While delegates of 14 nations meet in Geneva, Switzerland, to try to halt the nine-month war in Laos, fighting broke out again between pro-communist Pathet Lao and forces loyal to the Royal Government. On June 7, Government helicopters flown by United States pilots, returned to Vientiane from the mountain regions of Padong which suffered bombardment by the Pathet Lao the previous day.

The helicopters, assisted by trainer planes, brought in the man who were injured in a heavy artillery barrage. Some came on stretchers - others were able to leave the airport by jeep. Two seriously wounded men were picked up from Ponh Hong, about 40 miles from Vientiane. One died later in hospital.

It was reported that Mao tribesmen who were defending the Padong area had withdrawn after the artillery barrage; and the Pathet Lao troops moved in without serious opposition.