The consequences of Hmongs service in the Vietnam war was utterly devastating. The most conservative reports list 18.000 to 20.000 killed In combat between 1963 and 1971 with tens of thousands Injured. In addition to the loss of life. the war also resulted In the loss of homeland for the Hmong. When the Communists took power after the war. the Hmong were targets for persecution and tens of thousands fled to refugee camps to save their lives. The Hmong were known as capable fighters who made great sacrifices In the line of battle. Experts estimate that up to 40.000 served in the special guerrilla units In the peak years.