First Board of Directors
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In the spring of 2004, a group of distinguished Hmong veterans who had served in the U.S.-led Secret War in Laos during the Vietnam War met with General Vang Pao in Minnesota to discuss ways to address the needs of fellow veterans and their families residing in the United States. Through these discussions, the group agreed to establish the Special Guerrilla Units (SGU) Veterans and Families of USA, Inc., dedicated to serving and supporting the Hmong veteran community and preserving its legacy. The group appointed Lt. Colonel George Gao Moua and several other respected leaders to guide the organization’s formation and development.

In July 2004, SGU was officially incorporated as a nonprofit organization in the State of Minnesota. With the support and endorsement of General Vang Pao, the organization appointed its first Board of Directors to oversee and manage SGU during its initial two-year term. The founding board included Lt. Colonel George Gao Moua as Chair, Lt. Colonel Za Blong Thao as Vice Chair, Mr. Xang Vang, Captain Xai Nou Vang, and Mr. Xai Chou Xiong, along with several advisors and board members who provided leadership and guidance during the organization’s formative years.