Roger Arnold

Show Navigation
  • Video
  • Portfolio
  • About
  • Contact
  • Archive
    • All Galleries
    • Search
    • Cart
    • Lightbox
    • Client Area
  • Writing

Search Results

Refine Search
Match all words
Match any word
Prints
Personal Use
Royalty-Free
Rights-Managed
(leave unchecked to
search all images)
{ 121 images found }

Loading ()...

  • Khankheo Soukvilay, age 21, Technician, "I applied for this job because my sister [Vilaphan] is the team leader and I heard how much she liked working here. Sometimes I worry that she is watching to see if I am working hard enough! But when we are working we become team mates, so it is the same as working with the other women here."...Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.   ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos MAG Portraits_20.jpg
  • Peng Souvanthon, age 26, Team Leader, with her 2 day old son and 6 year old daughter at home.  Even at 8 months pregnant she worked in remote Nong Het field locations clearing bombs up until the day she gave birth..."I used to be a farmer. My background is useful because even if the weather conditions are difficult I can still do my job. At that time my husband and I had no cash income so it was hard to look after our baby. So when MAG was recruiting VAC (Village Assisted Clearance) team members, I applied. At first I cut vegetation, then I was trained to use a detector. The technical field manager saw I had progressed and encouraged me to apply to become a technician. I passed the test. Then after a while I was promoted to deputy team leader and now team leader. My family are very proud, and I am happy! I enjoy managing things - the team members, the equipment and the site. And I remember everything I have learned during the training. To ge a good team leader you must show your love for your team members. You must discuss everything with them, and carefully go through the workplan with them each day. And you must help anyone who has difficulties."...Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.   ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos MAG Portraits_01.jpg
  • Sompong, age 15 (center right), shows the wounds to his arm and leg when he and his brother tried to open a Russian 37mm anti-aircraft shell.  His cousin Soy Kiengphaserth, age 21 (center left), works in the Mines Advisory Group (MAG) female team.  She and the team found him on their way home from work and rushed him to the hospital while he was treated by a MAG Medic on the way.  Sompong's mother, Mone (far right), said, "If not for MAG they might not have survived."..Many accidents occur in Laos when people try to open live weapons to sell the explosives and scrap metal. ..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_42.jpg
  • Sia Thorthongyer, age 20, visits her supervisor, Mines Advisory Group (MAG) women's Team Leader, Peng Souvanthon, age 26, with her 2 day old son and 6 year old daughter at home.  Even at 8 months pregnant she worked in remote Nong Het field locations clearing bombs up until the day she gave birth. ..She says, "I'm happy to have helped my village and made it more safe for farming."  And when asked about competing with the MAG men's demining teams she says "Yes, if the men clear 2,000 sq m of land per day, then we women want to do even more."..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270,000 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world.  ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages. ..***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_03.jpg
  • Sompong, age 15, shows the wounds to his arm and leg when he and his brother tried to open a Russian 37mm anti-aircraft shell.  His cousin Soy Kiengphaserth, age 21, works in the Mines Advisory Group (MAG) female team.  She and the team found him on their way home from work and rushed him to the hospital while he was treated by a MAG Medic on the way.  Sompong's mother, Mone, said, "If not for MAG they might not have survived."..Many accidents occur in Laos when people try to open live weapons to sell the explosives and scrap metal. ..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_41.jpg
  • Mines Advisory Group (MAG) women's team unload and prepare for work in Nong Het, Laos...Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_07.jpg
  • Mines Advisory Group (MAG) women's team in Nong Het, Laos...Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_05.jpg
  • Mines Advisory Group (MAG) women's Team Leader, Peng Souvanthon, age 26, with her 2 day old son and 6 year old daughter at home.  Even at 8 months pregnant she worked in remote Nong Het field locations clearing bombs up until the day she gave birth. ..She says, "I'm happy to have helped my village and made it more safe for farming."  And when asked about competing with the MAG men's demining teams she says "Yes, if the men clear 2,000 sq m of land per day, then we women want to do even more."..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270,000 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world.  ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages. ..***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_02.jpg
  • Children search for live bombs and bomb scrap on the Ho Chi Minh Trail.  Many UXO accidents in Laos are now caused by scrap metal hunters intentionally contacting and trying to open live bombs to sell...Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_45.jpg
  • Female Deputy Team Leader, Phisamai Linsaiyoum, age 20, reacts to a controlled demolition she ignited.  She admitted, "Just after the large explosion I am very happy because if there is a misfire then I have to go and inspect what is wrong.  At that time it is very dangerous.  But so far I never have a misfire."..She detonated 76, BLU 26 cluster bombs, laying buried in the dirt after being located by one of the Mines Advisory Group ladies teams.  She disposed of the bombs without moving them in a controled demolition using TNT and C4 explosives.  It took the team 7 days to clear 14,352 sq meters...Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_31.jpg
  • Mines Advisory Group female Technician, Douangmala Suansython, age 21, warns villagers to clear the area before the ladies team set of a controled demolition of 76 cluster bombs.  ..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_29.jpg
  • A pile of 20, BLU 26 cluster bombs, laying buried in the dirt after being located by one of the Mines Advisory Group ladies teams.  Cluster bombs like these are extremely dangerous and can explode with the slightest movement.  When detonated each bomb has hundreds of metal pellets that fire out at ballistic speed.  The women disposed of the bombs without moving them in a controled demolition using TNT and C4 explosives...Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury..The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world.   ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_23.jpg
  • Mines Advisory Group, Technicians, Sia Thorthongyer, age 19 (left) and Vonekham Dalavong, age 29 (right), take their dangerous jobs seriously, but find humor is sometimes the best way to avoid stress.  They joke about the perils of 12 women trying to share one bathroom in the morning.  Sia said, "Sometimes we are all standing crossed legged in the que pounding on the door yelling emergency with threats for who ever is in the bathroom.  Sometimes we just run to a bush."..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury..The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world.   ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_21.jpg
  • Mines Advisory Group, Technicians, Souksavanh Thongtimahaxay, age 23, and , Vienglada Siladeth, age 46, unpack their metal detectors and prepare to search for unexploded ordinance (UXO)...Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  .The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world.. .The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_09.jpg
  • Mines Advisory Group, Technician, Vonekham Dalavong, age 29, uses a metal detector to uncover live bombs hidden in the soil.  She and her partner, Sia, said, "The first time we found a bomb we were afraid.  But we have good training and team work.  We have found many bombs, now it is just normal.  But, if we see a snake - we drop everything and run!" ..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world.. .The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_06.jpg
  • Phet Senthavisouk, from Mines Advisory Group, stands next to a Russian Surface To Air Missle (SAM) that killed several villagers who found it in the forest.  The majority of deaths caused by unexploded ordinance (UXO) in Laos now are due to people intentionally contacting the weapons to sell for scrap metal.  ..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_32.jpg
  • A pile of 20, BLU 26 cluster bombs, laying buried in the dirt after being located by one of the Mines Advisory Group ladies teams.  Cluster bombs like these are extremely dangerous and can explode with the slightest movement.  When detonated each bomb has hundreds of metal pellets that fire out at ballistic speed.  The women disposed of the bombs without moving them in a controled demolition using TNT and C4 explosives...Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_22.jpg
  • Part of the ladies team enjoy a lunch of sticky rice, soup, and fresh vegetables, with friends from the regional office. ..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury..The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world.   ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_19.jpg
  • Mines Advisory Group, female Technician, Bouakham Keophomma, age 19, marks an area for bomb clearance with rope...Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  .The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world...The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_11.jpg
  • Mines Advisory Group (MAG) women's team unload and prepare for work in Nong Het, Laos.  On the roof helping them unload is their male driver, Sivone Dathvongsone, age 42, says "I am proud to be the only man in the womens team."  ....Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_08.jpg
  • Mines Advisory Group (MAG) women's Team Leader, Peng Souvanthon, age 26, with her 2 day old son and 6 year old daughter at home.  Even at 8 months pregnant she worked in remote Nong Het field locations clearing bombs up until the day she gave birth. ..She says, "I'm happy to have helped my village and made it more safe for farming."  And when asked about competing with the MAG men's demining teams she says "Yes, if the men clear 2,000 sq m of land per day, then we women want to do even more."..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270,000 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world.  ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages. ..***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_01.jpg
  • Members of one of the female demining teams take a break from the sun in Khammuan Province, Laos...Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_50.jpg
  • Members of one of the female demining teams in Khammuan Province, Laos...Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_49.jpg
  • Members of Mines Advisory Group female demining team uncover a piece of bomb scrap.  Clearing sites is pains taking and time consuming work with millions of bomb fragments buried next to live bombs...Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_47.jpg
  • In a village on the Ho Chi Minh Trail a young child looks out the window of his home constructed entirely from American cluster bomb casings.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world...Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_44.jpg
  • Children eye bomb scrap in the back of a scrap buyers truck.  Many of the bombs are live cluster bombs disassembled at huge risk.  Many UXO accidents in Laos are now caused by scrap metal hunters intentionally contacting and trying to open live bombs to sell...Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_43.jpg
  • Men from the Mines Advisory Group wash in the river same as the ladies team.  The women working in Khammuan Province live in tents working in remote locations with no electricity, showers or toilets.  They wash in the river and use the forest as a latrine. They work in 4 week cycles, with 3 weeks straight working and one week off to return home and see family.  The girls joked, "We are more afraid of the leaches, because they will chase you, but the bombs they don't move."..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_36.jpg
  • Female Deputy Team Leader, Phisamai Linsaiyoum, age 20, prepares the last steps connecting the firing device to the black firing wire.  She admitted, "Just after the large explosion I am very happy because if there is a misfire then I have to go and inspect what is wrong.  At that time it is very dangerous.  But so far I never have a misfire."..She detonated 76, BLU 26 cluster bombs, laying buried in the dirt after being located by one of the Mines Advisory Group ladies teams.  She disposed of the bombs without moving them in a controled demolition using TNT and C4 explosives.  It took the team 7 days to clear 14,352 sq meters...Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_30.jpg
  • Female Deputy Team Leader, Phisamai Linsaiyoum, age 20, prepares to detonate 76, BLU 26 cluster bombs, laying buried in the dirt after being located by one of the Mines Advisory Group ladies teams.  She disposed of the bombs without moving them in a controled demolition using TNT and C4 explosives.  ..Cluster bombs like these are extremely dangerous and can explode with the slightest movement.  When detonated each bomb has hundreds of metal pellets that fire out at ballistic speed. ..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_25.jpg
  • Mines Advisory Group, Technicians, Sia Thorthongyer, age 19 (left) and Vonekham Dalavong, age 29 (right), take their dangerous jobs seriously, but find humor is sometimes the best way to avoid stress.  They joke about the perils of 12 women trying to share one bathroom in the morning.  Sia said, "Sometimes we are all standing crossed legged in the que pounding on the door yelling emergency with threats for who ever is in the bathroom.  Sometimes we just run to a bush."..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury..The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world.   ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_20.jpg
  • Mines Advisory Group, Technician, Sia Thorthongyer, age 19, scales a farmers fence with a metal detector to uncover live bombs hidden in the soil.  Sia and her partner Vonekham said, "The first time we found a bomb we were afraid.  But we have good training and team work.  We have found many bombs, now it is just normal.  But, if we see a snake - we drop everything and run!" ..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury..The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world.   ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_13.jpg
  • Members of Mines Advisory Group female demining team uncover a piece of bomb scrap.  Clearing sites is pains taking and time consuming work with millions of bomb fragments buried next to live bombs...Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_48.jpg
  • Somma Phalangsy, age 33 (left), Phet Senthavisouk (center), and Phisamai Linsaiyoum, age 20 (right), look at a pile of 20, BLU 26 cluster bombs, laying buried in the dirt after being located by one of the Mines Advisory Group ladies teams.  Cluster bombs like these are extremely dangerous and can explode with the slightest movement.  When detonated each bomb has hundreds of metal pellets that fire out at ballistic speed.  Female Deputy Team Leader, Phisamai Linsaiyoum, age 20 (right) disposed of the bombs without moving them in a controled demolition using TNT and C4 explosives...Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_24.jpg
  • Mines Advisory Group, Technician, Sia Thorthongyer, age 19, uses a metal detector to uncover live bombs hidden in the soil.  Sia and her partner Vonekham said, "The first time we found a bomb we were afraid.  But we have good training and team work.  We have found many bombs, now it is just normal.  But, if we see a snake - we drop everything and run!" ..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_15.jpg
  • Mines Advisory Group, Technicians, Sia Thorthongyer, age 19 (left) and Vonekham Dalavong, age 29 (right), scale a farmers fence with a metal detector to uncover live bombs hidden in the soil.  Sia and Vonekham said, "The first time we found a bomb we were afraid.  But we have good training and team work.  We have found many bombs, now it is just normal.  But, if we see a snake - we drop everything and run!" ..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury..The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world..   .The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_12.jpg
  • Mines Advisory Group, ladies Technicians, prepare their metal detectors to search for unexploded ordinance (UXO)...Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  .The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world...The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_10.jpg
  • Mines Advisory Group, Technician, Vonekham Dalavong, age 29, uses a metal detector to uncover live bombs hidden in the soil.  She and her partner, Sia, said, "The first time we found a bomb we were afraid.  But we have good training and team work.  We have found many bombs, now it is just normal.  But, if we see a snake - we drop everything and run!" ..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world..   .The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_04.jpg
  • A member of Mines Advisory Group female team, prepares papaya salad.  The women working in Khammuan Province live in tents working in remote locations with no electricity, showers or toilets.  They wash in the river and use the forest as a latrine. They work in 4 week cycles, with 3 weeks straight working and one week off to return home and see family.  The girls joked, "We are more afraid of the leaches, because they will chase you, but the bombs they don't move."..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_39.jpg
  • Saiyasouk Buakeo, age 24, from the Mines Advisory Group female team shows a bamboo shoot she found as food in the forest.  Laos is a poor country with few jobs.  The women are well paid by Laos standards and are given a food allowance.  However, many of their family members often depend on their income so they find creative ways to save money locating food in the forest.  They are also paid in US Dollars which has declined significantly over the last year affecting their income...Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_37.jpg
  • Members from the Mines Advisory Group female team unload their gear at their field location.  The women working in Khammuan Province live in tents working in remote locations with no electricity, showers or toilets.  They wash in the river and use the forest as a latrine. They work in 4 week cycles, with 3 weeks straight working and one week off to return home and see family.  The girls joked, "We are more afraid of the leaches, because they will chase you, but the bombs they don't move."..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_33.jpg
  • Female Deputy Team Leader, Phisamai Linsaiyoum, age 20, carefully prepares a red detonation cord along with TNT and C4 explosives to detonate 76, BLU 26 cluster bombs, laying buried in the dirt after being located by one of the Mines Advisory Group ladies teams.  She disposed of the bombs without moving them in a controled demolition.  ..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_28.jpg
  • Mines Advisory Group, Technician, Sia Thorthongyer, age 19, uses a metal detector to uncover live bombs hidden in the soil.  Sia and her partner Vonekham said, "The first time we found a bomb we were afraid.  But we have good training and team work.  We have found many bombs, now it is just normal.  But, if we see a snake - we drop everything and run!" ..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world.   ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_14.jpg
  • A bucket of snails caught in the river by the Mines Advisory Group female demining team.  Laos is a poor country with few jobs.  The women are well paid by Laos standards and are given a food allowance.  However, many of their family members often depend on their income so they find creative ways to save money locating food in the forest.  They are also paid in US Dollars which have declined significantly over the last year affecting their income...Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_38.jpg
  • Thipapon Phaonthai from the Mines Advisory Group female team hangs her clothes to dry.  The women working in Khammuan Province live in tents working in remote locations with no electricity, showers or toilets.  They wash in the river and use the forest as a latrine. They work in 4 week cycles, with 3 weeks straight working and one week off to return home and see family.  The girls joked, "We are more afraid of the leaches, because they will chase you, but the bombs they don't move."..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_35.jpg
  • Khanthong Donsenvong from the Mines Advisory Group female team hangs her clothes to dry.  The women working in Khammuan Province live in tents working in remote locations with no electricity, showers or toilets.  They wash in the river and use the forest as a latrine. They work in 4 week cycles, with 3 weeks straight working and one week off to return home and see family.  The girls joked, "We are more afraid of the leaches, because they will chase you, but the bombs they don't move."..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_34.jpg
  • Somma Phalangsy, age 33, supervises as Female Deputy Team Leader, Phisamai Linsaiyoum, age 20, carefully prepares a red detonation cord along with TNT and C4 explosives to detonate 76, BLU 26 cluster bombs, laying buried in the dirt after being located by one of the Mines Advisory Group ladies teams.  She disposed of the bombs without moving them in a controled demolition.  ..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_27.jpg
  • Mines Advisory Group, Technicians, Sia Thorthongyer, age 19 (left) and Vonekham Dalavong, age 29 (right), use a metal detector and shovel to uncover live bombs hidden in the soil.  Sia and Vonekham said, "The first time we found a bomb we were afraid.  But we have good training and team work.  We have found many bombs, now it is just normal.  But, if we see a snake - we drop everything and run!" ..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury..The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world.   ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_16.jpg
  • Sokhon's supervisor, Im Samkul, points to examples of land mines and UXO typically found in Cambodia at the MAG base camp at "Koun Phnum" or "Baby Mountain" minefield...Kheun Sokhon, age 29, is a female deminer for Mines Advisory Group (MAG), in Palin Province, Cambodia.  She searches for land mines - facing the same threat that shattered her life at age 19 - when she stepped on a mine.  She admits, "I don't want people to experience what I have been through." ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_04.jpg
  • Khankheo Soukvilay, age 21, uses a shovel to uncover live weapons buried in the soil...Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_46.jpg
  • A novice monk stands outside his temple next to the wing of an American aircraft that was shot down.  Writting on the wing states, "This plane was shot down by a Vietnamese soldier April 15, 1967...Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_40.jpg
  • Female Deputy Team Leader, Phisamai Linsaiyoum, age 20, carefully prepares a red detonation cord along with TNT and C4 explosives to detonate 76, BLU 26 cluster bombs, laying buried in the dirt after being located by one of the Mines Advisory Group ladies teams.  She disposed of the bombs without moving them in a controled demolition.  ..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury.  The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world. ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_26.jpg
  • Part of the ladies team enjoy a lunch of sticky rice, soup, and fresh vegetables, with friends from the regional office.   ..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury..The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world.   ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_18.jpg
  • Mines Advisory Group ladies demining team walk past a huge bomb crater probably from a large US fragmentation bomb in Nong Het, Laos.  ..Laos was part of a "Secret War", waged within its borders primarily by the USA and North Vietnam.  Many left over weapons supplied by China and Russia continue to kill.  However, between 90 and 270 million fist size cluster bombs were dropped on Laos by the USA, with a failure rate up to 30%.  Millions of live cluster bombs still contaminate large areas of Laos causing death and injury..The US Military dropped approximately 2 million tons of bombs on Laos making it, per capita, the most heavily bombed country in the world.   ..The women of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) work everyday under dangerous conditions removing unexploded ordinance (UXO) from fields and villages...***All photographs of MAG's work must include (either on the photo or right next to it) the credit as follows:  Mine clearance by MAG (Reg. charity)***.
    Laos Womens Demining_17.jpg
  • Sokhon demonstrates testing her metal detector and the demining process in a safe zone at the MAG base camp at "Koun Phnum" or "Baby Mountain" minefield......Later inside the actual minefield, Sokhon's supervisor, Thor Thoeun, described the process while standing safely 25 meters away, watching.  With tension gripping his face, not wanting to disturb Sokhon, he whispers, "We are always scared in the minefield.  When the detector signals Sokhon will pinpoint the spot with a red chip."  Then she will excavate to find what is under it.  If Sokhon sees a mine she will place a red triangle pointing toward the danger.   Then she will blow a whistle for the supervisor to check the item.  If it is a land mine it will generally be destroyed in place.   ..Kheun Sokhon, age 29, is a female deminer for Mines Advisory Group (MAG), in Palin Province, Cambodia.  She searches for land mines - facing the same threat that shattered her life at age 19 - when she stepped on a mine.  She admits, "I don't want people to experience what I have been through." ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_14.jpg
  • Sokhon demonstrates testing her metal detector and the demining process in a safe zone at the MAG base camp at "Koun Phnum" or "Baby Mountain" minefield......Later inside the actual minefield, Sokhon's supervisor, Thor Thoeun, described the process while standing safely 25 meters away, watching.  With tension gripping his face, not wanting to disturb Sokhon, he whispers, "We are always scared in the minefield.  When the detector signals Sokhon will pinpoint the spot with a red chip."  Then she will excavate to find what is under it.  If Sokhon sees a mine she will place a red triangle pointing toward the danger.   Then she will blow a whistle for the supervisor to check the item.  If it is a land mine it will generally be destroyed in place.   ..Kheun Sokhon, age 29, is a female deminer for Mines Advisory Group (MAG), in Palin Province, Cambodia.  She searches for land mines - facing the same threat that shattered her life at age 19 - when she stepped on a mine.  She admits, "I don't want people to experience what I have been through." ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_06.jpg
  • Sokhon demonstrates testing her metal detector and the demining process in a safe zone at the MAG base camp at "Koun Phnum" or "Baby Mountain" minefield......Later inside the actual minefield, Sokhon's supervisor, Thor Thoeun, described the process while standing safely 25 meters away, watching.  With tension gripping his face, not wanting to disturb Sokhon, he whispers, "We are always scared in the minefield.  When the detector signals Sokhon will pinpoint the spot with a red chip."  Then she will excavate to find what is under it.  If Sokhon sees a mine she will place a red triangle pointing toward the danger.   Then she will blow a whistle for the supervisor to check the item.  If it is a land mine it will generally be destroyed in place.   ..Kheun Sokhon, age 29, is a female deminer for Mines Advisory Group (MAG), in Palin Province, Cambodia.  She searches for land mines - facing the same threat that shattered her life at age 19 - when she stepped on a mine.  She admits, "I don't want people to experience what I have been through." ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_07.jpg
  • Sokhon demonstrates testing her metal detector and the demining process in a safe zone at the MAG base camp at "Koun Phnum" or "Baby Mountain" minefield......Later inside the actual minefield, Sokhon's supervisor, Thor Thoeun, described the process while standing safely 25 meters away, watching.  With tension gripping his face, not wanting to disturb Sokhon, he whispers, "We are always scared in the minefield.  When the detector signals Sokhon will pinpoint the spot with a red chip."  Then she will excavate to find what is under it.  If Sokhon sees a mine she will place a red triangle pointing toward the danger.   Then she will blow a whistle for the supervisor to check the item.  If it is a land mine it will generally be destroyed in place.   ..Kheun Sokhon, age 29, is a female deminer for Mines Advisory Group (MAG), in Palin Province, Cambodia.  She searches for land mines - facing the same threat that shattered her life at age 19 - when she stepped on a mine.  She admits, "I don't want people to experience what I have been through." ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_19.jpg
  • Sokhon demonstrates testing her metal detector and the demining process in a safe zone at the MAG base camp at "Koun Phnum" or "Baby Mountain" minefield......Later inside the actual minefield, Sokhon's supervisor, Thor Thoeun, described the process while standing safely 25 meters away, watching.  With tension gripping his face, not wanting to disturb Sokhon, he whispers, "We are always scared in the minefield.  When the detector signals Sokhon will pinpoint the spot with a red chip."  Then she will excavate to find what is under it.  If Sokhon sees a mine she will place a red triangle pointing toward the danger.   Then she will blow a whistle for the supervisor to check the item.  If it is a land mine it will generally be destroyed in place.   ..Kheun Sokhon, age 29, is a female deminer for Mines Advisory Group (MAG), in Palin Province, Cambodia.  She searches for land mines - facing the same threat that shattered her life at age 19 - when she stepped on a mine.  She admits, "I don't want people to experience what I have been through." ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_12.jpg
  • Sokhon demonstrates testing her metal detector and the demining process in a safe zone at the MAG base camp at "Koun Phnum" or "Baby Mountain" minefield......Later inside the actual minefield, Sokhon's supervisor, Thor Thoeun, described the process while standing safely 25 meters away, watching.  With tension gripping his face, not wanting to disturb Sokhon, he whispers, "We are always scared in the minefield.  When the detector signals Sokhon will pinpoint the spot with a red chip."  Then she will excavate to find what is under it.  If Sokhon sees a mine she will place a red triangle pointing toward the danger.   Then she will blow a whistle for the supervisor to check the item.  If it is a land mine it will generally be destroyed in place.   ..Kheun Sokhon, age 29, is a female deminer for Mines Advisory Group (MAG), in Palin Province, Cambodia.  She searches for land mines - facing the same threat that shattered her life at age 19 - when she stepped on a mine.  She admits, "I don't want people to experience what I have been through." ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_08.jpg
  • Sokhon's supervisor, Thor Thoeun, points to examples of land mines and UXO typically found in Cambodia at the MAG base camp at "Koun Phnum" or "Baby Mountain" minefield...Kheun Sokhon, age 29, is a female deminer for Mines Advisory Group (MAG), in Palin Province, Cambodia.  She searches for land mines - facing the same threat that shattered her life at age 19 - when she stepped on a mine.  She admits, "I don't want people to experience what I have been through." ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_05.jpg
  • Sokhon demonstrates testing her metal detector and the demining process in a safe zone at the MAG base camp at "Koun Phnum" or "Baby Mountain" minefield......Later inside the actual minefield, Sokhon's supervisor, Thor Thoeun, described the process while standing safely 25 meters away, watching.  With tension gripping his face, not wanting to disturb Sokhon, he whispers, "We are always scared in the minefield.  When the detector signals Sokhon will pinpoint the spot with a red chip."  Then she will excavate to find what is under it.  If Sokhon sees a mine she will place a red triangle pointing toward the danger.   Then she will blow a whistle for the supervisor to check the item.  If it is a land mine it will generally be destroyed in place.   ..Kheun Sokhon, age 29, is a female deminer for Mines Advisory Group (MAG), in Palin Province, Cambodia.  She searches for land mines - facing the same threat that shattered her life at age 19 - when she stepped on a mine.  She admits, "I don't want people to experience what I have been through." ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_17.jpg
  • Sokhon helps her friend, Yean Maly, put on body armor in a safe zone at the MAG base camp before entering the ".Koun Phnum" or "Baby Mountain" minefield...Kheun Sokhon, age 29, is a female deminer for Mines Advisory Group (MAG), in Palin Province, Cambodia.  She searches for land mines - facing the same threat that shattered her life at age 19 - when she stepped on a mine.  She admits, "I don't want people to experience what I have been through." ......Back in 2006, in a moment of sadness she told her friend, Yean Maly, "I never want to get married again. I don't think any man could truly love an amputee woman like me."....
    Cambodia Female Deminer_22.jpg
  • Sokhon demonstrates testing her metal detector and the demining process in a safe zone at the MAG base camp at "Koun Phnum" or "Baby Mountain" minefield......Later inside the actual minefield, Sokhon's supervisor, Thor Thoeun, described the process while standing safely 25 meters away, watching.  With tension gripping his face, not wanting to disturb Sokhon, he whispers, "We are always scared in the minefield.  When the detector signals Sokhon will pinpoint the spot with a red chip."  Then she will excavate to find what is under it.  If Sokhon sees a mine she will place a red triangle pointing toward the danger.   Then she will blow a whistle for the supervisor to check the item.  If it is a land mine it will generally be destroyed in place.   ..Kheun Sokhon, age 29, is a female deminer for Mines Advisory Group (MAG), in Palin Province, Cambodia.  She searches for land mines - facing the same threat that shattered her life at age 19 - when she stepped on a mine.  She admits, "I don't want people to experience what I have been through." ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_10.jpg
  • A sign in O'Chheukrom village noting how many land mines were removed by Sokhon's MAG team...On August 21, 2006, Sokhon and her team started demining O'Chheukrom village. "One of the areas we cleared was where I used to go to collect water with my daughter every day. We found mines everywhere. That was scary", says Sokhon.   By April 5, 2007 the village was finally free of land mines.  69,379 square meters of land was rendered safe.  Sokhon's MAG team found 405 mines, 64 bombs (unexploded ordnance) and 164,213 pieces of fragmentation.  Villagers started farming the area without fear, bringing a sense of relief and prosperity to the community.  ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_53.jpg
  • Sokhon demonstrates testing her metal detector and the demining process in a safe zone at the MAG base camp at "Koun Phnum" or "Baby Mountain" minefield......Later inside the actual minefield, Sokhon's supervisor, Thor Thoeun, described the process while standing safely 25 meters away, watching.  With tension gripping his face, not wanting to disturb Sokhon, he whispers, "We are always scared in the minefield.  When the detector signals Sokhon will pinpoint the spot with a red chip."  Then she will excavate to find what is under it.  If Sokhon sees a mine she will place a red triangle pointing toward the danger.   Then she will blow a whistle for the supervisor to check the item.  If it is a land mine it will generally be destroyed in place.   ..Kheun Sokhon, age 29, is a female deminer for Mines Advisory Group (MAG), in Palin Province, Cambodia.  She searches for land mines - facing the same threat that shattered her life at age 19 - when she stepped on a mine.  She admits, "I don't want people to experience what I have been through." ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_16.jpg
  • Sokhon demonstrates testing her metal detector and the demining process in a safe zone at the MAG base camp at "Koun Phnum" or "Baby Mountain" minefield......Later inside the actual minefield, Sokhon's supervisor, Thor Thoeun, described the process while standing safely 25 meters away, watching.  With tension gripping his face, not wanting to disturb Sokhon, he whispers, "We are always scared in the minefield.  When the detector signals Sokhon will pinpoint the spot with a red chip."  Then she will excavate to find what is under it.  If Sokhon sees a mine she will place a red triangle pointing toward the danger.   Then she will blow a whistle for the supervisor to check the item.  If it is a land mine it will generally be destroyed in place.   ..Kheun Sokhon, age 29, is a female deminer for Mines Advisory Group (MAG), in Palin Province, Cambodia.  She searches for land mines - facing the same threat that shattered her life at age 19 - when she stepped on a mine.  She admits, "I don't want people to experience what I have been through." ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_13.jpg
  • Sokhon demonstrates testing her metal detector and the demining process in a safe zone at the MAG base camp at "Koun Phnum" or "Baby Mountain" minefield......Later inside the actual minefield, Sokhon's supervisor, Thor Thoeun, described the process while standing safely 25 meters away, watching.  With tension gripping his face, not wanting to disturb Sokhon, he whispers, "We are always scared in the minefield.  When the detector signals Sokhon will pinpoint the spot with a red chip."  Then she will excavate to find what is under it.  If Sokhon sees a mine she will place a red triangle pointing toward the danger.   Then she will blow a whistle for the supervisor to check the item.  If it is a land mine it will generally be destroyed in place.   ..Kheun Sokhon, age 29, is a female deminer for Mines Advisory Group (MAG), in Palin Province, Cambodia.  She searches for land mines - facing the same threat that shattered her life at age 19 - when she stepped on a mine.  She admits, "I don't want people to experience what I have been through." ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_20.jpg
  • Sokhon demonstrates testing her metal detector and the demining process in a safe zone at the MAG base camp at "Koun Phnum" or "Baby Mountain" minefield......Later inside the actual minefield, Sokhon's supervisor, Thor Thoeun, described the process while standing safely 25 meters away, watching.  With tension gripping his face, not wanting to disturb Sokhon, he whispers, "We are always scared in the minefield.  When the detector signals Sokhon will pinpoint the spot with a red chip."  Then she will excavate to find what is under it.  If Sokhon sees a mine she will place a red triangle pointing toward the danger.   Then she will blow a whistle for the supervisor to check the item.  If it is a land mine it will generally be destroyed in place.   ..Kheun Sokhon, age 29, is a female deminer for Mines Advisory Group (MAG), in Palin Province, Cambodia.  She searches for land mines - facing the same threat that shattered her life at age 19 - when she stepped on a mine.  She admits, "I don't want people to experience what I have been through." ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_18.jpg
  • Sokhon demonstrates testing her metal detector and the demining process in a safe zone at the MAG base camp at "Koun Phnum" or "Baby Mountain" minefield......Later inside the actual minefield, Sokhon's supervisor, Thor Thoeun, described the process while standing safely 25 meters away, watching.  With tension gripping his face, not wanting to disturb Sokhon, he whispers, "We are always scared in the minefield.  When the detector signals Sokhon will pinpoint the spot with a red chip."  Then she will excavate to find what is under it.  If Sokhon sees a mine she will place a red triangle pointing toward the danger.   Then she will blow a whistle for the supervisor to check the item.  If it is a land mine it will generally be destroyed in place.   ..Kheun Sokhon, age 29, is a female deminer for Mines Advisory Group (MAG), in Palin Province, Cambodia.  She searches for land mines - facing the same threat that shattered her life at age 19 - when she stepped on a mine.  She admits, "I don't want people to experience what I have been through." ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_15.jpg
  • Sokhon demonstrates testing her metal detector and the demining process in a safe zone at the MAG base camp at "Koun Phnum" or "Baby Mountain" minefield......Later inside the actual minefield, Sokhon's supervisor, Thor Thoeun, described the process while standing safely 25 meters away, watching.  With tension gripping his face, not wanting to disturb Sokhon, he whispers, "We are always scared in the minefield.  When the detector signals Sokhon will pinpoint the spot with a red chip."  Then she will excavate to find what is under it.  If Sokhon sees a mine she will place a red triangle pointing toward the danger.   Then she will blow a whistle for the supervisor to check the item.  If it is a land mine it will generally be destroyed in place.   ..Kheun Sokhon, age 29, is a female deminer for Mines Advisory Group (MAG), in Palin Province, Cambodia.  She searches for land mines - facing the same threat that shattered her life at age 19 - when she stepped on a mine.  She admits, "I don't want people to experience what I have been through." ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_09.jpg
  • Sokhon, jumps out of the back of a MAG work truck at the end of the day...Kheun Sokhon, age 29, is a female deminer for Mines Advisory Group (MAG), in Palin Province, Cambodia.  She searches for land mines - facing the same threat that shattered her life at age 19 - when she stepped on a mine.  She admits, "I don't want people to experience what I have been through." ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer.jpg
  • Sokhon demonstrates testing her metal detector and the demining process in a safe zone at the MAG base camp at "Koun Phnum" or "Baby Mountain" minefield......Later inside the actual minefield, Sokhon's supervisor, Thor Thoeun, described the process while standing safely 25 meters away, watching.  With tension gripping his face, not wanting to disturb Sokhon, he whispers, "We are always scared in the minefield.  When the detector signals Sokhon will pinpoint the spot with a red chip."  Then she will excavate to find what is under it.  If Sokhon sees a mine she will place a red triangle pointing toward the danger.   Then she will blow a whistle for the supervisor to check the item.  If it is a land mine it will generally be destroyed in place.   ..Kheun Sokhon, age 29, is a female deminer for Mines Advisory Group (MAG), in Palin Province, Cambodia.  She searches for land mines - facing the same threat that shattered her life at age 19 - when she stepped on a mine.  She admits, "I don't want people to experience what I have been through." ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_11.jpg
  • Chhun Sokuntheary, (left) age 30, and  Ouk Khim, (right) age 33, from MAG teach mine risk education to children at Seila Meanchay primary school in Suay Chrum village, Pailin, Cambodia.  The series of banners teaches children how to identify mine and UXO and what to do if they see it. So Hon, age 59, Teacher Headmaster from school at Seila Meanchay primary school in Suay Chrum village said, "In the past, 5 years ago, accidents happened in nearby villages where the chidren are from.  Now there are improvements because the mental health of the community has improved because they don't worry and because land use has expanded development activity."
    Cambodia Female Deminer_47.jpg
  • A shop made from metal in O'Chheukrom village is a sign of increasing prosperity compared to huts made from bamboo and palm leaves.  ...On August 21, 2006, Sokhon and her team started demining O'Chheukrom village. "One of the areas we cleared was where I used to go to collect water with my daughter every day. We found mines everywhere. That was scary", says Sokhon.   By April 5, 2007 the village was finally free of land mines.  69,379 square meters of land was rendered safe.  Sokhon's MAG team found 405 mines, 64 bombs (unexploded ordnance) and 164,213 pieces of fragmentation.  Villagers started farming the area without fear, bringing a sense of relief and prosperity to the community.  ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_52.jpg
  • MAG teach mine risk education to children at Seila Meanchay primary school in Suay Chrum village, Pailin, Cambodia.  The series of banners teaches children how to identify mine and UXO and what to do if they see it. So Hon, age 59, Teacher Headmaster from school at Seila Meanchay primary school in Suay Chrum village said, "In the past, 5 years ago, accidents happened in nearby villages where the chidren are from.  Now there are improvements because the mental health of the community has improved because they don't worry and because land use has expanded development activity."
    Cambodia Female Deminer_49.jpg
  • An example of a Chinese Type 72 land mine at the MAG base camp at "Koun Phnum" or "Baby Mountain" minefield...Later that day one was found a Chinese Type 72 mine was found.  Sokhon's supervisors prepared demolition equipment, delicately placing 100 grams of TNT explosive on it.  4 deminers began announcing on loud speakers to surrounding villagers: "We would like to inform you all who are working near our minefield.  We will conduct a demolition shortly. Please evacuate from the area!"
    Cambodia Female Deminer_21.jpg
  • Female deminers using dogs to detect mines.  The dogs are used in low density minefields.  Metal detectors are used in high density minefields...Kheun Sokhon, age 29, is a female deminer for Mines Advisory Group (MAG), in Palin Province, Cambodia.  She searches for land mines - facing the same threat that shattered her life at age 19 - when she stepped on a mine.  She admits, "I don't want people to experience what I have been through." ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_02.jpg
  • Female deminers using dogs to detect mines.  The dogs are used in low density minefields.  Metal detectors are used in high density minefields...Kheun Sokhon, age 29, is a female deminer for Mines Advisory Group (MAG), in Palin Province, Cambodia.  She searches for land mines - facing the same threat that shattered her life at age 19 - when she stepped on a mine.  She admits, "I don't want people to experience what I have been through." ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_01.jpg
  • Chhun Sokuntheary, (left) age 30, and  Ouk Khim, (right) age 33, from MAG teach mine risk education to children at Seila Meanchay primary school in Suay Chrum village, Pailin, Cambodia.  The series of banners teaches children how to identify mine and UXO and what to do if they see it. So Hon, age 59, Teacher Headmaster from school at Seila Meanchay primary school in Suay Chrum village said, "In the past, 5 years ago, accidents happened in nearby villages where the chidren are from.  Now there are improvements because the mental health of the community has improved because they don't worry and because land use has expanded development activity."
    Cambodia Female Deminer_48.jpg
  • Inside the workshop at the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) centre in Battambang city:   Chhorn Lang, age 42,  helped make Sokhon's prothesis so she could work for MAG in the field.  She been working for ICRC since 1993.  She lost a leg in 1988 to landmine in Battambong.  She says before she got the job she had very few friends, but now she has friends.  She says, "When I lost my leg I had no hope.  My thinking was like Sokhon, but I didn't want to die.  When I started to have this job my life improved.  It makes me happy to help others now.  Before it was difficult, if I wanted to get water I had to crawl to the river."  (The ICRC centre has treated 18,122 cases from 1991 - 2010, most of them amputees).
    Cambodia Female Deminer_63.jpg
  • Sokhon with a co worker and village leader survey an area she helped clear of landmine at O'Chheukrom village...On August 21, 2006, Sokhon and her team started demining O'Chheukrom village. "One of the areas we cleared was where I used to go to collect water with my daughter every day. We found mines everywhere. That was scary", says Sokhon.   By April 5, 2007 the village was finally free of land mines.  69,379 square meters of land was rendered safe.  Sokhon's MAG team found 405 mines, 64 bombs (unexploded ordnance) and 164,213 pieces of fragmentation.  Villagers started farming the area without fear, bringing a sense of relief and prosperity to the community.
    Cambodia Female Deminer_51.jpg
  • Destroyed mines at "Koun Phnum" or "Baby Mountain" minefield where Sokhon is working. ..Kheun Sokhon, age 29, is a female deminer for Mines Advisory Group (MAG), in Palin Province, Cambodia.  She searches for land mines - facing the same threat that shattered her life at age 19 - when she stepped on a mine.  She admits, "I don't want people to experience what I have been through." ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_03.jpg
  • Sokhon prepares dinner with her daughter Sreymao by her side.  Sokhon's husband, Khhuan Ry, holds another family member behind her...Arriving at home near sunset Sokhon's daughter Sreymao, age 7, runs out the greet her.  Sokhon sits down in front of her parent's house - a bamboo hut with a sheet metal roof, measuring 5 meters by 4 meters.  Inside electricity comes from a car battery that powers one 12 watt light bulb and a small TV.  Next door Sokhon's house has a palm leave roof measuring 3 meters by 3 meters. She shares it with Sreymao.  Sokhon changes her black work boots for pink slippers.  She pauses to put Sreymao's hair in a ponytail and begins cooking for her family...Sokhon's mother (need her name?) sits down outside, she says, "We are so proud of her!"  She admits Sokhon is the primary reason the family is slowly escaping poverty and paying for her daughter and siblings to attend school.  With Sokhon's help they recently purchased a small plot of farmland where they plan to build a house...The last light of day trickles in over the Cardomon Mountains highlighting Sokhon's smile.  She sits down with Sreymao who is busy studying her 2nd grade schoolwork.  Sokhon says, "I want her to be a doctor, but we are too poor for that.  I hope she can be a nurse."..Standing behind them, far enough away that he can't hear is, (need name), Sokhon's new husband.  Sokhon says:  "My husband gives me good support. I cannot find another man better than him.  He doesn't drink and helps with the house work.  He carries water from the river.  He is responsible and takes Sreymao to school.  All my hope came back to me.  So I opened my heart back up.  Yes - I am in love".   .
    Cambodia Female Deminer_44.jpg
  • Today, Kheun Sokhon, walks with a confident limp over a hill known as "Koun Phnum" or "Baby Mountain" minefield, located 20 kilometers from O'Chheukrom village.  8 male co workers follow behind her.  Four of them are amputees and limp too. Wearing body armor, blast visors and carrying hundreds of pounds of demining equipment they step into the minefield.  In searing heat Sokhon begins hiking up and down the hill removing heavy brush piles.  She takes great care not to step over a thin red line marking the minefield boundary.  She says the experience requires total clarity of mind, "I have to concentrate only on the sound of the metal detector.  I cannot think about anything else or an accident could happen". ..Sokhon's supervisor, Thor Thoeun, stands safely 25 meters away, watching.  With tension gripping his face, not wanting to disturb Sokhon, he whispers, "We are always scared in the minefield.  When the detector signals Sokhon will pinpoint the spot with a red chip."  Then she will excavate to find what is under it.  If Sokhon sees a mine she will place a red triangle pointing toward the danger.   Then she will blow a whistle for the supervisor to check the item.  If it is a land mine it will generally be destroyed in place.   .
    Cambodia Female Deminer_38.jpg
  • Sokhon at work inside the danger zone at "Koun Phnum" or "Baby Mountain" minefield.....Wearing body armor, blast visors and carrying hundreds of pounds of demining equipment she and her colleagues step into the minefield.  In searing heat Sokhon begins hiking up and down the hill removing heavy brush piles.  She takes great care not to step over a thin red line marking the minefield boundary.  She says the experience requires total clarity of mind, "I have to concentrate only on the sound of the metal detector.  I cannot think about anything else or an accident could happen". ....Kheun Sokhon stares at the ground, surveying it slowly.  In front of her in the dense Cambodian jungle lies a hidden garden of danger.  Her eyes move from left to right following the head of a black metal detector over freshly cut brush.  She listens intently - loss of focus could cost her life.  The metal detector hums at a low pitch.  If it jumps to a high frequency - she must carefully mark the spot.  Red signs with skull and crossbones dot the landscape warning, "Danger!!  Mines!!".  ....Sokhon's supervisor, Thor Thoeun, stands safely 25 meters away, watching.  With tension gripping his face, not wanting to disturb Sokhon, he whispers, "We are always scared in the minefield.  When the detector signals Sokhon will pinpoint the spot with a red chip."  Then she will excavate to find what is under it.  If Sokhon sees a mine she will place a red triangle pointing toward the danger.   Then she will blow a whistle for the supervisor to check the item.  If it is a land mine it will generally be destroyed in place.   ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_26.jpg
  • Sokhon at work inside the danger zone at "Koun Phnum" or "Baby Mountain" minefield.....Wearing body armor, blast visors and carrying hundreds of pounds of demining equipment she and her colleagues step into the minefield.  In searing heat Sokhon begins hiking up and down the hill removing heavy brush piles.  She takes great care not to step over a thin red line marking the minefield boundary.  She says the experience requires total clarity of mind, "I have to concentrate only on the sound of the metal detector.  I cannot think about anything else or an accident could happen". ....Kheun Sokhon stares at the ground, surveying it slowly.  In front of her in the dense Cambodian jungle lies a hidden garden of danger.  Her eyes move from left to right following the head of a black metal detector over freshly cut brush.  She listens intently - loss of focus could cost her life.  The metal detector hums at a low pitch.  If it jumps to a high frequency - she must carefully mark the spot.  Red signs with skull and crossbones dot the landscape warning, "Danger!!  Mines!!".  ....Sokhon's supervisor, Thor Thoeun, stands safely 25 meters away, watching.  With tension gripping his face, not wanting to disturb Sokhon, he whispers, "We are always scared in the minefield.  When the detector signals Sokhon will pinpoint the spot with a red chip."  Then she will excavate to find what is under it.  If Sokhon sees a mine she will place a red triangle pointing toward the danger.   Then she will blow a whistle for the supervisor to check the item.  If it is a land mine it will generally be destroyed in place.   ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_23.jpg
  • Amputees in rehab at the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) centre in Battambang city.  The woman pictured is, Lan Sarum, who lost her leg to landmine in 1990 in Banteay Meanchey Province she as receiving her  5th prosthetic new leg.  The ICRC centre has treated 18,122 cases from 1991 - 2010, most of them amputees.
    Cambodia Female Deminer_61.jpg
  • Arriving at home near sunset Sokhon's daughter Sreymao, age 7, runs out the greet her.  Sokhon sits down in front of her parent's house - a bamboo hut with a sheet metal roof, measuring 5 meters by 4 meters.  Inside electricity comes from a car battery that powers one 12 watt light bulb and a small TV.  Next door Sokhon's house has a palm leave roof measuring 3 meters by 3 meters. She shares it with Sreymao.  Sokhon changes her black work boots for pink slippers.  She pauses to put Sreymao's hair in a ponytail and begins cooking for her family...Sokhon's mother (need her name?) sits down outside, she says, "We are so proud of her!"  She admits Sokhon is the primary reason the family is slowly escaping poverty and paying for her daughter and siblings to attend school.  With Sokhon's help they recently purchased a small plot of farmland where they plan to build a house...The last light of day trickles in over the Cardomon Mountains highlighting Sokhon's smile.  She sits down with Sreymao who is busy studying her 2nd grade schoolwork.  Sokhon says, "I want her to be a doctor, but we are too poor for that.  I hope she can be a nurse."..Standing behind them, far enough away that he can't hear is, (need name), Sokhon's new husband.  Sokhon says:  "My husband gives me good support. I cannot find another man better than him.  He doesn't drink and helps with the house work.  He carries water from the river.  He is responsible and takes Sreymao to school.  All my hope came back to me.  So I opened my heart back up.  Yes - I am in love".   .
    Cambodia Female Deminer_43.jpg
  • Sokhon at work inside the danger zone at "Koun Phnum" or "Baby Mountain" minefield......Wearing body armor, blast visors and carrying hundreds of pounds of demining equipment she and her colleagues step into the minefield.  In searing heat Sokhon begins hiking up and down the hill removing heavy brush piles.  She takes great care not to step over a thin red line marking the minefield boundary.  She says the experience requires total clarity of mind, "I have to concentrate only on the sound of the metal detector.  I cannot think about anything else or an accident could happen". .....Kheun Sokhon stares at the ground, surveying it slowly.  In front of her in the dense Cambodian jungle lies a hidden garden of danger.  Her eyes move from left to right following the head of a black metal detector over freshly cut brush.  She listens intently - loss of focus could cost her life.  The metal detector hums at a low pitch.  If it jumps to a high frequency - she must carefully mark the spot.  Red signs with skull and crossbones dot the landscape warning, "Danger!!  Mines!!".  .....Sokhon's supervisor, Thor Thoeun, stands safely 25 meters away, watching.  With tension gripping his face, not wanting to disturb Sokhon, he whispers, "We are always scared in the minefield.  When the detector signals Sokhon will pinpoint the spot with a red chip."  Then she will excavate to find what is under it.  If Sokhon sees a mine she will place a red triangle pointing toward the danger.   Then she will blow a whistle for the supervisor to check the item.  If it is a land mine it will generally be destroyed in place.   .
    Cambodia Female Deminer_29.jpg
  • Children ride to school at the city entrance to Battambang, Cambodia.
    Cambodia Female Deminer_64.jpg
  • Landmine and trauma victims recieve treatment from staff at the Emergency Life Support For Civilian War Victims hospital in Battambang, Cambodia.
    Cambodia Female Deminer_62.jpg
  • Sokhon with her daughter Sreymao and her parents in front of her parents house.....Arriving at home near sunset Sokhon's daughter Sreymao, age 7, runs out the greet her.  Sokhon sits down in front of her parent's house - a bamboo hut with a sheet metal roof, measuring 5 meters by 4 meters.  Inside electricity comes from a car battery that powers one 12 watt light bulb and a small TV.  Next door Sokhon's house has a palm leave roof measuring 3 meters by 3 meters. She shares it with Sreymao.  Sokhon changes her black work boots for pink slippers.  She pauses to put Sreymao's hair in a ponytail and begins cooking for her family.....Sokhon's mother, Kep Nann, sits down outside, she says, "We are so proud of her!"  She admits Sokhon is the primary reason the family is slowly escaping poverty and paying for her daughter and siblings to attend school.  With Sokhon's help they recently purchased a small plot of farmland where they plan to build a house.....The last light of day trickles in over the Cardomon Mountains highlighting Sokhon's smile.  She sits down with Sreymao who is busy studying her 2nd grade schoolwork.  Sokhon says, "I want her to be a doctor, but we are too poor for that.  I hope she can be a nurse."....Standing behind them, far enough away that he can't hear is, Khhuan Ry, Sokhon's new husband.  Sokhon says:  "My husband gives me good support. I cannot find another man better than him.  He doesn't drink and helps with the house work.  He carries water from the river.  He is responsible and takes Sreymao to school.  All my hope came back to me.  So I opened my heart back up.  Yes - I am in love".   ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_59.jpg
  • Sohkhon puts her daughter Sreymao's hear in a pony tail in front of her house while her husband, Khhuan Ry, stands in the background...Arriving at home near sunset Sokhon's daughter Sreymao, age 7, runs out the greet her.  Sokhon sits down in front of her parent's house - a bamboo hut with a sheet metal roof, measuring 5 meters by 4 meters.  Inside electricity comes from a car battery that powers one 12 watt light bulb and a small TV.  Next door Sokhon's house has a palm leave roof measuring 3 meters by 3 meters. She shares it with Sreymao.  Sokhon changes her black work boots for pink slippers.  She pauses to put Sreymao's hair in a ponytail and begins cooking for her family...Sokhon's mother (need her name?) sits down outside, she says, "We are so proud of her!"  She admits Sokhon is the primary reason the family is slowly escaping poverty and paying for her daughter and siblings to attend school.  With Sokhon's help they recently purchased a small plot of farmland where they plan to build a house...The last light of day trickles in over the Cardomon Mountains highlighting Sokhon's smile.  She sits down with Sreymao who is busy studying her 2nd grade schoolwork.  Sokhon says, "I want her to be a doctor, but we are too poor for that.  I hope she can be a nurse."..Standing behind them, far enough away that he can't hear is, (need name), Sokhon's new husband.  Sokhon says:  "My husband gives me good support. I cannot find another man better than him.  He doesn't drink and helps with the house work.  He carries water from the river.  He is responsible and takes Sreymao to school.  All my hope came back to me.  So I opened my heart back up.  Yes - I am in love".   .
    Cambodia Female Deminer_46.jpg
  • The last light of day trickles in over the Cardomon Mountains highlighting Sokhon's smile.  She sits down with Sreymao who is busy studying her 2nd grade schoolwork.  Sokhon says, "I want her to be a doctor, but we are too poor for that.  I hope she can be a nurse."..Standing behind them, far enough away that he can't hear is, (need name), Sokhon's new husband.  Sokhon says:  "My husband gives me good support. I cannot find another man better than him.  He doesn't drink and helps with the house work.  He carries water from the river.  He is responsible and takes Sreymao to school.  All my hope came back to me.  So I opened my heart back up.  Yes - I am in love".   .
    Cambodia Female Deminer_54.jpg
  • Group photo of Sokhon and other deminers from left to right:  Ngen Sarum (Amputee), Im Samkul (supervisor), Mey Thorn, Hean Sean, Kheun Sokhon (Amputee), Kong Tha, Cheap Yoeurn (Amputee), Sath Samon (Amputee), Sam Khan..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_40.jpg
  • Today, Kheun Sokhon, walks with a confident limp over a hill known as "Koun Phnum" or "Baby Mountain" minefield, located 20 kilometers from O'Chheukrom village.  8 male co workers follow behind her.  Four of them are amputees and limp too. Wearing body armor, blast visors and carrying hundreds of pounds of demining equipment they step into the minefield.  In searing heat Sokhon begins hiking up and down the hill removing heavy brush piles.  She takes great care not to step over a thin red line marking the minefield boundary.  She says the experience requires total clarity of mind, "I have to concentrate only on the sound of the metal detector.  I cannot think about anything else or an accident could happen". ..Sokhon's supervisor, Thor Thoeun, stands safely 25 meters away, watching.  With tension gripping his face, not wanting to disturb Sokhon, he whispers, "We are always scared in the minefield.  When the detector signals Sokhon will pinpoint the spot with a red chip."  Then she will excavate to find what is under it.  If Sokhon sees a mine she will place a red triangle pointing toward the danger.   Then she will blow a whistle for the supervisor to check the item.  If it is a land mine it will generally be destroyed in place.   .
    Cambodia Female Deminer_37.jpg
  • Amputees in rehab at the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) centre in Battambang city.  The man at center in camouflage is, Pheap Ny, a former soldier for King Sihanouk.  His landmine accident happened in Udomeanchey Province in 1985.  In 1992 he received his first artificial limb now receiving his 5th limb.  The ICRC centre has treated 18,122 cases from 1991 - 2010, most of them amputees.
    Cambodia Female Deminer_60.jpg
  • Sokhon with her daughter Sreymao and her parents.  Sokhon's house is behind them.....Arriving at home near sunset Sokhon's daughter Sreymao, age 7, runs out the greet her.  Sokhon sits down in front of her parent's house - a bamboo hut with a sheet metal roof, measuring 5 meters by 4 meters.  Inside electricity comes from a car battery that powers one 12 watt light bulb and a small TV.  Next door Sokhon's house has a palm leave roof measuring 3 meters by 3 meters. She shares it with Sreymao.  Sokhon changes her black work boots for pink slippers.  She pauses to put Sreymao's hair in a ponytail and begins cooking for her family.....Sokhon's mother, Kep Nann, sits down outside, she says, "We are so proud of her!"  She admits Sokhon is the primary reason the family is slowly escaping poverty and paying for her daughter and siblings to attend school.  With Sokhon's help they recently purchased a small plot of farmland where they plan to build a house.....The last light of day trickles in over the Cardomon Mountains highlighting Sokhon's smile.  She sits down with Sreymao who is busy studying her 2nd grade schoolwork.  Sokhon says, "I want her to be a doctor, but we are too poor for that.  I hope she can be a nurse."....Standing behind them, far enough away that he can't hear is, Khhuan Ry, Sokhon's new husband.  Sokhon says:  "My husband gives me good support. I cannot find another man better than him.  He doesn't drink and helps with the house work.  He carries water from the river.  He is responsible and takes Sreymao to school.  All my hope came back to me.  So I opened my heart back up.  Yes - I am in love".   ..
    Cambodia Female Deminer_57.jpg
  • After a Chinese Type 72 mine is found.  Sokhon's supervisors prepare demolition equipment, delicately placing 100 grams of TNT explosive on it.  4 deminers begin announcing on loud speakers to surrounding villagers: "We would like to inform you all who are working near our minefield.  We will conduct a demolition shortly. Please evacuate from the area!"  ..On a hill 100 meters away farmers harvesting cassava disappear out of sight. Then Sokhon's supervisor connects black demolition wire to a detonator switch.  He blows 3 long whistles followed by 3 short ones. Then he presses the detonator triggering an ear shattering explosion that booms across the valley.  .
    Cambodia Female Deminer_36.jpg
  • After a Chinese Type 72 mine is found.  Sokhon's supervisors prepare demolition equipment, delicately placing 100 grams of TNT explosive on it.  4 deminers begin announcing on loud speakers to surrounding villagers: "We would like to inform you all who are working near our minefield.  We will conduct a demolition shortly. Please evacuate from the area!"  ..On a hill 100 meters away farmers harvesting cassava disappear out of sight. Then Sokhon's supervisor connects black demolition wire to a detonator switch.  He blows 3 long whistles followed by 3 short ones. Then he presses the detonator triggering an ear shattering explosion that booms across the valley.  .
    Cambodia Female Deminer_32.jpg
Next
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
x