Watch Witnesses to a Secret War

Witnesses to a Secret War is a 2009 documentary film that tells the story of the war in Laos during the Vietnam War. The film was written and directed by Deborah Dickson, and it explores the experiences of three individuals who played different roles in the war in Laos. The film opens with a brief introduction to the war in Laos, which was fought between the communist Pathet Lao and the American-supported Royal Lao Government. The war began in the early 1960s and lasted until the mid-1970s. Although the war in Laos was officially a secret, it was one of the most extensive and long-lasting conflicts of the Vietnam War era, with extensive bombing campaigns carried out by the US Air Force.

The three individuals featured in the film are Anthony Poshepny, a CIA operative who worked in Laos during the war; Vang Pobzeb, a Hmong soldier who fought alongside the Americans; and Kaia Stabback, a nurse who worked in a hospital in Laos. The film weaves together their stories, along with archival footage and interviews with other individuals who were involved in the war.

Poshepny's story provides an insider's perspective on the CIA's involvement in the war in Laos. He recounts his experiences training Hmong guerrillas and carrying out covert operations against the Pathet Lao. He also describes his interactions with the Hmong leader, General Vang Pao, who became a key figure in the war.

Vang Pobzeb's story is that of a soldier who fought on the front lines of the war, often alongside American troops. He describes his experiences in battles against the Pathet Lao and the challenges of fighting in the rugged, mountainous terrain of Laos. In addition to the physical challenges of war, Vang also talks about the emotional toll of losing fellow soldiers and the sense of abandonment he felt when the Americans withdrew from the war.

Kaia Stabback's story is that of an American nurse who worked in a hospital in Laos. She describes the challenges of providing medical care in a war zone, with limited resources and constant danger. She also talks about the cultural differences she encountered and the relationships she formed with the local people.

Together, these three individuals provide a multifaceted look at the war in Laos, highlighting the complexities and contradictions of the conflict. The film also addresses some of the ethical questions that arose during the war, including the CIA's use of Hmong soldiers and the extensive bombing campaigns carried out by the US Air Force.

Throughout the film, viewers are treated to stunning visuals of the Laotian landscape, including footage of the bombing campaigns and the aftermath of the war. The film's score, composed by John Kusiak, adds to the emotional depth of the film, with haunting melodies that evoke the sense of loss and tragedy that permeates every aspect of the war.

Overall, Witnesses to a Secret War is an engaging and thought-provoking documentary that sheds light on a little-known aspect of the Vietnam War era. Through the stories of three individuals, the film provides a nuanced and humanizing look at a conflict that had far-reaching impacts on the people of Laos and the United States. It is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of the Vietnam War or the complexities of modern warfare.