NEWS: Sen. Schiff Introduces Resolution Honoring Cambodian Veterans for Service to U.S. Military

Washington, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) introduced a resolution to recognize and honor Cambodian veterans of the Khmer National Armed Forces (FANK) for their support to the U.S. military and their defense of freedom in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War.

"I am proud to introduce this resolution honoring the bravery and sacrifice of Cambodian veterans who stood with the U.S. military in the fight for freedom and democracy in Southeast Asia. We thank them for their profound service and recognize the enduring challenges they have faced in the years after the conflict," said Senator Schiff.

"I deeply appreciate the sacrifices made by Massachusetts' Cambodian community and veterans for their unwavering commitment to protect their nation and support allied efforts alongside the United States. Massachusetts' Cambodian community has been instrumental in advancing our shared goals of freedom, security, and prosperity in the region. I was proud to partner with Sen. Schiff on this resolution," said Senator Markey.

U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Ed Markey (D-Mass.) are cosponsors of the resolution. U.S. Representatives Nanette Barragán (D-Calif.-44), Young Kim (D-Calif.-40), Grace Meng (D-N.Y.-06), Ted Lieu (D-Calif.-36), Robert Garcia (D-Calif.-42), and Judy Chu (D-Calif.-28) introduced the resolution in the House.

The resolution:

• Recognizes the distinguished services and contributions of the Khmer Republic Armed Forces (FANK) to the United States during the Vietnam War, including saving American lives through vital intelligence and operational support;
• Honors the memory of millions of lives lost during the Khmer Rouge genocide; and
• Acknowledges FANK veterans and Cambodian-Americans for their continued contributions to American society.

Background: The U.S. admitted over 140,000 Cambodian refugees from 1975 to 1994, as well as another 6,000 sponsored immigrants, after the fall of the Khmer Republic. California is proudly home to approximately a third of the nation's Cambodian population - over 130,000 individuals.

The full text of the resolution can be found here.

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