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"From 1964 onward, in view of eliminating the Lao people’s movement for peace and independence, the which Government and its cliques continuously intensified their “escaladed war”. Many military operations engaging Thai and Lao Royalist troops under the direct command of US Army officers were launched within the liberated zone. The US Air Force provided full support to these operations. In the Xieng Khuang Province, “the 3 raze operation” was launched with the mission of “full killing, destroying and exterminating”. This strategic operation was completely defeated by our patriotic movement and peoples who combated the enemy with determination and bravery. Our struggle was led by the General Committee of the Party and in the case of Xieng Khuang Province this was put under the supreme command of Comrade Samane Viyaket. In spite of attacks repeatedly conducted by the US Army, the liberated zone not only resisted but expanded in size which demonstrated that the US strategy of elimination was fully crushed.

"Everyday life within the cave before the air raid.

"Following their massive and humiliating defeat in each operation, the US Government decided to increase their Air Force strikes to a full scale air bombing, moving from military targets to civilian targets which included habitations, schools, hospitals, temples, citizens and all civilian properties. From these numerous air raids, the Tham Piu war crime is and will be for ever remembered since 374 lives were annihilated by the US fighters within a few seconds. These air raids took place on the 24th of November 1968. Many of those who died were farmers living in different villages surrounding the site; they had come to live there with the hope that the cave was the last refuge under the constant US air bombing.

"Therefore the 24th of November has been declared the “Day of Remembrance” in Laos. We shall mark this day by ceremonies expressing our abhorence to war. In particular, we shall pray for the souls who embraced the cause of our national liberation and who protected our motherland for a bright future.

"The War Crime committed by US Air Force at Tham Piu, 374 people were killed by 2 jet fighters on the 24 Novembers 1968, depicted after interviews with witnesses."



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