Galen Beery Legacy Exhibit

Plain of Jars Evacuation

During the Secret War in Laos, a significant evacuation took place in the Plain of Jars (PDJ) in 1970. This operation was a crucial event during a time of national conflict and widespread displacement (Dommen & Kuhn, 1995).

The PDJ, a region dotted with large stone jars of ancient origin, became a focal point during the Secret War in Laos. Its strategic significance and the dense population made it a hotspot of military activities and, subsequently, a perilous region for its inhabitants (Dommen & Kuhn, 1995).

The situation in the PDJ grew increasingly precarious as enemy forces advanced and strategic locations fell under their control. The safety of civilians, military personnel, and their dependents hung in the balance, necessitating a large-scale evacuation to safeguard them from the looming threat and potential harm (Dommen & Kuhn, 1995).

In January and February of 1970, a substantial evacuation was executed, involving the use of C-130 aircrafts to transport thousands of people to the relative safety of Vientiane. This operation was not isolated, as smaller-scale relocations had been occurring throughout 1969, with people being moved to areas like Sam Thong. However, the magnitude of the early 1970 evacuation was unparalleled, involving the movement of thousands of individuals in a highly coordinated effort (Dommen & Kuhn, 1995).

The evacuees, comprising men, women, and children, embarked on a journey fraught with uncertainty. The absence of young men, who were likely engaged in the conflict, was notable. The evacuees, many of whom had lived in bunkers and caves for extended periods, often exhibited signs of prolonged hardship, such as pallor from lack of sunlight (Dommen & Kuhn, 1995).

In March of 1970, following the fall of Sam Thong to enemy forces, an additional 8,000 people were moved from the Plain of Jars. This operation was not merely a logistical challenge but also a humanitarian endeavor, ensuring the well-being and survival of displaced populations, including refugees and internally displaced people (IDPs) (Dommen & Kuhn, 1995).

References:

Dommen, A. J. & Kuhn, E. C. (1995). Interview with Ernest C. Kuhn. [Manuscript/Mixed Material] Retrieved from https://www.loc.gov/item/mfdipbib000646/