Cambodian soldiers who sacrificed their lives should be remembered as heroes but there is more required than simply recognizing the fallen.

In the United States, they honor the families of the fallen and Cambodia should do the same. The concept of Gold Star Families originated in the United States during World War I as a way to publicly honor and identify families who had lost loved ones in military service. We should recognize soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice, but we must also recognize their families as distinguished citizens-Gold Star Families.

YOUK CHHANG
Director, Documentation Center
of Cambodia
October 20, 2025

Photo: A Cambodian Soldier, Pich Ngorl killed in clash with Thai army along disputed Border at Phnom Troap’s battlefield on 26 July 2025.