Pfc. Kham See Xiong, a 23-year-old Hmong American soldier from St. Paul, Minnesota, tragically lost his life on November 5, 2009, during the Fort Hood shooting in Texas. He was preparing for deployment to Iraq when an Army psychiatrist, Major Nidal Hasan, opened fire at the Soldier Readiness Center, killing 13 people and injuring more than 30 others.
Kham See Xiong was in line for a physical examination when the shooting occurred.
Despite his wife's text message urging him to come home for lunch and return later, he chose to stay, believing it was almost his turn. His dedication to duty and commitment to his family and country were evident in his decision to remain at the base.
The shooter, Major Nidal Hasan, was arrested at the scene and later charged with 13 counts of premeditated murder and 32 counts of attempted murder. In August 2013, Hasan was convicted and sentenced to death by a military court. The case drew significant attention and raised questions about security measures and mental health support within the military.
Kham See Xiong's funeral was held with full military honors at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minnesota. His family, including his wife Shoua Her and their three children, attended the service, which was described as a Christian Hmong funeral with traditional elements. U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar announced that Kham See Xiong would receive honorary U.S. citizenship posthumously.
The Xiong family received a posthumous Purple Heart for Kham See Xiong in a ceremony held years after the shooting, honoring his sacrifice and service to his country. His legacy continues to be remembered by his family, friends, and the Hmong community, who view him as an American hero and a symbol of dedication and bravery.
