MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Gov. Tony Evers has declared May 14 as Hmong-Lao Veterans Day in Wisconsin by signing Executive Order #200. The order mandates flags of the United States and Wisconsin to fly at half-staff on Sunday, May 14.

Gov. Evers stated in a Thursday, May 11 press release, “We honor and recognize the thousands of Hmong-Lao veterans who courageously fought alongside the United States in the Vietnam War and who call Wisconsin home."

He added, "Many Hmong-Lao soldiers and their families were ultimately forced to flee their homes, and many later resettled in communities throughout the United States, including in Wisconsin. Today, Wisconsin is home to the third-largest Hmong population in the United States."

The annual commemoration acknowledges Hmong-Lao contributions during the Vietnam War and their subsequent resettlement in the U.S, including Wisconsin.

Gov. Evers has proclaimed May 14 as Hmong-Lao Veterans Day each year since assuming office in 2019.