. The KRAF provided critical intelligence, disrupted enemy supply networks, and supported American operations.
The U.S. is home to over 338,000 Cambodian Americans, many of whom are descendants of the veterans who sought refuge in the U.S. after they were targeted for their service in the Khmer Rouge regime’s genocide against Cambodians. Long Beach, in the Congresswoman’s district, remains home to the largest Cambodian population in the country.
“Cambodian veterans stood with the United States during a critical time and faced unimaginable loss in the years that followed. Even through profound trauma and displacement, Cambodian veterans and their families have made lasting contributions to communities across our country, through their service in health care, education, public service, community leadership, and Armed Forces,” said Rep. Barragán. “This resolution is about recognizing that impact and ensuring their stories are never overlooked.”
“Among the 160,000 soldiers who served in the Khmer National Armed Forces, only a small number (less than 5,000) managed to escape the turmoil of 1975. Tragically, approximately 150,000 of them, along with their family members, lost their lives in the tragedy of the Killing Fields. It’s a somber reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the profound impact of this dark chapter in our history,” said Sar Sithan, Vietnam Veteran, Cambodian Veterans, Inc.
Specifically, this resolution:
- Recognizes and honors the sacrifices of Cambodian Veterans and the Khmer Republic Armed Forces (KRAF) for their service and support of the United States during the conflict in Southeast Asia.
- Honors the memory of those who lost their lives during the Khmer Rouge genocide, including members of the Khmer Republic Armed Forces and their families.
- Recognizes the resilience and contributions of Cambodian veterans and Cambodian Americans who resettled in the United States and continue to serve their communities.
For the full text of the resolution, click HERE.
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