Early Life and Challenges
Neng Lo was born on March 27, 1953, in Hoykador, Hongnong District, Houaphanh Province, Laos, to parents Cherxiong Lo and Xai Vang. His early life was marked by the absence of his mother and the hardships of growing up during a time of war and poverty. Raised by his father, step-mother and older siblings, Neng overcame significant childhood illnesses, including a tumor on this back that left a lasting scar.
Education and the Onset of War
In September 1964, Neng began attending elementary school and completed up to the third grade, walking four miles each way. His education was abruptly halted in 1968 when the war intensified, forcing him to leave school. Despite this setback, his intelligence and resourcefulness remained evident to those around him.
Military Service and Nais Xaim Training
In January 1969, Neng began his training as a Radio Telephone Operator (RTO) at Long Cheng, a rigorous six-month program. After completing his training, he begin is service in the Secret Army, a critical and dangerous role. From 1969 to 1975, Neng climbed the military ranks every two years, eventually becoming a supervisor. His services were in high demand, and despite the dangers, he managed to return home to his family every three to six months.
Family Life and Personal Losses
In 1971, Neng married Chue Thao. Together, they have total of 9 children, of which 4 children were born in Laos: Mai, Xang, Fong and Xeng. The family faced significant losses with the passing of their oldest 3 children in 1972 and 1978.
The Struggle and Escape
With the fall of Laos to communist forces in 1975, Neng was forced into a re-education seminar but managed to escape, living in the jungle to evade capture. In 1976, his older brother, Nao Pao, advised him to flee to Thailand, leaving his wife and sons behind. Even though he escaped to Thailand, he continued be apart of the resistance army by traveling back to Laos multiple times. One his trips, he was able to bring radio communication to the resistance army and rescued many of the Secret Army families by helping them escape into Thailand. On his third trip in 1978, he was ambushed and shot in the arm, but he continued his efforts undeterred.
Refugee Life and Leadership
While he was recovering from his injury, his wife managed to escape into Thailand with their son, Xeng. He met up with them and they lived in Nong Khai refugee camp and later in settled in Ban Vinai refugee camp, where they have 5 more children: Kou, Yengyee, Chaying, Vinai and Yangyee.
His 4th and last trip back to Laos was in late 1978, where he led many people across the Mekong River to safety in Thailand, including his brother, Juapao Lor’s family.
In 1981, Neng trained a group of 100 RTOs in Thailand to work with the resistance army. That same year, he converted to Catholicism, marking a significant spiritual milestone. Additionally, he volunteered to help distribute United Nations’ aid to his community and work varies jobs to support his family.
New Beginnings in America
In September 1987, Neng and his family immigrated to the United States under the sponsorship of his sister, See Vang, and brother-in-law, Ma Vang. By November 1988, his brother Nao Pao visited Neng in Fort Worth, Texas, and Neng moved his family to Wausau, Wisconsin to follow his brother. Adjusting to life in a new country had many challenges and opportunities.
Legacy and Impact
Throughout his life, Neng exemplified hard work, resilience, and compassion. His career as a Radio Telephone Operator during the Vietnam War and beyond was marked by an unwavering commitment to his duties, playing a crucial role in communication and coordination. His work ethic and reliability earned him respect and admiration from colleagues and community members alike.
Neng was a devoted family man. He built a life with his wife, Chue, filled with grit, perseverance, and belief in the American Dream for his family. His love and guidance shaped their lives, instilling in them the values of kindness, perseverance, and unity.
As a grandfather, Neng found immense joy and pride in his grandchildren. His kid-like demeanor and loving ways left an indelible mark on their hearts, and his legacy will continue throughout their lives.
Neng's life was a testament to the power of love and family. He believed deeply in the importance of "sib sib hlub" - loving one another. This philosophy guided his interactions with family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
In his passing, Neng is remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for the profound impact he had on the lives of those around him. His legacy of love, generosity, and unity will forever be cherished. Though Neng's presence will be deeply missed, his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His life story, marked by resilience and compassion, serves as an enduring inspiration to his family and community.