Posted on July 3, 2019
State Representative Dave Yaccarino (R-87) joined State Veterans Affairs Commissioner Thomas Saadi, Hmong General Sar Phouthasack, and Lt. Governor Susan Bysiwiewicz for a ceremony celebrating the signing of a bill that grants burial rights to Laotian Hmong Veterans in Connecticut.
(l to r): Bob Havens, State Representative Dave Yaccarino and Hmong General Sar Phouthasack attend a ceremony celebrating the signing of a bill that grants burial rights to Laotian Hmong Veterans in Connecticut.
Hmong veterans fought alongside American troops in Laos throughout the Vietnam War, but prior to the passage of this legislation, they were ineligible to be buried in federally-recognized Veterans cemeteries in Connecticut.
The legislation capitalizes on a process laid out in the Hmong Veterans’ Service Recognition Act, a landmark bill passed by the U.S. Congress in 2018, by which states may extend burial rights to these fighters. Connecticut’s extension of these rights is the first of its kind in the nation.
“This was 40 years in the making for our Hmong brothers and sisters,” said Rep. Yaccarino. “They fought right by America’s side in Vietnam, and I’m humbled and honored to be a small part of the team that made this possible.”
Bob Havens, a Vietnam Navy Combat Veteran and North Haven resident, has been integral in helping Hmong Veterans attain these burial rights for over 10 years.
“This was phase one of a two phase journey,” said Havens. “For phase two, we need Congress to authorize legislation that will allow Hmong Veterans to have the same VA hospital benefits as every other veteran in Connecticut.”
Rep. Yaccarino represents the 87th General Assembly District of North Haven and can be reached by calling (800) 842-1423 or dave.yaccarino@housegop.ct.gov for questions and concerns regarding state government.