Hmong community mourns loss of towering figure

General Vang Pao, 1929 - 2011.

General Vang revered figure in Hmong community

The Hmong community lost a towering figure last night with the death of Gen. Vang Pao. The legendary leader died in Clovis, Calif last night from pneumonia after being hospitalized there on Sunday, December 26.

Known affectionately as "The General," Vang was revered by Hmong's worldwide for his ferocious battle skills against Communist in Laos during the Vietnam conflict. After the Communist takeover in 1975, Vang became the de facto leader of Hmong's as they fled Laos with many ultimately landing in the United States.

Funeral arrangements for Vang have not been finalized. Sources say the funeral, which is expected to be attended by Hmong's from around the world, will be held in Fresno.