Vietnam

[Jason Petho]

Ongoing Operations today in 1967

26 Aug.66-20 Jan.68
Operation: BYRD
Location: Phan Thiet, LZ BETTY, Binh Thuan Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: I FFORCEV. Task organization: TF 2-7: 2-7 Cav, C/1-9 Cav, A/1-21 Art, C/2-20 Art (-), C/8th Eng Bn (-), C/229th Avn Bn, Det 228th Avn Bn. Execution: Planned as a short-term, economy-of-force measure, BYRD became a continuous offensive that would last into 1968. Upon I FFORCEV request, the 1st Cav Div detached at battalion-size task force to help pacify isolated Binh Thuan Province in southern II Corps. Results (at year's end): 351 enemy killed, 151 detained, 8 US KIA, 85 US WIA.

1 Oct.66-17 Jan 68
Operation: DAZZLEM
Location: Camp Radcliff, An Khe, Binh Dinh Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization: Base Defense Task Force. Execution: Operation DAZZLEM was the contingency plan for the defense of Camp Radcliff provided by one infantry battalion with supporting artillery and
reinforcing personnel from residence units. On 17 Jan 68, the 173d Abn Bde relieved the 1st Cav Div from the mission of defending An Khe. Results: 80 enemy killed, 9 detained.

11 Oct.66-17 Nov.67
Operation: UNIONTOWN II
Location: Long Binh, Bien Hoa Province Type: security. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV. Execution: Operation UNIONTOWN was a security operation designed to protect the Long Binh logistical complex, RMK Rock Quarry and II FFORCEV Headquarters. Units were assigned on a rotation basis from each major command under II FFORCEV.

30 Nov. 66-15 Dec.67
Operation: FAIRFAX/RANG DONG
Location: Nha Be, Thu Duc and Binh Chanh Districts, Gia Dinh Province. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV, CMD. Task organization: 1st Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 2-16 Inf; 4th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3-22 Inf; 25th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 4-9 Inf; CMD (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3rd and 5th ARVN Abn Bns, 30th Ranger Bn; 199th LIB (31 Jan-15 Dec.): 2-3 Inf, 3-7 Inf, 4-12 Inf, 2-40 Art; 5th ARVN Ranger Group (31 Jan.-15 Dec): 30th, 33rd and 38th ARVN Ranger Bns. Intelligence: Military Region 4, 165A PLAF Regiment. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE... Results (end of 1966): 149 enemy killed, 40 detained, 11 US KIA, 67 US WIA, 23 ARVN KIA, 58 ARVN WIA, 1 ARVN MIA.

1 Feb.-23 Sep.
Operation: LAM SON 142/AB/P3
Location: Quang Tri and Thua Thien Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st ARVN Div. Results: 435 enemy killed, 33 detained, 172 ARVN KIA, 420 ARVN WIA, 31 ARVN MIA.

8 Feb.67-31 Jan.68
Operation: LAM SON 67
Location: Phu Loi, An My, Ong Dong Jungle, Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, security, jungle clearing. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 1st Inf Div (8 Feb-17 Mar, 17 Apr 67-31 Jan 68); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (17 Mar-17 Apr). Task organization: 1st Inf Div Revolutionary Development Task Force (various infantry, cavalry and support units were assigned on a rotation basis during the period). Execution: The operation supported the GVN's Revolutionary Development Program in conjunction with ARVN units in Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. LAM SON 67 consisted of cordon and search, reconnaissance in force, harassment, jungle clearing, population control, civic action and psychological warfare operations directed against priority targets. Contact in the AO was characterized by light sporadic incidents with local VC elements. On 6 Jan 68, the Phu Loi base camp received 123 rounds of mixed mortar fire, 46 aircraft were damaged and 6 US WIA. Reacting to the attack, A/2-18 Inf and B/2-2 Inf (M) swept the area to the north of the base and contacted two enemy companies of the Phu Loi PLAF Bn. 92 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 14 US WIA. Operation LAM SON 67 was terminated on 31 Jan 68 with the beginning of the enemy's Tet Offensive. Results: 527 enemy killed, 263 captured, 2,327 detained, 346 defectors, 56 US KIA, 572 US WIA.

12 Feb. 67-18 Jan. 68
Operation: PERSHING
Location: Bong Son, Tuy An, Tam Quan, Hoa Tan, Sa Huynh, Truong Son, An Qui, Trung Xuan, An Lac, An Lao Valley, Kim Son Valley, Suoi Ca Valley, 506 Valley, Nuoc Dinh Valley, Phu My Valley, Song Re Valley, the Crescent, Nui Mieu, Nui Sang, Cay Giep, Dam Tra-O Lake, Route 1, LZ BRONCO BEACH, LZ CRYSTAL, LZ ENGLISH, LZ GARNET, LZ GERONIMO, LZ GLENN, LZ HAMMOND, LZ IRON, LZ MEADE, LZ PAT, LZ SANDRA, LZ STEEL, LZ TOM, LZ TWO BITS, LZ UPLIFT, Binh Dinh and Quang Ngai Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization (As of 12 Feb): 1 s t Bde: 1-8 Cav, 1-12 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-19 Art (-), D/2-17 Art, C/1-21 Art, A/3-18 Art; 2d Bde: 2-5 Cav, 1-5 Cav (-), 1-7 Cav (-), 2-12 Cav, 1-77 Art (-), B/1-8 Art, A/1-21 Art, C/1-30 Art, B/8th Eng; 3d Bde: 2-8 Cav, C/1-5 Cav, 1-21 Art (-), 2-17 Art (-), C/6-16 Art, C/2-19 Art, C/8th Eng; 3d Bde, 25 t h Inf Div (12 Feb-19 Apr): 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf (4-19 Apr), 2-9 Art, A/1-77 Art, 5-16 Art, C/3-4 Cav, D/65th Eng; Div Arty: 2-20 Art (-), 7-13 Art (-), B/29 Art, E/82 Art, 3-18 Art (-); Div Troops: 1-9 Cav, 8th Eng Bn (-). Intelligence: 3rd PAVN Div: 18th and 22nd PAVN Rgts, 2nd PLAF Rgt. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE ... Results: 5,
388 enemy killed, 2,356 captured, 10,609 detained, 221 returnees, 852 US KIA, 4,119 US WIA, 22 US MIA.

13 Feb. 67-10 Mar. 68
Operation: ENTERPRISE
Location: Tan An, Rach Kien, Ben Luc, Binh Phuoc, Tan Tru, Doi Ma Creek, Plain of Reeds9, Base Area 371, Route 14, Long An Province. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, eagle flights. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 3-39 Inf, 2-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-4 Art, C/15th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PLAF MF Bn, 506th PLAF LF Bn. Execution: ENTERPRISE was the continuation of the pacification effort of Long An Province initiated the previous year by the 25th Inf Div with Operation LANIKAI. On 13 Feb, 3-39 Inf relieved 2-14 Inf at Rach Kien. Strength of division elements in the province were subsequently increased to brigade size with movement of 2-60 Inf into Tan Tru, 5-60 Inf into Binh Phuoc and Headquarters, 3d Bde into Tan An. The first major engagement occurred on 9 Apr when 3-39 Inf made contact with the 506th PLAF Bn on the bank of Doi Ma Creek. Additional companies were brought in, killing 247 of the enemy. On 2 May, the 506th Bn exacted vengeance on the 3-39 Inf, attacking one of its companies in night defensive position near Route 4. 17 US were KIA and 48 WIA but no enemy bodies were found. The operation was temporarily extended north to the Plain of Reeds area on 8-14 May with sub-operation NIRVANA II directed against the enemy's Base Area 371. Elements of the 3d Bde joined forces with the 4/50 ARVN Bn of the 25th ARVN Div but found nothing, killing only 14 of the enemy. On 14 May, the 2nd PLAF Bn struck the compound of the 2/50 ARVN Bn in Rach Kien, killing 31 South Vietnamese soldiers and wounding 34. 3d Bde units were committed but couldn't regain contact with the attacking force. After that, contact with the enemy dropped sharply for the remainder of 1967, indicating an apparent enemy desire to avoid friendly forces. On 31 Jan 68, the brigade responded to the Tet Offensive, 5-60 Inf engaged in heavy fighting southwest of Saigon in Gia Dinh Province, killing 128 enemy soldiers. From 1-5 Feb, 3-39 Inf and 2-60 Inf were sent to Kien Hoa Province to help recapture Ben Tre, the provincial capital. On 10 Feb, the brigade HQ at Tan An came under attack from an unknown size enemy force. 33 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 53 US WIA. During March, brigade elements conducted "Aquabush" operations along the numerous canals south of Saigon in conjunction with the 199th Inf Bde (Lt). Pacification activities decreased sharply during the Tet Offensive and the operation was terminated on 10 March. Results: 2,107 enemy killed, 74 US KIA, 380 US WIA.

14 Feb.67-21 Mar.68
Operation: KITTYHAWK
Location: Long Binh, Xuan Loc, Long Giao, Gia Ray, Suoi Cat, Blackhorse, Route 1, Route 2, Long Khanh and Bien Hoa Province. Type: reconnaissance-in-force, cordon and search, security, road clearing. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div (14 Feb 67-15 Feb 68); 11th ACR (15 Feb-21 Mar 68). Task organization: 3-5 Cav, 1/11 ACR, 2/11 ACR, 3/11 ACR. Intelligence: 275th PLAF Rgt. Execution: The purpose of KITTYHAWK was to secure LOCs and selected installations within Long Khanh Province, conduct reconnaissance-in-force operations and cordon and search of selected hamlets within the AO, secure Blackhorse base camp and the Gia Ray rock quarry and provide ready reaction forces along Route 1. On 21 May, K Troop, 3/11 ACR was ambushed by an estimated reinforced enemy battalion near Suoi Cat on Route 1. 30 enemy are killed, 12 US KIA and 13 US WIA. On 27 Jun 1/11 ACR moved to reinforce the 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn which was in heavy contact with elements of the 3rd Bn, 275th PLAF Rgt, killing 49 of the enemy11. On 30 Dec two enemy companies ambushed Troop C, 3-5 Cav on Route 2. Friendly losses are 10 KIA, 29 WIA and 3 MIA. On 31 Jan 68, in reaction to the VC Tet Offensive, the 3-5 Cav was alerted to respond to enemy activity in the Long Binh-Bien Hoa area. A/3-5 Cav bypassed several roadblocks, breaking through enemy forces and reached the Bien Hoa airfield, sweeping nearby wood lines and killing 40. During the period 2-3 Feb, C/3-5 Cav was sent to defend Xuan Loc against an intense ground attack, killing nearly 50 enemy soldiers. On 15 Feb the KITTYHAWK mission was assumed by the 11th ACR as the 3-5 Cav (-) was directed by HQ USARV to deploy to Da Nang, I CTZ. On 21 Mar, the operation was phased into Operation ALCORN COVE. Results: 201 enemy killed, 7 captured, 1 returnee, 62 US KIA, 224 US WIA.

5 Apr.-11 Oct.
Operation: FRANCIS MARION
Location: Plei Me, Duc Co, Plei Djereng, Plei Mrong, Plei Do Lim, Buon Blech, Se San, Ia Drang, Ia Tchar, Dak Ayun, Dak Payou, Chu Pong, Chu Prong, Chu Goungot, Chu Groh, Route 14, Route 14B, Route 19E, Route 509, Hill 521, LZ OASIS, LZ JACKSON HOLE, Pleiku and Darlac Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: (effective 7 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, B/4-42 Art, C/3-4 Cav (-), A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (-), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, Plt B/1-69 Arm, 4-42 Art (-), B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), Plt C/2-8 Inf (-), Cav Plt 1-10 Cav, B/3-6 Art, A/5-16 Art; TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 26 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), C/4-42 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h In f Div: 2-8 Inf, 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), A/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), A/3-6 Art; TF 3-8 Inf: 3-8 Inf, C/6-29 Art, A/5-16 Art; Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 30 May): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (M), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art, B/4th Eng (-); 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, D/16 Arm, E/17 Cav, 173d Eng Co; TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 5-16 Art (-); Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 24 Sep): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 2-8 Inf (M), 3-8 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), A/4-42 Art,, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div: 1-12 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), B/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: 2-1 Cav, D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Intelligence: B3 Front, 1st NVA Div (32nd, 66th and 88th Rgts), 10th NVA Div (95B and 101C Rgts), 200th NVA Art Bn, 407th PLAF MF Sapper Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn.. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE.... Results: 1,204 enemy killed, 122 detained, 11 returnees, 198 US KIA, 982 US WIA, 8 US MIA.

22 Apr.67-2 Jan 68.
Operation: BAKER
Location: Duc Pho, Mo Duc, Vinh Hien, Tan Phong, Dien Truong, An Ba, An Tach, Song Tra Cau, Song Ve, LZ MONTEZUMA (later renamed LZ BRONCO), LZ GUADALCANAL, LZ OLIVE DRAB, LZ LIZ, LZ DRAGON, RAZORBACK Beach, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde TF, 25th Inf Div (redesignated 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div on 1 Aug). Task organization: 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf, 2-9 Art, C/3-4 Cav, B/1-9 Cav, C/2-34 Arm. Intelligence: 1st PLAF Rgt, 2nd PLAF Rgt, 22nd PAVN Rgt. Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: (no info).

14 May.-7 Dec.
Operation: KOLE KOLE
Location: Duc Hoa, Bao Trai, Hiep Hoa, Loc Giang, Trang Bang, Song Vam Co Dong, Rach Tra, Xinh An Ha, Route 10, Hau Nghia and Tay Ninh Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 1-5 Inf (M), 1-27 Inf, 2-27 Inf, 1-8 Art. Intelligence: 2nd Go Mon and 269th PLAF LF Bns. Execution: Operation KOLE KOLE was initiated by the 2d Bde in Hau Nghia Province using EAGLE FLIGHTS and airmobile operations based on current intelligence. Cordon and search, outposting and country fair operations were also conducted in conjunction with the 25th ARVN Div, CIDG and RF/PF. On 17 May, elements of 1/27 Inf and 2/27 Inf fought an eight-hour engagement west of the Vam Co Dong with a VC company. Results were 27 enemy killed, 2 US KIA and 9 US WIA. There was intermittent contact during June and July, particularly along the An Ha canal and near Loc Giang. The brigade also secured engineer operations along Route 10 to improve the GVN's authority and control west of Trang Bang. In early August, the reconnaissance platoon of 1/27 Inf with helicopter support intercepted VC recon elements from Long An Province, killing 26. During September, KOLE KOLE shifted to northern Hau Nghai and southwestern Tay Ninh Province. 1-5 Inf (M) conducted extensive dismounted ambush patrols around Loc Giang along the Vam Co while 2-27 Inf engaged scattered elements of the 269th PLAF Bn. On 21 Oct, an EAGLE FLIGHT from 1-27 Inf engaged an estimated enemy platoon south of Tay Ninh, killing 18. On 31 Oct, 2-27 Inf made contact with elements of the 2nd Go Mon Bn north of the Rach Tra, killing 28 and capturing 2. Enemy activity decreased for the rest of KOLE KOLE and the brigade concentrated on pacification and land clearing operations. Results: 797 enemy killed, 150 detained, 34 returnees, 144 US KIA, 876 US WIA

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: BARKING SANDS
Location: Cu Chi, Trang Bang, Phu Hoa, Iron Triangle, Ho Bo Woods, Song Saigon, Hau Nghia and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: The 1st Bde employed counter guerrilla warfaretechniques including saturation patrolling, checkmate, bushmaster and cordon and search operations to pacify Cu Chi and Trang Bang Districts in Hau Nghia Province and Phu Hoa District in Binh Duong Province. Buddy operations were also conducted with local PF platoons and RF companies. On 30 Aug, 4-9 Inf conducted an airmobile assault against an entrenched VC battalion in the Iron Triangle resulting in 4 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 43 US WIA. During September, primary emphasis was placed on denying VC access to populated areas during the National Elections. Land clearing operations were also initiated along the Song Saigon to eliminate VC concealment. In October, 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods were cleared by Rome Plows following Operation KUNIA. Contact during BARKING SANDS was limited to squad and platoon size elements and no major engagement occurred. Four sub-operations were conducted in the BARKING SANDS AO during the period: KAWELA, AKUMU,WAIMEA and KUNIA (see individual operations below). Results (inclusive of the four sub-operations): 370 enemy killed, 85 detained, 10 returnees, 110 US KIA, 1114 US WIA.

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: DIAMOND HEAD
Location: Tay Ninh West, Dau Tieng, Suoi Da, Prek Klok, Ben Cui, Michelin Plantation, Boi Loi Woods, The Crescent, The Trapezoid, Tay Ninh and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div33. Task organization: 2-12 Inf, 2-22 Inf (M), 3-22 Inf, 2-77 Art, 2-34 Arm (-) (from 22 Sep), C/1-10 Cav, C/4th Eng. Execution: The mission was to conduct search and destroy operations in Tay Ninh Province, cordon and search operations in the Michelin Plantation, and security and reinforcement missions in the Tay Ninh and Prek Klok areas. With one battalion detached to Operation UNIONTOWN and another providing security for the Dau Tieng and Tay Ninh West base camps, contact in the AO were very limited during the months of May, June and July. On 1 Aug, the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div was redesignated the 3d Bde, 25th Inf Div. No movement of troops or units were involved in this redesignation. On 15 Aug, an airmobile cordon and search of Thanh An was conducted by 3-22 Inf in conjunction with VN National Police. 6 enemy were killed and 42 detained. In September, the brigade provided security during the National elections. In October, continued battalion size search and destroy operations were conducted in the Michelin Plantation to prevent its use as an enemy haven, in and south of Ben Cui, and in the northern portion of the Trapezoid, which extends 15 km to the southeast of Dau Tieng. Bushmaster operations were conducted in an area known as the Crescent, 8 km northwest of Dau Tieng. All operations were marked by extremely light contact. In November, operations were conducted in the upper Boi Loi Woods and in the Ben Cui Plantation, again with light contact. During this period operations were curtailed due to two battalions being opcon to the other brigades. On 25-25 Now, 2-22 Inf (M) made contact with a VC company near the Mushroom bend on the Saigon River, killing 20. This was the last contact during DIAMOND HEAD before the operation came to an end on 7 Dec. Results: 237 enemy killed, 496 detained, 4 returnees. (US losses unknown).

1 Jun.67-7 Feb.68
Operation: HOPTAC
Location: Dong Tam, Dinh Tuong Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: Task Force FUNSTON39. Execution: Operation HOPTAC was an internal defense and development operation in Dinh Tuong Province which included security of the Dong Tam base. Task Force FUNSTON provided land and waterborne security for engineer dredging equipment and maintained a ready reaction force to assist local GVN units and installations if needed. In most cases contact with the VC was characterized by light fire fights and sniper fire. On 1 Feb 68 the enemy fired more than 170 82 mm mortar and 75 mm RR rounds into the base resulting in minor damage and 11 US WIA. In the early morning hours of 3, 4, 5 and 7 Feb, the enemy continued to attack the base with mortar and RR fire. The heaviest attack came on 7 Feb with an estimated 200 rounds fired at the base. Elements of 5-60 Inf and 2-39 Inf conducted reaction airmobile assaults and RIF operations 8 km east of Dong tam, making contact with two VC companies, killing 23 while losing 5 KIA and 11 WIA. Results: 296 enemy killed, 11 captured, 3 returnees, 37 US KIA, 364 US WIA.

18 Jun.-12 Oct.
Operation: GREELEY
Location: Kontum, Dak To, Tan Canh, Dak Seang, Dak Pek, Toumorong, Dak Poko, Dak Akoi, Hill 830, Hill 1338, FSB 4, Kontum Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (24 Jun-25 Jul): 1-7 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-12 Cav, 1-21 Art; 1st ARVN Abn TF (24 Jun-25 Jul): 3d, 5th and 8th ARVN Abn Bns; 24th STZ: 1/42 Inf. Intelligence: 24th and 174th PAVN Rgts, K101D PAVN Bn, 304th PLAF MF Bn, 200th PLAF Art Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn . Execution: From 1-18 Jun, the 173d Abn Bde continued participation in Operation FRANCIS MARION, searching further south and east in the Ia Drang Valley. The brigade deployed the 1-503 Inf and 2-503 Inf into the AO, holding 4-503 Inf in reserve at Catecka. No significant contact was made. On 17 Jun, TF MC QUARRIE (2-503 Inf, E/17 Cav, A/3-319 Art) moved by air and motor convoy to the New Dak To Airfield, joined the following day by 1-503 Inf. The mission, named GREELEY, was to assume opcon of the CIDG Camp at Dak To under threat from the 24th PAVN Rgt and assist in its defense. On 18 Jun, 2-503 Inf began searching south of Dak To toward the huge mass of Hill 1338 (Ngok Bor Beang). C/1-503 Inf was also inserted into the area to search for a missing SF and CIDG team which had been destroyed by the NVA on 15-16 Jun, 1400 meters southwest of their camp. On 22 Jun, after a fruitless search of Hill 1338, 2-503 Inf was instructed to return to Dak To on foot. Shortly after leaving its NDP, A/2-503 bumped into an enemy battalion from the 24th PAVN Rgt42 while descending the slopes of Hill 1338. Two platoons were cut off and annihilated while the rest of the company formed a small perimeter and called supporting fires. Cos B and C were rushed to the rescue but arrived too late. 76 Americans had been killed, some executed point blank by the enemy, and 23 wounded. 106 enemy bodies were counted in the battle area. This action became known as 'The Battle of the Slopes' and as one of the costliest engagement for US forces in Vietnam. Concerned by the size of the battle and the US losses, General Larsen at I FFORCEV decided to reinforce GREELEY. On 23 Jun, 2-12 Cav arrived from the PERSHING AO while the rest of the 173d Abn Bde (CP (-) and 4-503 Inf) closed Dak To from Catecka. The next day, 24 Jun, the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (-) and 1st ARVN Abn TF arrived at Kontum. The Allied forces went after the 24th PAVN Rgt, seeking to destroy it. In the next two weeks, the 173d Abn Bde and 2-12 Cav searched west and south of Dak To while the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div and the ARVN Abn TF entered the Dak Akoi Valley northeast of Kontum and 35 km east of Dak To. The sweep found little evidence of the enemy's presence and on 25 Jul the cavalry brigade returned to the coast, while the Vietnamese task force stood down at Kontum to serve as a mobile reaction force. Southwest of Dak To on 10 Jul, 4-503 Inf, while searching for a regimental headquarters, found an occupied enemy bunker complex on Hill 830. Battle raged until 12 Jul with 22 US KIA and 62 US WIA but only 9 enemy bodies found. This was the last significant contact on the month. On 19 Jul, 2 NVA soldiers rallied at Dak Pek CIDG Camp, stating that they were 42 Later identified as the 6th Bn, 24th PAVN Rgt. from the newly infiltrated 174th PAVN Rgt. They were proved correct on 6 Aug when the 1/42 ARVN Bn made heavy contact with that unit 8 km west of the Dak Seang CIDG Camp. The ARVN Abn TF was rushed into the area and fought a bitter twoday battle to capture a hill believed to have been the location of the regimental CP, killing 189 of the enemy. On 9 Aug, 4-503 Inf moved to Dak Pek, joining the 1-503 Inf already there since 4 Aug, but the two battalions found little. Contacts were so low in August that the 173d Abn Bde was credited with only 4 enemy killed. During the period 1-18 Sep, the brigade continued GREELEY in the Dak To – Dak Seang area, supporting CIDG Operation DARBY, but contact was minimal. On 17 Sep, the brigade (-) began moving by air to Tuy Hoa to begin Operation BOLLING. Only 4-503 Inf and A/3-319 stayed at Dak To, forming Task Force 77 with the 3rd ARVN Abn Bn, 1/42 ARVN Bn and 27th MIKE Force Co for an expedition in the Toumorong Valley that lasted nearly three weeks but found nothing. On 11 Oct, TF 77 was disbanded and that same day, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art departed for Tuy Hoa, terminating Operation GREELEY. Results: 191 enemy killed, 17 captured, 129 US KIA, 210 US WIA. (no info on ARVN losses).

3 Jul.67-7 Apr.68
Operation: RILEY
Location: Bearcat, Camp Martin Cox, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div; TF FORSYTH (from 10 Feb). Task organization: 2-39 Inf, 4-39 Inf, 2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, TF FORSYTH. Execution: Operation RILEY was an internal defense and development operation in Bien Hoa Province and included defense of Camp Martin Cox. When not engaged in strike operations, Headquarters, 1st Bde assumed opcon of all elements engaged in RILEY, including TF FORSYTH (a provisional Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment located at Camp Martin Cox). In the absence of the 1st Bde, TF FORSYTH was allocated sufficient forces to secure the camp and to conduct limited consolidation operations in the area. On 31 Jan 68 in response to the VC Tet Offensive, elements of the 2-47 Inf (M) and 4-39 Inf moved to Long Binh Post for perimeter security. Working in coordination with 2-3 Inf from the 199th Inf Bde (Lt), the two battalions had multiple contacts with the enemy during the day near Ho Nai, killing 213 by bodycount and capturing 32. US losses were 4 KIA and 23 WIA. On 10 Feb 68, the 1st Bde moved to Dong Tam and TF FORSYTH assumed responsibility until termination. Results: 472 enemy killed, 41 detained, 2 returnees, 64 US KIA, 315 US WIA.

8 Jul.-30 Oct.
Operation: MARCH I
Location: Plei Trap Valley, Kontum Province. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: B-50 Det Project OMEGA. Execution: Long range reconnaissance and intelligence gathering conducted in the Plei Trap Valley. Results: (no info).

10 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: FREMONT
Location: Camp Evans, Hill 51, Hill 67, Phong Dien District, Thua Thien Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 4th Marines. Task organization: 2/4 Marines (10 Jul-14 Sep), 3/26 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct). Execution: The 4th Marines initiated Operation FREMONT with its own 2/4 to provide security for Camp Evans, Hill 51, the Phong Dien District Headquarters and a radio transmission site on Hill 67. On 20 Jul, 2/4 provided blocking forces near My Chanh for SLF BRAVO in Operation BEAR CHAIN. BLT 2/3 became opcon to 4th Marines on 22 Jul and joined FREMONT, until back loading on 21 Aug. Contact was sporadic in Aug with only 13 US KIA for the month. During Sep, 2/4 in conjunction with ARVN forces helped secure nearby villages and hamlets during the National Elections. On 14 Sep, 2/4 joined Operation KINGFISHER and was replaced by 3/26 Marines. Contacts remained low until termination, being limited to harassing tactics, mines incidents and sniper fire. Results: 123 enemy killed, 8 captured, 17 US KIA, 196 US WIA.

16 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: KINGFISHER
Location: Dong Ha, Con Thien, Gio Linh, Cua Viet, Ca Lu, Route 9, Route 561, Route 606, Hill 216, C-2, Demilitarized Zone, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d and 9th Marines. Task organization: 3/3 Marines, 2/4 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct), 3/4 Marines, 1/9 Marines, 2/9 Marines, 3/9 Marines, 3/26 Marines (15 Aug-11 Sep), 1st Amtrac Bn. Intelligence: 90th and 812th PAVN Rgts. Execution: KINGFISHER was a continuation of Marine operations south of the DMZ follwing BUFFALO and HICKORY II. Contact was light during the first week. On 21 Jul, 3/3 Marines securing a portion of Route 9 for a 'Rough Rider' convoy bound for Khe Sanh found a NVA battalion dug in on Hill 216 overlooking the road. Tanks, 40mm dusters and artillery pounded the hill and forced the enemy to withdraw. On 28 Jul, 2/9 Marines reinforced with tanks, LVTEs and Ontos was pushing into the DMZ north on Route 606 when it was attacked by an estimated NVA battalion. The column was split in company-size segments and fought desperately all day until reinforcements from 3/4 Marines forced the enemy to break contact. 23 Americans were killed and 251 wounded with only 32 NVA confirmed killed. Ground action was light in early Aug with the largest part of the activity involving artillery attacks on Gio Linh, Con Thien, Cua Viet and Dong Ha. On 21 Aug, an NVA battalion ambushed a small Marine convoy moving from the Rockpile to Ca Lu. Elements form 3/3 were brought in, fighting a six-hour engagement until night fell and the enemy fled to the west. 6 US were killed and 35 wounded, Enemy loses were unknown. The NVA tried again on 7 Sep at almost the same location. This time the battle lasted more than 8 hours. The Marines killed 92 of the enemy while losing 5 KIA and 56 WIA. The Communists tried to disrupt the National Elections on 3 Sep, firing more than 41 rounds of artillery into Dong Ha, damaging 17 helicopters. This attack ended the use of Dong Ha as a permanent helicopter base facility. Con Thien however, remained the primary artillery target for the NVA. On 25 Sep alone, 1,200 rounds slammed into the combat base. On 10 Sep, 3/26 Marines made heavy contact with what seemed to be the entire 812th PAVN Rgt 4 miles southwest of Con Thien. The action lasted for four hours until the enemy broke contact, leaving 140 dead on the battle field. Marine losses had been high also with 34 KIA and 192 WIA, forcing 3/26 to return to Phu Bai the next day to refit. On 21 Sep, 2/9 Marines started a search and destroy operation 1,800 meters east of Con Thien when it ran into heavy resistance from an element of the 90th PAVN Rgt. The battle turned into a stalemate after rain had made the area impassable and both sides withdrew. US casualties were 31 KIA and 118 WIA. Enemy killed were reported at 39. The enemy intensified its attack-by-fire against Con Thien in late Sep, hitting the base with over 3,000 rounds during the period 19-27 Sep. The Americans retaliated by massing one of the greatest concentrations of firepower in support of a single division in the history of the Vietnam War. Marine artillery, ships of the 7th Fleet, Marine and Air Force jets and B-52 bombers poured tons of ordnance into know enemy positions in and north of the DMZ. By the end of Sep, NVA pressure of the outpost had subsided. On 14 Oct, 2/4 Marines was guarding a bridge north of Strong point C-2 when it received a ground attack from an unknown size enemy force. AC-47 gunships helped repel the assault during the night. 21 Americans were killed and 23 wounded. Only 24 NVA bodies were found in the area. The last major action of KINGSIFHER took place during a 9th Marines operation on 25-28 Oct. 2/4 Marines was sweeping north of Con Thien on Route 561 when it was hit by an enemy battalion, beating back several attacks and losing 8 KIA and 45 WIA. Results: 1,117 enemy killed, 5 captured, 340 US KIA, 1,461 US WIA.

17 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: ARDMORE
Location: Khe Sanh, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destro, security. Controlling headquarters: 26th Marines (Forward). Task organization: 1/26 Marines, 3/26 Marines, 1/13 Marines. Execution: Operation ARDMORE was a continuation of Operation CROCKETT and involved the same mission and the same forces. On 21 Jul, B/1/26 and M/3/26 fought a NVA battalion dug on Hill 216 along Route 9 in conjunction with 3/3 Marines from Operation KINGFISHER. Contacts in August were minimal and 3/26 was moved to the KINGFISHER AO on 15 Aug. 1/26 Marines continued patrols and company-size search and destroy operations around Khe Sanh, but with limited contact with the enemy. Results: 113 enemy killed, 6 detained, 10 US KIA, 39 US WIA

27 Jul.-8 Nov.
Operation: SONG THAN 14
Location: Bong Son, Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF BRAVO. Task organization: 1st VNMC BN, 2nd VNMC Bn (27 Jul-4 Oct), 3rd VNMC Bn (4 Oct-6 Nov), C/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: On 27 Jul, TF BRAVO relieved TF ALPHA at Bong Son AF and continued search and destroy operations south of Bong Son in conjunction with Operation PERSHING. Results: (no info)

31 Jul.-3 Nov.
Operation: DAN QUYEN 822
Location: Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 22nd ARVN Division. Results: 141 enemy killed, 181 detained, 44 ARVN KIA, 74 ARVN WIA 3 ARVN MIA.

11 Aug.-21 Oct.
Operation: SONG THAN/701/67
Location: Tan Uyen, Bien Hoa Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF ALPHA. Task organization: 2nd VNMC Bn (10-21 Oct), 4th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-10 Oct), 5th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-15 Sep), 6th VNMC Bn (15 Sep-21 Oct), B/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: Operation conducted in the Tan Uyen area in coordination with the US 1st Inf Div. Results: (no info)

16 Aug-31 Oct.
Operation: 8-67/SAMURAI II & III
Location: A Shau Valley, Happy Valley, Thuat Thien and Quang Nam Provinces. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: Det B-52 Project DELTA,81st ARVN Abn Rgr Bn. Execution: Operation searched areas from the northern stretches of the A Shau Valley into Happy Valley, west of Da Nang. Results: (no info).

31 Aug.-21 Sep.
Operation: AINSLIE
Location: Xa Bang, Duc Thanh, Ngai Giao, Slope 30, Route 2,
FSB ALLANBROKE, Phuoc Tuy Province. Type: search and destroy, road clearing, resettlement. Controlling headquarters: 1ATF. Task organization: 7RAR, A Sqn 3 Cav, 4 Fld Rgt, 1 Fld Sqn, 1 Sqn ASAS. Execution: Operation AINSLIE involved the resettlement of the civilian population living in the 'Slope 30' area near Xa Bang to a resettlement hamlet 3 km north of Nui Dat, followed by road clearing and search and destroy operations along Route 2 from Nui Dat to the 11th ACR's TAOR at Camp Blackhorse. Contact was limited but 1,132 persons were resettled. Results: 22 enemy killed, 1 AUS KIA, 2 AUS WIA.

1 Sep.-17 Nov.
Operation: STRIKE I
Location: Bien Hoa, Long Binh, AO STRIKE, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 2-47 Inf (M). Execution: Operation STRIKE I was conducted to provide security for the Bien Hoa-Long Binh complex and to prevent rocket attacks. On 17 Nov, STRIKE I was combined with Operation UNIONTOWN. Results: (no info).

5-21 Sep.
Operation: RAPID FIRE I
Location: War Zone C, Tay Ninh Province. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: Det B-36 Project RAPID FIRE. Execution: The RAPID FIRE concept involved the tactical deployment of combined recon teams in order to locate VC forces followed by the commitment of a larger mobile reaction force to disrupt or destroy the enemy force. Results: 38 enemy killed, 6 captured. (no info on friendly casualties).

5 Sep.-30 Oct.
Operation: DRAGON FIRE
Location: Batangan Peninsula, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d ROKMC Bde. Task organization: 1st, 2d and 5th ROKMC Bns. Execution: The 2d ROKMC Bde conducted this operation to clear insurgent elements from the Batagan Peninsula. Results: 541 enemy killed, 17 captured, 121 detained, 45 ROKMC KIA, 200 ROKMC WIA, 3 USMC WIA.

11 Sep-25 Nov.
Operation: WHEELER
Location: Tien Phuoc, Hiep Duc, Song Tranh, Song Chang, Base Area 116, Base Area 117, UDEN AO, Quang Tin Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 101st Abn Div. Task organization: 1-327 Inf, 2-327 Inf, 2-502 Inf, 1-14 Inf (11-24 Sep), 1-35 Inf (4 Oct-4 Nov), 2-320 Art, A/2-9 Art (4 Oct-4 Nov), B/2-9 Art (11-24 Sep), C/3-16 Art, B/1-9 Cav (2-4 Oct), A/2-17 Cav (17-25 Nov), A/326th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PAVN Div (1st PLAF Rgt, 3rd and 21st PAVN Rgts). Execution: ... SEE PREVIOUS DAY FOR INFORMATION... Results were 9 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 18 US WIA. With the 2nd PAVN Div elements avoiding contact during the period 28 Oct-4 Nov, increased emphasis was placed on attempting to locate the division. On 5 Nov, 1-35 Inf was released from operational control of the brigade and placed under opcon of the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div conducting Operation WALLOWA in the Que Son Basin. The last phase of WHEELER (6-25 Nov) saw 2-327 Inf being air-assaulted into the western portion of BA 116 while 1-327 Inf and 2-502 Inf established blocking positions. On 11 Nov, C/2-327 Inf engaged an NVA company in the Song Chang Valley 4 km east of Hiep Duc. 14 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 5 US WIA. This marked the last significant contact of WHEELER, after that, the badly hurt 2nd PAVN Div avoided any further contact. From 23-25 Nov, brigade elements were relieved in place by elements of the 196th Inf Bde (Lt)61 and displaced to Tam Ky Airfield to move by air to the brigade main base camp at Phan Rang for a four-day stand down and preparation for future operations. Results: 1,105 enemy killed, 50 captured, 445 detained, 11 returnees, 124 US KIA, 465 US WIA.

12 Sep-10 Oct.
Operation: CORONADO V
Location: Dong Tam, Cai Lay, Cam Son Secret Zone, Ban Long Base Area, Loi Quan Island, Song My Tho, Rach Ba Rai, Rach Ben Tre, Route 20, Ding Tuong and Kien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div (MRF); 7th ARVN Div. Task organization: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div: 3-47 Inf (12-17 Sep), 4-47 Inf (17 Sep-10 Oct), 3-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-60 Inf (-)(15-17 Sep), 3-34 Art, D/15th Eng, USN TF 117; 7th ARVN Div: 10th ARVN Rgt, 41st ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 263rd and 506th PLAF Bns. Execution: On 11 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Vung Tau to Dong Tam again and began Operation CORONADO V aimed at the 263rd PLAF Bn which had returned to the Cam Son Secret Zone. On 12 Sep, 3-47 Inf swept north from landing sites on the My Tho but turned up almost nothing. The next day, 3-60 Inf and 5-60 Inf (M) with help from the 7th ARVN Div62 began a sweep of the Ban Long area to the east and made contact with what appeared to be a VC covering force near the site of the VNMC heavy contact in July. The enemy withdrew under cover of darkness, leaving 63 bodies behind. As US and ARVN forces left the Ban Long on 14 Sep, the 7th ARVN Div reported that a large force, presumably the 263rd PLAF Bn, remained in the Cam Son, only a few kilometers north from areas previously swept. On 15 Sep, as 5-60 Inf (M) moved overland via Route 20, 3-60 Inf and 3-47 Inf sailed via the Song My Tho up the Rach Ba Rai between the My Tho and the town of Cai Lay. While 3-47 Inf landed unopposed over WHITE Beach, 3-60 Inf ran into two companies of the 263rd lined up in ambush positions along the east bank of the Ba Rai. Some of the boats managed to run the gauntlet but were forced to turn back as most of the column failed to follow. Two companies from 2-60 Inf were helicoptered from Long An Province to encircle the enemy. The battle lasted until nightfall but when the Americans entered the deserted ambush site the next day they found only 24 enemy killed. On 17 Sep the MRF returned to Dong Tam where 4-47 Inf rotated aboard the ships of the MRF replacing 3-47 Inf. On 20 Sep, the MRF displaced to Kien Hoa Province and began widely separated operations in Ham Long, Giong Trom and Huong My Districts, looking for the 516th PLAF Bn but no major contact took place. On 27 Sep, ATCs performing mine sweeping duties along the Rach Ben Tre received heavy RPG, recoilless and automatic weapons fire. 3 sailors were killed and 6 wounded. On 28 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Dong Tam to the northern end of Loi Quan Island between the Cua Dai and Cua Tieu to reduce logistic distances. Operations in Kien Hoa were in close cooperation with the 10th ARVN Rgt and a composite RF battalions but only sporadic contact was made. On 5-7 Oct the MRF returned to the Ban Long but had only limited contact with elements of the 263rd PLAF Bn and on 10 Sep it displaced to Vung Tau to prepare for CORONADO VI. Results: 330 enemy killed, 235 detained, 2 returnees, 35 US KIA, 175 US WIA.

15-23 Sep.
Operation: ARKANSAS CITY I
Location: Duc Thanh, Xa Bang, Rouye 2, Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone), Phuoc Tuy and Long Khanh Provinces. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-39 Inf, 2-47 Inf (M), 3/11 ACR, 1-11 Art. Intelligence: 274th PLAF Rgt. Execution: The brigade conducted this operation in the Hat Dich Secret Zone with the 3/11 ACR providing blocking Positions along Route 2 to the east. Contact was minimal but several base camps were discovered and destroyed. Results: 14 enemy killed, 1 captured, no friendly casualties.

16-22 Sep.
Operation: BALLISTIC CHARGE
Location: Dai Loc, Quang Nam Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: SLF ALPHA. Task organization: BLT 1/3 Marines. Execution: The operation involved a simultaneous heliborne and surface assault of an objective area four miles southeast of Dai Loc followed by a rapid sweep to the north. Contact was limited to sniper fire. On 22 Sep, the BLT passed under control of the 1st Marines and joined Operation SHELBYVILLE. Results: 3 enemy captured, 55 detained, no friendly casualties.

16 Sep.-29 Oct.
Operation: KUNIA
Location: Ho Bo Woods, Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 3-22 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: Operation KUNIA was conducted as part of BARKING SANDS with the 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div initiating search and destroy operations in the Ho Bo Woods in preparation for the arrival of a land clearing team of thirty Rome Plows. By the end of October 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods had been cleared. Results: (included in BARKING SANDS).

17-25 Sep.
Operation: FORTRESS SENTRY
Location: An My, Cua Viet, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: SLF BRAVO. Task organization: BLT 2/3 Marines, 1st Amph Tractor Bn. Execution: On 17 Sep the BLT landed on the northern bank of the Cua Viet and began a sweep north toward the DMZ with the 1st ARVN Div screening the left flank. On 23 Sep, about 100 NVA soldiers attacked the battalion, but it broke up the probe with the assistance of helicopter gunships. On the morning of 24 Sep, the Marines engaged another enemy force near the village of An My, 5 km east of Gio Linh. The following day the operation ended and BLT 2/3 phased into Operation KINGFISHER to the west. Results: (no info).

19 Sep. 67-31 Jan. 69
Operation: BOLLING/DAN HOA
Location: Tuy Hoa, Phu Hiep, Binh Tinh, Ma Hoa, AO BLACK, Song Ky Lo, Song Da Rang, Suoi Cai, Phu Yen and Phu Bon Provinces. Type: search and destroy, reconnaissance-in-force, pacification, rice protection. Controlling headquarters: 173d Abn Bde (19 Sep 67-8 Feb 68, 1 Apr 68-31 Jan 69); I FFORCEV (8 Feb-1 Apr 68); 22nd ARVN Div. Task organization: 1-503 Inf (19 Sep-6 Nov 67), 2-503 Inf (12 Oct-6 Nov 67), 3-503 Inf (5 Nov 67-16 Jan 68), 4-503 Inf (19 Sep-1 Nov 67, 16 Dec 67-31 Jan 69), TF 2-8 Cav (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), 3-319 Art, C/2-19 Art (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 47th ARVN Rgt. Intelligence: 5th PAVN Div (18B and 95th PAVN Rgts), 30th and 95th PLAF LF Bns, K65 and K76 Sapper Cos. Execution: During the period 14-19 Sep, the bulk of the brigade (minus 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art) was relocated by air from Dak To to Tuy Hoa to commence long-term Operation BOLLING in cooperation with the 47th ARVN Rgt. The 2-8 Cav was opconed to the brigade until 14 Oct to compensate for 2-503 Inf remaining at Dak To, and was air-assaulted into the BOLLING AO on 19 Sep. The operation was designed to provide security for the local rice harvest. Daily contact was maintained with enemy forces in September and October but seldom larger than squad size. During October, the brigade relocated its rear base camp facility from Bien Hoa to An Khe, moving by sea via Saigon and Qui Nhon. On 12 Oct, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 returned from the Highlands, relieving TF 2-8 Cav and on 22 Oct, the new 3-503 Inf arrived in-country from Fort Bragg, undergoing jungle training in An Khe prior to deployment to the BOLLING AO. On 1 Nov, 4-503 Inf was alerted for immediate departure for Dak To, followed five days later by the brigade minus (headquarters, 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 3-319 Art). On 5 Nov, 3-503 Inf arrived at Tuy Hoa from An Khe and assumed responsibility for Operation BOLLING. Contact continued to be light in November; on 16 Dec, the brigade headquarters, 4-503 Inf and C and D/3-319 Art were redeployed from Operation MACARTHUR, closing into the BOLLING AO that same day. On 27 Dec, 3-503 Inf conducted a series of combat assaults into the Song Ky Lo Valley 15 km northwest of Dong Tre and engaged two enemy companies. Elements of 4-503 Inf reinforced the battle area until contact was lost on 29 Dec. Results were 62 enemy killed, 12 US KIA and 34 US WIA. Contact was infrequent in January and a battalion task force built around 3-503 Inf moved to An Khe on 16 Jan 68 to assume responsibility of the Operation DAZZLEM AO63 from the departing 1st Cav Div. On 30 Jan, the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt attacked several targets in the Tuy Hoa area as part of the enemy's Tet Offensive, including a FSB held by C/6-32 Art, the Binh Tin hamlet, Tuy Hoa North AF and the provincial prison. D/4-503 Inf and two companies from the 2nd Bn, 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked toward the airfield and by 0730 on 31 Jan, the enemy force was surrounded and destroyed in Binh Tin hamlet. On 5-6 Feb, two battalions of the 47th ARVN Rgt and RF elements reduced an enemy strong point in the center of Tuy Hoa. During the fighting in and around Tuy Hoa, 316 enemy had been killed and 104 captured. During February, 4-503 Inf in conjunction with Strike Force elements from Cung Son and Dong Tre CIDG Camps, and Task Force MITCHELL (E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm) conducted search and destroy operations west of Tuy Hoa and helped mop up the aftermath of the Tet Offensive. It also provided security for the 577th Eng C Bn and 173d Eng Co working on Routes 7B and 436. On 8 Feb, the 173d Abn Bde (-) departed Tuy Hoa to assumed Opcon of TF POWERHOUSE (1-503 and 2-503 Inf) in Kontum Province in the MACARTHUR AO. Operation BOLLING passed under control of I FFORCEV which assumed opcon of TF 4-503 build around 4-503 Inf, Btys C and D, 3-319 Art and D/16 Arm. A major contact developed on 4 Mar when the 47th ARVN Rgt contacted the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt and 85th PLAF Bn in three hamlets along the coast just north of Tuy Hoa. D/16 Arm and elements of the 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked while the 47th ARVN Rgt provided blocking positions. D/16 was credited with 137 NVA killed during the action while suffering 10 KIA and 21 WIA. Contact during the rest of March was sporadic in the BOLLING AO. On 1 Apr, the brigade returned from the Highlands, relieving the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div at Bong Son64 and assumed control over TF 4-503 again. Contact was light during the month of April except on the 5th when D/16 Arm again supported the 47th ARVN Rgt in heavy contact with two enemy battalions at Ma Hoa village in Tuy Hoa Valley just off Route 7B north of the Song Da Rang. In May, 4-503 Inf conducted extensive bushmaster operations, on 2 May, Co B killed 8 enemy soldiers in the Suoi Cai Valley 18 km west of Tuy Hoa. In June, the enemy continued to avoid decisive contact with Allied force, relying on harassing tactics instead. During the period 16-27 Jul, 4-503 Inf conducted search and clear operations in AO BLACK located 25 km southwest of Cung Son on the Phu Bon and Darlac provincial boundary but there was no significant contact. On 30 July, 4-503 Inf joined the 3/47 ARVN Bn and elements of the 26th ROK Rgt to conduct a combined operation in the Song Ky Lo Valley but contact was again limited. Prisoners confirmed that the bulk of the 18B and 95th PAVN Rgts had departed Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa Province to refit in Cambodia. Contact remained light for the rest of Operation BOLLING, limited to engagements with squad-size enemy forces and booby traps incidents. On 1 Feb 69 the BOLLING/DAN HOA AO became a permanent TAOR called LY DO/WAINWRIGHT. Results: 715 enemy killed, 72 US KIA, 307 US WIA (no info on ARVN casualties).

New Operations

None

Other

20 Sep.
First Armored Support Patrol Base (ASPB) arrive at Vung Tau to MRF

[Jason Petho]

Ongoing Operations today in 1967

26 Aug.66-20 Jan.68
Operation: BYRD
Location: Phan Thiet, LZ BETTY, Binh Thuan Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: I FFORCEV. Task organization: TF 2-7: 2-7 Cav, C/1-9 Cav, A/1-21 Art, C/2-20 Art (-), C/8th Eng Bn (-), C/229th Avn Bn, Det 228th Avn Bn. Execution: Planned as a short-term, economy-of-force measure, BYRD became a continuous offensive that would last into 1968. Upon I FFORCEV request, the 1st Cav Div detached at battalion-size task force to help pacify isolated Binh Thuan Province in southern II Corps. Results (at year's end): 351 enemy killed, 151 detained, 8 US KIA, 85 US WIA.

1 Oct.66-17 Jan 68
Operation: DAZZLEM
Location: Camp Radcliff, An Khe, Binh Dinh Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization: Base Defense Task Force. Execution: Operation DAZZLEM was the contingency plan for the defense of Camp Radcliff provided by one infantry battalion with supporting artillery and
reinforcing personnel from residence units. On 17 Jan 68, the 173d Abn Bde relieved the 1st Cav Div from the mission of defending An Khe. Results: 80 enemy killed, 9 detained.

11 Oct.66-17 Nov.67
Operation: UNIONTOWN II
Location: Long Binh, Bien Hoa Province Type: security. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV. Execution: Operation UNIONTOWN was a security operation designed to protect the Long Binh logistical complex, RMK Rock Quarry and II FFORCEV Headquarters. Units were assigned on a rotation basis from each major command under II FFORCEV.

30 Nov. 66-15 Dec.67
Operation: FAIRFAX/RANG DONG
Location: Nha Be, Thu Duc and Binh Chanh Districts, Gia Dinh Province. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV, CMD. Task organization: 1st Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 2-16 Inf; 4th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3-22 Inf; 25th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 4-9 Inf; CMD (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3rd and 5th ARVN Abn Bns, 30th Ranger Bn; 199th LIB (31 Jan-15 Dec.): 2-3 Inf, 3-7 Inf, 4-12 Inf, 2-40 Art; 5th ARVN Ranger Group (31 Jan.-15 Dec): 30th, 33rd and 38th ARVN Ranger Bns. Intelligence: Military Region 4, 165A PLAF Regiment. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE... Results (end of 1966): 149 enemy killed, 40 detained, 11 US KIA, 67 US WIA, 23 ARVN KIA, 58 ARVN WIA, 1 ARVN MIA.

1 Feb.-23 Sep.
Operation: LAM SON 142/AB/P3
Location: Quang Tri and Thua Thien Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st ARVN Div. Results: 435 enemy killed, 33 detained, 172 ARVN KIA, 420 ARVN WIA, 31 ARVN MIA.

8 Feb.67-31 Jan.68
Operation: LAM SON 67
Location: Phu Loi, An My, Ong Dong Jungle, Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, security, jungle clearing. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 1st Inf Div (8 Feb-17 Mar, 17 Apr 67-31 Jan 68); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (17 Mar-17 Apr). Task organization: 1st Inf Div Revolutionary Development Task Force (various infantry, cavalry and support units were assigned on a rotation basis during the period). Execution: The operation supported the GVN's Revolutionary Development Program in conjunction with ARVN units in Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. LAM SON 67 consisted of cordon and search, reconnaissance in force, harassment, jungle clearing, population control, civic action and psychological warfare operations directed against priority targets. Contact in the AO was characterized by light sporadic incidents with local VC elements. On 6 Jan 68, the Phu Loi base camp received 123 rounds of mixed mortar fire, 46 aircraft were damaged and 6 US WIA. Reacting to the attack, A/2-18 Inf and B/2-2 Inf (M) swept the area to the north of the base and contacted two enemy companies of the Phu Loi PLAF Bn. 92 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 14 US WIA. Operation LAM SON 67 was terminated on 31 Jan 68 with the beginning of the enemy's Tet Offensive. Results: 527 enemy killed, 263 captured, 2,327 detained, 346 defectors, 56 US KIA, 572 US WIA.

12 Feb. 67-18 Jan. 68
Operation: PERSHING
Location: Bong Son, Tuy An, Tam Quan, Hoa Tan, Sa Huynh, Truong Son, An Qui, Trung Xuan, An Lac, An Lao Valley, Kim Son Valley, Suoi Ca Valley, 506 Valley, Nuoc Dinh Valley, Phu My Valley, Song Re Valley, the Crescent, Nui Mieu, Nui Sang, Cay Giep, Dam Tra-O Lake, Route 1, LZ BRONCO BEACH, LZ CRYSTAL, LZ ENGLISH, LZ GARNET, LZ GERONIMO, LZ GLENN, LZ HAMMOND, LZ IRON, LZ MEADE, LZ PAT, LZ SANDRA, LZ STEEL, LZ TOM, LZ TWO BITS, LZ UPLIFT, Binh Dinh and Quang Ngai Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization (As of 12 Feb): 1 s t Bde: 1-8 Cav, 1-12 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-19 Art (-), D/2-17 Art, C/1-21 Art, A/3-18 Art; 2d Bde: 2-5 Cav, 1-5 Cav (-), 1-7 Cav (-), 2-12 Cav, 1-77 Art (-), B/1-8 Art, A/1-21 Art, C/1-30 Art, B/8th Eng; 3d Bde: 2-8 Cav, C/1-5 Cav, 1-21 Art (-), 2-17 Art (-), C/6-16 Art, C/2-19 Art, C/8th Eng; 3d Bde, 25 t h Inf Div (12 Feb-19 Apr): 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf (4-19 Apr), 2-9 Art, A/1-77 Art, 5-16 Art, C/3-4 Cav, D/65th Eng; Div Arty: 2-20 Art (-), 7-13 Art (-), B/29 Art, E/82 Art, 3-18 Art (-); Div Troops: 1-9 Cav, 8th Eng Bn (-). Intelligence: 3rd PAVN Div: 18th and 22nd PAVN Rgts, 2nd PLAF Rgt. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE ... Results: 5,
388 enemy killed, 2,356 captured, 10,609 detained, 221 returnees, 852 US KIA, 4,119 US WIA, 22 US MIA.

13 Feb. 67-10 Mar. 68
Operation: ENTERPRISE
Location: Tan An, Rach Kien, Ben Luc, Binh Phuoc, Tan Tru, Doi Ma Creek, Plain of Reeds9, Base Area 371, Route 14, Long An Province. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, eagle flights. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 3-39 Inf, 2-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-4 Art, C/15th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PLAF MF Bn, 506th PLAF LF Bn. Execution: ENTERPRISE was the continuation of the pacification effort of Long An Province initiated the previous year by the 25th Inf Div with Operation LANIKAI. On 13 Feb, 3-39 Inf relieved 2-14 Inf at Rach Kien. Strength of division elements in the province were subsequently increased to brigade size with movement of 2-60 Inf into Tan Tru, 5-60 Inf into Binh Phuoc and Headquarters, 3d Bde into Tan An. The first major engagement occurred on 9 Apr when 3-39 Inf made contact with the 506th PLAF Bn on the bank of Doi Ma Creek. Additional companies were brought in, killing 247 of the enemy. On 2 May, the 506th Bn exacted vengeance on the 3-39 Inf, attacking one of its companies in night defensive position near Route 4. 17 US were KIA and 48 WIA but no enemy bodies were found. The operation was temporarily extended north to the Plain of Reeds area on 8-14 May with sub-operation NIRVANA II directed against the enemy's Base Area 371. Elements of the 3d Bde joined forces with the 4/50 ARVN Bn of the 25th ARVN Div but found nothing, killing only 14 of the enemy. On 14 May, the 2nd PLAF Bn struck the compound of the 2/50 ARVN Bn in Rach Kien, killing 31 South Vietnamese soldiers and wounding 34. 3d Bde units were committed but couldn't regain contact with the attacking force. After that, contact with the enemy dropped sharply for the remainder of 1967, indicating an apparent enemy desire to avoid friendly forces. On 31 Jan 68, the brigade responded to the Tet Offensive, 5-60 Inf engaged in heavy fighting southwest of Saigon in Gia Dinh Province, killing 128 enemy soldiers. From 1-5 Feb, 3-39 Inf and 2-60 Inf were sent to Kien Hoa Province to help recapture Ben Tre, the provincial capital. On 10 Feb, the brigade HQ at Tan An came under attack from an unknown size enemy force. 33 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 53 US WIA. During March, brigade elements conducted "Aquabush" operations along the numerous canals south of Saigon in conjunction with the 199th Inf Bde (Lt). Pacification activities decreased sharply during the Tet Offensive and the operation was terminated on 10 March. Results: 2,107 enemy killed, 74 US KIA, 380 US WIA.

14 Feb.67-21 Mar.68
Operation: KITTYHAWK
Location: Long Binh, Xuan Loc, Long Giao, Gia Ray, Suoi Cat, Blackhorse, Route 1, Route 2, Long Khanh and Bien Hoa Province. Type: reconnaissance-in-force, cordon and search, security, road clearing. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div (14 Feb 67-15 Feb 68); 11th ACR (15 Feb-21 Mar 68). Task organization: 3-5 Cav, 1/11 ACR, 2/11 ACR, 3/11 ACR. Intelligence: 275th PLAF Rgt. Execution: The purpose of KITTYHAWK was to secure LOCs and selected installations within Long Khanh Province, conduct reconnaissance-in-force operations and cordon and search of selected hamlets within the AO, secure Blackhorse base camp and the Gia Ray rock quarry and provide ready reaction forces along Route 1. On 21 May, K Troop, 3/11 ACR was ambushed by an estimated reinforced enemy battalion near Suoi Cat on Route 1. 30 enemy are killed, 12 US KIA and 13 US WIA. On 27 Jun 1/11 ACR moved to reinforce the 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn which was in heavy contact with elements of the 3rd Bn, 275th PLAF Rgt, killing 49 of the enemy11. On 30 Dec two enemy companies ambushed Troop C, 3-5 Cav on Route 2. Friendly losses are 10 KIA, 29 WIA and 3 MIA. On 31 Jan 68, in reaction to the VC Tet Offensive, the 3-5 Cav was alerted to respond to enemy activity in the Long Binh-Bien Hoa area. A/3-5 Cav bypassed several roadblocks, breaking through enemy forces and reached the Bien Hoa airfield, sweeping nearby wood lines and killing 40. During the period 2-3 Feb, C/3-5 Cav was sent to defend Xuan Loc against an intense ground attack, killing nearly 50 enemy soldiers. On 15 Feb the KITTYHAWK mission was assumed by the 11th ACR as the 3-5 Cav (-) was directed by HQ USARV to deploy to Da Nang, I CTZ. On 21 Mar, the operation was phased into Operation ALCORN COVE. Results: 201 enemy killed, 7 captured, 1 returnee, 62 US KIA, 224 US WIA.

5 Apr.-11 Oct.
Operation: FRANCIS MARION
Location: Plei Me, Duc Co, Plei Djereng, Plei Mrong, Plei Do Lim, Buon Blech, Se San, Ia Drang, Ia Tchar, Dak Ayun, Dak Payou, Chu Pong, Chu Prong, Chu Goungot, Chu Groh, Route 14, Route 14B, Route 19E, Route 509, Hill 521, LZ OASIS, LZ JACKSON HOLE, Pleiku and Darlac Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: (effective 7 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, B/4-42 Art, C/3-4 Cav (-), A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (-), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, Plt B/1-69 Arm, 4-42 Art (-), B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), Plt C/2-8 Inf (-), Cav Plt 1-10 Cav, B/3-6 Art, A/5-16 Art; TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 26 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), C/4-42 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h In f Div: 2-8 Inf, 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), A/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), A/3-6 Art; TF 3-8 Inf: 3-8 Inf, C/6-29 Art, A/5-16 Art; Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 30 May): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (M), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art, B/4th Eng (-); 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, D/16 Arm, E/17 Cav, 173d Eng Co; TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 5-16 Art (-); Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 24 Sep): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 2-8 Inf (M), 3-8 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), A/4-42 Art,, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div: 1-12 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), B/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: 2-1 Cav, D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Intelligence: B3 Front, 1st NVA Div (32nd, 66th and 88th Rgts), 10th NVA Div (95B and 101C Rgts), 200th NVA Art Bn, 407th PLAF MF Sapper Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn.. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE.... Results: 1,204 enemy killed, 122 detained, 11 returnees, 198 US KIA, 982 US WIA, 8 US MIA.

22 Apr.67-2 Jan 68.
Operation: BAKER
Location: Duc Pho, Mo Duc, Vinh Hien, Tan Phong, Dien Truong, An Ba, An Tach, Song Tra Cau, Song Ve, LZ MONTEZUMA (later renamed LZ BRONCO), LZ GUADALCANAL, LZ OLIVE DRAB, LZ LIZ, LZ DRAGON, RAZORBACK Beach, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde TF, 25th Inf Div (redesignated 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div on 1 Aug). Task organization: 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf, 2-9 Art, C/3-4 Cav, B/1-9 Cav, C/2-34 Arm. Intelligence: 1st PLAF Rgt, 2nd PLAF Rgt, 22nd PAVN Rgt. Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: (no info).

14 May.-7 Dec.
Operation: KOLE KOLE
Location: Duc Hoa, Bao Trai, Hiep Hoa, Loc Giang, Trang Bang, Song Vam Co Dong, Rach Tra, Xinh An Ha, Route 10, Hau Nghia and Tay Ninh Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 1-5 Inf (M), 1-27 Inf, 2-27 Inf, 1-8 Art. Intelligence: 2nd Go Mon and 269th PLAF LF Bns. Execution: Operation KOLE KOLE was initiated by the 2d Bde in Hau Nghia Province using EAGLE FLIGHTS and airmobile operations based on current intelligence. Cordon and search, outposting and country fair operations were also conducted in conjunction with the 25th ARVN Div, CIDG and RF/PF. On 17 May, elements of 1/27 Inf and 2/27 Inf fought an eight-hour engagement west of the Vam Co Dong with a VC company. Results were 27 enemy killed, 2 US KIA and 9 US WIA. There was intermittent contact during June and July, particularly along the An Ha canal and near Loc Giang. The brigade also secured engineer operations along Route 10 to improve the GVN's authority and control west of Trang Bang. In early August, the reconnaissance platoon of 1/27 Inf with helicopter support intercepted VC recon elements from Long An Province, killing 26. During September, KOLE KOLE shifted to northern Hau Nghai and southwestern Tay Ninh Province. 1-5 Inf (M) conducted extensive dismounted ambush patrols around Loc Giang along the Vam Co while 2-27 Inf engaged scattered elements of the 269th PLAF Bn. On 21 Oct, an EAGLE FLIGHT from 1-27 Inf engaged an estimated enemy platoon south of Tay Ninh, killing 18. On 31 Oct, 2-27 Inf made contact with elements of the 2nd Go Mon Bn north of the Rach Tra, killing 28 and capturing 2. Enemy activity decreased for the rest of KOLE KOLE and the brigade concentrated on pacification and land clearing operations. Results: 797 enemy killed, 150 detained, 34 returnees, 144 US KIA, 876 US WIA

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: BARKING SANDS
Location: Cu Chi, Trang Bang, Phu Hoa, Iron Triangle, Ho Bo Woods, Song Saigon, Hau Nghia and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: The 1st Bde employed counter guerrilla warfaretechniques including saturation patrolling, checkmate, bushmaster and cordon and search operations to pacify Cu Chi and Trang Bang Districts in Hau Nghia Province and Phu Hoa District in Binh Duong Province. Buddy operations were also conducted with local PF platoons and RF companies. On 30 Aug, 4-9 Inf conducted an airmobile assault against an entrenched VC battalion in the Iron Triangle resulting in 4 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 43 US WIA. During September, primary emphasis was placed on denying VC access to populated areas during the National Elections. Land clearing operations were also initiated along the Song Saigon to eliminate VC concealment. In October, 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods were cleared by Rome Plows following Operation KUNIA. Contact during BARKING SANDS was limited to squad and platoon size elements and no major engagement occurred. Four sub-operations were conducted in the BARKING SANDS AO during the period: KAWELA, AKUMU,WAIMEA and KUNIA (see individual operations below). Results (inclusive of the four sub-operations): 370 enemy killed, 85 detained, 10 returnees, 110 US KIA, 1114 US WIA.

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: DIAMOND HEAD
Location: Tay Ninh West, Dau Tieng, Suoi Da, Prek Klok, Ben Cui, Michelin Plantation, Boi Loi Woods, The Crescent, The Trapezoid, Tay Ninh and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div33. Task organization: 2-12 Inf, 2-22 Inf (M), 3-22 Inf, 2-77 Art, 2-34 Arm (-) (from 22 Sep), C/1-10 Cav, C/4th Eng. Execution: The mission was to conduct search and destroy operations in Tay Ninh Province, cordon and search operations in the Michelin Plantation, and security and reinforcement missions in the Tay Ninh and Prek Klok areas. With one battalion detached to Operation UNIONTOWN and another providing security for the Dau Tieng and Tay Ninh West base camps, contact in the AO were very limited during the months of May, June and July. On 1 Aug, the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div was redesignated the 3d Bde, 25th Inf Div. No movement of troops or units were involved in this redesignation. On 15 Aug, an airmobile cordon and search of Thanh An was conducted by 3-22 Inf in conjunction with VN National Police. 6 enemy were killed and 42 detained. In September, the brigade provided security during the National elections. In October, continued battalion size search and destroy operations were conducted in the Michelin Plantation to prevent its use as an enemy haven, in and south of Ben Cui, and in the northern portion of the Trapezoid, which extends 15 km to the southeast of Dau Tieng. Bushmaster operations were conducted in an area known as the Crescent, 8 km northwest of Dau Tieng. All operations were marked by extremely light contact. In November, operations were conducted in the upper Boi Loi Woods and in the Ben Cui Plantation, again with light contact. During this period operations were curtailed due to two battalions being opcon to the other brigades. On 25-25 Now, 2-22 Inf (M) made contact with a VC company near the Mushroom bend on the Saigon River, killing 20. This was the last contact during DIAMOND HEAD before the operation came to an end on 7 Dec. Results: 237 enemy killed, 496 detained, 4 returnees. (US losses unknown).

1 Jun.67-7 Feb.68
Operation: HOPTAC
Location: Dong Tam, Dinh Tuong Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: Task Force FUNSTON39. Execution: Operation HOPTAC was an internal defense and development operation in Dinh Tuong Province which included security of the Dong Tam base. Task Force FUNSTON provided land and waterborne security for engineer dredging equipment and maintained a ready reaction force to assist local GVN units and installations if needed. In most cases contact with the VC was characterized by light fire fights and sniper fire. On 1 Feb 68 the enemy fired more than 170 82 mm mortar and 75 mm RR rounds into the base resulting in minor damage and 11 US WIA. In the early morning hours of 3, 4, 5 and 7 Feb, the enemy continued to attack the base with mortar and RR fire. The heaviest attack came on 7 Feb with an estimated 200 rounds fired at the base. Elements of 5-60 Inf and 2-39 Inf conducted reaction airmobile assaults and RIF operations 8 km east of Dong tam, making contact with two VC companies, killing 23 while losing 5 KIA and 11 WIA. Results: 296 enemy killed, 11 captured, 3 returnees, 37 US KIA, 364 US WIA.

18 Jun.-12 Oct.
Operation: GREELEY
Location: Kontum, Dak To, Tan Canh, Dak Seang, Dak Pek, Toumorong, Dak Poko, Dak Akoi, Hill 830, Hill 1338, FSB 4, Kontum Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (24 Jun-25 Jul): 1-7 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-12 Cav, 1-21 Art; 1st ARVN Abn TF (24 Jun-25 Jul): 3d, 5th and 8th ARVN Abn Bns; 24th STZ: 1/42 Inf. Intelligence: 24th and 174th PAVN Rgts, K101D PAVN Bn, 304th PLAF MF Bn, 200th PLAF Art Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn . Execution: From 1-18 Jun, the 173d Abn Bde continued participation in Operation FRANCIS MARION, searching further south and east in the Ia Drang Valley. The brigade deployed the 1-503 Inf and 2-503 Inf into the AO, holding 4-503 Inf in reserve at Catecka. No significant contact was made. On 17 Jun, TF MC QUARRIE (2-503 Inf, E/17 Cav, A/3-319 Art) moved by air and motor convoy to the New Dak To Airfield, joined the following day by 1-503 Inf. The mission, named GREELEY, was to assume opcon of the CIDG Camp at Dak To under threat from the 24th PAVN Rgt and assist in its defense. On 18 Jun, 2-503 Inf began searching south of Dak To toward the huge mass of Hill 1338 (Ngok Bor Beang). C/1-503 Inf was also inserted into the area to search for a missing SF and CIDG team which had been destroyed by the NVA on 15-16 Jun, 1400 meters southwest of their camp. On 22 Jun, after a fruitless search of Hill 1338, 2-503 Inf was instructed to return to Dak To on foot. Shortly after leaving its NDP, A/2-503 bumped into an enemy battalion from the 24th PAVN Rgt42 while descending the slopes of Hill 1338. Two platoons were cut off and annihilated while the rest of the company formed a small perimeter and called supporting fires. Cos B and C were rushed to the rescue but arrived too late. 76 Americans had been killed, some executed point blank by the enemy, and 23 wounded. 106 enemy bodies were counted in the battle area. This action became known as 'The Battle of the Slopes' and as one of the costliest engagement for US forces in Vietnam. Concerned by the size of the battle and the US losses, General Larsen at I FFORCEV decided to reinforce GREELEY. On 23 Jun, 2-12 Cav arrived from the PERSHING AO while the rest of the 173d Abn Bde (CP (-) and 4-503 Inf) closed Dak To from Catecka. The next day, 24 Jun, the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (-) and 1st ARVN Abn TF arrived at Kontum. The Allied forces went after the 24th PAVN Rgt, seeking to destroy it. In the next two weeks, the 173d Abn Bde and 2-12 Cav searched west and south of Dak To while the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div and the ARVN Abn TF entered the Dak Akoi Valley northeast of Kontum and 35 km east of Dak To. The sweep found little evidence of the enemy's presence and on 25 Jul the cavalry brigade returned to the coast, while the Vietnamese task force stood down at Kontum to serve as a mobile reaction force. Southwest of Dak To on 10 Jul, 4-503 Inf, while searching for a regimental headquarters, found an occupied enemy bunker complex on Hill 830. Battle raged until 12 Jul with 22 US KIA and 62 US WIA but only 9 enemy bodies found. This was the last significant contact on the month. On 19 Jul, 2 NVA soldiers rallied at Dak Pek CIDG Camp, stating that they were 42 Later identified as the 6th Bn, 24th PAVN Rgt. from the newly infiltrated 174th PAVN Rgt. They were proved correct on 6 Aug when the 1/42 ARVN Bn made heavy contact with that unit 8 km west of the Dak Seang CIDG Camp. The ARVN Abn TF was rushed into the area and fought a bitter twoday battle to capture a hill believed to have been the location of the regimental CP, killing 189 of the enemy. On 9 Aug, 4-503 Inf moved to Dak Pek, joining the 1-503 Inf already there since 4 Aug, but the two battalions found little. Contacts were so low in August that the 173d Abn Bde was credited with only 4 enemy killed. During the period 1-18 Sep, the brigade continued GREELEY in the Dak To – Dak Seang area, supporting CIDG Operation DARBY, but contact was minimal. On 17 Sep, the brigade (-) began moving by air to Tuy Hoa to begin Operation BOLLING. Only 4-503 Inf and A/3-319 stayed at Dak To, forming Task Force 77 with the 3rd ARVN Abn Bn, 1/42 ARVN Bn and 27th MIKE Force Co for an expedition in the Toumorong Valley that lasted nearly three weeks but found nothing. On 11 Oct, TF 77 was disbanded and that same day, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art departed for Tuy Hoa, terminating Operation GREELEY. Results: 191 enemy killed, 17 captured, 129 US KIA, 210 US WIA. (no info on ARVN losses).

3 Jul.67-7 Apr.68
Operation: RILEY
Location: Bearcat, Camp Martin Cox, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div; TF FORSYTH (from 10 Feb). Task organization: 2-39 Inf, 4-39 Inf, 2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, TF FORSYTH. Execution: Operation RILEY was an internal defense and development operation in Bien Hoa Province and included defense of Camp Martin Cox. When not engaged in strike operations, Headquarters, 1st Bde assumed opcon of all elements engaged in RILEY, including TF FORSYTH (a provisional Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment located at Camp Martin Cox). In the absence of the 1st Bde, TF FORSYTH was allocated sufficient forces to secure the camp and to conduct limited consolidation operations in the area. On 31 Jan 68 in response to the VC Tet Offensive, elements of the 2-47 Inf (M) and 4-39 Inf moved to Long Binh Post for perimeter security. Working in coordination with 2-3 Inf from the 199th Inf Bde (Lt), the two battalions had multiple contacts with the enemy during the day near Ho Nai, killing 213 by bodycount and capturing 32. US losses were 4 KIA and 23 WIA. On 10 Feb 68, the 1st Bde moved to Dong Tam and TF FORSYTH assumed responsibility until termination. Results: 472 enemy killed, 41 detained, 2 returnees, 64 US KIA, 315 US WIA.

8 Jul.-30 Oct.
Operation: MARCH I
Location: Plei Trap Valley, Kontum Province. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: B-50 Det Project OMEGA. Execution: Long range reconnaissance and intelligence gathering conducted in the Plei Trap Valley. Results: (no info).

10 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: FREMONT
Location: Camp Evans, Hill 51, Hill 67, Phong Dien District, Thua Thien Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 4th Marines. Task organization: 2/4 Marines (10 Jul-14 Sep), 3/26 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct). Execution: The 4th Marines initiated Operation FREMONT with its own 2/4 to provide security for Camp Evans, Hill 51, the Phong Dien District Headquarters and a radio transmission site on Hill 67. On 20 Jul, 2/4 provided blocking forces near My Chanh for SLF BRAVO in Operation BEAR CHAIN. BLT 2/3 became opcon to 4th Marines on 22 Jul and joined FREMONT, until back loading on 21 Aug. Contact was sporadic in Aug with only 13 US KIA for the month. During Sep, 2/4 in conjunction with ARVN forces helped secure nearby villages and hamlets during the National Elections. On 14 Sep, 2/4 joined Operation KINGFISHER and was replaced by 3/26 Marines. Contacts remained low until termination, being limited to harassing tactics, mines incidents and sniper fire. Results: 123 enemy killed, 8 captured, 17 US KIA, 196 US WIA.

16 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: KINGFISHER
Location: Dong Ha, Con Thien, Gio Linh, Cua Viet, Ca Lu, Route 9, Route 561, Route 606, Hill 216, C-2, Demilitarized Zone, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d and 9th Marines. Task organization: 3/3 Marines, 2/4 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct), 3/4 Marines, 1/9 Marines, 2/9 Marines, 3/9 Marines, 3/26 Marines (15 Aug-11 Sep), 1st Amtrac Bn. Intelligence: 90th and 812th PAVN Rgts. Execution: KINGFISHER was a continuation of Marine operations south of the DMZ follwing BUFFALO and HICKORY II. Contact was light during the first week. On 21 Jul, 3/3 Marines securing a portion of Route 9 for a 'Rough Rider' convoy bound for Khe Sanh found a NVA battalion dug in on Hill 216 overlooking the road. Tanks, 40mm dusters and artillery pounded the hill and forced the enemy to withdraw. On 28 Jul, 2/9 Marines reinforced with tanks, LVTEs and Ontos was pushing into the DMZ north on Route 606 when it was attacked by an estimated NVA battalion. The column was split in company-size segments and fought desperately all day until reinforcements from 3/4 Marines forced the enemy to break contact. 23 Americans were killed and 251 wounded with only 32 NVA confirmed killed. Ground action was light in early Aug with the largest part of the activity involving artillery attacks on Gio Linh, Con Thien, Cua Viet and Dong Ha. On 21 Aug, an NVA battalion ambushed a small Marine convoy moving from the Rockpile to Ca Lu. Elements form 3/3 were brought in, fighting a six-hour engagement until night fell and the enemy fled to the west. 6 US were killed and 35 wounded, Enemy loses were unknown. The NVA tried again on 7 Sep at almost the same location. This time the battle lasted more than 8 hours. The Marines killed 92 of the enemy while losing 5 KIA and 56 WIA. The Communists tried to disrupt the National Elections on 3 Sep, firing more than 41 rounds of artillery into Dong Ha, damaging 17 helicopters. This attack ended the use of Dong Ha as a permanent helicopter base facility. Con Thien however, remained the primary artillery target for the NVA. On 25 Sep alone, 1,200 rounds slammed into the combat base. On 10 Sep, 3/26 Marines made heavy contact with what seemed to be the entire 812th PAVN Rgt 4 miles southwest of Con Thien. The action lasted for four hours until the enemy broke contact, leaving 140 dead on the battle field. Marine losses had been high also with 34 KIA and 192 WIA, forcing 3/26 to return to Phu Bai the next day to refit. On 21 Sep, 2/9 Marines started a search and destroy operation 1,800 meters east of Con Thien when it ran into heavy resistance from an element of the 90th PAVN Rgt. The battle turned into a stalemate after rain had made the area impassable and both sides withdrew. US casualties were 31 KIA and 118 WIA. Enemy killed were reported at 39. The enemy intensified its attack-by-fire against Con Thien in late Sep, hitting the base with over 3,000 rounds during the period 19-27 Sep. The Americans retaliated by massing one of the greatest concentrations of firepower in support of a single division in the history of the Vietnam War. Marine artillery, ships of the 7th Fleet, Marine and Air Force jets and B-52 bombers poured tons of ordnance into know enemy positions in and north of the DMZ. By the end of Sep, NVA pressure of the outpost had subsided. On 14 Oct, 2/4 Marines was guarding a bridge north of Strong point C-2 when it received a ground attack from an unknown size enemy force. AC-47 gunships helped repel the assault during the night. 21 Americans were killed and 23 wounded. Only 24 NVA bodies were found in the area. The last major action of KINGSIFHER took place during a 9th Marines operation on 25-28 Oct. 2/4 Marines was sweeping north of Con Thien on Route 561 when it was hit by an enemy battalion, beating back several attacks and losing 8 KIA and 45 WIA. Results: 1,117 enemy killed, 5 captured, 340 US KIA, 1,461 US WIA.

17 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: ARDMORE
Location: Khe Sanh, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destro, security. Controlling headquarters: 26th Marines (Forward). Task organization: 1/26 Marines, 3/26 Marines, 1/13 Marines. Execution: Operation ARDMORE was a continuation of Operation CROCKETT and involved the same mission and the same forces. On 21 Jul, B/1/26 and M/3/26 fought a NVA battalion dug on Hill 216 along Route 9 in conjunction with 3/3 Marines from Operation KINGFISHER. Contacts in August were minimal and 3/26 was moved to the KINGFISHER AO on 15 Aug. 1/26 Marines continued patrols and company-size search and destroy operations around Khe Sanh, but with limited contact with the enemy. Results: 113 enemy killed, 6 detained, 10 US KIA, 39 US WIA

27 Jul.-8 Nov.
Operation: SONG THAN 14
Location: Bong Son, Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF BRAVO. Task organization: 1st VNMC BN, 2nd VNMC Bn (27 Jul-4 Oct), 3rd VNMC Bn (4 Oct-6 Nov), C/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: On 27 Jul, TF BRAVO relieved TF ALPHA at Bong Son AF and continued search and destroy operations south of Bong Son in conjunction with Operation PERSHING. Results: (no info)

31 Jul.-3 Nov.
Operation: DAN QUYEN 822
Location: Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 22nd ARVN Division. Results: 141 enemy killed, 181 detained, 44 ARVN KIA, 74 ARVN WIA 3 ARVN MIA.

11 Aug.-21 Oct.
Operation: SONG THAN/701/67
Location: Tan Uyen, Bien Hoa Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF ALPHA. Task organization: 2nd VNMC Bn (10-21 Oct), 4th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-10 Oct), 5th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-15 Sep), 6th VNMC Bn (15 Sep-21 Oct), B/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: Operation conducted in the Tan Uyen area in coordination with the US 1st Inf Div. Results: (no info)

16 Aug-31 Oct.
Operation: 8-67/SAMURAI II & III
Location: A Shau Valley, Happy Valley, Thuat Thien and Quang Nam Provinces. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: Det B-52 Project DELTA,81st ARVN Abn Rgr Bn. Execution: Operation searched areas from the northern stretches of the A Shau Valley into Happy Valley, west of Da Nang. Results: (no info).

31 Aug.-21 Sep.
Operation: AINSLIE
Location: Xa Bang, Duc Thanh, Ngai Giao, Slope 30, Route 2,
FSB ALLANBROKE, Phuoc Tuy Province. Type: search and destroy, road clearing, resettlement. Controlling headquarters: 1ATF. Task organization: 7RAR, A Sqn 3 Cav, 4 Fld Rgt, 1 Fld Sqn, 1 Sqn ASAS. Execution: Operation AINSLIE involved the resettlement of the civilian population living in the 'Slope 30' area near Xa Bang to a resettlement hamlet 3 km north of Nui Dat, followed by road clearing and search and destroy operations along Route 2 from Nui Dat to the 11th ACR's TAOR at Camp Blackhorse. Contact was limited but 1,132 persons were resettled. Results: 22 enemy killed, 1 AUS KIA, 2 AUS WIA.

1 Sep.-17 Nov.
Operation: STRIKE I
Location: Bien Hoa, Long Binh, AO STRIKE, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 2-47 Inf (M). Execution: Operation STRIKE I was conducted to provide security for the Bien Hoa-Long Binh complex and to prevent rocket attacks. On 17 Nov, STRIKE I was combined with Operation UNIONTOWN. Results: (no info).

5-21 Sep.
Operation: RAPID FIRE I
Location: War Zone C, Tay Ninh Province. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: Det B-36 Project RAPID FIRE. Execution: The RAPID FIRE concept involved the tactical deployment of combined recon teams in order to locate VC forces followed by the commitment of a larger mobile reaction force to disrupt or destroy the enemy force. Results: 38 enemy killed, 6 captured. (no info on friendly casualties).

5 Sep.-30 Oct.
Operation: DRAGON FIRE
Location: Batangan Peninsula, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d ROKMC Bde. Task organization: 1st, 2d and 5th ROKMC Bns. Execution: The 2d ROKMC Bde conducted this operation to clear insurgent elements from the Batagan Peninsula. Results: 541 enemy killed, 17 captured, 121 detained, 45 ROKMC KIA, 200 ROKMC WIA, 3 USMC WIA.

11 Sep-25 Nov.
Operation: WHEELER
Location: Tien Phuoc, Hiep Duc, Song Tranh, Song Chang, Base Area 116, Base Area 117, UDEN AO, Quang Tin Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 101st Abn Div. Task organization: 1-327 Inf, 2-327 Inf, 2-502 Inf, 1-14 Inf (11-24 Sep), 1-35 Inf (4 Oct-4 Nov), 2-320 Art, A/2-9 Art (4 Oct-4 Nov), B/2-9 Art (11-24 Sep), C/3-16 Art, B/1-9 Cav (2-4 Oct), A/2-17 Cav (17-25 Nov), A/326th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PAVN Div (1st PLAF Rgt, 3rd and 21st PAVN Rgts). Execution: ... SEE PREVIOUS DAY FOR INFORMATION... Results were 9 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 18 US WIA. With the 2nd PAVN Div elements avoiding contact during the period 28 Oct-4 Nov, increased emphasis was placed on attempting to locate the division. On 5 Nov, 1-35 Inf was released from operational control of the brigade and placed under opcon of the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div conducting Operation WALLOWA in the Que Son Basin. The last phase of WHEELER (6-25 Nov) saw 2-327 Inf being air-assaulted into the western portion of BA 116 while 1-327 Inf and 2-502 Inf established blocking positions. On 11 Nov, C/2-327 Inf engaged an NVA company in the Song Chang Valley 4 km east of Hiep Duc. 14 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 5 US WIA. This marked the last significant contact of WHEELER, after that, the badly hurt 2nd PAVN Div avoided any further contact. From 23-25 Nov, brigade elements were relieved in place by elements of the 196th Inf Bde (Lt)61 and displaced to Tam Ky Airfield to move by air to the brigade main base camp at Phan Rang for a four-day stand down and preparation for future operations. Results: 1,105 enemy killed, 50 captured, 445 detained, 11 returnees, 124 US KIA, 465 US WIA.

12 Sep-10 Oct.
Operation: CORONADO V
Location: Dong Tam, Cai Lay, Cam Son Secret Zone, Ban Long Base Area, Loi Quan Island, Song My Tho, Rach Ba Rai, Rach Ben Tre, Route 20, Ding Tuong and Kien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div (MRF); 7th ARVN Div. Task organization: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div: 3-47 Inf (12-17 Sep), 4-47 Inf (17 Sep-10 Oct), 3-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-60 Inf (-)(15-17 Sep), 3-34 Art, D/15th Eng, USN TF 117; 7th ARVN Div: 10th ARVN Rgt, 41st ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 263rd and 506th PLAF Bns. Execution: On 11 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Vung Tau to Dong Tam again and began Operation CORONADO V aimed at the 263rd PLAF Bn which had returned to the Cam Son Secret Zone. On 12 Sep, 3-47 Inf swept north from landing sites on the My Tho but turned up almost nothing. The next day, 3-60 Inf and 5-60 Inf (M) with help from the 7th ARVN Div62 began a sweep of the Ban Long area to the east and made contact with what appeared to be a VC covering force near the site of the VNMC heavy contact in July. The enemy withdrew under cover of darkness, leaving 63 bodies behind. As US and ARVN forces left the Ban Long on 14 Sep, the 7th ARVN Div reported that a large force, presumably the 263rd PLAF Bn, remained in the Cam Son, only a few kilometers north from areas previously swept. On 15 Sep, as 5-60 Inf (M) moved overland via Route 20, 3-60 Inf and 3-47 Inf sailed via the Song My Tho up the Rach Ba Rai between the My Tho and the town of Cai Lay. While 3-47 Inf landed unopposed over WHITE Beach, 3-60 Inf ran into two companies of the 263rd lined up in ambush positions along the east bank of the Ba Rai. Some of the boats managed to run the gauntlet but were forced to turn back as most of the column failed to follow. Two companies from 2-60 Inf were helicoptered from Long An Province to encircle the enemy. The battle lasted until nightfall but when the Americans entered the deserted ambush site the next day they found only 24 enemy killed. On 17 Sep the MRF returned to Dong Tam where 4-47 Inf rotated aboard the ships of the MRF replacing 3-47 Inf. On 20 Sep, the MRF displaced to Kien Hoa Province and began widely separated operations in Ham Long, Giong Trom and Huong My Districts, looking for the 516th PLAF Bn but no major contact took place. On 27 Sep, ATCs performing mine sweeping duties along the Rach Ben Tre received heavy RPG, recoilless and automatic weapons fire. 3 sailors were killed and 6 wounded. On 28 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Dong Tam to the northern end of Loi Quan Island between the Cua Dai and Cua Tieu to reduce logistic distances. Operations in Kien Hoa were in close cooperation with the 10th ARVN Rgt and a composite RF battalions but only sporadic contact was made. On 5-7 Oct the MRF returned to the Ban Long but had only limited contact with elements of the 263rd PLAF Bn and on 10 Sep it displaced to Vung Tau to prepare for CORONADO VI. Results: 330 enemy killed, 235 detained, 2 returnees, 35 US KIA, 175 US WIA.

15-23 Sep.
Operation: ARKANSAS CITY I
Location: Duc Thanh, Xa Bang, Rouye 2, Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone), Phuoc Tuy and Long Khanh Provinces. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-39 Inf, 2-47 Inf (M), 3/11 ACR, 1-11 Art. Intelligence: 274th PLAF Rgt. Execution: The brigade conducted this operation in the Hat Dich Secret Zone with the 3/11 ACR providing blocking Positions along Route 2 to the east. Contact was minimal but several base camps were discovered and destroyed. Results: 14 enemy killed, 1 captured, no friendly casualties.

16-22 Sep.
Operation: BALLISTIC CHARGE
Location: Dai Loc, Quang Nam Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: SLF ALPHA. Task organization: BLT 1/3 Marines. Execution: The operation involved a simultaneous heliborne and surface assault of an objective area four miles southeast of Dai Loc followed by a rapid sweep to the north. Contact was limited to sniper fire. On 22 Sep, the BLT passed under control of the 1st Marines and joined Operation SHELBYVILLE. Results: 3 enemy captured, 55 detained, no friendly casualties.

16 Sep.-29 Oct.
Operation: KUNIA
Location: Ho Bo Woods, Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 3-22 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: Operation KUNIA was conducted as part of BARKING SANDS with the 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div initiating search and destroy operations in the Ho Bo Woods in preparation for the arrival of a land clearing team of thirty Rome Plows. By the end of October 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods had been cleared. Results: (included in BARKING SANDS).

17-25 Sep.
Operation: FORTRESS SENTRY
Location: An My, Cua Viet, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: SLF BRAVO. Task organization: BLT 2/3 Marines, 1st Amph Tractor Bn. Execution: On 17 Sep the BLT landed on the northern bank of the Cua Viet and began a sweep north toward the DMZ with the 1st ARVN Div screening the left flank. On 23 Sep, about 100 NVA soldiers attacked the battalion, but it broke up the probe with the assistance of helicopter gunships. On the morning of 24 Sep, the Marines engaged another enemy force near the village of An My, 5 km east of Gio Linh. The following day the operation ended and BLT 2/3 phased into Operation KINGFISHER to the west. Results: (no info).

19 Sep. 67-31 Jan. 69
Operation: BOLLING/DAN HOA
Location: Tuy Hoa, Phu Hiep, Binh Tinh, Ma Hoa, AO BLACK, Song Ky Lo, Song Da Rang, Suoi Cai, Phu Yen and Phu Bon Provinces. Type: search and destroy, reconnaissance-in-force, pacification, rice protection. Controlling headquarters: 173d Abn Bde (19 Sep 67-8 Feb 68, 1 Apr 68-31 Jan 69); I FFORCEV (8 Feb-1 Apr 68); 22nd ARVN Div. Task organization: 1-503 Inf (19 Sep-6 Nov 67), 2-503 Inf (12 Oct-6 Nov 67), 3-503 Inf (5 Nov 67-16 Jan 68), 4-503 Inf (19 Sep-1 Nov 67, 16 Dec 67-31 Jan 69), TF 2-8 Cav (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), 3-319 Art, C/2-19 Art (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 47th ARVN Rgt. Intelligence: 5th PAVN Div (18B and 95th PAVN Rgts), 30th and 95th PLAF LF Bns, K65 and K76 Sapper Cos. Execution: During the period 14-19 Sep, the bulk of the brigade (minus 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art) was relocated by air from Dak To to Tuy Hoa to commence long-term Operation BOLLING in cooperation with the 47th ARVN Rgt. The 2-8 Cav was opconed to the brigade until 14 Oct to compensate for 2-503 Inf remaining at Dak To, and was air-assaulted into the BOLLING AO on 19 Sep. The operation was designed to provide security for the local rice harvest. Daily contact was maintained with enemy forces in September and October but seldom larger than squad size. During October, the brigade relocated its rear base camp facility from Bien Hoa to An Khe, moving by sea via Saigon and Qui Nhon. On 12 Oct, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 returned from the Highlands, relieving TF 2-8 Cav and on 22 Oct, the new 3-503 Inf arrived in-country from Fort Bragg, undergoing jungle training in An Khe prior to deployment to the BOLLING AO. On 1 Nov, 4-503 Inf was alerted for immediate departure for Dak To, followed five days later by the brigade minus (headquarters, 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 3-319 Art). On 5 Nov, 3-503 Inf arrived at Tuy Hoa from An Khe and assumed responsibility for Operation BOLLING. Contact continued to be light in November; on 16 Dec, the brigade headquarters, 4-503 Inf and C and D/3-319 Art were redeployed from Operation MACARTHUR, closing into the BOLLING AO that same day. On 27 Dec, 3-503 Inf conducted a series of combat assaults into the Song Ky Lo Valley 15 km northwest of Dong Tre and engaged two enemy companies. Elements of 4-503 Inf reinforced the battle area until contact was lost on 29 Dec. Results were 62 enemy killed, 12 US KIA and 34 US WIA. Contact was infrequent in January and a battalion task force built around 3-503 Inf moved to An Khe on 16 Jan 68 to assume responsibility of the Operation DAZZLEM AO63 from the departing 1st Cav Div. On 30 Jan, the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt attacked several targets in the Tuy Hoa area as part of the enemy's Tet Offensive, including a FSB held by C/6-32 Art, the Binh Tin hamlet, Tuy Hoa North AF and the provincial prison. D/4-503 Inf and two companies from the 2nd Bn, 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked toward the airfield and by 0730 on 31 Jan, the enemy force was surrounded and destroyed in Binh Tin hamlet. On 5-6 Feb, two battalions of the 47th ARVN Rgt and RF elements reduced an enemy strong point in the center of Tuy Hoa. During the fighting in and around Tuy Hoa, 316 enemy had been killed and 104 captured. During February, 4-503 Inf in conjunction with Strike Force elements from Cung Son and Dong Tre CIDG Camps, and Task Force MITCHELL (E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm) conducted search and destroy operations west of Tuy Hoa and helped mop up the aftermath of the Tet Offensive. It also provided security for the 577th Eng C Bn and 173d Eng Co working on Routes 7B and 436. On 8 Feb, the 173d Abn Bde (-) departed Tuy Hoa to assumed Opcon of TF POWERHOUSE (1-503 and 2-503 Inf) in Kontum Province in the MACARTHUR AO. Operation BOLLING passed under control of I FFORCEV which assumed opcon of TF 4-503 build around 4-503 Inf, Btys C and D, 3-319 Art and D/16 Arm. A major contact developed on 4 Mar when the 47th ARVN Rgt contacted the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt and 85th PLAF Bn in three hamlets along the coast just north of Tuy Hoa. D/16 Arm and elements of the 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked while the 47th ARVN Rgt provided blocking positions. D/16 was credited with 137 NVA killed during the action while suffering 10 KIA and 21 WIA. Contact during the rest of March was sporadic in the BOLLING AO. On 1 Apr, the brigade returned from the Highlands, relieving the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div at Bong Son64 and assumed control over TF 4-503 again. Contact was light during the month of April except on the 5th when D/16 Arm again supported the 47th ARVN Rgt in heavy contact with two enemy battalions at Ma Hoa village in Tuy Hoa Valley just off Route 7B north of the Song Da Rang. In May, 4-503 Inf conducted extensive bushmaster operations, on 2 May, Co B killed 8 enemy soldiers in the Suoi Cai Valley 18 km west of Tuy Hoa. In June, the enemy continued to avoid decisive contact with Allied force, relying on harassing tactics instead. During the period 16-27 Jul, 4-503 Inf conducted search and clear operations in AO BLACK located 25 km southwest of Cung Son on the Phu Bon and Darlac provincial boundary but there was no significant contact. On 30 July, 4-503 Inf joined the 3/47 ARVN Bn and elements of the 26th ROK Rgt to conduct a combined operation in the Song Ky Lo Valley but contact was again limited. Prisoners confirmed that the bulk of the 18B and 95th PAVN Rgts had departed Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa Province to refit in Cambodia. Contact remained light for the rest of Operation BOLLING, limited to engagements with squad-size enemy forces and booby traps incidents. On 1 Feb 69 the BOLLING/DAN HOA AO became a permanent TAOR called LY DO/WAINWRIGHT. Results: 715 enemy killed, 72 US KIA, 307 US WIA (no info on ARVN casualties).

New Operations

None

Other

21 Sep.
Gunship II, a modified C-130A configuration designed to replace the older AC-47 for an improved aerial fire support role, arrives in-country at Nha Trang for evaluation.

[Jason Petho]

Ongoing Operations today in 1967

26 Aug.66-20 Jan.68
Operation: BYRD
Location: Phan Thiet, LZ BETTY, Binh Thuan Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: I FFORCEV. Task organization: TF 2-7: 2-7 Cav, C/1-9 Cav, A/1-21 Art, C/2-20 Art (-), C/8th Eng Bn (-), C/229th Avn Bn, Det 228th Avn Bn. Execution: Planned as a short-term, economy-of-force measure, BYRD became a continuous offensive that would last into 1968. Upon I FFORCEV request, the 1st Cav Div detached at battalion-size task force to help pacify isolated Binh Thuan Province in southern II Corps. Results (at year's end): 351 enemy killed, 151 detained, 8 US KIA, 85 US WIA.

1 Oct.66-17 Jan 68
Operation: DAZZLEM
Location: Camp Radcliff, An Khe, Binh Dinh Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization: Base Defense Task Force. Execution: Operation DAZZLEM was the contingency plan for the defense of Camp Radcliff provided by one infantry battalion with supporting artillery and
reinforcing personnel from residence units. On 17 Jan 68, the 173d Abn Bde relieved the 1st Cav Div from the mission of defending An Khe. Results: 80 enemy killed, 9 detained.

11 Oct.66-17 Nov.67
Operation: UNIONTOWN II
Location: Long Binh, Bien Hoa Province Type: security. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV. Execution: Operation UNIONTOWN was a security operation designed to protect the Long Binh logistical complex, RMK Rock Quarry and II FFORCEV Headquarters. Units were assigned on a rotation basis from each major command under II FFORCEV.

30 Nov. 66-15 Dec.67
Operation: FAIRFAX/RANG DONG
Location: Nha Be, Thu Duc and Binh Chanh Districts, Gia Dinh Province. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV, CMD. Task organization: 1st Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 2-16 Inf; 4th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3-22 Inf; 25th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 4-9 Inf; CMD (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3rd and 5th ARVN Abn Bns, 30th Ranger Bn; 199th LIB (31 Jan-15 Dec.): 2-3 Inf, 3-7 Inf, 4-12 Inf, 2-40 Art; 5th ARVN Ranger Group (31 Jan.-15 Dec): 30th, 33rd and 38th ARVN Ranger Bns. Intelligence: Military Region 4, 165A PLAF Regiment. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE... Results (end of 1966): 149 enemy killed, 40 detained, 11 US KIA, 67 US WIA, 23 ARVN KIA, 58 ARVN WIA, 1 ARVN MIA.

1 Feb.-23 Sep.
Operation: LAM SON 142/AB/P3
Location: Quang Tri and Thua Thien Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st ARVN Div. Results: 435 enemy killed, 33 detained, 172 ARVN KIA, 420 ARVN WIA, 31 ARVN MIA.

8 Feb.67-31 Jan.68
Operation: LAM SON 67
Location: Phu Loi, An My, Ong Dong Jungle, Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, security, jungle clearing. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 1st Inf Div (8 Feb-17 Mar, 17 Apr 67-31 Jan 68); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (17 Mar-17 Apr). Task organization: 1st Inf Div Revolutionary Development Task Force (various infantry, cavalry and support units were assigned on a rotation basis during the period). Execution: The operation supported the GVN's Revolutionary Development Program in conjunction with ARVN units in Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. LAM SON 67 consisted of cordon and search, reconnaissance in force, harassment, jungle clearing, population control, civic action and psychological warfare operations directed against priority targets. Contact in the AO was characterized by light sporadic incidents with local VC elements. On 6 Jan 68, the Phu Loi base camp received 123 rounds of mixed mortar fire, 46 aircraft were damaged and 6 US WIA. Reacting to the attack, A/2-18 Inf and B/2-2 Inf (M) swept the area to the north of the base and contacted two enemy companies of the Phu Loi PLAF Bn. 92 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 14 US WIA. Operation LAM SON 67 was terminated on 31 Jan 68 with the beginning of the enemy's Tet Offensive. Results: 527 enemy killed, 263 captured, 2,327 detained, 346 defectors, 56 US KIA, 572 US WIA.

12 Feb. 67-18 Jan. 68
Operation: PERSHING
Location: Bong Son, Tuy An, Tam Quan, Hoa Tan, Sa Huynh, Truong Son, An Qui, Trung Xuan, An Lac, An Lao Valley, Kim Son Valley, Suoi Ca Valley, 506 Valley, Nuoc Dinh Valley, Phu My Valley, Song Re Valley, the Crescent, Nui Mieu, Nui Sang, Cay Giep, Dam Tra-O Lake, Route 1, LZ BRONCO BEACH, LZ CRYSTAL, LZ ENGLISH, LZ GARNET, LZ GERONIMO, LZ GLENN, LZ HAMMOND, LZ IRON, LZ MEADE, LZ PAT, LZ SANDRA, LZ STEEL, LZ TOM, LZ TWO BITS, LZ UPLIFT, Binh Dinh and Quang Ngai Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization (As of 12 Feb): 1 s t Bde: 1-8 Cav, 1-12 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-19 Art (-), D/2-17 Art, C/1-21 Art, A/3-18 Art; 2d Bde: 2-5 Cav, 1-5 Cav (-), 1-7 Cav (-), 2-12 Cav, 1-77 Art (-), B/1-8 Art, A/1-21 Art, C/1-30 Art, B/8th Eng; 3d Bde: 2-8 Cav, C/1-5 Cav, 1-21 Art (-), 2-17 Art (-), C/6-16 Art, C/2-19 Art, C/8th Eng; 3d Bde, 25 t h Inf Div (12 Feb-19 Apr): 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf (4-19 Apr), 2-9 Art, A/1-77 Art, 5-16 Art, C/3-4 Cav, D/65th Eng; Div Arty: 2-20 Art (-), 7-13 Art (-), B/29 Art, E/82 Art, 3-18 Art (-); Div Troops: 1-9 Cav, 8th Eng Bn (-). Intelligence: 3rd PAVN Div: 18th and 22nd PAVN Rgts, 2nd PLAF Rgt. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE ... Results: 5,
388 enemy killed, 2,356 captured, 10,609 detained, 221 returnees, 852 US KIA, 4,119 US WIA, 22 US MIA.

13 Feb. 67-10 Mar. 68
Operation: ENTERPRISE
Location: Tan An, Rach Kien, Ben Luc, Binh Phuoc, Tan Tru, Doi Ma Creek, Plain of Reeds9, Base Area 371, Route 14, Long An Province. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, eagle flights. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 3-39 Inf, 2-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-4 Art, C/15th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PLAF MF Bn, 506th PLAF LF Bn. Execution: ENTERPRISE was the continuation of the pacification effort of Long An Province initiated the previous year by the 25th Inf Div with Operation LANIKAI. On 13 Feb, 3-39 Inf relieved 2-14 Inf at Rach Kien. Strength of division elements in the province were subsequently increased to brigade size with movement of 2-60 Inf into Tan Tru, 5-60 Inf into Binh Phuoc and Headquarters, 3d Bde into Tan An. The first major engagement occurred on 9 Apr when 3-39 Inf made contact with the 506th PLAF Bn on the bank of Doi Ma Creek. Additional companies were brought in, killing 247 of the enemy. On 2 May, the 506th Bn exacted vengeance on the 3-39 Inf, attacking one of its companies in night defensive position near Route 4. 17 US were KIA and 48 WIA but no enemy bodies were found. The operation was temporarily extended north to the Plain of Reeds area on 8-14 May with sub-operation NIRVANA II directed against the enemy's Base Area 371. Elements of the 3d Bde joined forces with the 4/50 ARVN Bn of the 25th ARVN Div but found nothing, killing only 14 of the enemy. On 14 May, the 2nd PLAF Bn struck the compound of the 2/50 ARVN Bn in Rach Kien, killing 31 South Vietnamese soldiers and wounding 34. 3d Bde units were committed but couldn't regain contact with the attacking force. After that, contact with the enemy dropped sharply for the remainder of 1967, indicating an apparent enemy desire to avoid friendly forces. On 31 Jan 68, the brigade responded to the Tet Offensive, 5-60 Inf engaged in heavy fighting southwest of Saigon in Gia Dinh Province, killing 128 enemy soldiers. From 1-5 Feb, 3-39 Inf and 2-60 Inf were sent to Kien Hoa Province to help recapture Ben Tre, the provincial capital. On 10 Feb, the brigade HQ at Tan An came under attack from an unknown size enemy force. 33 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 53 US WIA. During March, brigade elements conducted "Aquabush" operations along the numerous canals south of Saigon in conjunction with the 199th Inf Bde (Lt). Pacification activities decreased sharply during the Tet Offensive and the operation was terminated on 10 March. Results: 2,107 enemy killed, 74 US KIA, 380 US WIA.

14 Feb.67-21 Mar.68
Operation: KITTYHAWK
Location: Long Binh, Xuan Loc, Long Giao, Gia Ray, Suoi Cat, Blackhorse, Route 1, Route 2, Long Khanh and Bien Hoa Province. Type: reconnaissance-in-force, cordon and search, security, road clearing. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div (14 Feb 67-15 Feb 68); 11th ACR (15 Feb-21 Mar 68). Task organization: 3-5 Cav, 1/11 ACR, 2/11 ACR, 3/11 ACR. Intelligence: 275th PLAF Rgt. Execution: The purpose of KITTYHAWK was to secure LOCs and selected installations within Long Khanh Province, conduct reconnaissance-in-force operations and cordon and search of selected hamlets within the AO, secure Blackhorse base camp and the Gia Ray rock quarry and provide ready reaction forces along Route 1. On 21 May, K Troop, 3/11 ACR was ambushed by an estimated reinforced enemy battalion near Suoi Cat on Route 1. 30 enemy are killed, 12 US KIA and 13 US WIA. On 27 Jun 1/11 ACR moved to reinforce the 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn which was in heavy contact with elements of the 3rd Bn, 275th PLAF Rgt, killing 49 of the enemy11. On 30 Dec two enemy companies ambushed Troop C, 3-5 Cav on Route 2. Friendly losses are 10 KIA, 29 WIA and 3 MIA. On 31 Jan 68, in reaction to the VC Tet Offensive, the 3-5 Cav was alerted to respond to enemy activity in the Long Binh-Bien Hoa area. A/3-5 Cav bypassed several roadblocks, breaking through enemy forces and reached the Bien Hoa airfield, sweeping nearby wood lines and killing 40. During the period 2-3 Feb, C/3-5 Cav was sent to defend Xuan Loc against an intense ground attack, killing nearly 50 enemy soldiers. On 15 Feb the KITTYHAWK mission was assumed by the 11th ACR as the 3-5 Cav (-) was directed by HQ USARV to deploy to Da Nang, I CTZ. On 21 Mar, the operation was phased into Operation ALCORN COVE. Results: 201 enemy killed, 7 captured, 1 returnee, 62 US KIA, 224 US WIA.

5 Apr.-11 Oct.
Operation: FRANCIS MARION
Location: Plei Me, Duc Co, Plei Djereng, Plei Mrong, Plei Do Lim, Buon Blech, Se San, Ia Drang, Ia Tchar, Dak Ayun, Dak Payou, Chu Pong, Chu Prong, Chu Goungot, Chu Groh, Route 14, Route 14B, Route 19E, Route 509, Hill 521, LZ OASIS, LZ JACKSON HOLE, Pleiku and Darlac Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: (effective 7 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, B/4-42 Art, C/3-4 Cav (-), A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (-), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, Plt B/1-69 Arm, 4-42 Art (-), B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), Plt C/2-8 Inf (-), Cav Plt 1-10 Cav, B/3-6 Art, A/5-16 Art; TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 26 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), C/4-42 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h In f Div: 2-8 Inf, 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), A/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), A/3-6 Art; TF 3-8 Inf: 3-8 Inf, C/6-29 Art, A/5-16 Art; Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 30 May): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (M), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art, B/4th Eng (-); 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, D/16 Arm, E/17 Cav, 173d Eng Co; TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 5-16 Art (-); Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 24 Sep): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 2-8 Inf (M), 3-8 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), A/4-42 Art,, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div: 1-12 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), B/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: 2-1 Cav, D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Intelligence: B3 Front, 1st NVA Div (32nd, 66th and 88th Rgts), 10th NVA Div (95B and 101C Rgts), 200th NVA Art Bn, 407th PLAF MF Sapper Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn.. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE.... Results: 1,204 enemy killed, 122 detained, 11 returnees, 198 US KIA, 982 US WIA, 8 US MIA.

22 Apr.67-2 Jan 68.
Operation: BAKER
Location: Duc Pho, Mo Duc, Vinh Hien, Tan Phong, Dien Truong, An Ba, An Tach, Song Tra Cau, Song Ve, LZ MONTEZUMA (later renamed LZ BRONCO), LZ GUADALCANAL, LZ OLIVE DRAB, LZ LIZ, LZ DRAGON, RAZORBACK Beach, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde TF, 25th Inf Div (redesignated 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div on 1 Aug). Task organization: 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf, 2-9 Art, C/3-4 Cav, B/1-9 Cav, C/2-34 Arm. Intelligence: 1st PLAF Rgt, 2nd PLAF Rgt, 22nd PAVN Rgt. Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: (no info).

14 May.-7 Dec.
Operation: KOLE KOLE
Location: Duc Hoa, Bao Trai, Hiep Hoa, Loc Giang, Trang Bang, Song Vam Co Dong, Rach Tra, Xinh An Ha, Route 10, Hau Nghia and Tay Ninh Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 1-5 Inf (M), 1-27 Inf, 2-27 Inf, 1-8 Art. Intelligence: 2nd Go Mon and 269th PLAF LF Bns. Execution: Operation KOLE KOLE was initiated by the 2d Bde in Hau Nghia Province using EAGLE FLIGHTS and airmobile operations based on current intelligence. Cordon and search, outposting and country fair operations were also conducted in conjunction with the 25th ARVN Div, CIDG and RF/PF. On 17 May, elements of 1/27 Inf and 2/27 Inf fought an eight-hour engagement west of the Vam Co Dong with a VC company. Results were 27 enemy killed, 2 US KIA and 9 US WIA. There was intermittent contact during June and July, particularly along the An Ha canal and near Loc Giang. The brigade also secured engineer operations along Route 10 to improve the GVN's authority and control west of Trang Bang. In early August, the reconnaissance platoon of 1/27 Inf with helicopter support intercepted VC recon elements from Long An Province, killing 26. During September, KOLE KOLE shifted to northern Hau Nghai and southwestern Tay Ninh Province. 1-5 Inf (M) conducted extensive dismounted ambush patrols around Loc Giang along the Vam Co while 2-27 Inf engaged scattered elements of the 269th PLAF Bn. On 21 Oct, an EAGLE FLIGHT from 1-27 Inf engaged an estimated enemy platoon south of Tay Ninh, killing 18. On 31 Oct, 2-27 Inf made contact with elements of the 2nd Go Mon Bn north of the Rach Tra, killing 28 and capturing 2. Enemy activity decreased for the rest of KOLE KOLE and the brigade concentrated on pacification and land clearing operations. Results: 797 enemy killed, 150 detained, 34 returnees, 144 US KIA, 876 US WIA

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: BARKING SANDS
Location: Cu Chi, Trang Bang, Phu Hoa, Iron Triangle, Ho Bo Woods, Song Saigon, Hau Nghia and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: The 1st Bde employed counter guerrilla warfaretechniques including saturation patrolling, checkmate, bushmaster and cordon and search operations to pacify Cu Chi and Trang Bang Districts in Hau Nghia Province and Phu Hoa District in Binh Duong Province. Buddy operations were also conducted with local PF platoons and RF companies. On 30 Aug, 4-9 Inf conducted an airmobile assault against an entrenched VC battalion in the Iron Triangle resulting in 4 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 43 US WIA. During September, primary emphasis was placed on denying VC access to populated areas during the National Elections. Land clearing operations were also initiated along the Song Saigon to eliminate VC concealment. In October, 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods were cleared by Rome Plows following Operation KUNIA. Contact during BARKING SANDS was limited to squad and platoon size elements and no major engagement occurred. Four sub-operations were conducted in the BARKING SANDS AO during the period: KAWELA, AKUMU,WAIMEA and KUNIA (see individual operations below). Results (inclusive of the four sub-operations): 370 enemy killed, 85 detained, 10 returnees, 110 US KIA, 1114 US WIA.

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: DIAMOND HEAD
Location: Tay Ninh West, Dau Tieng, Suoi Da, Prek Klok, Ben Cui, Michelin Plantation, Boi Loi Woods, The Crescent, The Trapezoid, Tay Ninh and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div33. Task organization: 2-12 Inf, 2-22 Inf (M), 3-22 Inf, 2-77 Art, 2-34 Arm (-) (from 22 Sep), C/1-10 Cav, C/4th Eng. Execution: The mission was to conduct search and destroy operations in Tay Ninh Province, cordon and search operations in the Michelin Plantation, and security and reinforcement missions in the Tay Ninh and Prek Klok areas. With one battalion detached to Operation UNIONTOWN and another providing security for the Dau Tieng and Tay Ninh West base camps, contact in the AO were very limited during the months of May, June and July. On 1 Aug, the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div was redesignated the 3d Bde, 25th Inf Div. No movement of troops or units were involved in this redesignation. On 15 Aug, an airmobile cordon and search of Thanh An was conducted by 3-22 Inf in conjunction with VN National Police. 6 enemy were killed and 42 detained. In September, the brigade provided security during the National elections. In October, continued battalion size search and destroy operations were conducted in the Michelin Plantation to prevent its use as an enemy haven, in and south of Ben Cui, and in the northern portion of the Trapezoid, which extends 15 km to the southeast of Dau Tieng. Bushmaster operations were conducted in an area known as the Crescent, 8 km northwest of Dau Tieng. All operations were marked by extremely light contact. In November, operations were conducted in the upper Boi Loi Woods and in the Ben Cui Plantation, again with light contact. During this period operations were curtailed due to two battalions being opcon to the other brigades. On 25-25 Now, 2-22 Inf (M) made contact with a VC company near the Mushroom bend on the Saigon River, killing 20. This was the last contact during DIAMOND HEAD before the operation came to an end on 7 Dec. Results: 237 enemy killed, 496 detained, 4 returnees. (US losses unknown).

1 Jun.67-7 Feb.68
Operation: HOPTAC
Location: Dong Tam, Dinh Tuong Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: Task Force FUNSTON39. Execution: Operation HOPTAC was an internal defense and development operation in Dinh Tuong Province which included security of the Dong Tam base. Task Force FUNSTON provided land and waterborne security for engineer dredging equipment and maintained a ready reaction force to assist local GVN units and installations if needed. In most cases contact with the VC was characterized by light fire fights and sniper fire. On 1 Feb 68 the enemy fired more than 170 82 mm mortar and 75 mm RR rounds into the base resulting in minor damage and 11 US WIA. In the early morning hours of 3, 4, 5 and 7 Feb, the enemy continued to attack the base with mortar and RR fire. The heaviest attack came on 7 Feb with an estimated 200 rounds fired at the base. Elements of 5-60 Inf and 2-39 Inf conducted reaction airmobile assaults and RIF operations 8 km east of Dong tam, making contact with two VC companies, killing 23 while losing 5 KIA and 11 WIA. Results: 296 enemy killed, 11 captured, 3 returnees, 37 US KIA, 364 US WIA.

18 Jun.-12 Oct.
Operation: GREELEY
Location: Kontum, Dak To, Tan Canh, Dak Seang, Dak Pek, Toumorong, Dak Poko, Dak Akoi, Hill 830, Hill 1338, FSB 4, Kontum Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (24 Jun-25 Jul): 1-7 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-12 Cav, 1-21 Art; 1st ARVN Abn TF (24 Jun-25 Jul): 3d, 5th and 8th ARVN Abn Bns; 24th STZ: 1/42 Inf. Intelligence: 24th and 174th PAVN Rgts, K101D PAVN Bn, 304th PLAF MF Bn, 200th PLAF Art Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn . Execution: From 1-18 Jun, the 173d Abn Bde continued participation in Operation FRANCIS MARION, searching further south and east in the Ia Drang Valley. The brigade deployed the 1-503 Inf and 2-503 Inf into the AO, holding 4-503 Inf in reserve at Catecka. No significant contact was made. On 17 Jun, TF MC QUARRIE (2-503 Inf, E/17 Cav, A/3-319 Art) moved by air and motor convoy to the New Dak To Airfield, joined the following day by 1-503 Inf. The mission, named GREELEY, was to assume opcon of the CIDG Camp at Dak To under threat from the 24th PAVN Rgt and assist in its defense. On 18 Jun, 2-503 Inf began searching south of Dak To toward the huge mass of Hill 1338 (Ngok Bor Beang). C/1-503 Inf was also inserted into the area to search for a missing SF and CIDG team which had been destroyed by the NVA on 15-16 Jun, 1400 meters southwest of their camp. On 22 Jun, after a fruitless search of Hill 1338, 2-503 Inf was instructed to return to Dak To on foot. Shortly after leaving its NDP, A/2-503 bumped into an enemy battalion from the 24th PAVN Rgt42 while descending the slopes of Hill 1338. Two platoons were cut off and annihilated while the rest of the company formed a small perimeter and called supporting fires. Cos B and C were rushed to the rescue but arrived too late. 76 Americans had been killed, some executed point blank by the enemy, and 23 wounded. 106 enemy bodies were counted in the battle area. This action became known as 'The Battle of the Slopes' and as one of the costliest engagement for US forces in Vietnam. Concerned by the size of the battle and the US losses, General Larsen at I FFORCEV decided to reinforce GREELEY. On 23 Jun, 2-12 Cav arrived from the PERSHING AO while the rest of the 173d Abn Bde (CP (-) and 4-503 Inf) closed Dak To from Catecka. The next day, 24 Jun, the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (-) and 1st ARVN Abn TF arrived at Kontum. The Allied forces went after the 24th PAVN Rgt, seeking to destroy it. In the next two weeks, the 173d Abn Bde and 2-12 Cav searched west and south of Dak To while the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div and the ARVN Abn TF entered the Dak Akoi Valley northeast of Kontum and 35 km east of Dak To. The sweep found little evidence of the enemy's presence and on 25 Jul the cavalry brigade returned to the coast, while the Vietnamese task force stood down at Kontum to serve as a mobile reaction force. Southwest of Dak To on 10 Jul, 4-503 Inf, while searching for a regimental headquarters, found an occupied enemy bunker complex on Hill 830. Battle raged until 12 Jul with 22 US KIA and 62 US WIA but only 9 enemy bodies found. This was the last significant contact on the month. On 19 Jul, 2 NVA soldiers rallied at Dak Pek CIDG Camp, stating that they were 42 Later identified as the 6th Bn, 24th PAVN Rgt. from the newly infiltrated 174th PAVN Rgt. They were proved correct on 6 Aug when the 1/42 ARVN Bn made heavy contact with that unit 8 km west of the Dak Seang CIDG Camp. The ARVN Abn TF was rushed into the area and fought a bitter twoday battle to capture a hill believed to have been the location of the regimental CP, killing 189 of the enemy. On 9 Aug, 4-503 Inf moved to Dak Pek, joining the 1-503 Inf already there since 4 Aug, but the two battalions found little. Contacts were so low in August that the 173d Abn Bde was credited with only 4 enemy killed. During the period 1-18 Sep, the brigade continued GREELEY in the Dak To – Dak Seang area, supporting CIDG Operation DARBY, but contact was minimal. On 17 Sep, the brigade (-) began moving by air to Tuy Hoa to begin Operation BOLLING. Only 4-503 Inf and A/3-319 stayed at Dak To, forming Task Force 77 with the 3rd ARVN Abn Bn, 1/42 ARVN Bn and 27th MIKE Force Co for an expedition in the Toumorong Valley that lasted nearly three weeks but found nothing. On 11 Oct, TF 77 was disbanded and that same day, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art departed for Tuy Hoa, terminating Operation GREELEY. Results: 191 enemy killed, 17 captured, 129 US KIA, 210 US WIA. (no info on ARVN losses).

3 Jul.67-7 Apr.68
Operation: RILEY
Location: Bearcat, Camp Martin Cox, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div; TF FORSYTH (from 10 Feb). Task organization: 2-39 Inf, 4-39 Inf, 2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, TF FORSYTH. Execution: Operation RILEY was an internal defense and development operation in Bien Hoa Province and included defense of Camp Martin Cox. When not engaged in strike operations, Headquarters, 1st Bde assumed opcon of all elements engaged in RILEY, including TF FORSYTH (a provisional Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment located at Camp Martin Cox). In the absence of the 1st Bde, TF FORSYTH was allocated sufficient forces to secure the camp and to conduct limited consolidation operations in the area. On 31 Jan 68 in response to the VC Tet Offensive, elements of the 2-47 Inf (M) and 4-39 Inf moved to Long Binh Post for perimeter security. Working in coordination with 2-3 Inf from the 199th Inf Bde (Lt), the two battalions had multiple contacts with the enemy during the day near Ho Nai, killing 213 by bodycount and capturing 32. US losses were 4 KIA and 23 WIA. On 10 Feb 68, the 1st Bde moved to Dong Tam and TF FORSYTH assumed responsibility until termination. Results: 472 enemy killed, 41 detained, 2 returnees, 64 US KIA, 315 US WIA.

8 Jul.-30 Oct.
Operation: MARCH I
Location: Plei Trap Valley, Kontum Province. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: B-50 Det Project OMEGA. Execution: Long range reconnaissance and intelligence gathering conducted in the Plei Trap Valley. Results: (no info).

10 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: FREMONT
Location: Camp Evans, Hill 51, Hill 67, Phong Dien District, Thua Thien Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 4th Marines. Task organization: 2/4 Marines (10 Jul-14 Sep), 3/26 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct). Execution: The 4th Marines initiated Operation FREMONT with its own 2/4 to provide security for Camp Evans, Hill 51, the Phong Dien District Headquarters and a radio transmission site on Hill 67. On 20 Jul, 2/4 provided blocking forces near My Chanh for SLF BRAVO in Operation BEAR CHAIN. BLT 2/3 became opcon to 4th Marines on 22 Jul and joined FREMONT, until back loading on 21 Aug. Contact was sporadic in Aug with only 13 US KIA for the month. During Sep, 2/4 in conjunction with ARVN forces helped secure nearby villages and hamlets during the National Elections. On 14 Sep, 2/4 joined Operation KINGFISHER and was replaced by 3/26 Marines. Contacts remained low until termination, being limited to harassing tactics, mines incidents and sniper fire. Results: 123 enemy killed, 8 captured, 17 US KIA, 196 US WIA.

16 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: KINGFISHER
Location: Dong Ha, Con Thien, Gio Linh, Cua Viet, Ca Lu, Route 9, Route 561, Route 606, Hill 216, C-2, Demilitarized Zone, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d and 9th Marines. Task organization: 3/3 Marines, 2/4 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct), 3/4 Marines, 1/9 Marines, 2/9 Marines, 3/9 Marines, 3/26 Marines (15 Aug-11 Sep), 1st Amtrac Bn. Intelligence: 90th and 812th PAVN Rgts. Execution: KINGFISHER was a continuation of Marine operations south of the DMZ follwing BUFFALO and HICKORY II. Contact was light during the first week. On 21 Jul, 3/3 Marines securing a portion of Route 9 for a 'Rough Rider' convoy bound for Khe Sanh found a NVA battalion dug in on Hill 216 overlooking the road. Tanks, 40mm dusters and artillery pounded the hill and forced the enemy to withdraw. On 28 Jul, 2/9 Marines reinforced with tanks, LVTEs and Ontos was pushing into the DMZ north on Route 606 when it was attacked by an estimated NVA battalion. The column was split in company-size segments and fought desperately all day until reinforcements from 3/4 Marines forced the enemy to break contact. 23 Americans were killed and 251 wounded with only 32 NVA confirmed killed. Ground action was light in early Aug with the largest part of the activity involving artillery attacks on Gio Linh, Con Thien, Cua Viet and Dong Ha. On 21 Aug, an NVA battalion ambushed a small Marine convoy moving from the Rockpile to Ca Lu. Elements form 3/3 were brought in, fighting a six-hour engagement until night fell and the enemy fled to the west. 6 US were killed and 35 wounded, Enemy loses were unknown. The NVA tried again on 7 Sep at almost the same location. This time the battle lasted more than 8 hours. The Marines killed 92 of the enemy while losing 5 KIA and 56 WIA. The Communists tried to disrupt the National Elections on 3 Sep, firing more than 41 rounds of artillery into Dong Ha, damaging 17 helicopters. This attack ended the use of Dong Ha as a permanent helicopter base facility. Con Thien however, remained the primary artillery target for the NVA. On 25 Sep alone, 1,200 rounds slammed into the combat base. On 10 Sep, 3/26 Marines made heavy contact with what seemed to be the entire 812th PAVN Rgt 4 miles southwest of Con Thien. The action lasted for four hours until the enemy broke contact, leaving 140 dead on the battle field. Marine losses had been high also with 34 KIA and 192 WIA, forcing 3/26 to return to Phu Bai the next day to refit. On 21 Sep, 2/9 Marines started a search and destroy operation 1,800 meters east of Con Thien when it ran into heavy resistance from an element of the 90th PAVN Rgt. The battle turned into a stalemate after rain had made the area impassable and both sides withdrew. US casualties were 31 KIA and 118 WIA. Enemy killed were reported at 39. The enemy intensified its attack-by-fire against Con Thien in late Sep, hitting the base with over 3,000 rounds during the period 19-27 Sep. The Americans retaliated by massing one of the greatest concentrations of firepower in support of a single division in the history of the Vietnam War. Marine artillery, ships of the 7th Fleet, Marine and Air Force jets and B-52 bombers poured tons of ordnance into know enemy positions in and north of the DMZ. By the end of Sep, NVA pressure of the outpost had subsided. On 14 Oct, 2/4 Marines was guarding a bridge north of Strong point C-2 when it received a ground attack from an unknown size enemy force. AC-47 gunships helped repel the assault during the night. 21 Americans were killed and 23 wounded. Only 24 NVA bodies were found in the area. The last major action of KINGSIFHER took place during a 9th Marines operation on 25-28 Oct. 2/4 Marines was sweeping north of Con Thien on Route 561 when it was hit by an enemy battalion, beating back several attacks and losing 8 KIA and 45 WIA. Results: 1,117 enemy killed, 5 captured, 340 US KIA, 1,461 US WIA.

17 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: ARDMORE
Location: Khe Sanh, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destro, security. Controlling headquarters: 26th Marines (Forward). Task organization: 1/26 Marines, 3/26 Marines, 1/13 Marines. Execution: Operation ARDMORE was a continuation of Operation CROCKETT and involved the same mission and the same forces. On 21 Jul, B/1/26 and M/3/26 fought a NVA battalion dug on Hill 216 along Route 9 in conjunction with 3/3 Marines from Operation KINGFISHER. Contacts in August were minimal and 3/26 was moved to the KINGFISHER AO on 15 Aug. 1/26 Marines continued patrols and company-size search and destroy operations around Khe Sanh, but with limited contact with the enemy. Results: 113 enemy killed, 6 detained, 10 US KIA, 39 US WIA

27 Jul.-8 Nov.
Operation: SONG THAN 14
Location: Bong Son, Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF BRAVO. Task organization: 1st VNMC BN, 2nd VNMC Bn (27 Jul-4 Oct), 3rd VNMC Bn (4 Oct-6 Nov), C/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: On 27 Jul, TF BRAVO relieved TF ALPHA at Bong Son AF and continued search and destroy operations south of Bong Son in conjunction with Operation PERSHING. Results: (no info)

31 Jul.-3 Nov.
Operation: DAN QUYEN 822
Location: Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 22nd ARVN Division. Results: 141 enemy killed, 181 detained, 44 ARVN KIA, 74 ARVN WIA 3 ARVN MIA.

11 Aug.-21 Oct.
Operation: SONG THAN/701/67
Location: Tan Uyen, Bien Hoa Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF ALPHA. Task organization: 2nd VNMC Bn (10-21 Oct), 4th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-10 Oct), 5th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-15 Sep), 6th VNMC Bn (15 Sep-21 Oct), B/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: Operation conducted in the Tan Uyen area in coordination with the US 1st Inf Div. Results: (no info)

16 Aug-31 Oct.
Operation: 8-67/SAMURAI II & III
Location: A Shau Valley, Happy Valley, Thuat Thien and Quang Nam Provinces. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: Det B-52 Project DELTA,81st ARVN Abn Rgr Bn. Execution: Operation searched areas from the northern stretches of the A Shau Valley into Happy Valley, west of Da Nang. Results: (no info).

1 Sep.-17 Nov.
Operation: STRIKE I
Location: Bien Hoa, Long Binh, AO STRIKE, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 2-47 Inf (M). Execution: Operation STRIKE I was conducted to provide security for the Bien Hoa-Long Binh complex and to prevent rocket attacks. On 17 Nov, STRIKE I was combined with Operation UNIONTOWN. Results: (no info).

5 Sep.-30 Oct.
Operation: DRAGON FIRE
Location: Batangan Peninsula, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d ROKMC Bde. Task organization: 1st, 2d and 5th ROKMC Bns. Execution: The 2d ROKMC Bde conducted this operation to clear insurgent elements from the Batagan Peninsula. Results: 541 enemy killed, 17 captured, 121 detained, 45 ROKMC KIA, 200 ROKMC WIA, 3 USMC WIA.

11 Sep-25 Nov.
Operation: WHEELER
Location: Tien Phuoc, Hiep Duc, Song Tranh, Song Chang, Base Area 116, Base Area 117, UDEN AO, Quang Tin Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 101st Abn Div. Task organization: 1-327 Inf, 2-327 Inf, 2-502 Inf, 1-14 Inf (11-24 Sep), 1-35 Inf (4 Oct-4 Nov), 2-320 Art, A/2-9 Art (4 Oct-4 Nov), B/2-9 Art (11-24 Sep), C/3-16 Art, B/1-9 Cav (2-4 Oct), A/2-17 Cav (17-25 Nov), A/326th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PAVN Div (1st PLAF Rgt, 3rd and 21st PAVN Rgts). Execution: ... SEE PREVIOUS DAY FOR INFORMATION... Results were 9 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 18 US WIA. With the 2nd PAVN Div elements avoiding contact during the period 28 Oct-4 Nov, increased emphasis was placed on attempting to locate the division. On 5 Nov, 1-35 Inf was released from operational control of the brigade and placed under opcon of the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div conducting Operation WALLOWA in the Que Son Basin. The last phase of WHEELER (6-25 Nov) saw 2-327 Inf being air-assaulted into the western portion of BA 116 while 1-327 Inf and 2-502 Inf established blocking positions. On 11 Nov, C/2-327 Inf engaged an NVA company in the Song Chang Valley 4 km east of Hiep Duc. 14 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 5 US WIA. This marked the last significant contact of WHEELER, after that, the badly hurt 2nd PAVN Div avoided any further contact. From 23-25 Nov, brigade elements were relieved in place by elements of the 196th Inf Bde (Lt)61 and displaced to Tam Ky Airfield to move by air to the brigade main base camp at Phan Rang for a four-day stand down and preparation for future operations. Results: 1,105 enemy killed, 50 captured, 445 detained, 11 returnees, 124 US KIA, 465 US WIA.

12 Sep-10 Oct.
Operation: CORONADO V
Location: Dong Tam, Cai Lay, Cam Son Secret Zone, Ban Long Base Area, Loi Quan Island, Song My Tho, Rach Ba Rai, Rach Ben Tre, Route 20, Ding Tuong and Kien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div (MRF); 7th ARVN Div. Task organization: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div: 3-47 Inf (12-17 Sep), 4-47 Inf (17 Sep-10 Oct), 3-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-60 Inf (-)(15-17 Sep), 3-34 Art, D/15th Eng, USN TF 117; 7th ARVN Div: 10th ARVN Rgt, 41st ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 263rd and 506th PLAF Bns. Execution: On 11 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Vung Tau to Dong Tam again and began Operation CORONADO V aimed at the 263rd PLAF Bn which had returned to the Cam Son Secret Zone. On 12 Sep, 3-47 Inf swept north from landing sites on the My Tho but turned up almost nothing. The next day, 3-60 Inf and 5-60 Inf (M) with help from the 7th ARVN Div62 began a sweep of the Ban Long area to the east and made contact with what appeared to be a VC covering force near the site of the VNMC heavy contact in July. The enemy withdrew under cover of darkness, leaving 63 bodies behind. As US and ARVN forces left the Ban Long on 14 Sep, the 7th ARVN Div reported that a large force, presumably the 263rd PLAF Bn, remained in the Cam Son, only a few kilometers north from areas previously swept. On 15 Sep, as 5-60 Inf (M) moved overland via Route 20, 3-60 Inf and 3-47 Inf sailed via the Song My Tho up the Rach Ba Rai between the My Tho and the town of Cai Lay. While 3-47 Inf landed unopposed over WHITE Beach, 3-60 Inf ran into two companies of the 263rd lined up in ambush positions along the east bank of the Ba Rai. Some of the boats managed to run the gauntlet but were forced to turn back as most of the column failed to follow. Two companies from 2-60 Inf were helicoptered from Long An Province to encircle the enemy. The battle lasted until nightfall but when the Americans entered the deserted ambush site the next day they found only 24 enemy killed. On 17 Sep the MRF returned to Dong Tam where 4-47 Inf rotated aboard the ships of the MRF replacing 3-47 Inf. On 20 Sep, the MRF displaced to Kien Hoa Province and began widely separated operations in Ham Long, Giong Trom and Huong My Districts, looking for the 516th PLAF Bn but no major contact took place. On 27 Sep, ATCs performing mine sweeping duties along the Rach Ben Tre received heavy RPG, recoilless and automatic weapons fire. 3 sailors were killed and 6 wounded. On 28 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Dong Tam to the northern end of Loi Quan Island between the Cua Dai and Cua Tieu to reduce logistic distances. Operations in Kien Hoa were in close cooperation with the 10th ARVN Rgt and a composite RF battalions but only sporadic contact was made. On 5-7 Oct the MRF returned to the Ban Long but had only limited contact with elements of the 263rd PLAF Bn and on 10 Sep it displaced to Vung Tau to prepare for CORONADO VI. Results: 330 enemy killed, 235 detained, 2 returnees, 35 US KIA, 175 US WIA.

15-23 Sep.
Operation: ARKANSAS CITY I
Location: Duc Thanh, Xa Bang, Rouye 2, Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone), Phuoc Tuy and Long Khanh Provinces. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-39 Inf, 2-47 Inf (M), 3/11 ACR, 1-11 Art. Intelligence: 274th PLAF Rgt. Execution: The brigade conducted this operation in the Hat Dich Secret Zone with the 3/11 ACR providing blocking Positions along Route 2 to the east. Contact was minimal but several base camps were discovered and destroyed. Results: 14 enemy killed, 1 captured, no friendly casualties.

16-22 Sep.
Operation: BALLISTIC CHARGE
Location: Dai Loc, Quang Nam Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: SLF ALPHA. Task organization: BLT 1/3 Marines. Execution: The operation involved a simultaneous heliborne and surface assault of an objective area four miles southeast of Dai Loc followed by a rapid sweep to the north. Contact was limited to sniper fire. On 22 Sep, the BLT passed under control of the 1st Marines and joined Operation SHELBYVILLE. Results: 3 enemy captured, 55 detained, no friendly casualties.

16 Sep.-29 Oct.
Operation: KUNIA
Location: Ho Bo Woods, Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 3-22 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: Operation KUNIA was conducted as part of BARKING SANDS with the 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div initiating search and destroy operations in the Ho Bo Woods in preparation for the arrival of a land clearing team of thirty Rome Plows. By the end of October 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods had been cleared. Results: (included in BARKING SANDS).

17-25 Sep.
Operation: FORTRESS SENTRY
Location: An My, Cua Viet, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: SLF BRAVO. Task organization: BLT 2/3 Marines, 1st Amph Tractor Bn. Execution: On 17 Sep the BLT landed on the northern bank of the Cua Viet and began a sweep north toward the DMZ with the 1st ARVN Div screening the left flank. On 23 Sep, about 100 NVA soldiers attacked the battalion, but it broke up the probe with the assistance of helicopter gunships. On the morning of 24 Sep, the Marines engaged another enemy force near the village of An My, 5 km east of Gio Linh. The following day the operation ended and BLT 2/3 phased into Operation KINGFISHER to the west. Results: (no info).

19 Sep. 67-31 Jan. 69
Operation: BOLLING/DAN HOA
Location: Tuy Hoa, Phu Hiep, Binh Tinh, Ma Hoa, AO BLACK, Song Ky Lo, Song Da Rang, Suoi Cai, Phu Yen and Phu Bon Provinces. Type: search and destroy, reconnaissance-in-force, pacification, rice protection. Controlling headquarters: 173d Abn Bde (19 Sep 67-8 Feb 68, 1 Apr 68-31 Jan 69); I FFORCEV (8 Feb-1 Apr 68); 22nd ARVN Div. Task organization: 1-503 Inf (19 Sep-6 Nov 67), 2-503 Inf (12 Oct-6 Nov 67), 3-503 Inf (5 Nov 67-16 Jan 68), 4-503 Inf (19 Sep-1 Nov 67, 16 Dec 67-31 Jan 69), TF 2-8 Cav (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), 3-319 Art, C/2-19 Art (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 47th ARVN Rgt. Intelligence: 5th PAVN Div (18B and 95th PAVN Rgts), 30th and 95th PLAF LF Bns, K65 and K76 Sapper Cos. Execution: During the period 14-19 Sep, the bulk of the brigade (minus 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art) was relocated by air from Dak To to Tuy Hoa to commence long-term Operation BOLLING in cooperation with the 47th ARVN Rgt. The 2-8 Cav was opconed to the brigade until 14 Oct to compensate for 2-503 Inf remaining at Dak To, and was air-assaulted into the BOLLING AO on 19 Sep. The operation was designed to provide security for the local rice harvest. Daily contact was maintained with enemy forces in September and October but seldom larger than squad size. During October, the brigade relocated its rear base camp facility from Bien Hoa to An Khe, moving by sea via Saigon and Qui Nhon. On 12 Oct, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 returned from the Highlands, relieving TF 2-8 Cav and on 22 Oct, the new 3-503 Inf arrived in-country from Fort Bragg, undergoing jungle training in An Khe prior to deployment to the BOLLING AO. On 1 Nov, 4-503 Inf was alerted for immediate departure for Dak To, followed five days later by the brigade minus (headquarters, 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 3-319 Art). On 5 Nov, 3-503 Inf arrived at Tuy Hoa from An Khe and assumed responsibility for Operation BOLLING. Contact continued to be light in November; on 16 Dec, the brigade headquarters, 4-503 Inf and C and D/3-319 Art were redeployed from Operation MACARTHUR, closing into the BOLLING AO that same day. On 27 Dec, 3-503 Inf conducted a series of combat assaults into the Song Ky Lo Valley 15 km northwest of Dong Tre and engaged two enemy companies. Elements of 4-503 Inf reinforced the battle area until contact was lost on 29 Dec. Results were 62 enemy killed, 12 US KIA and 34 US WIA. Contact was infrequent in January and a battalion task force built around 3-503 Inf moved to An Khe on 16 Jan 68 to assume responsibility of the Operation DAZZLEM AO63 from the departing 1st Cav Div. On 30 Jan, the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt attacked several targets in the Tuy Hoa area as part of the enemy's Tet Offensive, including a FSB held by C/6-32 Art, the Binh Tin hamlet, Tuy Hoa North AF and the provincial prison. D/4-503 Inf and two companies from the 2nd Bn, 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked toward the airfield and by 0730 on 31 Jan, the enemy force was surrounded and destroyed in Binh Tin hamlet. On 5-6 Feb, two battalions of the 47th ARVN Rgt and RF elements reduced an enemy strong point in the center of Tuy Hoa. During the fighting in and around Tuy Hoa, 316 enemy had been killed and 104 captured. During February, 4-503 Inf in conjunction with Strike Force elements from Cung Son and Dong Tre CIDG Camps, and Task Force MITCHELL (E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm) conducted search and destroy operations west of Tuy Hoa and helped mop up the aftermath of the Tet Offensive. It also provided security for the 577th Eng C Bn and 173d Eng Co working on Routes 7B and 436. On 8 Feb, the 173d Abn Bde (-) departed Tuy Hoa to assumed Opcon of TF POWERHOUSE (1-503 and 2-503 Inf) in Kontum Province in the MACARTHUR AO. Operation BOLLING passed under control of I FFORCEV which assumed opcon of TF 4-503 build around 4-503 Inf, Btys C and D, 3-319 Art and D/16 Arm. A major contact developed on 4 Mar when the 47th ARVN Rgt contacted the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt and 85th PLAF Bn in three hamlets along the coast just north of Tuy Hoa. D/16 Arm and elements of the 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked while the 47th ARVN Rgt provided blocking positions. D/16 was credited with 137 NVA killed during the action while suffering 10 KIA and 21 WIA. Contact during the rest of March was sporadic in the BOLLING AO. On 1 Apr, the brigade returned from the Highlands, relieving the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div at Bong Son64 and assumed control over TF 4-503 again. Contact was light during the month of April except on the 5th when D/16 Arm again supported the 47th ARVN Rgt in heavy contact with two enemy battalions at Ma Hoa village in Tuy Hoa Valley just off Route 7B north of the Song Da Rang. In May, 4-503 Inf conducted extensive bushmaster operations, on 2 May, Co B killed 8 enemy soldiers in the Suoi Cai Valley 18 km west of Tuy Hoa. In June, the enemy continued to avoid decisive contact with Allied force, relying on harassing tactics instead. During the period 16-27 Jul, 4-503 Inf conducted search and clear operations in AO BLACK located 25 km southwest of Cung Son on the Phu Bon and Darlac provincial boundary but there was no significant contact. On 30 July, 4-503 Inf joined the 3/47 ARVN Bn and elements of the 26th ROK Rgt to conduct a combined operation in the Song Ky Lo Valley but contact was again limited. Prisoners confirmed that the bulk of the 18B and 95th PAVN Rgts had departed Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa Province to refit in Cambodia. Contact remained light for the rest of Operation BOLLING, limited to engagements with squad-size enemy forces and booby traps incidents. On 1 Feb 69 the BOLLING/DAN HOA AO became a permanent TAOR called LY DO/WAINWRIGHT. Results: 715 enemy killed, 72 US KIA, 307 US WIA (no info on ARVN casualties).

New Operations

22-28 Sep.
Operation: RICHMOND
Location: Dinh Quan, Route 20, Long Khanh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 11th ACR. Task organization: 3/11 ACR, 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn, 5th ARVN ACR (elts). Execution: The squadron provided security for engineer road repair efforts north of Dinh Quan along Route 20 in coordination with ARVN forces. There was no contact with enemy forces. Upon termination, the squadron returned to Blackhorse to resume Operation KITTYHAWK. Results: (no info).

22-28 Sep.
Operation: SHELBYVILLE
Location: Hoi An, Dai Loc, Liberty Bridge, Quang Nam Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Mar Div. Task organization: 2/1 Marines, 3/5 Marines, BLT 1/3 Marines, 1/11 Marines. Execution: SHELBYVILLE took place west of Hoi An, 6 km southeast of Dai Loc. BLT 1/3 conducted an airmobile assault on the objective area while 2/1 Marines occupied blocking positions to the east and 3/5 Marines blocked to the south. No major contact developed however but there were numerous cases of booby traps incidents. Results: 50 enemy killed, 1 captured, 59 detained, 10 US KIA, 69 US WIA.

22-29 Sep.
Operation: DO KAE BI 3
Location: Canh Phuoc, Phu Yen Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: WHRID. Task organization: 28th ROK Rgt (-). Execution: operation took place 8 km south of Van Canh. Results: 103 enemy killed (no info on friendly casualties)

Other

22 Sep.
Task Force OREGON is officially redesignated AMERICAL Division

[Jason Petho]

Ongoing Operations today in 1967

26 Aug.66-20 Jan.68
Operation: BYRD
Location: Phan Thiet, LZ BETTY, Binh Thuan Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: I FFORCEV. Task organization: TF 2-7: 2-7 Cav, C/1-9 Cav, A/1-21 Art, C/2-20 Art (-), C/8th Eng Bn (-), C/229th Avn Bn, Det 228th Avn Bn. Execution: Planned as a short-term, economy-of-force measure, BYRD became a continuous offensive that would last into 1968. Upon I FFORCEV request, the 1st Cav Div detached at battalion-size task force to help pacify isolated Binh Thuan Province in southern II Corps. Results (at year's end): 351 enemy killed, 151 detained, 8 US KIA, 85 US WIA.

1 Oct.66-17 Jan 68
Operation: DAZZLEM
Location: Camp Radcliff, An Khe, Binh Dinh Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization: Base Defense Task Force. Execution: Operation DAZZLEM was the contingency plan for the defense of Camp Radcliff provided by one infantry battalion with supporting artillery and
reinforcing personnel from residence units. On 17 Jan 68, the 173d Abn Bde relieved the 1st Cav Div from the mission of defending An Khe. Results: 80 enemy killed, 9 detained.

11 Oct.66-17 Nov.67
Operation: UNIONTOWN II
Location: Long Binh, Bien Hoa Province Type: security. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV. Execution: Operation UNIONTOWN was a security operation designed to protect the Long Binh logistical complex, RMK Rock Quarry and II FFORCEV Headquarters. Units were assigned on a rotation basis from each major command under II FFORCEV.

30 Nov. 66-15 Dec.67
Operation: FAIRFAX/RANG DONG
Location: Nha Be, Thu Duc and Binh Chanh Districts, Gia Dinh Province. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV, CMD. Task organization: 1st Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 2-16 Inf; 4th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3-22 Inf; 25th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 4-9 Inf; CMD (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3rd and 5th ARVN Abn Bns, 30th Ranger Bn; 199th LIB (31 Jan-15 Dec.): 2-3 Inf, 3-7 Inf, 4-12 Inf, 2-40 Art; 5th ARVN Ranger Group (31 Jan.-15 Dec): 30th, 33rd and 38th ARVN Ranger Bns. Intelligence: Military Region 4, 165A PLAF Regiment. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE... Results (end of 1966): 149 enemy killed, 40 detained, 11 US KIA, 67 US WIA, 23 ARVN KIA, 58 ARVN WIA, 1 ARVN MIA.

1 Feb.-23 Sep.
Operation: LAM SON 142/AB/P3
Location: Quang Tri and Thua Thien Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st ARVN Div. Results: 435 enemy killed, 33 detained, 172 ARVN KIA, 420 ARVN WIA, 31 ARVN MIA.

8 Feb.67-31 Jan.68
Operation: LAM SON 67
Location: Phu Loi, An My, Ong Dong Jungle, Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, security, jungle clearing. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 1st Inf Div (8 Feb-17 Mar, 17 Apr 67-31 Jan 68); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (17 Mar-17 Apr). Task organization: 1st Inf Div Revolutionary Development Task Force (various infantry, cavalry and support units were assigned on a rotation basis during the period). Execution: The operation supported the GVN's Revolutionary Development Program in conjunction with ARVN units in Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. LAM SON 67 consisted of cordon and search, reconnaissance in force, harassment, jungle clearing, population control, civic action and psychological warfare operations directed against priority targets. Contact in the AO was characterized by light sporadic incidents with local VC elements. On 6 Jan 68, the Phu Loi base camp received 123 rounds of mixed mortar fire, 46 aircraft were damaged and 6 US WIA. Reacting to the attack, A/2-18 Inf and B/2-2 Inf (M) swept the area to the north of the base and contacted two enemy companies of the Phu Loi PLAF Bn. 92 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 14 US WIA. Operation LAM SON 67 was terminated on 31 Jan 68 with the beginning of the enemy's Tet Offensive. Results: 527 enemy killed, 263 captured, 2,327 detained, 346 defectors, 56 US KIA, 572 US WIA.

12 Feb. 67-18 Jan. 68
Operation: PERSHING
Location: Bong Son, Tuy An, Tam Quan, Hoa Tan, Sa Huynh, Truong Son, An Qui, Trung Xuan, An Lac, An Lao Valley, Kim Son Valley, Suoi Ca Valley, 506 Valley, Nuoc Dinh Valley, Phu My Valley, Song Re Valley, the Crescent, Nui Mieu, Nui Sang, Cay Giep, Dam Tra-O Lake, Route 1, LZ BRONCO BEACH, LZ CRYSTAL, LZ ENGLISH, LZ GARNET, LZ GERONIMO, LZ GLENN, LZ HAMMOND, LZ IRON, LZ MEADE, LZ PAT, LZ SANDRA, LZ STEEL, LZ TOM, LZ TWO BITS, LZ UPLIFT, Binh Dinh and Quang Ngai Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization (As of 12 Feb): 1 s t Bde: 1-8 Cav, 1-12 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-19 Art (-), D/2-17 Art, C/1-21 Art, A/3-18 Art; 2d Bde: 2-5 Cav, 1-5 Cav (-), 1-7 Cav (-), 2-12 Cav, 1-77 Art (-), B/1-8 Art, A/1-21 Art, C/1-30 Art, B/8th Eng; 3d Bde: 2-8 Cav, C/1-5 Cav, 1-21 Art (-), 2-17 Art (-), C/6-16 Art, C/2-19 Art, C/8th Eng; 3d Bde, 25 t h Inf Div (12 Feb-19 Apr): 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf (4-19 Apr), 2-9 Art, A/1-77 Art, 5-16 Art, C/3-4 Cav, D/65th Eng; Div Arty: 2-20 Art (-), 7-13 Art (-), B/29 Art, E/82 Art, 3-18 Art (-); Div Troops: 1-9 Cav, 8th Eng Bn (-). Intelligence: 3rd PAVN Div: 18th and 22nd PAVN Rgts, 2nd PLAF Rgt. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE ... Results: 5,
388 enemy killed, 2,356 captured, 10,609 detained, 221 returnees, 852 US KIA, 4,119 US WIA, 22 US MIA.

13 Feb. 67-10 Mar. 68
Operation: ENTERPRISE
Location: Tan An, Rach Kien, Ben Luc, Binh Phuoc, Tan Tru, Doi Ma Creek, Plain of Reeds9, Base Area 371, Route 14, Long An Province. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, eagle flights. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 3-39 Inf, 2-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-4 Art, C/15th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PLAF MF Bn, 506th PLAF LF Bn. Execution: ENTERPRISE was the continuation of the pacification effort of Long An Province initiated the previous year by the 25th Inf Div with Operation LANIKAI. On 13 Feb, 3-39 Inf relieved 2-14 Inf at Rach Kien. Strength of division elements in the province were subsequently increased to brigade size with movement of 2-60 Inf into Tan Tru, 5-60 Inf into Binh Phuoc and Headquarters, 3d Bde into Tan An. The first major engagement occurred on 9 Apr when 3-39 Inf made contact with the 506th PLAF Bn on the bank of Doi Ma Creek. Additional companies were brought in, killing 247 of the enemy. On 2 May, the 506th Bn exacted vengeance on the 3-39 Inf, attacking one of its companies in night defensive position near Route 4. 17 US were KIA and 48 WIA but no enemy bodies were found. The operation was temporarily extended north to the Plain of Reeds area on 8-14 May with sub-operation NIRVANA II directed against the enemy's Base Area 371. Elements of the 3d Bde joined forces with the 4/50 ARVN Bn of the 25th ARVN Div but found nothing, killing only 14 of the enemy. On 14 May, the 2nd PLAF Bn struck the compound of the 2/50 ARVN Bn in Rach Kien, killing 31 South Vietnamese soldiers and wounding 34. 3d Bde units were committed but couldn't regain contact with the attacking force. After that, contact with the enemy dropped sharply for the remainder of 1967, indicating an apparent enemy desire to avoid friendly forces. On 31 Jan 68, the brigade responded to the Tet Offensive, 5-60 Inf engaged in heavy fighting southwest of Saigon in Gia Dinh Province, killing 128 enemy soldiers. From 1-5 Feb, 3-39 Inf and 2-60 Inf were sent to Kien Hoa Province to help recapture Ben Tre, the provincial capital. On 10 Feb, the brigade HQ at Tan An came under attack from an unknown size enemy force. 33 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 53 US WIA. During March, brigade elements conducted "Aquabush" operations along the numerous canals south of Saigon in conjunction with the 199th Inf Bde (Lt). Pacification activities decreased sharply during the Tet Offensive and the operation was terminated on 10 March. Results: 2,107 enemy killed, 74 US KIA, 380 US WIA.

14 Feb.67-21 Mar.68
Operation: KITTYHAWK
Location: Long Binh, Xuan Loc, Long Giao, Gia Ray, Suoi Cat, Blackhorse, Route 1, Route 2, Long Khanh and Bien Hoa Province. Type: reconnaissance-in-force, cordon and search, security, road clearing. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div (14 Feb 67-15 Feb 68); 11th ACR (15 Feb-21 Mar 68). Task organization: 3-5 Cav, 1/11 ACR, 2/11 ACR, 3/11 ACR. Intelligence: 275th PLAF Rgt. Execution: The purpose of KITTYHAWK was to secure LOCs and selected installations within Long Khanh Province, conduct reconnaissance-in-force operations and cordon and search of selected hamlets within the AO, secure Blackhorse base camp and the Gia Ray rock quarry and provide ready reaction forces along Route 1. On 21 May, K Troop, 3/11 ACR was ambushed by an estimated reinforced enemy battalion near Suoi Cat on Route 1. 30 enemy are killed, 12 US KIA and 13 US WIA. On 27 Jun 1/11 ACR moved to reinforce the 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn which was in heavy contact with elements of the 3rd Bn, 275th PLAF Rgt, killing 49 of the enemy11. On 30 Dec two enemy companies ambushed Troop C, 3-5 Cav on Route 2. Friendly losses are 10 KIA, 29 WIA and 3 MIA. On 31 Jan 68, in reaction to the VC Tet Offensive, the 3-5 Cav was alerted to respond to enemy activity in the Long Binh-Bien Hoa area. A/3-5 Cav bypassed several roadblocks, breaking through enemy forces and reached the Bien Hoa airfield, sweeping nearby wood lines and killing 40. During the period 2-3 Feb, C/3-5 Cav was sent to defend Xuan Loc against an intense ground attack, killing nearly 50 enemy soldiers. On 15 Feb the KITTYHAWK mission was assumed by the 11th ACR as the 3-5 Cav (-) was directed by HQ USARV to deploy to Da Nang, I CTZ. On 21 Mar, the operation was phased into Operation ALCORN COVE. Results: 201 enemy killed, 7 captured, 1 returnee, 62 US KIA, 224 US WIA.

5 Apr.-11 Oct.
Operation: FRANCIS MARION
Location: Plei Me, Duc Co, Plei Djereng, Plei Mrong, Plei Do Lim, Buon Blech, Se San, Ia Drang, Ia Tchar, Dak Ayun, Dak Payou, Chu Pong, Chu Prong, Chu Goungot, Chu Groh, Route 14, Route 14B, Route 19E, Route 509, Hill 521, LZ OASIS, LZ JACKSON HOLE, Pleiku and Darlac Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: (effective 7 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, B/4-42 Art, C/3-4 Cav (-), A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (-), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, Plt B/1-69 Arm, 4-42 Art (-), B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), Plt C/2-8 Inf (-), Cav Plt 1-10 Cav, B/3-6 Art, A/5-16 Art; TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 26 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), C/4-42 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h In f Div: 2-8 Inf, 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), A/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), A/3-6 Art; TF 3-8 Inf: 3-8 Inf, C/6-29 Art, A/5-16 Art; Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 30 May): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (M), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art, B/4th Eng (-); 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, D/16 Arm, E/17 Cav, 173d Eng Co; TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 5-16 Art (-); Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 24 Sep): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 2-8 Inf (M), 3-8 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), A/4-42 Art,, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div: 1-12 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), B/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: 2-1 Cav, D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Intelligence: B3 Front, 1st NVA Div (32nd, 66th and 88th Rgts), 10th NVA Div (95B and 101C Rgts), 200th NVA Art Bn, 407th PLAF MF Sapper Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn.. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE.... Results: 1,204 enemy killed, 122 detained, 11 returnees, 198 US KIA, 982 US WIA, 8 US MIA.

22 Apr.67-2 Jan 68.
Operation: BAKER
Location: Duc Pho, Mo Duc, Vinh Hien, Tan Phong, Dien Truong, An Ba, An Tach, Song Tra Cau, Song Ve, LZ MONTEZUMA (later renamed LZ BRONCO), LZ GUADALCANAL, LZ OLIVE DRAB, LZ LIZ, LZ DRAGON, RAZORBACK Beach, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde TF, 25th Inf Div (redesignated 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div on 1 Aug). Task organization: 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf, 2-9 Art, C/3-4 Cav, B/1-9 Cav, C/2-34 Arm. Intelligence: 1st PLAF Rgt, 2nd PLAF Rgt, 22nd PAVN Rgt. Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: (no info).

14 May.-7 Dec.
Operation: KOLE KOLE
Location: Duc Hoa, Bao Trai, Hiep Hoa, Loc Giang, Trang Bang, Song Vam Co Dong, Rach Tra, Xinh An Ha, Route 10, Hau Nghia and Tay Ninh Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 1-5 Inf (M), 1-27 Inf, 2-27 Inf, 1-8 Art. Intelligence: 2nd Go Mon and 269th PLAF LF Bns. Execution: Operation KOLE KOLE was initiated by the 2d Bde in Hau Nghia Province using EAGLE FLIGHTS and airmobile operations based on current intelligence. Cordon and search, outposting and country fair operations were also conducted in conjunction with the 25th ARVN Div, CIDG and RF/PF. On 17 May, elements of 1/27 Inf and 2/27 Inf fought an eight-hour engagement west of the Vam Co Dong with a VC company. Results were 27 enemy killed, 2 US KIA and 9 US WIA. There was intermittent contact during June and July, particularly along the An Ha canal and near Loc Giang. The brigade also secured engineer operations along Route 10 to improve the GVN's authority and control west of Trang Bang. In early August, the reconnaissance platoon of 1/27 Inf with helicopter support intercepted VC recon elements from Long An Province, killing 26. During September, KOLE KOLE shifted to northern Hau Nghai and southwestern Tay Ninh Province. 1-5 Inf (M) conducted extensive dismounted ambush patrols around Loc Giang along the Vam Co while 2-27 Inf engaged scattered elements of the 269th PLAF Bn. On 21 Oct, an EAGLE FLIGHT from 1-27 Inf engaged an estimated enemy platoon south of Tay Ninh, killing 18. On 31 Oct, 2-27 Inf made contact with elements of the 2nd Go Mon Bn north of the Rach Tra, killing 28 and capturing 2. Enemy activity decreased for the rest of KOLE KOLE and the brigade concentrated on pacification and land clearing operations. Results: 797 enemy killed, 150 detained, 34 returnees, 144 US KIA, 876 US WIA

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: BARKING SANDS
Location: Cu Chi, Trang Bang, Phu Hoa, Iron Triangle, Ho Bo Woods, Song Saigon, Hau Nghia and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: The 1st Bde employed counter guerrilla warfaretechniques including saturation patrolling, checkmate, bushmaster and cordon and search operations to pacify Cu Chi and Trang Bang Districts in Hau Nghia Province and Phu Hoa District in Binh Duong Province. Buddy operations were also conducted with local PF platoons and RF companies. On 30 Aug, 4-9 Inf conducted an airmobile assault against an entrenched VC battalion in the Iron Triangle resulting in 4 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 43 US WIA. During September, primary emphasis was placed on denying VC access to populated areas during the National Elections. Land clearing operations were also initiated along the Song Saigon to eliminate VC concealment. In October, 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods were cleared by Rome Plows following Operation KUNIA. Contact during BARKING SANDS was limited to squad and platoon size elements and no major engagement occurred. Four sub-operations were conducted in the BARKING SANDS AO during the period: KAWELA, AKUMU,WAIMEA and KUNIA (see individual operations below). Results (inclusive of the four sub-operations): 370 enemy killed, 85 detained, 10 returnees, 110 US KIA, 1114 US WIA.

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: DIAMOND HEAD
Location: Tay Ninh West, Dau Tieng, Suoi Da, Prek Klok, Ben Cui, Michelin Plantation, Boi Loi Woods, The Crescent, The Trapezoid, Tay Ninh and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div33. Task organization: 2-12 Inf, 2-22 Inf (M), 3-22 Inf, 2-77 Art, 2-34 Arm (-) (from 22 Sep), C/1-10 Cav, C/4th Eng. Execution: The mission was to conduct search and destroy operations in Tay Ninh Province, cordon and search operations in the Michelin Plantation, and security and reinforcement missions in the Tay Ninh and Prek Klok areas. With one battalion detached to Operation UNIONTOWN and another providing security for the Dau Tieng and Tay Ninh West base camps, contact in the AO were very limited during the months of May, June and July. On 1 Aug, the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div was redesignated the 3d Bde, 25th Inf Div. No movement of troops or units were involved in this redesignation. On 15 Aug, an airmobile cordon and search of Thanh An was conducted by 3-22 Inf in conjunction with VN National Police. 6 enemy were killed and 42 detained. In September, the brigade provided security during the National elections. In October, continued battalion size search and destroy operations were conducted in the Michelin Plantation to prevent its use as an enemy haven, in and south of Ben Cui, and in the northern portion of the Trapezoid, which extends 15 km to the southeast of Dau Tieng. Bushmaster operations were conducted in an area known as the Crescent, 8 km northwest of Dau Tieng. All operations were marked by extremely light contact. In November, operations were conducted in the upper Boi Loi Woods and in the Ben Cui Plantation, again with light contact. During this period operations were curtailed due to two battalions being opcon to the other brigades. On 25-25 Now, 2-22 Inf (M) made contact with a VC company near the Mushroom bend on the Saigon River, killing 20. This was the last contact during DIAMOND HEAD before the operation came to an end on 7 Dec. Results: 237 enemy killed, 496 detained, 4 returnees. (US losses unknown).

1 Jun.67-7 Feb.68
Operation: HOPTAC
Location: Dong Tam, Dinh Tuong Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: Task Force FUNSTON39. Execution: Operation HOPTAC was an internal defense and development operation in Dinh Tuong Province which included security of the Dong Tam base. Task Force FUNSTON provided land and waterborne security for engineer dredging equipment and maintained a ready reaction force to assist local GVN units and installations if needed. In most cases contact with the VC was characterized by light fire fights and sniper fire. On 1 Feb 68 the enemy fired more than 170 82 mm mortar and 75 mm RR rounds into the base resulting in minor damage and 11 US WIA. In the early morning hours of 3, 4, 5 and 7 Feb, the enemy continued to attack the base with mortar and RR fire. The heaviest attack came on 7 Feb with an estimated 200 rounds fired at the base. Elements of 5-60 Inf and 2-39 Inf conducted reaction airmobile assaults and RIF operations 8 km east of Dong tam, making contact with two VC companies, killing 23 while losing 5 KIA and 11 WIA. Results: 296 enemy killed, 11 captured, 3 returnees, 37 US KIA, 364 US WIA.

18 Jun.-12 Oct.
Operation: GREELEY
Location: Kontum, Dak To, Tan Canh, Dak Seang, Dak Pek, Toumorong, Dak Poko, Dak Akoi, Hill 830, Hill 1338, FSB 4, Kontum Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (24 Jun-25 Jul): 1-7 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-12 Cav, 1-21 Art; 1st ARVN Abn TF (24 Jun-25 Jul): 3d, 5th and 8th ARVN Abn Bns; 24th STZ: 1/42 Inf. Intelligence: 24th and 174th PAVN Rgts, K101D PAVN Bn, 304th PLAF MF Bn, 200th PLAF Art Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn . Execution: From 1-18 Jun, the 173d Abn Bde continued participation in Operation FRANCIS MARION, searching further south and east in the Ia Drang Valley. The brigade deployed the 1-503 Inf and 2-503 Inf into the AO, holding 4-503 Inf in reserve at Catecka. No significant contact was made. On 17 Jun, TF MC QUARRIE (2-503 Inf, E/17 Cav, A/3-319 Art) moved by air and motor convoy to the New Dak To Airfield, joined the following day by 1-503 Inf. The mission, named GREELEY, was to assume opcon of the CIDG Camp at Dak To under threat from the 24th PAVN Rgt and assist in its defense. On 18 Jun, 2-503 Inf began searching south of Dak To toward the huge mass of Hill 1338 (Ngok Bor Beang). C/1-503 Inf was also inserted into the area to search for a missing SF and CIDG team which had been destroyed by the NVA on 15-16 Jun, 1400 meters southwest of their camp. On 22 Jun, after a fruitless search of Hill 1338, 2-503 Inf was instructed to return to Dak To on foot. Shortly after leaving its NDP, A/2-503 bumped into an enemy battalion from the 24th PAVN Rgt42 while descending the slopes of Hill 1338. Two platoons were cut off and annihilated while the rest of the company formed a small perimeter and called supporting fires. Cos B and C were rushed to the rescue but arrived too late. 76 Americans had been killed, some executed point blank by the enemy, and 23 wounded. 106 enemy bodies were counted in the battle area. This action became known as 'The Battle of the Slopes' and as one of the costliest engagement for US forces in Vietnam. Concerned by the size of the battle and the US losses, General Larsen at I FFORCEV decided to reinforce GREELEY. On 23 Jun, 2-12 Cav arrived from the PERSHING AO while the rest of the 173d Abn Bde (CP (-) and 4-503 Inf) closed Dak To from Catecka. The next day, 24 Jun, the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (-) and 1st ARVN Abn TF arrived at Kontum. The Allied forces went after the 24th PAVN Rgt, seeking to destroy it. In the next two weeks, the 173d Abn Bde and 2-12 Cav searched west and south of Dak To while the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div and the ARVN Abn TF entered the Dak Akoi Valley northeast of Kontum and 35 km east of Dak To. The sweep found little evidence of the enemy's presence and on 25 Jul the cavalry brigade returned to the coast, while the Vietnamese task force stood down at Kontum to serve as a mobile reaction force. Southwest of Dak To on 10 Jul, 4-503 Inf, while searching for a regimental headquarters, found an occupied enemy bunker complex on Hill 830. Battle raged until 12 Jul with 22 US KIA and 62 US WIA but only 9 enemy bodies found. This was the last significant contact on the month. On 19 Jul, 2 NVA soldiers rallied at Dak Pek CIDG Camp, stating that they were 42 Later identified as the 6th Bn, 24th PAVN Rgt. from the newly infiltrated 174th PAVN Rgt. They were proved correct on 6 Aug when the 1/42 ARVN Bn made heavy contact with that unit 8 km west of the Dak Seang CIDG Camp. The ARVN Abn TF was rushed into the area and fought a bitter twoday battle to capture a hill believed to have been the location of the regimental CP, killing 189 of the enemy. On 9 Aug, 4-503 Inf moved to Dak Pek, joining the 1-503 Inf already there since 4 Aug, but the two battalions found little. Contacts were so low in August that the 173d Abn Bde was credited with only 4 enemy killed. During the period 1-18 Sep, the brigade continued GREELEY in the Dak To – Dak Seang area, supporting CIDG Operation DARBY, but contact was minimal. On 17 Sep, the brigade (-) began moving by air to Tuy Hoa to begin Operation BOLLING. Only 4-503 Inf and A/3-319 stayed at Dak To, forming Task Force 77 with the 3rd ARVN Abn Bn, 1/42 ARVN Bn and 27th MIKE Force Co for an expedition in the Toumorong Valley that lasted nearly three weeks but found nothing. On 11 Oct, TF 77 was disbanded and that same day, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art departed for Tuy Hoa, terminating Operation GREELEY. Results: 191 enemy killed, 17 captured, 129 US KIA, 210 US WIA. (no info on ARVN losses).

3 Jul.67-7 Apr.68
Operation: RILEY
Location: Bearcat, Camp Martin Cox, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div; TF FORSYTH (from 10 Feb). Task organization: 2-39 Inf, 4-39 Inf, 2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, TF FORSYTH. Execution: Operation RILEY was an internal defense and development operation in Bien Hoa Province and included defense of Camp Martin Cox. When not engaged in strike operations, Headquarters, 1st Bde assumed opcon of all elements engaged in RILEY, including TF FORSYTH (a provisional Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment located at Camp Martin Cox). In the absence of the 1st Bde, TF FORSYTH was allocated sufficient forces to secure the camp and to conduct limited consolidation operations in the area. On 31 Jan 68 in response to the VC Tet Offensive, elements of the 2-47 Inf (M) and 4-39 Inf moved to Long Binh Post for perimeter security. Working in coordination with 2-3 Inf from the 199th Inf Bde (Lt), the two battalions had multiple contacts with the enemy during the day near Ho Nai, killing 213 by bodycount and capturing 32. US losses were 4 KIA and 23 WIA. On 10 Feb 68, the 1st Bde moved to Dong Tam and TF FORSYTH assumed responsibility until termination. Results: 472 enemy killed, 41 detained, 2 returnees, 64 US KIA, 315 US WIA.

8 Jul.-30 Oct.
Operation: MARCH I
Location: Plei Trap Valley, Kontum Province. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: B-50 Det Project OMEGA. Execution: Long range reconnaissance and intelligence gathering conducted in the Plei Trap Valley. Results: (no info).

10 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: FREMONT
Location: Camp Evans, Hill 51, Hill 67, Phong Dien District, Thua Thien Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 4th Marines. Task organization: 2/4 Marines (10 Jul-14 Sep), 3/26 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct). Execution: The 4th Marines initiated Operation FREMONT with its own 2/4 to provide security for Camp Evans, Hill 51, the Phong Dien District Headquarters and a radio transmission site on Hill 67. On 20 Jul, 2/4 provided blocking forces near My Chanh for SLF BRAVO in Operation BEAR CHAIN. BLT 2/3 became opcon to 4th Marines on 22 Jul and joined FREMONT, until back loading on 21 Aug. Contact was sporadic in Aug with only 13 US KIA for the month. During Sep, 2/4 in conjunction with ARVN forces helped secure nearby villages and hamlets during the National Elections. On 14 Sep, 2/4 joined Operation KINGFISHER and was replaced by 3/26 Marines. Contacts remained low until termination, being limited to harassing tactics, mines incidents and sniper fire. Results: 123 enemy killed, 8 captured, 17 US KIA, 196 US WIA.

16 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: KINGFISHER
Location: Dong Ha, Con Thien, Gio Linh, Cua Viet, Ca Lu, Route 9, Route 561, Route 606, Hill 216, C-2, Demilitarized Zone, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d and 9th Marines. Task organization: 3/3 Marines, 2/4 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct), 3/4 Marines, 1/9 Marines, 2/9 Marines, 3/9 Marines, 3/26 Marines (15 Aug-11 Sep), 1st Amtrac Bn. Intelligence: 90th and 812th PAVN Rgts. Execution: KINGFISHER was a continuation of Marine operations south of the DMZ follwing BUFFALO and HICKORY II. Contact was light during the first week. On 21 Jul, 3/3 Marines securing a portion of Route 9 for a 'Rough Rider' convoy bound for Khe Sanh found a NVA battalion dug in on Hill 216 overlooking the road. Tanks, 40mm dusters and artillery pounded the hill and forced the enemy to withdraw. On 28 Jul, 2/9 Marines reinforced with tanks, LVTEs and Ontos was pushing into the DMZ north on Route 606 when it was attacked by an estimated NVA battalion. The column was split in company-size segments and fought desperately all day until reinforcements from 3/4 Marines forced the enemy to break contact. 23 Americans were killed and 251 wounded with only 32 NVA confirmed killed. Ground action was light in early Aug with the largest part of the activity involving artillery attacks on Gio Linh, Con Thien, Cua Viet and Dong Ha. On 21 Aug, an NVA battalion ambushed a small Marine convoy moving from the Rockpile to Ca Lu. Elements form 3/3 were brought in, fighting a six-hour engagement until night fell and the enemy fled to the west. 6 US were killed and 35 wounded, Enemy loses were unknown. The NVA tried again on 7 Sep at almost the same location. This time the battle lasted more than 8 hours. The Marines killed 92 of the enemy while losing 5 KIA and 56 WIA. The Communists tried to disrupt the National Elections on 3 Sep, firing more than 41 rounds of artillery into Dong Ha, damaging 17 helicopters. This attack ended the use of Dong Ha as a permanent helicopter base facility. Con Thien however, remained the primary artillery target for the NVA. On 25 Sep alone, 1,200 rounds slammed into the combat base. On 10 Sep, 3/26 Marines made heavy contact with what seemed to be the entire 812th PAVN Rgt 4 miles southwest of Con Thien. The action lasted for four hours until the enemy broke contact, leaving 140 dead on the battle field. Marine losses had been high also with 34 KIA and 192 WIA, forcing 3/26 to return to Phu Bai the next day to refit. On 21 Sep, 2/9 Marines started a search and destroy operation 1,800 meters east of Con Thien when it ran into heavy resistance from an element of the 90th PAVN Rgt. The battle turned into a stalemate after rain had made the area impassable and both sides withdrew. US casualties were 31 KIA and 118 WIA. Enemy killed were reported at 39. The enemy intensified its attack-by-fire against Con Thien in late Sep, hitting the base with over 3,000 rounds during the period 19-27 Sep. The Americans retaliated by massing one of the greatest concentrations of firepower in support of a single division in the history of the Vietnam War. Marine artillery, ships of the 7th Fleet, Marine and Air Force jets and B-52 bombers poured tons of ordnance into know enemy positions in and north of the DMZ. By the end of Sep, NVA pressure of the outpost had subsided. On 14 Oct, 2/4 Marines was guarding a bridge north of Strong point C-2 when it received a ground attack from an unknown size enemy force. AC-47 gunships helped repel the assault during the night. 21 Americans were killed and 23 wounded. Only 24 NVA bodies were found in the area. The last major action of KINGSIFHER took place during a 9th Marines operation on 25-28 Oct. 2/4 Marines was sweeping north of Con Thien on Route 561 when it was hit by an enemy battalion, beating back several attacks and losing 8 KIA and 45 WIA. Results: 1,117 enemy killed, 5 captured, 340 US KIA, 1,461 US WIA.

17 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: ARDMORE
Location: Khe Sanh, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destro, security. Controlling headquarters: 26th Marines (Forward). Task organization: 1/26 Marines, 3/26 Marines, 1/13 Marines. Execution: Operation ARDMORE was a continuation of Operation CROCKETT and involved the same mission and the same forces. On 21 Jul, B/1/26 and M/3/26 fought a NVA battalion dug on Hill 216 along Route 9 in conjunction with 3/3 Marines from Operation KINGFISHER. Contacts in August were minimal and 3/26 was moved to the KINGFISHER AO on 15 Aug. 1/26 Marines continued patrols and company-size search and destroy operations around Khe Sanh, but with limited contact with the enemy. Results: 113 enemy killed, 6 detained, 10 US KIA, 39 US WIA

27 Jul.-8 Nov.
Operation: SONG THAN 14
Location: Bong Son, Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF BRAVO. Task organization: 1st VNMC BN, 2nd VNMC Bn (27 Jul-4 Oct), 3rd VNMC Bn (4 Oct-6 Nov), C/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: On 27 Jul, TF BRAVO relieved TF ALPHA at Bong Son AF and continued search and destroy operations south of Bong Son in conjunction with Operation PERSHING. Results: (no info)

31 Jul.-3 Nov.
Operation: DAN QUYEN 822
Location: Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 22nd ARVN Division. Results: 141 enemy killed, 181 detained, 44 ARVN KIA, 74 ARVN WIA 3 ARVN MIA.

11 Aug.-21 Oct.
Operation: SONG THAN/701/67
Location: Tan Uyen, Bien Hoa Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF ALPHA. Task organization: 2nd VNMC Bn (10-21 Oct), 4th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-10 Oct), 5th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-15 Sep), 6th VNMC Bn (15 Sep-21 Oct), B/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: Operation conducted in the Tan Uyen area in coordination with the US 1st Inf Div. Results: (no info)

16 Aug-31 Oct.
Operation: 8-67/SAMURAI II & III
Location: A Shau Valley, Happy Valley, Thuat Thien and Quang Nam Provinces. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: Det B-52 Project DELTA,81st ARVN Abn Rgr Bn. Execution: Operation searched areas from the northern stretches of the A Shau Valley into Happy Valley, west of Da Nang. Results: (no info).

1 Sep.-17 Nov.
Operation: STRIKE I
Location: Bien Hoa, Long Binh, AO STRIKE, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 2-47 Inf (M). Execution: Operation STRIKE I was conducted to provide security for the Bien Hoa-Long Binh complex and to prevent rocket attacks. On 17 Nov, STRIKE I was combined with Operation UNIONTOWN. Results: (no info).

5 Sep.-30 Oct.
Operation: DRAGON FIRE
Location: Batangan Peninsula, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d ROKMC Bde. Task organization: 1st, 2d and 5th ROKMC Bns. Execution: The 2d ROKMC Bde conducted this operation to clear insurgent elements from the Batagan Peninsula. Results: 541 enemy killed, 17 captured, 121 detained, 45 ROKMC KIA, 200 ROKMC WIA, 3 USMC WIA.

11 Sep-25 Nov.
Operation: WHEELER
Location: Tien Phuoc, Hiep Duc, Song Tranh, Song Chang, Base Area 116, Base Area 117, UDEN AO, Quang Tin Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 101st Abn Div. Task organization: 1-327 Inf, 2-327 Inf, 2-502 Inf, 1-14 Inf (11-24 Sep), 1-35 Inf (4 Oct-4 Nov), 2-320 Art, A/2-9 Art (4 Oct-4 Nov), B/2-9 Art (11-24 Sep), C/3-16 Art, B/1-9 Cav (2-4 Oct), A/2-17 Cav (17-25 Nov), A/326th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PAVN Div (1st PLAF Rgt, 3rd and 21st PAVN Rgts). Execution: ... SEE PREVIOUS DAY FOR INFORMATION... Results were 9 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 18 US WIA. With the 2nd PAVN Div elements avoiding contact during the period 28 Oct-4 Nov, increased emphasis was placed on attempting to locate the division. On 5 Nov, 1-35 Inf was released from operational control of the brigade and placed under opcon of the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div conducting Operation WALLOWA in the Que Son Basin. The last phase of WHEELER (6-25 Nov) saw 2-327 Inf being air-assaulted into the western portion of BA 116 while 1-327 Inf and 2-502 Inf established blocking positions. On 11 Nov, C/2-327 Inf engaged an NVA company in the Song Chang Valley 4 km east of Hiep Duc. 14 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 5 US WIA. This marked the last significant contact of WHEELER, after that, the badly hurt 2nd PAVN Div avoided any further contact. From 23-25 Nov, brigade elements were relieved in place by elements of the 196th Inf Bde (Lt)61 and displaced to Tam Ky Airfield to move by air to the brigade main base camp at Phan Rang for a four-day stand down and preparation for future operations. Results: 1,105 enemy killed, 50 captured, 445 detained, 11 returnees, 124 US KIA, 465 US WIA.

12 Sep-10 Oct.
Operation: CORONADO V
Location: Dong Tam, Cai Lay, Cam Son Secret Zone, Ban Long Base Area, Loi Quan Island, Song My Tho, Rach Ba Rai, Rach Ben Tre, Route 20, Ding Tuong and Kien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div (MRF); 7th ARVN Div. Task organization: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div: 3-47 Inf (12-17 Sep), 4-47 Inf (17 Sep-10 Oct), 3-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-60 Inf (-)(15-17 Sep), 3-34 Art, D/15th Eng, USN TF 117; 7th ARVN Div: 10th ARVN Rgt, 41st ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 263rd and 506th PLAF Bns. Execution: On 11 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Vung Tau to Dong Tam again and began Operation CORONADO V aimed at the 263rd PLAF Bn which had returned to the Cam Son Secret Zone. On 12 Sep, 3-47 Inf swept north from landing sites on the My Tho but turned up almost nothing. The next day, 3-60 Inf and 5-60 Inf (M) with help from the 7th ARVN Div62 began a sweep of the Ban Long area to the east and made contact with what appeared to be a VC covering force near the site of the VNMC heavy contact in July. The enemy withdrew under cover of darkness, leaving 63 bodies behind. As US and ARVN forces left the Ban Long on 14 Sep, the 7th ARVN Div reported that a large force, presumably the 263rd PLAF Bn, remained in the Cam Son, only a few kilometers north from areas previously swept. On 15 Sep, as 5-60 Inf (M) moved overland via Route 20, 3-60 Inf and 3-47 Inf sailed via the Song My Tho up the Rach Ba Rai between the My Tho and the town of Cai Lay. While 3-47 Inf landed unopposed over WHITE Beach, 3-60 Inf ran into two companies of the 263rd lined up in ambush positions along the east bank of the Ba Rai. Some of the boats managed to run the gauntlet but were forced to turn back as most of the column failed to follow. Two companies from 2-60 Inf were helicoptered from Long An Province to encircle the enemy. The battle lasted until nightfall but when the Americans entered the deserted ambush site the next day they found only 24 enemy killed. On 17 Sep the MRF returned to Dong Tam where 4-47 Inf rotated aboard the ships of the MRF replacing 3-47 Inf. On 20 Sep, the MRF displaced to Kien Hoa Province and began widely separated operations in Ham Long, Giong Trom and Huong My Districts, looking for the 516th PLAF Bn but no major contact took place. On 27 Sep, ATCs performing mine sweeping duties along the Rach Ben Tre received heavy RPG, recoilless and automatic weapons fire. 3 sailors were killed and 6 wounded. On 28 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Dong Tam to the northern end of Loi Quan Island between the Cua Dai and Cua Tieu to reduce logistic distances. Operations in Kien Hoa were in close cooperation with the 10th ARVN Rgt and a composite RF battalions but only sporadic contact was made. On 5-7 Oct the MRF returned to the Ban Long but had only limited contact with elements of the 263rd PLAF Bn and on 10 Sep it displaced to Vung Tau to prepare for CORONADO VI. Results: 330 enemy killed, 235 detained, 2 returnees, 35 US KIA, 175 US WIA.

15-23 Sep.
Operation: ARKANSAS CITY I
Location: Duc Thanh, Xa Bang, Rouye 2, Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone), Phuoc Tuy and Long Khanh Provinces. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-39 Inf, 2-47 Inf (M), 3/11 ACR, 1-11 Art. Intelligence: 274th PLAF Rgt. Execution: The brigade conducted this operation in the Hat Dich Secret Zone with the 3/11 ACR providing blocking Positions along Route 2 to the east. Contact was minimal but several base camps were discovered and destroyed. Results: 14 enemy killed, 1 captured, no friendly casualties.

16 Sep.-29 Oct.
Operation: KUNIA
Location: Ho Bo Woods, Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 3-22 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: Operation KUNIA was conducted as part of BARKING SANDS with the 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div initiating search and destroy operations in the Ho Bo Woods in preparation for the arrival of a land clearing team of thirty Rome Plows. By the end of October 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods had been cleared. Results: (included in BARKING SANDS).

17-25 Sep.
Operation: FORTRESS SENTRY
Location: An My, Cua Viet, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: SLF BRAVO. Task organization: BLT 2/3 Marines, 1st Amph Tractor Bn. Execution: On 17 Sep the BLT landed on the northern bank of the Cua Viet and began a sweep north toward the DMZ with the 1st ARVN Div screening the left flank. On 23 Sep, about 100 NVA soldiers attacked the battalion, but it broke up the probe with the assistance of helicopter gunships. On the morning of 24 Sep, the Marines engaged another enemy force near the village of An My, 5 km east of Gio Linh. The following day the operation ended and BLT 2/3 phased into Operation KINGFISHER to the west. Results: (no info).

19 Sep. 67-31 Jan. 69
Operation: BOLLING/DAN HOA
Location: Tuy Hoa, Phu Hiep, Binh Tinh, Ma Hoa, AO BLACK, Song Ky Lo, Song Da Rang, Suoi Cai, Phu Yen and Phu Bon Provinces. Type: search and destroy, reconnaissance-in-force, pacification, rice protection. Controlling headquarters: 173d Abn Bde (19 Sep 67-8 Feb 68, 1 Apr 68-31 Jan 69); I FFORCEV (8 Feb-1 Apr 68); 22nd ARVN Div. Task organization: 1-503 Inf (19 Sep-6 Nov 67), 2-503 Inf (12 Oct-6 Nov 67), 3-503 Inf (5 Nov 67-16 Jan 68), 4-503 Inf (19 Sep-1 Nov 67, 16 Dec 67-31 Jan 69), TF 2-8 Cav (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), 3-319 Art, C/2-19 Art (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 47th ARVN Rgt. Intelligence: 5th PAVN Div (18B and 95th PAVN Rgts), 30th and 95th PLAF LF Bns, K65 and K76 Sapper Cos. Execution: During the period 14-19 Sep, the bulk of the brigade (minus 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art) was relocated by air from Dak To to Tuy Hoa to commence long-term Operation BOLLING in cooperation with the 47th ARVN Rgt. The 2-8 Cav was opconed to the brigade until 14 Oct to compensate for 2-503 Inf remaining at Dak To, and was air-assaulted into the BOLLING AO on 19 Sep. The operation was designed to provide security for the local rice harvest. Daily contact was maintained with enemy forces in September and October but seldom larger than squad size. During October, the brigade relocated its rear base camp facility from Bien Hoa to An Khe, moving by sea via Saigon and Qui Nhon. On 12 Oct, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 returned from the Highlands, relieving TF 2-8 Cav and on 22 Oct, the new 3-503 Inf arrived in-country from Fort Bragg, undergoing jungle training in An Khe prior to deployment to the BOLLING AO. On 1 Nov, 4-503 Inf was alerted for immediate departure for Dak To, followed five days later by the brigade minus (headquarters, 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 3-319 Art). On 5 Nov, 3-503 Inf arrived at Tuy Hoa from An Khe and assumed responsibility for Operation BOLLING. Contact continued to be light in November; on 16 Dec, the brigade headquarters, 4-503 Inf and C and D/3-319 Art were redeployed from Operation MACARTHUR, closing into the BOLLING AO that same day. On 27 Dec, 3-503 Inf conducted a series of combat assaults into the Song Ky Lo Valley 15 km northwest of Dong Tre and engaged two enemy companies. Elements of 4-503 Inf reinforced the battle area until contact was lost on 29 Dec. Results were 62 enemy killed, 12 US KIA and 34 US WIA. Contact was infrequent in January and a battalion task force built around 3-503 Inf moved to An Khe on 16 Jan 68 to assume responsibility of the Operation DAZZLEM AO63 from the departing 1st Cav Div. On 30 Jan, the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt attacked several targets in the Tuy Hoa area as part of the enemy's Tet Offensive, including a FSB held by C/6-32 Art, the Binh Tin hamlet, Tuy Hoa North AF and the provincial prison. D/4-503 Inf and two companies from the 2nd Bn, 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked toward the airfield and by 0730 on 31 Jan, the enemy force was surrounded and destroyed in Binh Tin hamlet. On 5-6 Feb, two battalions of the 47th ARVN Rgt and RF elements reduced an enemy strong point in the center of Tuy Hoa. During the fighting in and around Tuy Hoa, 316 enemy had been killed and 104 captured. During February, 4-503 Inf in conjunction with Strike Force elements from Cung Son and Dong Tre CIDG Camps, and Task Force MITCHELL (E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm) conducted search and destroy operations west of Tuy Hoa and helped mop up the aftermath of the Tet Offensive. It also provided security for the 577th Eng C Bn and 173d Eng Co working on Routes 7B and 436. On 8 Feb, the 173d Abn Bde (-) departed Tuy Hoa to assumed Opcon of TF POWERHOUSE (1-503 and 2-503 Inf) in Kontum Province in the MACARTHUR AO. Operation BOLLING passed under control of I FFORCEV which assumed opcon of TF 4-503 build around 4-503 Inf, Btys C and D, 3-319 Art and D/16 Arm. A major contact developed on 4 Mar when the 47th ARVN Rgt contacted the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt and 85th PLAF Bn in three hamlets along the coast just north of Tuy Hoa. D/16 Arm and elements of the 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked while the 47th ARVN Rgt provided blocking positions. D/16 was credited with 137 NVA killed during the action while suffering 10 KIA and 21 WIA. Contact during the rest of March was sporadic in the BOLLING AO. On 1 Apr, the brigade returned from the Highlands, relieving the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div at Bong Son64 and assumed control over TF 4-503 again. Contact was light during the month of April except on the 5th when D/16 Arm again supported the 47th ARVN Rgt in heavy contact with two enemy battalions at Ma Hoa village in Tuy Hoa Valley just off Route 7B north of the Song Da Rang. In May, 4-503 Inf conducted extensive bushmaster operations, on 2 May, Co B killed 8 enemy soldiers in the Suoi Cai Valley 18 km west of Tuy Hoa. In June, the enemy continued to avoid decisive contact with Allied force, relying on harassing tactics instead. During the period 16-27 Jul, 4-503 Inf conducted search and clear operations in AO BLACK located 25 km southwest of Cung Son on the Phu Bon and Darlac provincial boundary but there was no significant contact. On 30 July, 4-503 Inf joined the 3/47 ARVN Bn and elements of the 26th ROK Rgt to conduct a combined operation in the Song Ky Lo Valley but contact was again limited. Prisoners confirmed that the bulk of the 18B and 95th PAVN Rgts had departed Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa Province to refit in Cambodia. Contact remained light for the rest of Operation BOLLING, limited to engagements with squad-size enemy forces and booby traps incidents. On 1 Feb 69 the BOLLING/DAN HOA AO became a permanent TAOR called LY DO/WAINWRIGHT. Results: 715 enemy killed, 72 US KIA, 307 US WIA (no info on ARVN casualties).

22-28 Sep.
Operation: RICHMOND
Location: Dinh Quan, Route 20, Long Khanh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 11th ACR. Task organization: 3/11 ACR, 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn, 5th ARVN ACR (elts). Execution: The squadron provided security for engineer road repair efforts north of Dinh Quan along Route 20 in coordination with ARVN forces. There was no contact with enemy forces. Upon termination, the squadron returned to Blackhorse to resume Operation KITTYHAWK. Results: (no info).

22-28 Sep.
Operation: SHELBYVILLE
Location: Hoi An, Dai Loc, Liberty Bridge, Quang Nam Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Mar Div. Task organization: 2/1 Marines, 3/5 Marines, BLT 1/3 Marines, 1/11 Marines. Execution: SHELBYVILLE took place west of Hoi An, 6 km southeast of Dai Loc. BLT 1/3 conducted an airmobile assault on the objective area while 2/1 Marines occupied blocking positions to the east and 3/5 Marines blocked to the south. No major contact developed however but there were numerous cases of booby traps incidents. Results: 50 enemy killed, 1 captured, 59 detained, 10 US KIA, 69 US WIA.

22-29 Sep.
Operation: DO KAE BI 3
Location: Canh Phuoc, Phu Yen Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: WHRID. Task organization: 28th ROK Rgt (-). Execution: operation took place 8 km south of Van Canh. Results: 103 enemy killed (no info on friendly casualties)

New Operations

23-28 Sep.
Operation: BLUEFIELD II
Location: Lai Khe, Bau Bang, Bo La, Route 301, Binh Duong Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div. Task organization: 1-2 Inf, 2-2 Inf (M), 1-26 Inf, 2-28 Inf, 1-4 Cav (-), 2-33 Art. Execution: (no info). Results: 2 enemy captured, 1 US WIA.

Other

23 Sep.
Official communique from Moscow announces signing of USSR/NVN military assistance agreement whereby the USSR will furnish “airplanes, antiaircraft and rocket equipment, artillery and small arms, ammunition and other military equipment.”

[Jason Petho]

Ongoing Operations today in 1967

26 Aug.66-20 Jan.68
Operation: BYRD
Location: Phan Thiet, LZ BETTY, Binh Thuan Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: I FFORCEV. Task organization: TF 2-7: 2-7 Cav, C/1-9 Cav, A/1-21 Art, C/2-20 Art (-), C/8th Eng Bn (-), C/229th Avn Bn, Det 228th Avn Bn. Execution: Planned as a short-term, economy-of-force measure, BYRD became a continuous offensive that would last into 1968. Upon I FFORCEV request, the 1st Cav Div detached at battalion-size task force to help pacify isolated Binh Thuan Province in southern II Corps. Results (at year's end): 351 enemy killed, 151 detained, 8 US KIA, 85 US WIA.

1 Oct.66-17 Jan 68
Operation: DAZZLEM
Location: Camp Radcliff, An Khe, Binh Dinh Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization: Base Defense Task Force. Execution: Operation DAZZLEM was the contingency plan for the defense of Camp Radcliff provided by one infantry battalion with supporting artillery and
reinforcing personnel from residence units. On 17 Jan 68, the 173d Abn Bde relieved the 1st Cav Div from the mission of defending An Khe. Results: 80 enemy killed, 9 detained.

11 Oct.66-17 Nov.67
Operation: UNIONTOWN II
Location: Long Binh, Bien Hoa Province Type: security. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV. Execution: Operation UNIONTOWN was a security operation designed to protect the Long Binh logistical complex, RMK Rock Quarry and II FFORCEV Headquarters. Units were assigned on a rotation basis from each major command under II FFORCEV.

30 Nov. 66-15 Dec.67
Operation: FAIRFAX/RANG DONG
Location: Nha Be, Thu Duc and Binh Chanh Districts, Gia Dinh Province. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV, CMD. Task organization: 1st Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 2-16 Inf; 4th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3-22 Inf; 25th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 4-9 Inf; CMD (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3rd and 5th ARVN Abn Bns, 30th Ranger Bn; 199th LIB (31 Jan-15 Dec.): 2-3 Inf, 3-7 Inf, 4-12 Inf, 2-40 Art; 5th ARVN Ranger Group (31 Jan.-15 Dec): 30th, 33rd and 38th ARVN Ranger Bns. Intelligence: Military Region 4, 165A PLAF Regiment. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE... Results (end of 1966): 149 enemy killed, 40 detained, 11 US KIA, 67 US WIA, 23 ARVN KIA, 58 ARVN WIA, 1 ARVN MIA.

8 Feb.67-31 Jan.68
Operation: LAM SON 67
Location: Phu Loi, An My, Ong Dong Jungle, Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, security, jungle clearing. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 1st Inf Div (8 Feb-17 Mar, 17 Apr 67-31 Jan 68); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (17 Mar-17 Apr). Task organization: 1st Inf Div Revolutionary Development Task Force (various infantry, cavalry and support units were assigned on a rotation basis during the period). Execution: The operation supported the GVN's Revolutionary Development Program in conjunction with ARVN units in Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. LAM SON 67 consisted of cordon and search, reconnaissance in force, harassment, jungle clearing, population control, civic action and psychological warfare operations directed against priority targets. Contact in the AO was characterized by light sporadic incidents with local VC elements. On 6 Jan 68, the Phu Loi base camp received 123 rounds of mixed mortar fire, 46 aircraft were damaged and 6 US WIA. Reacting to the attack, A/2-18 Inf and B/2-2 Inf (M) swept the area to the north of the base and contacted two enemy companies of the Phu Loi PLAF Bn. 92 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 14 US WIA. Operation LAM SON 67 was terminated on 31 Jan 68 with the beginning of the enemy's Tet Offensive. Results: 527 enemy killed, 263 captured, 2,327 detained, 346 defectors, 56 US KIA, 572 US WIA.

12 Feb. 67-18 Jan. 68
Operation: PERSHING
Location: Bong Son, Tuy An, Tam Quan, Hoa Tan, Sa Huynh, Truong Son, An Qui, Trung Xuan, An Lac, An Lao Valley, Kim Son Valley, Suoi Ca Valley, 506 Valley, Nuoc Dinh Valley, Phu My Valley, Song Re Valley, the Crescent, Nui Mieu, Nui Sang, Cay Giep, Dam Tra-O Lake, Route 1, LZ BRONCO BEACH, LZ CRYSTAL, LZ ENGLISH, LZ GARNET, LZ GERONIMO, LZ GLENN, LZ HAMMOND, LZ IRON, LZ MEADE, LZ PAT, LZ SANDRA, LZ STEEL, LZ TOM, LZ TWO BITS, LZ UPLIFT, Binh Dinh and Quang Ngai Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization (As of 12 Feb): 1 s t Bde: 1-8 Cav, 1-12 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-19 Art (-), D/2-17 Art, C/1-21 Art, A/3-18 Art; 2d Bde: 2-5 Cav, 1-5 Cav (-), 1-7 Cav (-), 2-12 Cav, 1-77 Art (-), B/1-8 Art, A/1-21 Art, C/1-30 Art, B/8th Eng; 3d Bde: 2-8 Cav, C/1-5 Cav, 1-21 Art (-), 2-17 Art (-), C/6-16 Art, C/2-19 Art, C/8th Eng; 3d Bde, 25 t h Inf Div (12 Feb-19 Apr): 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf (4-19 Apr), 2-9 Art, A/1-77 Art, 5-16 Art, C/3-4 Cav, D/65th Eng; Div Arty: 2-20 Art (-), 7-13 Art (-), B/29 Art, E/82 Art, 3-18 Art (-); Div Troops: 1-9 Cav, 8th Eng Bn (-). Intelligence: 3rd PAVN Div: 18th and 22nd PAVN Rgts, 2nd PLAF Rgt. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE ... Results: 5,
388 enemy killed, 2,356 captured, 10,609 detained, 221 returnees, 852 US KIA, 4,119 US WIA, 22 US MIA.

13 Feb. 67-10 Mar. 68
Operation: ENTERPRISE
Location: Tan An, Rach Kien, Ben Luc, Binh Phuoc, Tan Tru, Doi Ma Creek, Plain of Reeds9, Base Area 371, Route 14, Long An Province. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, eagle flights. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 3-39 Inf, 2-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-4 Art, C/15th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PLAF MF Bn, 506th PLAF LF Bn. Execution: ENTERPRISE was the continuation of the pacification effort of Long An Province initiated the previous year by the 25th Inf Div with Operation LANIKAI. On 13 Feb, 3-39 Inf relieved 2-14 Inf at Rach Kien. Strength of division elements in the province were subsequently increased to brigade size with movement of 2-60 Inf into Tan Tru, 5-60 Inf into Binh Phuoc and Headquarters, 3d Bde into Tan An. The first major engagement occurred on 9 Apr when 3-39 Inf made contact with the 506th PLAF Bn on the bank of Doi Ma Creek. Additional companies were brought in, killing 247 of the enemy. On 2 May, the 506th Bn exacted vengeance on the 3-39 Inf, attacking one of its companies in night defensive position near Route 4. 17 US were KIA and 48 WIA but no enemy bodies were found. The operation was temporarily extended north to the Plain of Reeds area on 8-14 May with sub-operation NIRVANA II directed against the enemy's Base Area 371. Elements of the 3d Bde joined forces with the 4/50 ARVN Bn of the 25th ARVN Div but found nothing, killing only 14 of the enemy. On 14 May, the 2nd PLAF Bn struck the compound of the 2/50 ARVN Bn in Rach Kien, killing 31 South Vietnamese soldiers and wounding 34. 3d Bde units were committed but couldn't regain contact with the attacking force. After that, contact with the enemy dropped sharply for the remainder of 1967, indicating an apparent enemy desire to avoid friendly forces. On 31 Jan 68, the brigade responded to the Tet Offensive, 5-60 Inf engaged in heavy fighting southwest of Saigon in Gia Dinh Province, killing 128 enemy soldiers. From 1-5 Feb, 3-39 Inf and 2-60 Inf were sent to Kien Hoa Province to help recapture Ben Tre, the provincial capital. On 10 Feb, the brigade HQ at Tan An came under attack from an unknown size enemy force. 33 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 53 US WIA. During March, brigade elements conducted "Aquabush" operations along the numerous canals south of Saigon in conjunction with the 199th Inf Bde (Lt). Pacification activities decreased sharply during the Tet Offensive and the operation was terminated on 10 March. Results: 2,107 enemy killed, 74 US KIA, 380 US WIA.

14 Feb.67-21 Mar.68
Operation: KITTYHAWK
Location: Long Binh, Xuan Loc, Long Giao, Gia Ray, Suoi Cat, Blackhorse, Route 1, Route 2, Long Khanh and Bien Hoa Province. Type: reconnaissance-in-force, cordon and search, security, road clearing. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div (14 Feb 67-15 Feb 68); 11th ACR (15 Feb-21 Mar 68). Task organization: 3-5 Cav, 1/11 ACR, 2/11 ACR, 3/11 ACR. Intelligence: 275th PLAF Rgt. Execution: The purpose of KITTYHAWK was to secure LOCs and selected installations within Long Khanh Province, conduct reconnaissance-in-force operations and cordon and search of selected hamlets within the AO, secure Blackhorse base camp and the Gia Ray rock quarry and provide ready reaction forces along Route 1. On 21 May, K Troop, 3/11 ACR was ambushed by an estimated reinforced enemy battalion near Suoi Cat on Route 1. 30 enemy are killed, 12 US KIA and 13 US WIA. On 27 Jun 1/11 ACR moved to reinforce the 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn which was in heavy contact with elements of the 3rd Bn, 275th PLAF Rgt, killing 49 of the enemy11. On 30 Dec two enemy companies ambushed Troop C, 3-5 Cav on Route 2. Friendly losses are 10 KIA, 29 WIA and 3 MIA. On 31 Jan 68, in reaction to the VC Tet Offensive, the 3-5 Cav was alerted to respond to enemy activity in the Long Binh-Bien Hoa area. A/3-5 Cav bypassed several roadblocks, breaking through enemy forces and reached the Bien Hoa airfield, sweeping nearby wood lines and killing 40. During the period 2-3 Feb, C/3-5 Cav was sent to defend Xuan Loc against an intense ground attack, killing nearly 50 enemy soldiers. On 15 Feb the KITTYHAWK mission was assumed by the 11th ACR as the 3-5 Cav (-) was directed by HQ USARV to deploy to Da Nang, I CTZ. On 21 Mar, the operation was phased into Operation ALCORN COVE. Results: 201 enemy killed, 7 captured, 1 returnee, 62 US KIA, 224 US WIA.

5 Apr.-11 Oct.
Operation: FRANCIS MARION
Location: Plei Me, Duc Co, Plei Djereng, Plei Mrong, Plei Do Lim, Buon Blech, Se San, Ia Drang, Ia Tchar, Dak Ayun, Dak Payou, Chu Pong, Chu Prong, Chu Goungot, Chu Groh, Route 14, Route 14B, Route 19E, Route 509, Hill 521, LZ OASIS, LZ JACKSON HOLE, Pleiku and Darlac Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: (effective 7 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, B/4-42 Art, C/3-4 Cav (-), A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (-), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, Plt B/1-69 Arm, 4-42 Art (-), B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), Plt C/2-8 Inf (-), Cav Plt 1-10 Cav, B/3-6 Art, A/5-16 Art; TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 26 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), C/4-42 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h In f Div: 2-8 Inf, 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), A/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), A/3-6 Art; TF 3-8 Inf: 3-8 Inf, C/6-29 Art, A/5-16 Art; Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 30 May): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (M), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art, B/4th Eng (-); 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, D/16 Arm, E/17 Cav, 173d Eng Co; TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 5-16 Art (-); Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 24 Sep): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 2-8 Inf (M), 3-8 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), A/4-42 Art,, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div: 1-12 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), B/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: 2-1 Cav, D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Intelligence: B3 Front, 1st NVA Div (32nd, 66th and 88th Rgts), 10th NVA Div (95B and 101C Rgts), 200th NVA Art Bn, 407th PLAF MF Sapper Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn.. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE.... Results: 1,204 enemy killed, 122 detained, 11 returnees, 198 US KIA, 982 US WIA, 8 US MIA.

22 Apr.67-2 Jan 68.
Operation: BAKER
Location: Duc Pho, Mo Duc, Vinh Hien, Tan Phong, Dien Truong, An Ba, An Tach, Song Tra Cau, Song Ve, LZ MONTEZUMA (later renamed LZ BRONCO), LZ GUADALCANAL, LZ OLIVE DRAB, LZ LIZ, LZ DRAGON, RAZORBACK Beach, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde TF, 25th Inf Div (redesignated 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div on 1 Aug). Task organization: 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf, 2-9 Art, C/3-4 Cav, B/1-9 Cav, C/2-34 Arm. Intelligence: 1st PLAF Rgt, 2nd PLAF Rgt, 22nd PAVN Rgt. Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: (no info).

14 May.-7 Dec.
Operation: KOLE KOLE
Location: Duc Hoa, Bao Trai, Hiep Hoa, Loc Giang, Trang Bang, Song Vam Co Dong, Rach Tra, Xinh An Ha, Route 10, Hau Nghia and Tay Ninh Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 1-5 Inf (M), 1-27 Inf, 2-27 Inf, 1-8 Art. Intelligence: 2nd Go Mon and 269th PLAF LF Bns. Execution: Operation KOLE KOLE was initiated by the 2d Bde in Hau Nghia Province using EAGLE FLIGHTS and airmobile operations based on current intelligence. Cordon and search, outposting and country fair operations were also conducted in conjunction with the 25th ARVN Div, CIDG and RF/PF. On 17 May, elements of 1/27 Inf and 2/27 Inf fought an eight-hour engagement west of the Vam Co Dong with a VC company. Results were 27 enemy killed, 2 US KIA and 9 US WIA. There was intermittent contact during June and July, particularly along the An Ha canal and near Loc Giang. The brigade also secured engineer operations along Route 10 to improve the GVN's authority and control west of Trang Bang. In early August, the reconnaissance platoon of 1/27 Inf with helicopter support intercepted VC recon elements from Long An Province, killing 26. During September, KOLE KOLE shifted to northern Hau Nghai and southwestern Tay Ninh Province. 1-5 Inf (M) conducted extensive dismounted ambush patrols around Loc Giang along the Vam Co while 2-27 Inf engaged scattered elements of the 269th PLAF Bn. On 21 Oct, an EAGLE FLIGHT from 1-27 Inf engaged an estimated enemy platoon south of Tay Ninh, killing 18. On 31 Oct, 2-27 Inf made contact with elements of the 2nd Go Mon Bn north of the Rach Tra, killing 28 and capturing 2. Enemy activity decreased for the rest of KOLE KOLE and the brigade concentrated on pacification and land clearing operations. Results: 797 enemy killed, 150 detained, 34 returnees, 144 US KIA, 876 US WIA

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: BARKING SANDS
Location: Cu Chi, Trang Bang, Phu Hoa, Iron Triangle, Ho Bo Woods, Song Saigon, Hau Nghia and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: The 1st Bde employed counter guerrilla warfaretechniques including saturation patrolling, checkmate, bushmaster and cordon and search operations to pacify Cu Chi and Trang Bang Districts in Hau Nghia Province and Phu Hoa District in Binh Duong Province. Buddy operations were also conducted with local PF platoons and RF companies. On 30 Aug, 4-9 Inf conducted an airmobile assault against an entrenched VC battalion in the Iron Triangle resulting in 4 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 43 US WIA. During September, primary emphasis was placed on denying VC access to populated areas during the National Elections. Land clearing operations were also initiated along the Song Saigon to eliminate VC concealment. In October, 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods were cleared by Rome Plows following Operation KUNIA. Contact during BARKING SANDS was limited to squad and platoon size elements and no major engagement occurred. Four sub-operations were conducted in the BARKING SANDS AO during the period: KAWELA, AKUMU,WAIMEA and KUNIA (see individual operations below). Results (inclusive of the four sub-operations): 370 enemy killed, 85 detained, 10 returnees, 110 US KIA, 1114 US WIA.

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: DIAMOND HEAD
Location: Tay Ninh West, Dau Tieng, Suoi Da, Prek Klok, Ben Cui, Michelin Plantation, Boi Loi Woods, The Crescent, The Trapezoid, Tay Ninh and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div33. Task organization: 2-12 Inf, 2-22 Inf (M), 3-22 Inf, 2-77 Art, 2-34 Arm (-) (from 22 Sep), C/1-10 Cav, C/4th Eng. Execution: The mission was to conduct search and destroy operations in Tay Ninh Province, cordon and search operations in the Michelin Plantation, and security and reinforcement missions in the Tay Ninh and Prek Klok areas. With one battalion detached to Operation UNIONTOWN and another providing security for the Dau Tieng and Tay Ninh West base camps, contact in the AO were very limited during the months of May, June and July. On 1 Aug, the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div was redesignated the 3d Bde, 25th Inf Div. No movement of troops or units were involved in this redesignation. On 15 Aug, an airmobile cordon and search of Thanh An was conducted by 3-22 Inf in conjunction with VN National Police. 6 enemy were killed and 42 detained. In September, the brigade provided security during the National elections. In October, continued battalion size search and destroy operations were conducted in the Michelin Plantation to prevent its use as an enemy haven, in and south of Ben Cui, and in the northern portion of the Trapezoid, which extends 15 km to the southeast of Dau Tieng. Bushmaster operations were conducted in an area known as the Crescent, 8 km northwest of Dau Tieng. All operations were marked by extremely light contact. In November, operations were conducted in the upper Boi Loi Woods and in the Ben Cui Plantation, again with light contact. During this period operations were curtailed due to two battalions being opcon to the other brigades. On 25-25 Now, 2-22 Inf (M) made contact with a VC company near the Mushroom bend on the Saigon River, killing 20. This was the last contact during DIAMOND HEAD before the operation came to an end on 7 Dec. Results: 237 enemy killed, 496 detained, 4 returnees. (US losses unknown).

1 Jun.67-7 Feb.68
Operation: HOPTAC
Location: Dong Tam, Dinh Tuong Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: Task Force FUNSTON39. Execution: Operation HOPTAC was an internal defense and development operation in Dinh Tuong Province which included security of the Dong Tam base. Task Force FUNSTON provided land and waterborne security for engineer dredging equipment and maintained a ready reaction force to assist local GVN units and installations if needed. In most cases contact with the VC was characterized by light fire fights and sniper fire. On 1 Feb 68 the enemy fired more than 170 82 mm mortar and 75 mm RR rounds into the base resulting in minor damage and 11 US WIA. In the early morning hours of 3, 4, 5 and 7 Feb, the enemy continued to attack the base with mortar and RR fire. The heaviest attack came on 7 Feb with an estimated 200 rounds fired at the base. Elements of 5-60 Inf and 2-39 Inf conducted reaction airmobile assaults and RIF operations 8 km east of Dong tam, making contact with two VC companies, killing 23 while losing 5 KIA and 11 WIA. Results: 296 enemy killed, 11 captured, 3 returnees, 37 US KIA, 364 US WIA.

18 Jun.-12 Oct.
Operation: GREELEY
Location: Kontum, Dak To, Tan Canh, Dak Seang, Dak Pek, Toumorong, Dak Poko, Dak Akoi, Hill 830, Hill 1338, FSB 4, Kontum Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (24 Jun-25 Jul): 1-7 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-12 Cav, 1-21 Art; 1st ARVN Abn TF (24 Jun-25 Jul): 3d, 5th and 8th ARVN Abn Bns; 24th STZ: 1/42 Inf. Intelligence: 24th and 174th PAVN Rgts, K101D PAVN Bn, 304th PLAF MF Bn, 200th PLAF Art Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn . Execution: From 1-18 Jun, the 173d Abn Bde continued participation in Operation FRANCIS MARION, searching further south and east in the Ia Drang Valley. The brigade deployed the 1-503 Inf and 2-503 Inf into the AO, holding 4-503 Inf in reserve at Catecka. No significant contact was made. On 17 Jun, TF MC QUARRIE (2-503 Inf, E/17 Cav, A/3-319 Art) moved by air and motor convoy to the New Dak To Airfield, joined the following day by 1-503 Inf. The mission, named GREELEY, was to assume opcon of the CIDG Camp at Dak To under threat from the 24th PAVN Rgt and assist in its defense. On 18 Jun, 2-503 Inf began searching south of Dak To toward the huge mass of Hill 1338 (Ngok Bor Beang). C/1-503 Inf was also inserted into the area to search for a missing SF and CIDG team which had been destroyed by the NVA on 15-16 Jun, 1400 meters southwest of their camp. On 22 Jun, after a fruitless search of Hill 1338, 2-503 Inf was instructed to return to Dak To on foot. Shortly after leaving its NDP, A/2-503 bumped into an enemy battalion from the 24th PAVN Rgt42 while descending the slopes of Hill 1338. Two platoons were cut off and annihilated while the rest of the company formed a small perimeter and called supporting fires. Cos B and C were rushed to the rescue but arrived too late. 76 Americans had been killed, some executed point blank by the enemy, and 23 wounded. 106 enemy bodies were counted in the battle area. This action became known as 'The Battle of the Slopes' and as one of the costliest engagement for US forces in Vietnam. Concerned by the size of the battle and the US losses, General Larsen at I FFORCEV decided to reinforce GREELEY. On 23 Jun, 2-12 Cav arrived from the PERSHING AO while the rest of the 173d Abn Bde (CP (-) and 4-503 Inf) closed Dak To from Catecka. The next day, 24 Jun, the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (-) and 1st ARVN Abn TF arrived at Kontum. The Allied forces went after the 24th PAVN Rgt, seeking to destroy it. In the next two weeks, the 173d Abn Bde and 2-12 Cav searched west and south of Dak To while the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div and the ARVN Abn TF entered the Dak Akoi Valley northeast of Kontum and 35 km east of Dak To. The sweep found little evidence of the enemy's presence and on 25 Jul the cavalry brigade returned to the coast, while the Vietnamese task force stood down at Kontum to serve as a mobile reaction force. Southwest of Dak To on 10 Jul, 4-503 Inf, while searching for a regimental headquarters, found an occupied enemy bunker complex on Hill 830. Battle raged until 12 Jul with 22 US KIA and 62 US WIA but only 9 enemy bodies found. This was the last significant contact on the month. On 19 Jul, 2 NVA soldiers rallied at Dak Pek CIDG Camp, stating that they were 42 Later identified as the 6th Bn, 24th PAVN Rgt. from the newly infiltrated 174th PAVN Rgt. They were proved correct on 6 Aug when the 1/42 ARVN Bn made heavy contact with that unit 8 km west of the Dak Seang CIDG Camp. The ARVN Abn TF was rushed into the area and fought a bitter twoday battle to capture a hill believed to have been the location of the regimental CP, killing 189 of the enemy. On 9 Aug, 4-503 Inf moved to Dak Pek, joining the 1-503 Inf already there since 4 Aug, but the two battalions found little. Contacts were so low in August that the 173d Abn Bde was credited with only 4 enemy killed. During the period 1-18 Sep, the brigade continued GREELEY in the Dak To – Dak Seang area, supporting CIDG Operation DARBY, but contact was minimal. On 17 Sep, the brigade (-) began moving by air to Tuy Hoa to begin Operation BOLLING. Only 4-503 Inf and A/3-319 stayed at Dak To, forming Task Force 77 with the 3rd ARVN Abn Bn, 1/42 ARVN Bn and 27th MIKE Force Co for an expedition in the Toumorong Valley that lasted nearly three weeks but found nothing. On 11 Oct, TF 77 was disbanded and that same day, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art departed for Tuy Hoa, terminating Operation GREELEY. Results: 191 enemy killed, 17 captured, 129 US KIA, 210 US WIA. (no info on ARVN losses).

3 Jul.67-7 Apr.68
Operation: RILEY
Location: Bearcat, Camp Martin Cox, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div; TF FORSYTH (from 10 Feb). Task organization: 2-39 Inf, 4-39 Inf, 2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, TF FORSYTH. Execution: Operation RILEY was an internal defense and development operation in Bien Hoa Province and included defense of Camp Martin Cox. When not engaged in strike operations, Headquarters, 1st Bde assumed opcon of all elements engaged in RILEY, including TF FORSYTH (a provisional Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment located at Camp Martin Cox). In the absence of the 1st Bde, TF FORSYTH was allocated sufficient forces to secure the camp and to conduct limited consolidation operations in the area. On 31 Jan 68 in response to the VC Tet Offensive, elements of the 2-47 Inf (M) and 4-39 Inf moved to Long Binh Post for perimeter security. Working in coordination with 2-3 Inf from the 199th Inf Bde (Lt), the two battalions had multiple contacts with the enemy during the day near Ho Nai, killing 213 by bodycount and capturing 32. US losses were 4 KIA and 23 WIA. On 10 Feb 68, the 1st Bde moved to Dong Tam and TF FORSYTH assumed responsibility until termination. Results: 472 enemy killed, 41 detained, 2 returnees, 64 US KIA, 315 US WIA.

8 Jul.-30 Oct.
Operation: MARCH I
Location: Plei Trap Valley, Kontum Province. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: B-50 Det Project OMEGA. Execution: Long range reconnaissance and intelligence gathering conducted in the Plei Trap Valley. Results: (no info).

10 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: FREMONT
Location: Camp Evans, Hill 51, Hill 67, Phong Dien District, Thua Thien Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 4th Marines. Task organization: 2/4 Marines (10 Jul-14 Sep), 3/26 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct). Execution: The 4th Marines initiated Operation FREMONT with its own 2/4 to provide security for Camp Evans, Hill 51, the Phong Dien District Headquarters and a radio transmission site on Hill 67. On 20 Jul, 2/4 provided blocking forces near My Chanh for SLF BRAVO in Operation BEAR CHAIN. BLT 2/3 became opcon to 4th Marines on 22 Jul and joined FREMONT, until back loading on 21 Aug. Contact was sporadic in Aug with only 13 US KIA for the month. During Sep, 2/4 in conjunction with ARVN forces helped secure nearby villages and hamlets during the National Elections. On 14 Sep, 2/4 joined Operation KINGFISHER and was replaced by 3/26 Marines. Contacts remained low until termination, being limited to harassing tactics, mines incidents and sniper fire. Results: 123 enemy killed, 8 captured, 17 US KIA, 196 US WIA.

16 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: KINGFISHER
Location: Dong Ha, Con Thien, Gio Linh, Cua Viet, Ca Lu, Route 9, Route 561, Route 606, Hill 216, C-2, Demilitarized Zone, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d and 9th Marines. Task organization: 3/3 Marines, 2/4 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct), 3/4 Marines, 1/9 Marines, 2/9 Marines, 3/9 Marines, 3/26 Marines (15 Aug-11 Sep), 1st Amtrac Bn. Intelligence: 90th and 812th PAVN Rgts. Execution: KINGFISHER was a continuation of Marine operations south of the DMZ follwing BUFFALO and HICKORY II. Contact was light during the first week. On 21 Jul, 3/3 Marines securing a portion of Route 9 for a 'Rough Rider' convoy bound for Khe Sanh found a NVA battalion dug in on Hill 216 overlooking the road. Tanks, 40mm dusters and artillery pounded the hill and forced the enemy to withdraw. On 28 Jul, 2/9 Marines reinforced with tanks, LVTEs and Ontos was pushing into the DMZ north on Route 606 when it was attacked by an estimated NVA battalion. The column was split in company-size segments and fought desperately all day until reinforcements from 3/4 Marines forced the enemy to break contact. 23 Americans were killed and 251 wounded with only 32 NVA confirmed killed. Ground action was light in early Aug with the largest part of the activity involving artillery attacks on Gio Linh, Con Thien, Cua Viet and Dong Ha. On 21 Aug, an NVA battalion ambushed a small Marine convoy moving from the Rockpile to Ca Lu. Elements form 3/3 were brought in, fighting a six-hour engagement until night fell and the enemy fled to the west. 6 US were killed and 35 wounded, Enemy loses were unknown. The NVA tried again on 7 Sep at almost the same location. This time the battle lasted more than 8 hours. The Marines killed 92 of the enemy while losing 5 KIA and 56 WIA. The Communists tried to disrupt the National Elections on 3 Sep, firing more than 41 rounds of artillery into Dong Ha, damaging 17 helicopters. This attack ended the use of Dong Ha as a permanent helicopter base facility. Con Thien however, remained the primary artillery target for the NVA. On 25 Sep alone, 1,200 rounds slammed into the combat base. On 10 Sep, 3/26 Marines made heavy contact with what seemed to be the entire 812th PAVN Rgt 4 miles southwest of Con Thien. The action lasted for four hours until the enemy broke contact, leaving 140 dead on the battle field. Marine losses had been high also with 34 KIA and 192 WIA, forcing 3/26 to return to Phu Bai the next day to refit. On 21 Sep, 2/9 Marines started a search and destroy operation 1,800 meters east of Con Thien when it ran into heavy resistance from an element of the 90th PAVN Rgt. The battle turned into a stalemate after rain had made the area impassable and both sides withdrew. US casualties were 31 KIA and 118 WIA. Enemy killed were reported at 39. The enemy intensified its attack-by-fire against Con Thien in late Sep, hitting the base with over 3,000 rounds during the period 19-27 Sep. The Americans retaliated by massing one of the greatest concentrations of firepower in support of a single division in the history of the Vietnam War. Marine artillery, ships of the 7th Fleet, Marine and Air Force jets and B-52 bombers poured tons of ordnance into know enemy positions in and north of the DMZ. By the end of Sep, NVA pressure of the outpost had subsided. On 14 Oct, 2/4 Marines was guarding a bridge north of Strong point C-2 when it received a ground attack from an unknown size enemy force. AC-47 gunships helped repel the assault during the night. 21 Americans were killed and 23 wounded. Only 24 NVA bodies were found in the area. The last major action of KINGSIFHER took place during a 9th Marines operation on 25-28 Oct. 2/4 Marines was sweeping north of Con Thien on Route 561 when it was hit by an enemy battalion, beating back several attacks and losing 8 KIA and 45 WIA. Results: 1,117 enemy killed, 5 captured, 340 US KIA, 1,461 US WIA.

17 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: ARDMORE
Location: Khe Sanh, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destro, security. Controlling headquarters: 26th Marines (Forward). Task organization: 1/26 Marines, 3/26 Marines, 1/13 Marines. Execution: Operation ARDMORE was a continuation of Operation CROCKETT and involved the same mission and the same forces. On 21 Jul, B/1/26 and M/3/26 fought a NVA battalion dug on Hill 216 along Route 9 in conjunction with 3/3 Marines from Operation KINGFISHER. Contacts in August were minimal and 3/26 was moved to the KINGFISHER AO on 15 Aug. 1/26 Marines continued patrols and company-size search and destroy operations around Khe Sanh, but with limited contact with the enemy. Results: 113 enemy killed, 6 detained, 10 US KIA, 39 US WIA

27 Jul.-8 Nov.
Operation: SONG THAN 14
Location: Bong Son, Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF BRAVO. Task organization: 1st VNMC BN, 2nd VNMC Bn (27 Jul-4 Oct), 3rd VNMC Bn (4 Oct-6 Nov), C/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: On 27 Jul, TF BRAVO relieved TF ALPHA at Bong Son AF and continued search and destroy operations south of Bong Son in conjunction with Operation PERSHING. Results: (no info)

31 Jul.-3 Nov.
Operation: DAN QUYEN 822
Location: Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 22nd ARVN Division. Results: 141 enemy killed, 181 detained, 44 ARVN KIA, 74 ARVN WIA 3 ARVN MIA.

11 Aug.-21 Oct.
Operation: SONG THAN/701/67
Location: Tan Uyen, Bien Hoa Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF ALPHA. Task organization: 2nd VNMC Bn (10-21 Oct), 4th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-10 Oct), 5th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-15 Sep), 6th VNMC Bn (15 Sep-21 Oct), B/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: Operation conducted in the Tan Uyen area in coordination with the US 1st Inf Div. Results: (no info)

16 Aug-31 Oct.
Operation: 8-67/SAMURAI II & III
Location: A Shau Valley, Happy Valley, Thuat Thien and Quang Nam Provinces. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: Det B-52 Project DELTA,81st ARVN Abn Rgr Bn. Execution: Operation searched areas from the northern stretches of the A Shau Valley into Happy Valley, west of Da Nang. Results: (no info).

1 Sep.-17 Nov.
Operation: STRIKE I
Location: Bien Hoa, Long Binh, AO STRIKE, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 2-47 Inf (M). Execution: Operation STRIKE I was conducted to provide security for the Bien Hoa-Long Binh complex and to prevent rocket attacks. On 17 Nov, STRIKE I was combined with Operation UNIONTOWN. Results: (no info).

5 Sep.-30 Oct.
Operation: DRAGON FIRE
Location: Batangan Peninsula, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d ROKMC Bde. Task organization: 1st, 2d and 5th ROKMC Bns. Execution: The 2d ROKMC Bde conducted this operation to clear insurgent elements from the Batagan Peninsula. Results: 541 enemy killed, 17 captured, 121 detained, 45 ROKMC KIA, 200 ROKMC WIA, 3 USMC WIA.

11 Sep-25 Nov.
Operation: WHEELER
Location: Tien Phuoc, Hiep Duc, Song Tranh, Song Chang, Base Area 116, Base Area 117, UDEN AO, Quang Tin Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 101st Abn Div. Task organization: 1-327 Inf, 2-327 Inf, 2-502 Inf, 1-14 Inf (11-24 Sep), 1-35 Inf (4 Oct-4 Nov), 2-320 Art, A/2-9 Art (4 Oct-4 Nov), B/2-9 Art (11-24 Sep), C/3-16 Art, B/1-9 Cav (2-4 Oct), A/2-17 Cav (17-25 Nov), A/326th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PAVN Div (1st PLAF Rgt, 3rd and 21st PAVN Rgts). Execution: ... SEE PREVIOUS DAY FOR INFORMATION... Results were 9 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 18 US WIA. With the 2nd PAVN Div elements avoiding contact during the period 28 Oct-4 Nov, increased emphasis was placed on attempting to locate the division. On 5 Nov, 1-35 Inf was released from operational control of the brigade and placed under opcon of the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div conducting Operation WALLOWA in the Que Son Basin. The last phase of WHEELER (6-25 Nov) saw 2-327 Inf being air-assaulted into the western portion of BA 116 while 1-327 Inf and 2-502 Inf established blocking positions. On 11 Nov, C/2-327 Inf engaged an NVA company in the Song Chang Valley 4 km east of Hiep Duc. 14 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 5 US WIA. This marked the last significant contact of WHEELER, after that, the badly hurt 2nd PAVN Div avoided any further contact. From 23-25 Nov, brigade elements were relieved in place by elements of the 196th Inf Bde (Lt)61 and displaced to Tam Ky Airfield to move by air to the brigade main base camp at Phan Rang for a four-day stand down and preparation for future operations. Results: 1,105 enemy killed, 50 captured, 445 detained, 11 returnees, 124 US KIA, 465 US WIA.

12 Sep-10 Oct.
Operation: CORONADO V
Location: Dong Tam, Cai Lay, Cam Son Secret Zone, Ban Long Base Area, Loi Quan Island, Song My Tho, Rach Ba Rai, Rach Ben Tre, Route 20, Ding Tuong and Kien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div (MRF); 7th ARVN Div. Task organization: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div: 3-47 Inf (12-17 Sep), 4-47 Inf (17 Sep-10 Oct), 3-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-60 Inf (-)(15-17 Sep), 3-34 Art, D/15th Eng, USN TF 117; 7th ARVN Div: 10th ARVN Rgt, 41st ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 263rd and 506th PLAF Bns. Execution: On 11 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Vung Tau to Dong Tam again and began Operation CORONADO V aimed at the 263rd PLAF Bn which had returned to the Cam Son Secret Zone. On 12 Sep, 3-47 Inf swept north from landing sites on the My Tho but turned up almost nothing. The next day, 3-60 Inf and 5-60 Inf (M) with help from the 7th ARVN Div62 began a sweep of the Ban Long area to the east and made contact with what appeared to be a VC covering force near the site of the VNMC heavy contact in July. The enemy withdrew under cover of darkness, leaving 63 bodies behind. As US and ARVN forces left the Ban Long on 14 Sep, the 7th ARVN Div reported that a large force, presumably the 263rd PLAF Bn, remained in the Cam Son, only a few kilometers north from areas previously swept. On 15 Sep, as 5-60 Inf (M) moved overland via Route 20, 3-60 Inf and 3-47 Inf sailed via the Song My Tho up the Rach Ba Rai between the My Tho and the town of Cai Lay. While 3-47 Inf landed unopposed over WHITE Beach, 3-60 Inf ran into two companies of the 263rd lined up in ambush positions along the east bank of the Ba Rai. Some of the boats managed to run the gauntlet but were forced to turn back as most of the column failed to follow. Two companies from 2-60 Inf were helicoptered from Long An Province to encircle the enemy. The battle lasted until nightfall but when the Americans entered the deserted ambush site the next day they found only 24 enemy killed. On 17 Sep the MRF returned to Dong Tam where 4-47 Inf rotated aboard the ships of the MRF replacing 3-47 Inf. On 20 Sep, the MRF displaced to Kien Hoa Province and began widely separated operations in Ham Long, Giong Trom and Huong My Districts, looking for the 516th PLAF Bn but no major contact took place. On 27 Sep, ATCs performing mine sweeping duties along the Rach Ben Tre received heavy RPG, recoilless and automatic weapons fire. 3 sailors were killed and 6 wounded. On 28 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Dong Tam to the northern end of Loi Quan Island between the Cua Dai and Cua Tieu to reduce logistic distances. Operations in Kien Hoa were in close cooperation with the 10th ARVN Rgt and a composite RF battalions but only sporadic contact was made. On 5-7 Oct the MRF returned to the Ban Long but had only limited contact with elements of the 263rd PLAF Bn and on 10 Sep it displaced to Vung Tau to prepare for CORONADO VI. Results: 330 enemy killed, 235 detained, 2 returnees, 35 US KIA, 175 US WIA.

16 Sep.-29 Oct.
Operation: KUNIA
Location: Ho Bo Woods, Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 3-22 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: Operation KUNIA was conducted as part of BARKING SANDS with the 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div initiating search and destroy operations in the Ho Bo Woods in preparation for the arrival of a land clearing team of thirty Rome Plows. By the end of October 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods had been cleared. Results: (included in BARKING SANDS).

17-25 Sep.
Operation: FORTRESS SENTRY
Location: An My, Cua Viet, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: SLF BRAVO. Task organization: BLT 2/3 Marines, 1st Amph Tractor Bn. Execution: On 17 Sep the BLT landed on the northern bank of the Cua Viet and began a sweep north toward the DMZ with the 1st ARVN Div screening the left flank. On 23 Sep, about 100 NVA soldiers attacked the battalion, but it broke up the probe with the assistance of helicopter gunships. On the morning of 24 Sep, the Marines engaged another enemy force near the village of An My, 5 km east of Gio Linh. The following day the operation ended and BLT 2/3 phased into Operation KINGFISHER to the west. Results: (no info).

19 Sep. 67-31 Jan. 69
Operation: BOLLING/DAN HOA
Location: Tuy Hoa, Phu Hiep, Binh Tinh, Ma Hoa, AO BLACK, Song Ky Lo, Song Da Rang, Suoi Cai, Phu Yen and Phu Bon Provinces. Type: search and destroy, reconnaissance-in-force, pacification, rice protection. Controlling headquarters: 173d Abn Bde (19 Sep 67-8 Feb 68, 1 Apr 68-31 Jan 69); I FFORCEV (8 Feb-1 Apr 68); 22nd ARVN Div. Task organization: 1-503 Inf (19 Sep-6 Nov 67), 2-503 Inf (12 Oct-6 Nov 67), 3-503 Inf (5 Nov 67-16 Jan 68), 4-503 Inf (19 Sep-1 Nov 67, 16 Dec 67-31 Jan 69), TF 2-8 Cav (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), 3-319 Art, C/2-19 Art (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 47th ARVN Rgt. Intelligence: 5th PAVN Div (18B and 95th PAVN Rgts), 30th and 95th PLAF LF Bns, K65 and K76 Sapper Cos. Execution: During the period 14-19 Sep, the bulk of the brigade (minus 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art) was relocated by air from Dak To to Tuy Hoa to commence long-term Operation BOLLING in cooperation with the 47th ARVN Rgt. The 2-8 Cav was opconed to the brigade until 14 Oct to compensate for 2-503 Inf remaining at Dak To, and was air-assaulted into the BOLLING AO on 19 Sep. The operation was designed to provide security for the local rice harvest. Daily contact was maintained with enemy forces in September and October but seldom larger than squad size. During October, the brigade relocated its rear base camp facility from Bien Hoa to An Khe, moving by sea via Saigon and Qui Nhon. On 12 Oct, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 returned from the Highlands, relieving TF 2-8 Cav and on 22 Oct, the new 3-503 Inf arrived in-country from Fort Bragg, undergoing jungle training in An Khe prior to deployment to the BOLLING AO. On 1 Nov, 4-503 Inf was alerted for immediate departure for Dak To, followed five days later by the brigade minus (headquarters, 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 3-319 Art). On 5 Nov, 3-503 Inf arrived at Tuy Hoa from An Khe and assumed responsibility for Operation BOLLING. Contact continued to be light in November; on 16 Dec, the brigade headquarters, 4-503 Inf and C and D/3-319 Art were redeployed from Operation MACARTHUR, closing into the BOLLING AO that same day. On 27 Dec, 3-503 Inf conducted a series of combat assaults into the Song Ky Lo Valley 15 km northwest of Dong Tre and engaged two enemy companies. Elements of 4-503 Inf reinforced the battle area until contact was lost on 29 Dec. Results were 62 enemy killed, 12 US KIA and 34 US WIA. Contact was infrequent in January and a battalion task force built around 3-503 Inf moved to An Khe on 16 Jan 68 to assume responsibility of the Operation DAZZLEM AO63 from the departing 1st Cav Div. On 30 Jan, the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt attacked several targets in the Tuy Hoa area as part of the enemy's Tet Offensive, including a FSB held by C/6-32 Art, the Binh Tin hamlet, Tuy Hoa North AF and the provincial prison. D/4-503 Inf and two companies from the 2nd Bn, 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked toward the airfield and by 0730 on 31 Jan, the enemy force was surrounded and destroyed in Binh Tin hamlet. On 5-6 Feb, two battalions of the 47th ARVN Rgt and RF elements reduced an enemy strong point in the center of Tuy Hoa. During the fighting in and around Tuy Hoa, 316 enemy had been killed and 104 captured. During February, 4-503 Inf in conjunction with Strike Force elements from Cung Son and Dong Tre CIDG Camps, and Task Force MITCHELL (E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm) conducted search and destroy operations west of Tuy Hoa and helped mop up the aftermath of the Tet Offensive. It also provided security for the 577th Eng C Bn and 173d Eng Co working on Routes 7B and 436. On 8 Feb, the 173d Abn Bde (-) departed Tuy Hoa to assumed Opcon of TF POWERHOUSE (1-503 and 2-503 Inf) in Kontum Province in the MACARTHUR AO. Operation BOLLING passed under control of I FFORCEV which assumed opcon of TF 4-503 build around 4-503 Inf, Btys C and D, 3-319 Art and D/16 Arm. A major contact developed on 4 Mar when the 47th ARVN Rgt contacted the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt and 85th PLAF Bn in three hamlets along the coast just north of Tuy Hoa. D/16 Arm and elements of the 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked while the 47th ARVN Rgt provided blocking positions. D/16 was credited with 137 NVA killed during the action while suffering 10 KIA and 21 WIA. Contact during the rest of March was sporadic in the BOLLING AO. On 1 Apr, the brigade returned from the Highlands, relieving the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div at Bong Son64 and assumed control over TF 4-503 again. Contact was light during the month of April except on the 5th when D/16 Arm again supported the 47th ARVN Rgt in heavy contact with two enemy battalions at Ma Hoa village in Tuy Hoa Valley just off Route 7B north of the Song Da Rang. In May, 4-503 Inf conducted extensive bushmaster operations, on 2 May, Co B killed 8 enemy soldiers in the Suoi Cai Valley 18 km west of Tuy Hoa. In June, the enemy continued to avoid decisive contact with Allied force, relying on harassing tactics instead. During the period 16-27 Jul, 4-503 Inf conducted search and clear operations in AO BLACK located 25 km southwest of Cung Son on the Phu Bon and Darlac provincial boundary but there was no significant contact. On 30 July, 4-503 Inf joined the 3/47 ARVN Bn and elements of the 26th ROK Rgt to conduct a combined operation in the Song Ky Lo Valley but contact was again limited. Prisoners confirmed that the bulk of the 18B and 95th PAVN Rgts had departed Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa Province to refit in Cambodia. Contact remained light for the rest of Operation BOLLING, limited to engagements with squad-size enemy forces and booby traps incidents. On 1 Feb 69 the BOLLING/DAN HOA AO became a permanent TAOR called LY DO/WAINWRIGHT. Results: 715 enemy killed, 72 US KIA, 307 US WIA (no info on ARVN casualties).

22-28 Sep.
Operation: RICHMOND
Location: Dinh Quan, Route 20, Long Khanh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 11th ACR. Task organization: 3/11 ACR, 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn, 5th ARVN ACR (elts). Execution: The squadron provided security for engineer road repair efforts north of Dinh Quan along Route 20 in coordination with ARVN forces. There was no contact with enemy forces. Upon termination, the squadron returned to Blackhorse to resume Operation KITTYHAWK. Results: (no info).

22-28 Sep.
Operation: SHELBYVILLE
Location: Hoi An, Dai Loc, Liberty Bridge, Quang Nam Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Mar Div. Task organization: 2/1 Marines, 3/5 Marines, BLT 1/3 Marines, 1/11 Marines. Execution: SHELBYVILLE took place west of Hoi An, 6 km southeast of Dai Loc. BLT 1/3 conducted an airmobile assault on the objective area while 2/1 Marines occupied blocking positions to the east and 3/5 Marines blocked to the south. No major contact developed however but there were numerous cases of booby traps incidents. Results: 50 enemy killed, 1 captured, 59 detained, 10 US KIA, 69 US WIA.

22-29 Sep.
Operation: DO KAE BI 3
Location: Canh Phuoc, Phu Yen Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: WHRID. Task organization: 28th ROK Rgt (-). Execution: operation took place 8 km south of Van Canh. Results: 103 enemy killed (no info on friendly casualties)

23-28 Sep.
Operation: BLUEFIELD II
Location: Lai Khe, Bau Bang, Bo La, Route 301, Binh Duong Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div. Task organization: 1-2 Inf, 2-2 Inf (M), 1-26 Inf, 2-28 Inf, 1-4 Cav (-), 2-33 Art. Execution: (no info). Results: 2 enemy captured, 1 US WIA.

New Operations

24 Sep.-9 Oct.
Operation: ARKANSAS CITY II
Location: Phuoc Tuy Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 11th ACR. Execution: (no info)

Other

None

[Jason Petho]

Ongoing Operations today in 1967

26 Aug.66-20 Jan.68
Operation: BYRD
Location: Phan Thiet, LZ BETTY, Binh Thuan Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: I FFORCEV. Task organization: TF 2-7: 2-7 Cav, C/1-9 Cav, A/1-21 Art, C/2-20 Art (-), C/8th Eng Bn (-), C/229th Avn Bn, Det 228th Avn Bn. Execution: Planned as a short-term, economy-of-force measure, BYRD became a continuous offensive that would last into 1968. Upon I FFORCEV request, the 1st Cav Div detached at battalion-size task force to help pacify isolated Binh Thuan Province in southern II Corps. Results (at year's end): 351 enemy killed, 151 detained, 8 US KIA, 85 US WIA.

1 Oct.66-17 Jan 68
Operation: DAZZLEM
Location: Camp Radcliff, An Khe, Binh Dinh Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization: Base Defense Task Force. Execution: Operation DAZZLEM was the contingency plan for the defense of Camp Radcliff provided by one infantry battalion with supporting artillery and
reinforcing personnel from residence units. On 17 Jan 68, the 173d Abn Bde relieved the 1st Cav Div from the mission of defending An Khe. Results: 80 enemy killed, 9 detained.

11 Oct.66-17 Nov.67
Operation: UNIONTOWN II
Location: Long Binh, Bien Hoa Province Type: security. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV. Execution: Operation UNIONTOWN was a security operation designed to protect the Long Binh logistical complex, RMK Rock Quarry and II FFORCEV Headquarters. Units were assigned on a rotation basis from each major command under II FFORCEV.

30 Nov. 66-15 Dec.67
Operation: FAIRFAX/RANG DONG
Location: Nha Be, Thu Duc and Binh Chanh Districts, Gia Dinh Province. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV, CMD. Task organization: 1st Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 2-16 Inf; 4th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3-22 Inf; 25th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 4-9 Inf; CMD (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3rd and 5th ARVN Abn Bns, 30th Ranger Bn; 199th LIB (31 Jan-15 Dec.): 2-3 Inf, 3-7 Inf, 4-12 Inf, 2-40 Art; 5th ARVN Ranger Group (31 Jan.-15 Dec): 30th, 33rd and 38th ARVN Ranger Bns. Intelligence: Military Region 4, 165A PLAF Regiment. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE... Results (end of 1966): 149 enemy killed, 40 detained, 11 US KIA, 67 US WIA, 23 ARVN KIA, 58 ARVN WIA, 1 ARVN MIA.

8 Feb.67-31 Jan.68
Operation: LAM SON 67
Location: Phu Loi, An My, Ong Dong Jungle, Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, security, jungle clearing. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 1st Inf Div (8 Feb-17 Mar, 17 Apr 67-31 Jan 68); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (17 Mar-17 Apr). Task organization: 1st Inf Div Revolutionary Development Task Force (various infantry, cavalry and support units were assigned on a rotation basis during the period). Execution: The operation supported the GVN's Revolutionary Development Program in conjunction with ARVN units in Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. LAM SON 67 consisted of cordon and search, reconnaissance in force, harassment, jungle clearing, population control, civic action and psychological warfare operations directed against priority targets. Contact in the AO was characterized by light sporadic incidents with local VC elements. On 6 Jan 68, the Phu Loi base camp received 123 rounds of mixed mortar fire, 46 aircraft were damaged and 6 US WIA. Reacting to the attack, A/2-18 Inf and B/2-2 Inf (M) swept the area to the north of the base and contacted two enemy companies of the Phu Loi PLAF Bn. 92 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 14 US WIA. Operation LAM SON 67 was terminated on 31 Jan 68 with the beginning of the enemy's Tet Offensive. Results: 527 enemy killed, 263 captured, 2,327 detained, 346 defectors, 56 US KIA, 572 US WIA.

12 Feb. 67-18 Jan. 68
Operation: PERSHING
Location: Bong Son, Tuy An, Tam Quan, Hoa Tan, Sa Huynh, Truong Son, An Qui, Trung Xuan, An Lac, An Lao Valley, Kim Son Valley, Suoi Ca Valley, 506 Valley, Nuoc Dinh Valley, Phu My Valley, Song Re Valley, the Crescent, Nui Mieu, Nui Sang, Cay Giep, Dam Tra-O Lake, Route 1, LZ BRONCO BEACH, LZ CRYSTAL, LZ ENGLISH, LZ GARNET, LZ GERONIMO, LZ GLENN, LZ HAMMOND, LZ IRON, LZ MEADE, LZ PAT, LZ SANDRA, LZ STEEL, LZ TOM, LZ TWO BITS, LZ UPLIFT, Binh Dinh and Quang Ngai Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization (As of 12 Feb): 1 s t Bde: 1-8 Cav, 1-12 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-19 Art (-), D/2-17 Art, C/1-21 Art, A/3-18 Art; 2d Bde: 2-5 Cav, 1-5 Cav (-), 1-7 Cav (-), 2-12 Cav, 1-77 Art (-), B/1-8 Art, A/1-21 Art, C/1-30 Art, B/8th Eng; 3d Bde: 2-8 Cav, C/1-5 Cav, 1-21 Art (-), 2-17 Art (-), C/6-16 Art, C/2-19 Art, C/8th Eng; 3d Bde, 25 t h Inf Div (12 Feb-19 Apr): 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf (4-19 Apr), 2-9 Art, A/1-77 Art, 5-16 Art, C/3-4 Cav, D/65th Eng; Div Arty: 2-20 Art (-), 7-13 Art (-), B/29 Art, E/82 Art, 3-18 Art (-); Div Troops: 1-9 Cav, 8th Eng Bn (-). Intelligence: 3rd PAVN Div: 18th and 22nd PAVN Rgts, 2nd PLAF Rgt. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE ... Results: 5,
388 enemy killed, 2,356 captured, 10,609 detained, 221 returnees, 852 US KIA, 4,119 US WIA, 22 US MIA.

13 Feb. 67-10 Mar. 68
Operation: ENTERPRISE
Location: Tan An, Rach Kien, Ben Luc, Binh Phuoc, Tan Tru, Doi Ma Creek, Plain of Reeds9, Base Area 371, Route 14, Long An Province. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, eagle flights. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 3-39 Inf, 2-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-4 Art, C/15th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PLAF MF Bn, 506th PLAF LF Bn. Execution: ENTERPRISE was the continuation of the pacification effort of Long An Province initiated the previous year by the 25th Inf Div with Operation LANIKAI. On 13 Feb, 3-39 Inf relieved 2-14 Inf at Rach Kien. Strength of division elements in the province were subsequently increased to brigade size with movement of 2-60 Inf into Tan Tru, 5-60 Inf into Binh Phuoc and Headquarters, 3d Bde into Tan An. The first major engagement occurred on 9 Apr when 3-39 Inf made contact with the 506th PLAF Bn on the bank of Doi Ma Creek. Additional companies were brought in, killing 247 of the enemy. On 2 May, the 506th Bn exacted vengeance on the 3-39 Inf, attacking one of its companies in night defensive position near Route 4. 17 US were KIA and 48 WIA but no enemy bodies were found. The operation was temporarily extended north to the Plain of Reeds area on 8-14 May with sub-operation NIRVANA II directed against the enemy's Base Area 371. Elements of the 3d Bde joined forces with the 4/50 ARVN Bn of the 25th ARVN Div but found nothing, killing only 14 of the enemy. On 14 May, the 2nd PLAF Bn struck the compound of the 2/50 ARVN Bn in Rach Kien, killing 31 South Vietnamese soldiers and wounding 34. 3d Bde units were committed but couldn't regain contact with the attacking force. After that, contact with the enemy dropped sharply for the remainder of 1967, indicating an apparent enemy desire to avoid friendly forces. On 31 Jan 68, the brigade responded to the Tet Offensive, 5-60 Inf engaged in heavy fighting southwest of Saigon in Gia Dinh Province, killing 128 enemy soldiers. From 1-5 Feb, 3-39 Inf and 2-60 Inf were sent to Kien Hoa Province to help recapture Ben Tre, the provincial capital. On 10 Feb, the brigade HQ at Tan An came under attack from an unknown size enemy force. 33 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 53 US WIA. During March, brigade elements conducted "Aquabush" operations along the numerous canals south of Saigon in conjunction with the 199th Inf Bde (Lt). Pacification activities decreased sharply during the Tet Offensive and the operation was terminated on 10 March. Results: 2,107 enemy killed, 74 US KIA, 380 US WIA.

14 Feb.67-21 Mar.68
Operation: KITTYHAWK
Location: Long Binh, Xuan Loc, Long Giao, Gia Ray, Suoi Cat, Blackhorse, Route 1, Route 2, Long Khanh and Bien Hoa Province. Type: reconnaissance-in-force, cordon and search, security, road clearing. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div (14 Feb 67-15 Feb 68); 11th ACR (15 Feb-21 Mar 68). Task organization: 3-5 Cav, 1/11 ACR, 2/11 ACR, 3/11 ACR. Intelligence: 275th PLAF Rgt. Execution: The purpose of KITTYHAWK was to secure LOCs and selected installations within Long Khanh Province, conduct reconnaissance-in-force operations and cordon and search of selected hamlets within the AO, secure Blackhorse base camp and the Gia Ray rock quarry and provide ready reaction forces along Route 1. On 21 May, K Troop, 3/11 ACR was ambushed by an estimated reinforced enemy battalion near Suoi Cat on Route 1. 30 enemy are killed, 12 US KIA and 13 US WIA. On 27 Jun 1/11 ACR moved to reinforce the 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn which was in heavy contact with elements of the 3rd Bn, 275th PLAF Rgt, killing 49 of the enemy11. On 30 Dec two enemy companies ambushed Troop C, 3-5 Cav on Route 2. Friendly losses are 10 KIA, 29 WIA and 3 MIA. On 31 Jan 68, in reaction to the VC Tet Offensive, the 3-5 Cav was alerted to respond to enemy activity in the Long Binh-Bien Hoa area. A/3-5 Cav bypassed several roadblocks, breaking through enemy forces and reached the Bien Hoa airfield, sweeping nearby wood lines and killing 40. During the period 2-3 Feb, C/3-5 Cav was sent to defend Xuan Loc against an intense ground attack, killing nearly 50 enemy soldiers. On 15 Feb the KITTYHAWK mission was assumed by the 11th ACR as the 3-5 Cav (-) was directed by HQ USARV to deploy to Da Nang, I CTZ. On 21 Mar, the operation was phased into Operation ALCORN COVE. Results: 201 enemy killed, 7 captured, 1 returnee, 62 US KIA, 224 US WIA.

5 Apr.-11 Oct.
Operation: FRANCIS MARION
Location: Plei Me, Duc Co, Plei Djereng, Plei Mrong, Plei Do Lim, Buon Blech, Se San, Ia Drang, Ia Tchar, Dak Ayun, Dak Payou, Chu Pong, Chu Prong, Chu Goungot, Chu Groh, Route 14, Route 14B, Route 19E, Route 509, Hill 521, LZ OASIS, LZ JACKSON HOLE, Pleiku and Darlac Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: (effective 7 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, B/4-42 Art, C/3-4 Cav (-), A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (-), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, Plt B/1-69 Arm, 4-42 Art (-), B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), Plt C/2-8 Inf (-), Cav Plt 1-10 Cav, B/3-6 Art, A/5-16 Art; TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 26 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), C/4-42 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h In f Div: 2-8 Inf, 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), A/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), A/3-6 Art; TF 3-8 Inf: 3-8 Inf, C/6-29 Art, A/5-16 Art; Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 30 May): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (M), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art, B/4th Eng (-); 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, D/16 Arm, E/17 Cav, 173d Eng Co; TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 5-16 Art (-); Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 24 Sep): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 2-8 Inf (M), 3-8 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), A/4-42 Art,, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div: 1-12 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), B/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: 2-1 Cav, D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Intelligence: B3 Front, 1st NVA Div (32nd, 66th and 88th Rgts), 10th NVA Div (95B and 101C Rgts), 200th NVA Art Bn, 407th PLAF MF Sapper Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn.. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE.... Results: 1,204 enemy killed, 122 detained, 11 returnees, 198 US KIA, 982 US WIA, 8 US MIA.

22 Apr.67-2 Jan 68.
Operation: BAKER
Location: Duc Pho, Mo Duc, Vinh Hien, Tan Phong, Dien Truong, An Ba, An Tach, Song Tra Cau, Song Ve, LZ MONTEZUMA (later renamed LZ BRONCO), LZ GUADALCANAL, LZ OLIVE DRAB, LZ LIZ, LZ DRAGON, RAZORBACK Beach, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde TF, 25th Inf Div (redesignated 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div on 1 Aug). Task organization: 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf, 2-9 Art, C/3-4 Cav, B/1-9 Cav, C/2-34 Arm. Intelligence: 1st PLAF Rgt, 2nd PLAF Rgt, 22nd PAVN Rgt. Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: (no info).

14 May.-7 Dec.
Operation: KOLE KOLE
Location: Duc Hoa, Bao Trai, Hiep Hoa, Loc Giang, Trang Bang, Song Vam Co Dong, Rach Tra, Xinh An Ha, Route 10, Hau Nghia and Tay Ninh Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 1-5 Inf (M), 1-27 Inf, 2-27 Inf, 1-8 Art. Intelligence: 2nd Go Mon and 269th PLAF LF Bns. Execution: Operation KOLE KOLE was initiated by the 2d Bde in Hau Nghia Province using EAGLE FLIGHTS and airmobile operations based on current intelligence. Cordon and search, outposting and country fair operations were also conducted in conjunction with the 25th ARVN Div, CIDG and RF/PF. On 17 May, elements of 1/27 Inf and 2/27 Inf fought an eight-hour engagement west of the Vam Co Dong with a VC company. Results were 27 enemy killed, 2 US KIA and 9 US WIA. There was intermittent contact during June and July, particularly along the An Ha canal and near Loc Giang. The brigade also secured engineer operations along Route 10 to improve the GVN's authority and control west of Trang Bang. In early August, the reconnaissance platoon of 1/27 Inf with helicopter support intercepted VC recon elements from Long An Province, killing 26. During September, KOLE KOLE shifted to northern Hau Nghai and southwestern Tay Ninh Province. 1-5 Inf (M) conducted extensive dismounted ambush patrols around Loc Giang along the Vam Co while 2-27 Inf engaged scattered elements of the 269th PLAF Bn. On 21 Oct, an EAGLE FLIGHT from 1-27 Inf engaged an estimated enemy platoon south of Tay Ninh, killing 18. On 31 Oct, 2-27 Inf made contact with elements of the 2nd Go Mon Bn north of the Rach Tra, killing 28 and capturing 2. Enemy activity decreased for the rest of KOLE KOLE and the brigade concentrated on pacification and land clearing operations. Results: 797 enemy killed, 150 detained, 34 returnees, 144 US KIA, 876 US WIA

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: BARKING SANDS
Location: Cu Chi, Trang Bang, Phu Hoa, Iron Triangle, Ho Bo Woods, Song Saigon, Hau Nghia and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: The 1st Bde employed counter guerrilla warfaretechniques including saturation patrolling, checkmate, bushmaster and cordon and search operations to pacify Cu Chi and Trang Bang Districts in Hau Nghia Province and Phu Hoa District in Binh Duong Province. Buddy operations were also conducted with local PF platoons and RF companies. On 30 Aug, 4-9 Inf conducted an airmobile assault against an entrenched VC battalion in the Iron Triangle resulting in 4 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 43 US WIA. During September, primary emphasis was placed on denying VC access to populated areas during the National Elections. Land clearing operations were also initiated along the Song Saigon to eliminate VC concealment. In October, 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods were cleared by Rome Plows following Operation KUNIA. Contact during BARKING SANDS was limited to squad and platoon size elements and no major engagement occurred. Four sub-operations were conducted in the BARKING SANDS AO during the period: KAWELA, AKUMU,WAIMEA and KUNIA (see individual operations below). Results (inclusive of the four sub-operations): 370 enemy killed, 85 detained, 10 returnees, 110 US KIA, 1114 US WIA.

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: DIAMOND HEAD
Location: Tay Ninh West, Dau Tieng, Suoi Da, Prek Klok, Ben Cui, Michelin Plantation, Boi Loi Woods, The Crescent, The Trapezoid, Tay Ninh and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div33. Task organization: 2-12 Inf, 2-22 Inf (M), 3-22 Inf, 2-77 Art, 2-34 Arm (-) (from 22 Sep), C/1-10 Cav, C/4th Eng. Execution: The mission was to conduct search and destroy operations in Tay Ninh Province, cordon and search operations in the Michelin Plantation, and security and reinforcement missions in the Tay Ninh and Prek Klok areas. With one battalion detached to Operation UNIONTOWN and another providing security for the Dau Tieng and Tay Ninh West base camps, contact in the AO were very limited during the months of May, June and July. On 1 Aug, the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div was redesignated the 3d Bde, 25th Inf Div. No movement of troops or units were involved in this redesignation. On 15 Aug, an airmobile cordon and search of Thanh An was conducted by 3-22 Inf in conjunction with VN National Police. 6 enemy were killed and 42 detained. In September, the brigade provided security during the National elections. In October, continued battalion size search and destroy operations were conducted in the Michelin Plantation to prevent its use as an enemy haven, in and south of Ben Cui, and in the northern portion of the Trapezoid, which extends 15 km to the southeast of Dau Tieng. Bushmaster operations were conducted in an area known as the Crescent, 8 km northwest of Dau Tieng. All operations were marked by extremely light contact. In November, operations were conducted in the upper Boi Loi Woods and in the Ben Cui Plantation, again with light contact. During this period operations were curtailed due to two battalions being opcon to the other brigades. On 25-25 Now, 2-22 Inf (M) made contact with a VC company near the Mushroom bend on the Saigon River, killing 20. This was the last contact during DIAMOND HEAD before the operation came to an end on 7 Dec. Results: 237 enemy killed, 496 detained, 4 returnees. (US losses unknown).

1 Jun.67-7 Feb.68
Operation: HOPTAC
Location: Dong Tam, Dinh Tuong Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: Task Force FUNSTON39. Execution: Operation HOPTAC was an internal defense and development operation in Dinh Tuong Province which included security of the Dong Tam base. Task Force FUNSTON provided land and waterborne security for engineer dredging equipment and maintained a ready reaction force to assist local GVN units and installations if needed. In most cases contact with the VC was characterized by light fire fights and sniper fire. On 1 Feb 68 the enemy fired more than 170 82 mm mortar and 75 mm RR rounds into the base resulting in minor damage and 11 US WIA. In the early morning hours of 3, 4, 5 and 7 Feb, the enemy continued to attack the base with mortar and RR fire. The heaviest attack came on 7 Feb with an estimated 200 rounds fired at the base. Elements of 5-60 Inf and 2-39 Inf conducted reaction airmobile assaults and RIF operations 8 km east of Dong tam, making contact with two VC companies, killing 23 while losing 5 KIA and 11 WIA. Results: 296 enemy killed, 11 captured, 3 returnees, 37 US KIA, 364 US WIA.

18 Jun.-12 Oct.
Operation: GREELEY
Location: Kontum, Dak To, Tan Canh, Dak Seang, Dak Pek, Toumorong, Dak Poko, Dak Akoi, Hill 830, Hill 1338, FSB 4, Kontum Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (24 Jun-25 Jul): 1-7 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-12 Cav, 1-21 Art; 1st ARVN Abn TF (24 Jun-25 Jul): 3d, 5th and 8th ARVN Abn Bns; 24th STZ: 1/42 Inf. Intelligence: 24th and 174th PAVN Rgts, K101D PAVN Bn, 304th PLAF MF Bn, 200th PLAF Art Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn . Execution: From 1-18 Jun, the 173d Abn Bde continued participation in Operation FRANCIS MARION, searching further south and east in the Ia Drang Valley. The brigade deployed the 1-503 Inf and 2-503 Inf into the AO, holding 4-503 Inf in reserve at Catecka. No significant contact was made. On 17 Jun, TF MC QUARRIE (2-503 Inf, E/17 Cav, A/3-319 Art) moved by air and motor convoy to the New Dak To Airfield, joined the following day by 1-503 Inf. The mission, named GREELEY, was to assume opcon of the CIDG Camp at Dak To under threat from the 24th PAVN Rgt and assist in its defense. On 18 Jun, 2-503 Inf began searching south of Dak To toward the huge mass of Hill 1338 (Ngok Bor Beang). C/1-503 Inf was also inserted into the area to search for a missing SF and CIDG team which had been destroyed by the NVA on 15-16 Jun, 1400 meters southwest of their camp. On 22 Jun, after a fruitless search of Hill 1338, 2-503 Inf was instructed to return to Dak To on foot. Shortly after leaving its NDP, A/2-503 bumped into an enemy battalion from the 24th PAVN Rgt42 while descending the slopes of Hill 1338. Two platoons were cut off and annihilated while the rest of the company formed a small perimeter and called supporting fires. Cos B and C were rushed to the rescue but arrived too late. 76 Americans had been killed, some executed point blank by the enemy, and 23 wounded. 106 enemy bodies were counted in the battle area. This action became known as 'The Battle of the Slopes' and as one of the costliest engagement for US forces in Vietnam. Concerned by the size of the battle and the US losses, General Larsen at I FFORCEV decided to reinforce GREELEY. On 23 Jun, 2-12 Cav arrived from the PERSHING AO while the rest of the 173d Abn Bde (CP (-) and 4-503 Inf) closed Dak To from Catecka. The next day, 24 Jun, the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (-) and 1st ARVN Abn TF arrived at Kontum. The Allied forces went after the 24th PAVN Rgt, seeking to destroy it. In the next two weeks, the 173d Abn Bde and 2-12 Cav searched west and south of Dak To while the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div and the ARVN Abn TF entered the Dak Akoi Valley northeast of Kontum and 35 km east of Dak To. The sweep found little evidence of the enemy's presence and on 25 Jul the cavalry brigade returned to the coast, while the Vietnamese task force stood down at Kontum to serve as a mobile reaction force. Southwest of Dak To on 10 Jul, 4-503 Inf, while searching for a regimental headquarters, found an occupied enemy bunker complex on Hill 830. Battle raged until 12 Jul with 22 US KIA and 62 US WIA but only 9 enemy bodies found. This was the last significant contact on the month. On 19 Jul, 2 NVA soldiers rallied at Dak Pek CIDG Camp, stating that they were 42 Later identified as the 6th Bn, 24th PAVN Rgt. from the newly infiltrated 174th PAVN Rgt. They were proved correct on 6 Aug when the 1/42 ARVN Bn made heavy contact with that unit 8 km west of the Dak Seang CIDG Camp. The ARVN Abn TF was rushed into the area and fought a bitter twoday battle to capture a hill believed to have been the location of the regimental CP, killing 189 of the enemy. On 9 Aug, 4-503 Inf moved to Dak Pek, joining the 1-503 Inf already there since 4 Aug, but the two battalions found little. Contacts were so low in August that the 173d Abn Bde was credited with only 4 enemy killed. During the period 1-18 Sep, the brigade continued GREELEY in the Dak To – Dak Seang area, supporting CIDG Operation DARBY, but contact was minimal. On 17 Sep, the brigade (-) began moving by air to Tuy Hoa to begin Operation BOLLING. Only 4-503 Inf and A/3-319 stayed at Dak To, forming Task Force 77 with the 3rd ARVN Abn Bn, 1/42 ARVN Bn and 27th MIKE Force Co for an expedition in the Toumorong Valley that lasted nearly three weeks but found nothing. On 11 Oct, TF 77 was disbanded and that same day, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art departed for Tuy Hoa, terminating Operation GREELEY. Results: 191 enemy killed, 17 captured, 129 US KIA, 210 US WIA. (no info on ARVN losses).

3 Jul.67-7 Apr.68
Operation: RILEY
Location: Bearcat, Camp Martin Cox, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div; TF FORSYTH (from 10 Feb). Task organization: 2-39 Inf, 4-39 Inf, 2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, TF FORSYTH. Execution: Operation RILEY was an internal defense and development operation in Bien Hoa Province and included defense of Camp Martin Cox. When not engaged in strike operations, Headquarters, 1st Bde assumed opcon of all elements engaged in RILEY, including TF FORSYTH (a provisional Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment located at Camp Martin Cox). In the absence of the 1st Bde, TF FORSYTH was allocated sufficient forces to secure the camp and to conduct limited consolidation operations in the area. On 31 Jan 68 in response to the VC Tet Offensive, elements of the 2-47 Inf (M) and 4-39 Inf moved to Long Binh Post for perimeter security. Working in coordination with 2-3 Inf from the 199th Inf Bde (Lt), the two battalions had multiple contacts with the enemy during the day near Ho Nai, killing 213 by bodycount and capturing 32. US losses were 4 KIA and 23 WIA. On 10 Feb 68, the 1st Bde moved to Dong Tam and TF FORSYTH assumed responsibility until termination. Results: 472 enemy killed, 41 detained, 2 returnees, 64 US KIA, 315 US WIA.

8 Jul.-30 Oct.
Operation: MARCH I
Location: Plei Trap Valley, Kontum Province. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: B-50 Det Project OMEGA. Execution: Long range reconnaissance and intelligence gathering conducted in the Plei Trap Valley. Results: (no info).

10 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: FREMONT
Location: Camp Evans, Hill 51, Hill 67, Phong Dien District, Thua Thien Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 4th Marines. Task organization: 2/4 Marines (10 Jul-14 Sep), 3/26 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct). Execution: The 4th Marines initiated Operation FREMONT with its own 2/4 to provide security for Camp Evans, Hill 51, the Phong Dien District Headquarters and a radio transmission site on Hill 67. On 20 Jul, 2/4 provided blocking forces near My Chanh for SLF BRAVO in Operation BEAR CHAIN. BLT 2/3 became opcon to 4th Marines on 22 Jul and joined FREMONT, until back loading on 21 Aug. Contact was sporadic in Aug with only 13 US KIA for the month. During Sep, 2/4 in conjunction with ARVN forces helped secure nearby villages and hamlets during the National Elections. On 14 Sep, 2/4 joined Operation KINGFISHER and was replaced by 3/26 Marines. Contacts remained low until termination, being limited to harassing tactics, mines incidents and sniper fire. Results: 123 enemy killed, 8 captured, 17 US KIA, 196 US WIA.

16 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: KINGFISHER
Location: Dong Ha, Con Thien, Gio Linh, Cua Viet, Ca Lu, Route 9, Route 561, Route 606, Hill 216, C-2, Demilitarized Zone, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d and 9th Marines. Task organization: 3/3 Marines, 2/4 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct), 3/4 Marines, 1/9 Marines, 2/9 Marines, 3/9 Marines, 3/26 Marines (15 Aug-11 Sep), 1st Amtrac Bn. Intelligence: 90th and 812th PAVN Rgts. Execution: KINGFISHER was a continuation of Marine operations south of the DMZ follwing BUFFALO and HICKORY II. Contact was light during the first week. On 21 Jul, 3/3 Marines securing a portion of Route 9 for a 'Rough Rider' convoy bound for Khe Sanh found a NVA battalion dug in on Hill 216 overlooking the road. Tanks, 40mm dusters and artillery pounded the hill and forced the enemy to withdraw. On 28 Jul, 2/9 Marines reinforced with tanks, LVTEs and Ontos was pushing into the DMZ north on Route 606 when it was attacked by an estimated NVA battalion. The column was split in company-size segments and fought desperately all day until reinforcements from 3/4 Marines forced the enemy to break contact. 23 Americans were killed and 251 wounded with only 32 NVA confirmed killed. Ground action was light in early Aug with the largest part of the activity involving artillery attacks on Gio Linh, Con Thien, Cua Viet and Dong Ha. On 21 Aug, an NVA battalion ambushed a small Marine convoy moving from the Rockpile to Ca Lu. Elements form 3/3 were brought in, fighting a six-hour engagement until night fell and the enemy fled to the west. 6 US were killed and 35 wounded, Enemy loses were unknown. The NVA tried again on 7 Sep at almost the same location. This time the battle lasted more than 8 hours. The Marines killed 92 of the enemy while losing 5 KIA and 56 WIA. The Communists tried to disrupt the National Elections on 3 Sep, firing more than 41 rounds of artillery into Dong Ha, damaging 17 helicopters. This attack ended the use of Dong Ha as a permanent helicopter base facility. Con Thien however, remained the primary artillery target for the NVA. On 25 Sep alone, 1,200 rounds slammed into the combat base. On 10 Sep, 3/26 Marines made heavy contact with what seemed to be the entire 812th PAVN Rgt 4 miles southwest of Con Thien. The action lasted for four hours until the enemy broke contact, leaving 140 dead on the battle field. Marine losses had been high also with 34 KIA and 192 WIA, forcing 3/26 to return to Phu Bai the next day to refit. On 21 Sep, 2/9 Marines started a search and destroy operation 1,800 meters east of Con Thien when it ran into heavy resistance from an element of the 90th PAVN Rgt. The battle turned into a stalemate after rain had made the area impassable and both sides withdrew. US casualties were 31 KIA and 118 WIA. Enemy killed were reported at 39. The enemy intensified its attack-by-fire against Con Thien in late Sep, hitting the base with over 3,000 rounds during the period 19-27 Sep. The Americans retaliated by massing one of the greatest concentrations of firepower in support of a single division in the history of the Vietnam War. Marine artillery, ships of the 7th Fleet, Marine and Air Force jets and B-52 bombers poured tons of ordnance into know enemy positions in and north of the DMZ. By the end of Sep, NVA pressure of the outpost had subsided. On 14 Oct, 2/4 Marines was guarding a bridge north of Strong point C-2 when it received a ground attack from an unknown size enemy force. AC-47 gunships helped repel the assault during the night. 21 Americans were killed and 23 wounded. Only 24 NVA bodies were found in the area. The last major action of KINGSIFHER took place during a 9th Marines operation on 25-28 Oct. 2/4 Marines was sweeping north of Con Thien on Route 561 when it was hit by an enemy battalion, beating back several attacks and losing 8 KIA and 45 WIA. Results: 1,117 enemy killed, 5 captured, 340 US KIA, 1,461 US WIA.

17 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: ARDMORE
Location: Khe Sanh, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destro, security. Controlling headquarters: 26th Marines (Forward). Task organization: 1/26 Marines, 3/26 Marines, 1/13 Marines. Execution: Operation ARDMORE was a continuation of Operation CROCKETT and involved the same mission and the same forces. On 21 Jul, B/1/26 and M/3/26 fought a NVA battalion dug on Hill 216 along Route 9 in conjunction with 3/3 Marines from Operation KINGFISHER. Contacts in August were minimal and 3/26 was moved to the KINGFISHER AO on 15 Aug. 1/26 Marines continued patrols and company-size search and destroy operations around Khe Sanh, but with limited contact with the enemy. Results: 113 enemy killed, 6 detained, 10 US KIA, 39 US WIA

27 Jul.-8 Nov.
Operation: SONG THAN 14
Location: Bong Son, Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF BRAVO. Task organization: 1st VNMC BN, 2nd VNMC Bn (27 Jul-4 Oct), 3rd VNMC Bn (4 Oct-6 Nov), C/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: On 27 Jul, TF BRAVO relieved TF ALPHA at Bong Son AF and continued search and destroy operations south of Bong Son in conjunction with Operation PERSHING. Results: (no info)

31 Jul.-3 Nov.
Operation: DAN QUYEN 822
Location: Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 22nd ARVN Division. Results: 141 enemy killed, 181 detained, 44 ARVN KIA, 74 ARVN WIA 3 ARVN MIA.

11 Aug.-21 Oct.
Operation: SONG THAN/701/67
Location: Tan Uyen, Bien Hoa Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF ALPHA. Task organization: 2nd VNMC Bn (10-21 Oct), 4th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-10 Oct), 5th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-15 Sep), 6th VNMC Bn (15 Sep-21 Oct), B/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: Operation conducted in the Tan Uyen area in coordination with the US 1st Inf Div. Results: (no info)

16 Aug-31 Oct.
Operation: 8-67/SAMURAI II & III
Location: A Shau Valley, Happy Valley, Thuat Thien and Quang Nam Provinces. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: Det B-52 Project DELTA,81st ARVN Abn Rgr Bn. Execution: Operation searched areas from the northern stretches of the A Shau Valley into Happy Valley, west of Da Nang. Results: (no info).

1 Sep.-17 Nov.
Operation: STRIKE I
Location: Bien Hoa, Long Binh, AO STRIKE, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 2-47 Inf (M). Execution: Operation STRIKE I was conducted to provide security for the Bien Hoa-Long Binh complex and to prevent rocket attacks. On 17 Nov, STRIKE I was combined with Operation UNIONTOWN. Results: (no info).

5 Sep.-30 Oct.
Operation: DRAGON FIRE
Location: Batangan Peninsula, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d ROKMC Bde. Task organization: 1st, 2d and 5th ROKMC Bns. Execution: The 2d ROKMC Bde conducted this operation to clear insurgent elements from the Batagan Peninsula. Results: 541 enemy killed, 17 captured, 121 detained, 45 ROKMC KIA, 200 ROKMC WIA, 3 USMC WIA.

11 Sep-25 Nov.
Operation: WHEELER
Location: Tien Phuoc, Hiep Duc, Song Tranh, Song Chang, Base Area 116, Base Area 117, UDEN AO, Quang Tin Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 101st Abn Div. Task organization: 1-327 Inf, 2-327 Inf, 2-502 Inf, 1-14 Inf (11-24 Sep), 1-35 Inf (4 Oct-4 Nov), 2-320 Art, A/2-9 Art (4 Oct-4 Nov), B/2-9 Art (11-24 Sep), C/3-16 Art, B/1-9 Cav (2-4 Oct), A/2-17 Cav (17-25 Nov), A/326th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PAVN Div (1st PLAF Rgt, 3rd and 21st PAVN Rgts). Execution: ... SEE PREVIOUS DAY FOR INFORMATION... Results were 9 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 18 US WIA. With the 2nd PAVN Div elements avoiding contact during the period 28 Oct-4 Nov, increased emphasis was placed on attempting to locate the division. On 5 Nov, 1-35 Inf was released from operational control of the brigade and placed under opcon of the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div conducting Operation WALLOWA in the Que Son Basin. The last phase of WHEELER (6-25 Nov) saw 2-327 Inf being air-assaulted into the western portion of BA 116 while 1-327 Inf and 2-502 Inf established blocking positions. On 11 Nov, C/2-327 Inf engaged an NVA company in the Song Chang Valley 4 km east of Hiep Duc. 14 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 5 US WIA. This marked the last significant contact of WHEELER, after that, the badly hurt 2nd PAVN Div avoided any further contact. From 23-25 Nov, brigade elements were relieved in place by elements of the 196th Inf Bde (Lt)61 and displaced to Tam Ky Airfield to move by air to the brigade main base camp at Phan Rang for a four-day stand down and preparation for future operations. Results: 1,105 enemy killed, 50 captured, 445 detained, 11 returnees, 124 US KIA, 465 US WIA.

12 Sep-10 Oct.
Operation: CORONADO V
Location: Dong Tam, Cai Lay, Cam Son Secret Zone, Ban Long Base Area, Loi Quan Island, Song My Tho, Rach Ba Rai, Rach Ben Tre, Route 20, Ding Tuong and Kien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div (MRF); 7th ARVN Div. Task organization: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div: 3-47 Inf (12-17 Sep), 4-47 Inf (17 Sep-10 Oct), 3-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-60 Inf (-)(15-17 Sep), 3-34 Art, D/15th Eng, USN TF 117; 7th ARVN Div: 10th ARVN Rgt, 41st ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 263rd and 506th PLAF Bns. Execution: On 11 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Vung Tau to Dong Tam again and began Operation CORONADO V aimed at the 263rd PLAF Bn which had returned to the Cam Son Secret Zone. On 12 Sep, 3-47 Inf swept north from landing sites on the My Tho but turned up almost nothing. The next day, 3-60 Inf and 5-60 Inf (M) with help from the 7th ARVN Div62 began a sweep of the Ban Long area to the east and made contact with what appeared to be a VC covering force near the site of the VNMC heavy contact in July. The enemy withdrew under cover of darkness, leaving 63 bodies behind. As US and ARVN forces left the Ban Long on 14 Sep, the 7th ARVN Div reported that a large force, presumably the 263rd PLAF Bn, remained in the Cam Son, only a few kilometers north from areas previously swept. On 15 Sep, as 5-60 Inf (M) moved overland via Route 20, 3-60 Inf and 3-47 Inf sailed via the Song My Tho up the Rach Ba Rai between the My Tho and the town of Cai Lay. While 3-47 Inf landed unopposed over WHITE Beach, 3-60 Inf ran into two companies of the 263rd lined up in ambush positions along the east bank of the Ba Rai. Some of the boats managed to run the gauntlet but were forced to turn back as most of the column failed to follow. Two companies from 2-60 Inf were helicoptered from Long An Province to encircle the enemy. The battle lasted until nightfall but when the Americans entered the deserted ambush site the next day they found only 24 enemy killed. On 17 Sep the MRF returned to Dong Tam where 4-47 Inf rotated aboard the ships of the MRF replacing 3-47 Inf. On 20 Sep, the MRF displaced to Kien Hoa Province and began widely separated operations in Ham Long, Giong Trom and Huong My Districts, looking for the 516th PLAF Bn but no major contact took place. On 27 Sep, ATCs performing mine sweeping duties along the Rach Ben Tre received heavy RPG, recoilless and automatic weapons fire. 3 sailors were killed and 6 wounded. On 28 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Dong Tam to the northern end of Loi Quan Island between the Cua Dai and Cua Tieu to reduce logistic distances. Operations in Kien Hoa were in close cooperation with the 10th ARVN Rgt and a composite RF battalions but only sporadic contact was made. On 5-7 Oct the MRF returned to the Ban Long but had only limited contact with elements of the 263rd PLAF Bn and on 10 Sep it displaced to Vung Tau to prepare for CORONADO VI. Results: 330 enemy killed, 235 detained, 2 returnees, 35 US KIA, 175 US WIA.

16 Sep.-29 Oct.
Operation: KUNIA
Location: Ho Bo Woods, Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 3-22 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: Operation KUNIA was conducted as part of BARKING SANDS with the 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div initiating search and destroy operations in the Ho Bo Woods in preparation for the arrival of a land clearing team of thirty Rome Plows. By the end of October 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods had been cleared. Results: (included in BARKING SANDS).

17-25 Sep.
Operation: FORTRESS SENTRY
Location: An My, Cua Viet, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: SLF BRAVO. Task organization: BLT 2/3 Marines, 1st Amph Tractor Bn. Execution: On 17 Sep the BLT landed on the northern bank of the Cua Viet and began a sweep north toward the DMZ with the 1st ARVN Div screening the left flank. On 23 Sep, about 100 NVA soldiers attacked the battalion, but it broke up the probe with the assistance of helicopter gunships. On the morning of 24 Sep, the Marines engaged another enemy force near the village of An My, 5 km east of Gio Linh. The following day the operation ended and BLT 2/3 phased into Operation KINGFISHER to the west. Results: (no info).

19 Sep. 67-31 Jan. 69
Operation: BOLLING/DAN HOA
Location: Tuy Hoa, Phu Hiep, Binh Tinh, Ma Hoa, AO BLACK, Song Ky Lo, Song Da Rang, Suoi Cai, Phu Yen and Phu Bon Provinces. Type: search and destroy, reconnaissance-in-force, pacification, rice protection. Controlling headquarters: 173d Abn Bde (19 Sep 67-8 Feb 68, 1 Apr 68-31 Jan 69); I FFORCEV (8 Feb-1 Apr 68); 22nd ARVN Div. Task organization: 1-503 Inf (19 Sep-6 Nov 67), 2-503 Inf (12 Oct-6 Nov 67), 3-503 Inf (5 Nov 67-16 Jan 68), 4-503 Inf (19 Sep-1 Nov 67, 16 Dec 67-31 Jan 69), TF 2-8 Cav (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), 3-319 Art, C/2-19 Art (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 47th ARVN Rgt. Intelligence: 5th PAVN Div (18B and 95th PAVN Rgts), 30th and 95th PLAF LF Bns, K65 and K76 Sapper Cos. Execution: During the period 14-19 Sep, the bulk of the brigade (minus 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art) was relocated by air from Dak To to Tuy Hoa to commence long-term Operation BOLLING in cooperation with the 47th ARVN Rgt. The 2-8 Cav was opconed to the brigade until 14 Oct to compensate for 2-503 Inf remaining at Dak To, and was air-assaulted into the BOLLING AO on 19 Sep. The operation was designed to provide security for the local rice harvest. Daily contact was maintained with enemy forces in September and October but seldom larger than squad size. During October, the brigade relocated its rear base camp facility from Bien Hoa to An Khe, moving by sea via Saigon and Qui Nhon. On 12 Oct, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 returned from the Highlands, relieving TF 2-8 Cav and on 22 Oct, the new 3-503 Inf arrived in-country from Fort Bragg, undergoing jungle training in An Khe prior to deployment to the BOLLING AO. On 1 Nov, 4-503 Inf was alerted for immediate departure for Dak To, followed five days later by the brigade minus (headquarters, 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 3-319 Art). On 5 Nov, 3-503 Inf arrived at Tuy Hoa from An Khe and assumed responsibility for Operation BOLLING. Contact continued to be light in November; on 16 Dec, the brigade headquarters, 4-503 Inf and C and D/3-319 Art were redeployed from Operation MACARTHUR, closing into the BOLLING AO that same day. On 27 Dec, 3-503 Inf conducted a series of combat assaults into the Song Ky Lo Valley 15 km northwest of Dong Tre and engaged two enemy companies. Elements of 4-503 Inf reinforced the battle area until contact was lost on 29 Dec. Results were 62 enemy killed, 12 US KIA and 34 US WIA. Contact was infrequent in January and a battalion task force built around 3-503 Inf moved to An Khe on 16 Jan 68 to assume responsibility of the Operation DAZZLEM AO63 from the departing 1st Cav Div. On 30 Jan, the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt attacked several targets in the Tuy Hoa area as part of the enemy's Tet Offensive, including a FSB held by C/6-32 Art, the Binh Tin hamlet, Tuy Hoa North AF and the provincial prison. D/4-503 Inf and two companies from the 2nd Bn, 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked toward the airfield and by 0730 on 31 Jan, the enemy force was surrounded and destroyed in Binh Tin hamlet. On 5-6 Feb, two battalions of the 47th ARVN Rgt and RF elements reduced an enemy strong point in the center of Tuy Hoa. During the fighting in and around Tuy Hoa, 316 enemy had been killed and 104 captured. During February, 4-503 Inf in conjunction with Strike Force elements from Cung Son and Dong Tre CIDG Camps, and Task Force MITCHELL (E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm) conducted search and destroy operations west of Tuy Hoa and helped mop up the aftermath of the Tet Offensive. It also provided security for the 577th Eng C Bn and 173d Eng Co working on Routes 7B and 436. On 8 Feb, the 173d Abn Bde (-) departed Tuy Hoa to assumed Opcon of TF POWERHOUSE (1-503 and 2-503 Inf) in Kontum Province in the MACARTHUR AO. Operation BOLLING passed under control of I FFORCEV which assumed opcon of TF 4-503 build around 4-503 Inf, Btys C and D, 3-319 Art and D/16 Arm. A major contact developed on 4 Mar when the 47th ARVN Rgt contacted the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt and 85th PLAF Bn in three hamlets along the coast just north of Tuy Hoa. D/16 Arm and elements of the 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked while the 47th ARVN Rgt provided blocking positions. D/16 was credited with 137 NVA killed during the action while suffering 10 KIA and 21 WIA. Contact during the rest of March was sporadic in the BOLLING AO. On 1 Apr, the brigade returned from the Highlands, relieving the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div at Bong Son64 and assumed control over TF 4-503 again. Contact was light during the month of April except on the 5th when D/16 Arm again supported the 47th ARVN Rgt in heavy contact with two enemy battalions at Ma Hoa village in Tuy Hoa Valley just off Route 7B north of the Song Da Rang. In May, 4-503 Inf conducted extensive bushmaster operations, on 2 May, Co B killed 8 enemy soldiers in the Suoi Cai Valley 18 km west of Tuy Hoa. In June, the enemy continued to avoid decisive contact with Allied force, relying on harassing tactics instead. During the period 16-27 Jul, 4-503 Inf conducted search and clear operations in AO BLACK located 25 km southwest of Cung Son on the Phu Bon and Darlac provincial boundary but there was no significant contact. On 30 July, 4-503 Inf joined the 3/47 ARVN Bn and elements of the 26th ROK Rgt to conduct a combined operation in the Song Ky Lo Valley but contact was again limited. Prisoners confirmed that the bulk of the 18B and 95th PAVN Rgts had departed Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa Province to refit in Cambodia. Contact remained light for the rest of Operation BOLLING, limited to engagements with squad-size enemy forces and booby traps incidents. On 1 Feb 69 the BOLLING/DAN HOA AO became a permanent TAOR called LY DO/WAINWRIGHT. Results: 715 enemy killed, 72 US KIA, 307 US WIA (no info on ARVN casualties).

22-28 Sep.
Operation: RICHMOND
Location: Dinh Quan, Route 20, Long Khanh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 11th ACR. Task organization: 3/11 ACR, 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn, 5th ARVN ACR (elts). Execution: The squadron provided security for engineer road repair efforts north of Dinh Quan along Route 20 in coordination with ARVN forces. There was no contact with enemy forces. Upon termination, the squadron returned to Blackhorse to resume Operation KITTYHAWK. Results: (no info).

22-28 Sep.
Operation: SHELBYVILLE
Location: Hoi An, Dai Loc, Liberty Bridge, Quang Nam Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Mar Div. Task organization: 2/1 Marines, 3/5 Marines, BLT 1/3 Marines, 1/11 Marines. Execution: SHELBYVILLE took place west of Hoi An, 6 km southeast of Dai Loc. BLT 1/3 conducted an airmobile assault on the objective area while 2/1 Marines occupied blocking positions to the east and 3/5 Marines blocked to the south. No major contact developed however but there were numerous cases of booby traps incidents. Results: 50 enemy killed, 1 captured, 59 detained, 10 US KIA, 69 US WIA.

22-29 Sep.
Operation: DO KAE BI 3
Location: Canh Phuoc, Phu Yen Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: WHRID. Task organization: 28th ROK Rgt (-). Execution: operation took place 8 km south of Van Canh. Results: 103 enemy killed (no info on friendly casualties)

23-28 Sep.
Operation: BLUEFIELD II
Location: Lai Khe, Bau Bang, Bo La, Route 301, Binh Duong Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div. Task organization: 1-2 Inf, 2-2 Inf (M), 1-26 Inf, 2-28 Inf, 1-4 Cav (-), 2-33 Art. Execution: (no info). Results: 2 enemy captured, 1 US WIA.

24 Sep.-9 Oct.
Operation: ARKANSAS CITY II
Location: Phuoc Tuy Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 11th ACR. Execution: (no info)

New Operations

25-26 Sep. Operation: LONG PHI/9/130
Location: Vinh Long Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 9th ARVN Div. Execution: operation
conducted 15 km west of Vinh Long by elts of the 9th ARVN Div
supported by RAGs 23 and 31. Results: 6 enemy killed, 6 captured, 14 detained.

Other

None

[Jason Petho]

Ongoing Operations today in 1967

26 Aug.66-20 Jan.68
Operation: BYRD
Location: Phan Thiet, LZ BETTY, Binh Thuan Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: I FFORCEV. Task organization: TF 2-7: 2-7 Cav, C/1-9 Cav, A/1-21 Art, C/2-20 Art (-), C/8th Eng Bn (-), C/229th Avn Bn, Det 228th Avn Bn. Execution: Planned as a short-term, economy-of-force measure, BYRD became a continuous offensive that would last into 1968. Upon I FFORCEV request, the 1st Cav Div detached at battalion-size task force to help pacify isolated Binh Thuan Province in southern II Corps. Results (at year's end): 351 enemy killed, 151 detained, 8 US KIA, 85 US WIA.

1 Oct.66-17 Jan 68
Operation: DAZZLEM
Location: Camp Radcliff, An Khe, Binh Dinh Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization: Base Defense Task Force. Execution: Operation DAZZLEM was the contingency plan for the defense of Camp Radcliff provided by one infantry battalion with supporting artillery and
reinforcing personnel from residence units. On 17 Jan 68, the 173d Abn Bde relieved the 1st Cav Div from the mission of defending An Khe. Results: 80 enemy killed, 9 detained.

11 Oct.66-17 Nov.67
Operation: UNIONTOWN II
Location: Long Binh, Bien Hoa Province Type: security. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV. Execution: Operation UNIONTOWN was a security operation designed to protect the Long Binh logistical complex, RMK Rock Quarry and II FFORCEV Headquarters. Units were assigned on a rotation basis from each major command under II FFORCEV.

30 Nov. 66-15 Dec.67
Operation: FAIRFAX/RANG DONG
Location: Nha Be, Thu Duc and Binh Chanh Districts, Gia Dinh Province. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV, CMD. Task organization: 1st Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 2-16 Inf; 4th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3-22 Inf; 25th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 4-9 Inf; CMD (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3rd and 5th ARVN Abn Bns, 30th Ranger Bn; 199th LIB (31 Jan-15 Dec.): 2-3 Inf, 3-7 Inf, 4-12 Inf, 2-40 Art; 5th ARVN Ranger Group (31 Jan.-15 Dec): 30th, 33rd and 38th ARVN Ranger Bns. Intelligence: Military Region 4, 165A PLAF Regiment. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE... Results (end of 1966): 149 enemy killed, 40 detained, 11 US KIA, 67 US WIA, 23 ARVN KIA, 58 ARVN WIA, 1 ARVN MIA.

8 Feb.67-31 Jan.68
Operation: LAM SON 67
Location: Phu Loi, An My, Ong Dong Jungle, Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, security, jungle clearing. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 1st Inf Div (8 Feb-17 Mar, 17 Apr 67-31 Jan 68); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (17 Mar-17 Apr). Task organization: 1st Inf Div Revolutionary Development Task Force (various infantry, cavalry and support units were assigned on a rotation basis during the period). Execution: The operation supported the GVN's Revolutionary Development Program in conjunction with ARVN units in Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. LAM SON 67 consisted of cordon and search, reconnaissance in force, harassment, jungle clearing, population control, civic action and psychological warfare operations directed against priority targets. Contact in the AO was characterized by light sporadic incidents with local VC elements. On 6 Jan 68, the Phu Loi base camp received 123 rounds of mixed mortar fire, 46 aircraft were damaged and 6 US WIA. Reacting to the attack, A/2-18 Inf and B/2-2 Inf (M) swept the area to the north of the base and contacted two enemy companies of the Phu Loi PLAF Bn. 92 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 14 US WIA. Operation LAM SON 67 was terminated on 31 Jan 68 with the beginning of the enemy's Tet Offensive. Results: 527 enemy killed, 263 captured, 2,327 detained, 346 defectors, 56 US KIA, 572 US WIA.

12 Feb. 67-18 Jan. 68
Operation: PERSHING
Location: Bong Son, Tuy An, Tam Quan, Hoa Tan, Sa Huynh, Truong Son, An Qui, Trung Xuan, An Lac, An Lao Valley, Kim Son Valley, Suoi Ca Valley, 506 Valley, Nuoc Dinh Valley, Phu My Valley, Song Re Valley, the Crescent, Nui Mieu, Nui Sang, Cay Giep, Dam Tra-O Lake, Route 1, LZ BRONCO BEACH, LZ CRYSTAL, LZ ENGLISH, LZ GARNET, LZ GERONIMO, LZ GLENN, LZ HAMMOND, LZ IRON, LZ MEADE, LZ PAT, LZ SANDRA, LZ STEEL, LZ TOM, LZ TWO BITS, LZ UPLIFT, Binh Dinh and Quang Ngai Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization (As of 12 Feb): 1 s t Bde: 1-8 Cav, 1-12 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-19 Art (-), D/2-17 Art, C/1-21 Art, A/3-18 Art; 2d Bde: 2-5 Cav, 1-5 Cav (-), 1-7 Cav (-), 2-12 Cav, 1-77 Art (-), B/1-8 Art, A/1-21 Art, C/1-30 Art, B/8th Eng; 3d Bde: 2-8 Cav, C/1-5 Cav, 1-21 Art (-), 2-17 Art (-), C/6-16 Art, C/2-19 Art, C/8th Eng; 3d Bde, 25 t h Inf Div (12 Feb-19 Apr): 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf (4-19 Apr), 2-9 Art, A/1-77 Art, 5-16 Art, C/3-4 Cav, D/65th Eng; Div Arty: 2-20 Art (-), 7-13 Art (-), B/29 Art, E/82 Art, 3-18 Art (-); Div Troops: 1-9 Cav, 8th Eng Bn (-). Intelligence: 3rd PAVN Div: 18th and 22nd PAVN Rgts, 2nd PLAF Rgt. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE ... Results: 5,
388 enemy killed, 2,356 captured, 10,609 detained, 221 returnees, 852 US KIA, 4,119 US WIA, 22 US MIA.

13 Feb. 67-10 Mar. 68
Operation: ENTERPRISE
Location: Tan An, Rach Kien, Ben Luc, Binh Phuoc, Tan Tru, Doi Ma Creek, Plain of Reeds9, Base Area 371, Route 14, Long An Province. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, eagle flights. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 3-39 Inf, 2-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-4 Art, C/15th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PLAF MF Bn, 506th PLAF LF Bn. Execution: ENTERPRISE was the continuation of the pacification effort of Long An Province initiated the previous year by the 25th Inf Div with Operation LANIKAI. On 13 Feb, 3-39 Inf relieved 2-14 Inf at Rach Kien. Strength of division elements in the province were subsequently increased to brigade size with movement of 2-60 Inf into Tan Tru, 5-60 Inf into Binh Phuoc and Headquarters, 3d Bde into Tan An. The first major engagement occurred on 9 Apr when 3-39 Inf made contact with the 506th PLAF Bn on the bank of Doi Ma Creek. Additional companies were brought in, killing 247 of the enemy. On 2 May, the 506th Bn exacted vengeance on the 3-39 Inf, attacking one of its companies in night defensive position near Route 4. 17 US were KIA and 48 WIA but no enemy bodies were found. The operation was temporarily extended north to the Plain of Reeds area on 8-14 May with sub-operation NIRVANA II directed against the enemy's Base Area 371. Elements of the 3d Bde joined forces with the 4/50 ARVN Bn of the 25th ARVN Div but found nothing, killing only 14 of the enemy. On 14 May, the 2nd PLAF Bn struck the compound of the 2/50 ARVN Bn in Rach Kien, killing 31 South Vietnamese soldiers and wounding 34. 3d Bde units were committed but couldn't regain contact with the attacking force. After that, contact with the enemy dropped sharply for the remainder of 1967, indicating an apparent enemy desire to avoid friendly forces. On 31 Jan 68, the brigade responded to the Tet Offensive, 5-60 Inf engaged in heavy fighting southwest of Saigon in Gia Dinh Province, killing 128 enemy soldiers. From 1-5 Feb, 3-39 Inf and 2-60 Inf were sent to Kien Hoa Province to help recapture Ben Tre, the provincial capital. On 10 Feb, the brigade HQ at Tan An came under attack from an unknown size enemy force. 33 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 53 US WIA. During March, brigade elements conducted "Aquabush" operations along the numerous canals south of Saigon in conjunction with the 199th Inf Bde (Lt). Pacification activities decreased sharply during the Tet Offensive and the operation was terminated on 10 March. Results: 2,107 enemy killed, 74 US KIA, 380 US WIA.

14 Feb.67-21 Mar.68
Operation: KITTYHAWK
Location: Long Binh, Xuan Loc, Long Giao, Gia Ray, Suoi Cat, Blackhorse, Route 1, Route 2, Long Khanh and Bien Hoa Province. Type: reconnaissance-in-force, cordon and search, security, road clearing. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div (14 Feb 67-15 Feb 68); 11th ACR (15 Feb-21 Mar 68). Task organization: 3-5 Cav, 1/11 ACR, 2/11 ACR, 3/11 ACR. Intelligence: 275th PLAF Rgt. Execution: The purpose of KITTYHAWK was to secure LOCs and selected installations within Long Khanh Province, conduct reconnaissance-in-force operations and cordon and search of selected hamlets within the AO, secure Blackhorse base camp and the Gia Ray rock quarry and provide ready reaction forces along Route 1. On 21 May, K Troop, 3/11 ACR was ambushed by an estimated reinforced enemy battalion near Suoi Cat on Route 1. 30 enemy are killed, 12 US KIA and 13 US WIA. On 27 Jun 1/11 ACR moved to reinforce the 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn which was in heavy contact with elements of the 3rd Bn, 275th PLAF Rgt, killing 49 of the enemy11. On 30 Dec two enemy companies ambushed Troop C, 3-5 Cav on Route 2. Friendly losses are 10 KIA, 29 WIA and 3 MIA. On 31 Jan 68, in reaction to the VC Tet Offensive, the 3-5 Cav was alerted to respond to enemy activity in the Long Binh-Bien Hoa area. A/3-5 Cav bypassed several roadblocks, breaking through enemy forces and reached the Bien Hoa airfield, sweeping nearby wood lines and killing 40. During the period 2-3 Feb, C/3-5 Cav was sent to defend Xuan Loc against an intense ground attack, killing nearly 50 enemy soldiers. On 15 Feb the KITTYHAWK mission was assumed by the 11th ACR as the 3-5 Cav (-) was directed by HQ USARV to deploy to Da Nang, I CTZ. On 21 Mar, the operation was phased into Operation ALCORN COVE. Results: 201 enemy killed, 7 captured, 1 returnee, 62 US KIA, 224 US WIA.

5 Apr.-11 Oct.
Operation: FRANCIS MARION
Location: Plei Me, Duc Co, Plei Djereng, Plei Mrong, Plei Do Lim, Buon Blech, Se San, Ia Drang, Ia Tchar, Dak Ayun, Dak Payou, Chu Pong, Chu Prong, Chu Goungot, Chu Groh, Route 14, Route 14B, Route 19E, Route 509, Hill 521, LZ OASIS, LZ JACKSON HOLE, Pleiku and Darlac Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: (effective 7 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, B/4-42 Art, C/3-4 Cav (-), A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (-), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, Plt B/1-69 Arm, 4-42 Art (-), B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), Plt C/2-8 Inf (-), Cav Plt 1-10 Cav, B/3-6 Art, A/5-16 Art; TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 26 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), C/4-42 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h In f Div: 2-8 Inf, 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), A/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), A/3-6 Art; TF 3-8 Inf: 3-8 Inf, C/6-29 Art, A/5-16 Art; Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 30 May): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (M), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art, B/4th Eng (-); 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, D/16 Arm, E/17 Cav, 173d Eng Co; TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 5-16 Art (-); Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 24 Sep): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 2-8 Inf (M), 3-8 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), A/4-42 Art,, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div: 1-12 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), B/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: 2-1 Cav, D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Intelligence: B3 Front, 1st NVA Div (32nd, 66th and 88th Rgts), 10th NVA Div (95B and 101C Rgts), 200th NVA Art Bn, 407th PLAF MF Sapper Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn.. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE.... Results: 1,204 enemy killed, 122 detained, 11 returnees, 198 US KIA, 982 US WIA, 8 US MIA.

22 Apr.67-2 Jan 68.
Operation: BAKER
Location: Duc Pho, Mo Duc, Vinh Hien, Tan Phong, Dien Truong, An Ba, An Tach, Song Tra Cau, Song Ve, LZ MONTEZUMA (later renamed LZ BRONCO), LZ GUADALCANAL, LZ OLIVE DRAB, LZ LIZ, LZ DRAGON, RAZORBACK Beach, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde TF, 25th Inf Div (redesignated 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div on 1 Aug). Task organization: 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf, 2-9 Art, C/3-4 Cav, B/1-9 Cav, C/2-34 Arm. Intelligence: 1st PLAF Rgt, 2nd PLAF Rgt, 22nd PAVN Rgt. Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: (no info).

14 May.-7 Dec.
Operation: KOLE KOLE
Location: Duc Hoa, Bao Trai, Hiep Hoa, Loc Giang, Trang Bang, Song Vam Co Dong, Rach Tra, Xinh An Ha, Route 10, Hau Nghia and Tay Ninh Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 1-5 Inf (M), 1-27 Inf, 2-27 Inf, 1-8 Art. Intelligence: 2nd Go Mon and 269th PLAF LF Bns. Execution: Operation KOLE KOLE was initiated by the 2d Bde in Hau Nghia Province using EAGLE FLIGHTS and airmobile operations based on current intelligence. Cordon and search, outposting and country fair operations were also conducted in conjunction with the 25th ARVN Div, CIDG and RF/PF. On 17 May, elements of 1/27 Inf and 2/27 Inf fought an eight-hour engagement west of the Vam Co Dong with a VC company. Results were 27 enemy killed, 2 US KIA and 9 US WIA. There was intermittent contact during June and July, particularly along the An Ha canal and near Loc Giang. The brigade also secured engineer operations along Route 10 to improve the GVN's authority and control west of Trang Bang. In early August, the reconnaissance platoon of 1/27 Inf with helicopter support intercepted VC recon elements from Long An Province, killing 26. During September, KOLE KOLE shifted to northern Hau Nghai and southwestern Tay Ninh Province. 1-5 Inf (M) conducted extensive dismounted ambush patrols around Loc Giang along the Vam Co while 2-27 Inf engaged scattered elements of the 269th PLAF Bn. On 21 Oct, an EAGLE FLIGHT from 1-27 Inf engaged an estimated enemy platoon south of Tay Ninh, killing 18. On 31 Oct, 2-27 Inf made contact with elements of the 2nd Go Mon Bn north of the Rach Tra, killing 28 and capturing 2. Enemy activity decreased for the rest of KOLE KOLE and the brigade concentrated on pacification and land clearing operations. Results: 797 enemy killed, 150 detained, 34 returnees, 144 US KIA, 876 US WIA

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: BARKING SANDS
Location: Cu Chi, Trang Bang, Phu Hoa, Iron Triangle, Ho Bo Woods, Song Saigon, Hau Nghia and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: The 1st Bde employed counter guerrilla warfaretechniques including saturation patrolling, checkmate, bushmaster and cordon and search operations to pacify Cu Chi and Trang Bang Districts in Hau Nghia Province and Phu Hoa District in Binh Duong Province. Buddy operations were also conducted with local PF platoons and RF companies. On 30 Aug, 4-9 Inf conducted an airmobile assault against an entrenched VC battalion in the Iron Triangle resulting in 4 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 43 US WIA. During September, primary emphasis was placed on denying VC access to populated areas during the National Elections. Land clearing operations were also initiated along the Song Saigon to eliminate VC concealment. In October, 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods were cleared by Rome Plows following Operation KUNIA. Contact during BARKING SANDS was limited to squad and platoon size elements and no major engagement occurred. Four sub-operations were conducted in the BARKING SANDS AO during the period: KAWELA, AKUMU,WAIMEA and KUNIA (see individual operations below). Results (inclusive of the four sub-operations): 370 enemy killed, 85 detained, 10 returnees, 110 US KIA, 1114 US WIA.

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: DIAMOND HEAD
Location: Tay Ninh West, Dau Tieng, Suoi Da, Prek Klok, Ben Cui, Michelin Plantation, Boi Loi Woods, The Crescent, The Trapezoid, Tay Ninh and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div33. Task organization: 2-12 Inf, 2-22 Inf (M), 3-22 Inf, 2-77 Art, 2-34 Arm (-) (from 22 Sep), C/1-10 Cav, C/4th Eng. Execution: The mission was to conduct search and destroy operations in Tay Ninh Province, cordon and search operations in the Michelin Plantation, and security and reinforcement missions in the Tay Ninh and Prek Klok areas. With one battalion detached to Operation UNIONTOWN and another providing security for the Dau Tieng and Tay Ninh West base camps, contact in the AO were very limited during the months of May, June and July. On 1 Aug, the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div was redesignated the 3d Bde, 25th Inf Div. No movement of troops or units were involved in this redesignation. On 15 Aug, an airmobile cordon and search of Thanh An was conducted by 3-22 Inf in conjunction with VN National Police. 6 enemy were killed and 42 detained. In September, the brigade provided security during the National elections. In October, continued battalion size search and destroy operations were conducted in the Michelin Plantation to prevent its use as an enemy haven, in and south of Ben Cui, and in the northern portion of the Trapezoid, which extends 15 km to the southeast of Dau Tieng. Bushmaster operations were conducted in an area known as the Crescent, 8 km northwest of Dau Tieng. All operations were marked by extremely light contact. In November, operations were conducted in the upper Boi Loi Woods and in the Ben Cui Plantation, again with light contact. During this period operations were curtailed due to two battalions being opcon to the other brigades. On 25-25 Now, 2-22 Inf (M) made contact with a VC company near the Mushroom bend on the Saigon River, killing 20. This was the last contact during DIAMOND HEAD before the operation came to an end on 7 Dec. Results: 237 enemy killed, 496 detained, 4 returnees. (US losses unknown).

1 Jun.67-7 Feb.68
Operation: HOPTAC
Location: Dong Tam, Dinh Tuong Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: Task Force FUNSTON39. Execution: Operation HOPTAC was an internal defense and development operation in Dinh Tuong Province which included security of the Dong Tam base. Task Force FUNSTON provided land and waterborne security for engineer dredging equipment and maintained a ready reaction force to assist local GVN units and installations if needed. In most cases contact with the VC was characterized by light fire fights and sniper fire. On 1 Feb 68 the enemy fired more than 170 82 mm mortar and 75 mm RR rounds into the base resulting in minor damage and 11 US WIA. In the early morning hours of 3, 4, 5 and 7 Feb, the enemy continued to attack the base with mortar and RR fire. The heaviest attack came on 7 Feb with an estimated 200 rounds fired at the base. Elements of 5-60 Inf and 2-39 Inf conducted reaction airmobile assaults and RIF operations 8 km east of Dong tam, making contact with two VC companies, killing 23 while losing 5 KIA and 11 WIA. Results: 296 enemy killed, 11 captured, 3 returnees, 37 US KIA, 364 US WIA.

18 Jun.-12 Oct.
Operation: GREELEY
Location: Kontum, Dak To, Tan Canh, Dak Seang, Dak Pek, Toumorong, Dak Poko, Dak Akoi, Hill 830, Hill 1338, FSB 4, Kontum Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (24 Jun-25 Jul): 1-7 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-12 Cav, 1-21 Art; 1st ARVN Abn TF (24 Jun-25 Jul): 3d, 5th and 8th ARVN Abn Bns; 24th STZ: 1/42 Inf. Intelligence: 24th and 174th PAVN Rgts, K101D PAVN Bn, 304th PLAF MF Bn, 200th PLAF Art Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn . Execution: From 1-18 Jun, the 173d Abn Bde continued participation in Operation FRANCIS MARION, searching further south and east in the Ia Drang Valley. The brigade deployed the 1-503 Inf and 2-503 Inf into the AO, holding 4-503 Inf in reserve at Catecka. No significant contact was made. On 17 Jun, TF MC QUARRIE (2-503 Inf, E/17 Cav, A/3-319 Art) moved by air and motor convoy to the New Dak To Airfield, joined the following day by 1-503 Inf. The mission, named GREELEY, was to assume opcon of the CIDG Camp at Dak To under threat from the 24th PAVN Rgt and assist in its defense. On 18 Jun, 2-503 Inf began searching south of Dak To toward the huge mass of Hill 1338 (Ngok Bor Beang). C/1-503 Inf was also inserted into the area to search for a missing SF and CIDG team which had been destroyed by the NVA on 15-16 Jun, 1400 meters southwest of their camp. On 22 Jun, after a fruitless search of Hill 1338, 2-503 Inf was instructed to return to Dak To on foot. Shortly after leaving its NDP, A/2-503 bumped into an enemy battalion from the 24th PAVN Rgt42 while descending the slopes of Hill 1338. Two platoons were cut off and annihilated while the rest of the company formed a small perimeter and called supporting fires. Cos B and C were rushed to the rescue but arrived too late. 76 Americans had been killed, some executed point blank by the enemy, and 23 wounded. 106 enemy bodies were counted in the battle area. This action became known as 'The Battle of the Slopes' and as one of the costliest engagement for US forces in Vietnam. Concerned by the size of the battle and the US losses, General Larsen at I FFORCEV decided to reinforce GREELEY. On 23 Jun, 2-12 Cav arrived from the PERSHING AO while the rest of the 173d Abn Bde (CP (-) and 4-503 Inf) closed Dak To from Catecka. The next day, 24 Jun, the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (-) and 1st ARVN Abn TF arrived at Kontum. The Allied forces went after the 24th PAVN Rgt, seeking to destroy it. In the next two weeks, the 173d Abn Bde and 2-12 Cav searched west and south of Dak To while the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div and the ARVN Abn TF entered the Dak Akoi Valley northeast of Kontum and 35 km east of Dak To. The sweep found little evidence of the enemy's presence and on 25 Jul the cavalry brigade returned to the coast, while the Vietnamese task force stood down at Kontum to serve as a mobile reaction force. Southwest of Dak To on 10 Jul, 4-503 Inf, while searching for a regimental headquarters, found an occupied enemy bunker complex on Hill 830. Battle raged until 12 Jul with 22 US KIA and 62 US WIA but only 9 enemy bodies found. This was the last significant contact on the month. On 19 Jul, 2 NVA soldiers rallied at Dak Pek CIDG Camp, stating that they were 42 Later identified as the 6th Bn, 24th PAVN Rgt. from the newly infiltrated 174th PAVN Rgt. They were proved correct on 6 Aug when the 1/42 ARVN Bn made heavy contact with that unit 8 km west of the Dak Seang CIDG Camp. The ARVN Abn TF was rushed into the area and fought a bitter twoday battle to capture a hill believed to have been the location of the regimental CP, killing 189 of the enemy. On 9 Aug, 4-503 Inf moved to Dak Pek, joining the 1-503 Inf already there since 4 Aug, but the two battalions found little. Contacts were so low in August that the 173d Abn Bde was credited with only 4 enemy killed. During the period 1-18 Sep, the brigade continued GREELEY in the Dak To – Dak Seang area, supporting CIDG Operation DARBY, but contact was minimal. On 17 Sep, the brigade (-) began moving by air to Tuy Hoa to begin Operation BOLLING. Only 4-503 Inf and A/3-319 stayed at Dak To, forming Task Force 77 with the 3rd ARVN Abn Bn, 1/42 ARVN Bn and 27th MIKE Force Co for an expedition in the Toumorong Valley that lasted nearly three weeks but found nothing. On 11 Oct, TF 77 was disbanded and that same day, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art departed for Tuy Hoa, terminating Operation GREELEY. Results: 191 enemy killed, 17 captured, 129 US KIA, 210 US WIA. (no info on ARVN losses).

3 Jul.67-7 Apr.68
Operation: RILEY
Location: Bearcat, Camp Martin Cox, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div; TF FORSYTH (from 10 Feb). Task organization: 2-39 Inf, 4-39 Inf, 2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, TF FORSYTH. Execution: Operation RILEY was an internal defense and development operation in Bien Hoa Province and included defense of Camp Martin Cox. When not engaged in strike operations, Headquarters, 1st Bde assumed opcon of all elements engaged in RILEY, including TF FORSYTH (a provisional Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment located at Camp Martin Cox). In the absence of the 1st Bde, TF FORSYTH was allocated sufficient forces to secure the camp and to conduct limited consolidation operations in the area. On 31 Jan 68 in response to the VC Tet Offensive, elements of the 2-47 Inf (M) and 4-39 Inf moved to Long Binh Post for perimeter security. Working in coordination with 2-3 Inf from the 199th Inf Bde (Lt), the two battalions had multiple contacts with the enemy during the day near Ho Nai, killing 213 by bodycount and capturing 32. US losses were 4 KIA and 23 WIA. On 10 Feb 68, the 1st Bde moved to Dong Tam and TF FORSYTH assumed responsibility until termination. Results: 472 enemy killed, 41 detained, 2 returnees, 64 US KIA, 315 US WIA.

8 Jul.-30 Oct.
Operation: MARCH I
Location: Plei Trap Valley, Kontum Province. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: B-50 Det Project OMEGA. Execution: Long range reconnaissance and intelligence gathering conducted in the Plei Trap Valley. Results: (no info).

10 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: FREMONT
Location: Camp Evans, Hill 51, Hill 67, Phong Dien District, Thua Thien Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 4th Marines. Task organization: 2/4 Marines (10 Jul-14 Sep), 3/26 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct). Execution: The 4th Marines initiated Operation FREMONT with its own 2/4 to provide security for Camp Evans, Hill 51, the Phong Dien District Headquarters and a radio transmission site on Hill 67. On 20 Jul, 2/4 provided blocking forces near My Chanh for SLF BRAVO in Operation BEAR CHAIN. BLT 2/3 became opcon to 4th Marines on 22 Jul and joined FREMONT, until back loading on 21 Aug. Contact was sporadic in Aug with only 13 US KIA for the month. During Sep, 2/4 in conjunction with ARVN forces helped secure nearby villages and hamlets during the National Elections. On 14 Sep, 2/4 joined Operation KINGFISHER and was replaced by 3/26 Marines. Contacts remained low until termination, being limited to harassing tactics, mines incidents and sniper fire. Results: 123 enemy killed, 8 captured, 17 US KIA, 196 US WIA.

16 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: KINGFISHER
Location: Dong Ha, Con Thien, Gio Linh, Cua Viet, Ca Lu, Route 9, Route 561, Route 606, Hill 216, C-2, Demilitarized Zone, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d and 9th Marines. Task organization: 3/3 Marines, 2/4 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct), 3/4 Marines, 1/9 Marines, 2/9 Marines, 3/9 Marines, 3/26 Marines (15 Aug-11 Sep), 1st Amtrac Bn. Intelligence: 90th and 812th PAVN Rgts. Execution: KINGFISHER was a continuation of Marine operations south of the DMZ follwing BUFFALO and HICKORY II. Contact was light during the first week. On 21 Jul, 3/3 Marines securing a portion of Route 9 for a 'Rough Rider' convoy bound for Khe Sanh found a NVA battalion dug in on Hill 216 overlooking the road. Tanks, 40mm dusters and artillery pounded the hill and forced the enemy to withdraw. On 28 Jul, 2/9 Marines reinforced with tanks, LVTEs and Ontos was pushing into the DMZ north on Route 606 when it was attacked by an estimated NVA battalion. The column was split in company-size segments and fought desperately all day until reinforcements from 3/4 Marines forced the enemy to break contact. 23 Americans were killed and 251 wounded with only 32 NVA confirmed killed. Ground action was light in early Aug with the largest part of the activity involving artillery attacks on Gio Linh, Con Thien, Cua Viet and Dong Ha. On 21 Aug, an NVA battalion ambushed a small Marine convoy moving from the Rockpile to Ca Lu. Elements form 3/3 were brought in, fighting a six-hour engagement until night fell and the enemy fled to the west. 6 US were killed and 35 wounded, Enemy loses were unknown. The NVA tried again on 7 Sep at almost the same location. This time the battle lasted more than 8 hours. The Marines killed 92 of the enemy while losing 5 KIA and 56 WIA. The Communists tried to disrupt the National Elections on 3 Sep, firing more than 41 rounds of artillery into Dong Ha, damaging 17 helicopters. This attack ended the use of Dong Ha as a permanent helicopter base facility. Con Thien however, remained the primary artillery target for the NVA. On 25 Sep alone, 1,200 rounds slammed into the combat base. On 10 Sep, 3/26 Marines made heavy contact with what seemed to be the entire 812th PAVN Rgt 4 miles southwest of Con Thien. The action lasted for four hours until the enemy broke contact, leaving 140 dead on the battle field. Marine losses had been high also with 34 KIA and 192 WIA, forcing 3/26 to return to Phu Bai the next day to refit. On 21 Sep, 2/9 Marines started a search and destroy operation 1,800 meters east of Con Thien when it ran into heavy resistance from an element of the 90th PAVN Rgt. The battle turned into a stalemate after rain had made the area impassable and both sides withdrew. US casualties were 31 KIA and 118 WIA. Enemy killed were reported at 39. The enemy intensified its attack-by-fire against Con Thien in late Sep, hitting the base with over 3,000 rounds during the period 19-27 Sep. The Americans retaliated by massing one of the greatest concentrations of firepower in support of a single division in the history of the Vietnam War. Marine artillery, ships of the 7th Fleet, Marine and Air Force jets and B-52 bombers poured tons of ordnance into know enemy positions in and north of the DMZ. By the end of Sep, NVA pressure of the outpost had subsided. On 14 Oct, 2/4 Marines was guarding a bridge north of Strong point C-2 when it received a ground attack from an unknown size enemy force. AC-47 gunships helped repel the assault during the night. 21 Americans were killed and 23 wounded. Only 24 NVA bodies were found in the area. The last major action of KINGSIFHER took place during a 9th Marines operation on 25-28 Oct. 2/4 Marines was sweeping north of Con Thien on Route 561 when it was hit by an enemy battalion, beating back several attacks and losing 8 KIA and 45 WIA. Results: 1,117 enemy killed, 5 captured, 340 US KIA, 1,461 US WIA.

17 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: ARDMORE
Location: Khe Sanh, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destro, security. Controlling headquarters: 26th Marines (Forward). Task organization: 1/26 Marines, 3/26 Marines, 1/13 Marines. Execution: Operation ARDMORE was a continuation of Operation CROCKETT and involved the same mission and the same forces. On 21 Jul, B/1/26 and M/3/26 fought a NVA battalion dug on Hill 216 along Route 9 in conjunction with 3/3 Marines from Operation KINGFISHER. Contacts in August were minimal and 3/26 was moved to the KINGFISHER AO on 15 Aug. 1/26 Marines continued patrols and company-size search and destroy operations around Khe Sanh, but with limited contact with the enemy. Results: 113 enemy killed, 6 detained, 10 US KIA, 39 US WIA

27 Jul.-8 Nov.
Operation: SONG THAN 14
Location: Bong Son, Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF BRAVO. Task organization: 1st VNMC BN, 2nd VNMC Bn (27 Jul-4 Oct), 3rd VNMC Bn (4 Oct-6 Nov), C/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: On 27 Jul, TF BRAVO relieved TF ALPHA at Bong Son AF and continued search and destroy operations south of Bong Son in conjunction with Operation PERSHING. Results: (no info)

31 Jul.-3 Nov.
Operation: DAN QUYEN 822
Location: Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 22nd ARVN Division. Results: 141 enemy killed, 181 detained, 44 ARVN KIA, 74 ARVN WIA 3 ARVN MIA.

11 Aug.-21 Oct.
Operation: SONG THAN/701/67
Location: Tan Uyen, Bien Hoa Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF ALPHA. Task organization: 2nd VNMC Bn (10-21 Oct), 4th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-10 Oct), 5th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-15 Sep), 6th VNMC Bn (15 Sep-21 Oct), B/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: Operation conducted in the Tan Uyen area in coordination with the US 1st Inf Div. Results: (no info)

16 Aug-31 Oct.
Operation: 8-67/SAMURAI II & III
Location: A Shau Valley, Happy Valley, Thuat Thien and Quang Nam Provinces. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: Det B-52 Project DELTA,81st ARVN Abn Rgr Bn. Execution: Operation searched areas from the northern stretches of the A Shau Valley into Happy Valley, west of Da Nang. Results: (no info).

1 Sep.-17 Nov.
Operation: STRIKE I
Location: Bien Hoa, Long Binh, AO STRIKE, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 2-47 Inf (M). Execution: Operation STRIKE I was conducted to provide security for the Bien Hoa-Long Binh complex and to prevent rocket attacks. On 17 Nov, STRIKE I was combined with Operation UNIONTOWN. Results: (no info).

5 Sep.-30 Oct.
Operation: DRAGON FIRE
Location: Batangan Peninsula, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d ROKMC Bde. Task organization: 1st, 2d and 5th ROKMC Bns. Execution: The 2d ROKMC Bde conducted this operation to clear insurgent elements from the Batagan Peninsula. Results: 541 enemy killed, 17 captured, 121 detained, 45 ROKMC KIA, 200 ROKMC WIA, 3 USMC WIA.

11 Sep-25 Nov.
Operation: WHEELER
Location: Tien Phuoc, Hiep Duc, Song Tranh, Song Chang, Base Area 116, Base Area 117, UDEN AO, Quang Tin Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 101st Abn Div. Task organization: 1-327 Inf, 2-327 Inf, 2-502 Inf, 1-14 Inf (11-24 Sep), 1-35 Inf (4 Oct-4 Nov), 2-320 Art, A/2-9 Art (4 Oct-4 Nov), B/2-9 Art (11-24 Sep), C/3-16 Art, B/1-9 Cav (2-4 Oct), A/2-17 Cav (17-25 Nov), A/326th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PAVN Div (1st PLAF Rgt, 3rd and 21st PAVN Rgts). Execution: ... SEE PREVIOUS DAY FOR INFORMATION... Results were 9 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 18 US WIA. With the 2nd PAVN Div elements avoiding contact during the period 28 Oct-4 Nov, increased emphasis was placed on attempting to locate the division. On 5 Nov, 1-35 Inf was released from operational control of the brigade and placed under opcon of the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div conducting Operation WALLOWA in the Que Son Basin. The last phase of WHEELER (6-25 Nov) saw 2-327 Inf being air-assaulted into the western portion of BA 116 while 1-327 Inf and 2-502 Inf established blocking positions. On 11 Nov, C/2-327 Inf engaged an NVA company in the Song Chang Valley 4 km east of Hiep Duc. 14 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 5 US WIA. This marked the last significant contact of WHEELER, after that, the badly hurt 2nd PAVN Div avoided any further contact. From 23-25 Nov, brigade elements were relieved in place by elements of the 196th Inf Bde (Lt)61 and displaced to Tam Ky Airfield to move by air to the brigade main base camp at Phan Rang for a four-day stand down and preparation for future operations. Results: 1,105 enemy killed, 50 captured, 445 detained, 11 returnees, 124 US KIA, 465 US WIA.

12 Sep-10 Oct.
Operation: CORONADO V
Location: Dong Tam, Cai Lay, Cam Son Secret Zone, Ban Long Base Area, Loi Quan Island, Song My Tho, Rach Ba Rai, Rach Ben Tre, Route 20, Ding Tuong and Kien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div (MRF); 7th ARVN Div. Task organization: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div: 3-47 Inf (12-17 Sep), 4-47 Inf (17 Sep-10 Oct), 3-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-60 Inf (-)(15-17 Sep), 3-34 Art, D/15th Eng, USN TF 117; 7th ARVN Div: 10th ARVN Rgt, 41st ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 263rd and 506th PLAF Bns. Execution: On 11 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Vung Tau to Dong Tam again and began Operation CORONADO V aimed at the 263rd PLAF Bn which had returned to the Cam Son Secret Zone. On 12 Sep, 3-47 Inf swept north from landing sites on the My Tho but turned up almost nothing. The next day, 3-60 Inf and 5-60 Inf (M) with help from the 7th ARVN Div62 began a sweep of the Ban Long area to the east and made contact with what appeared to be a VC covering force near the site of the VNMC heavy contact in July. The enemy withdrew under cover of darkness, leaving 63 bodies behind. As US and ARVN forces left the Ban Long on 14 Sep, the 7th ARVN Div reported that a large force, presumably the 263rd PLAF Bn, remained in the Cam Son, only a few kilometers north from areas previously swept. On 15 Sep, as 5-60 Inf (M) moved overland via Route 20, 3-60 Inf and 3-47 Inf sailed via the Song My Tho up the Rach Ba Rai between the My Tho and the town of Cai Lay. While 3-47 Inf landed unopposed over WHITE Beach, 3-60 Inf ran into two companies of the 263rd lined up in ambush positions along the east bank of the Ba Rai. Some of the boats managed to run the gauntlet but were forced to turn back as most of the column failed to follow. Two companies from 2-60 Inf were helicoptered from Long An Province to encircle the enemy. The battle lasted until nightfall but when the Americans entered the deserted ambush site the next day they found only 24 enemy killed. On 17 Sep the MRF returned to Dong Tam where 4-47 Inf rotated aboard the ships of the MRF replacing 3-47 Inf. On 20 Sep, the MRF displaced to Kien Hoa Province and began widely separated operations in Ham Long, Giong Trom and Huong My Districts, looking for the 516th PLAF Bn but no major contact took place. On 27 Sep, ATCs performing mine sweeping duties along the Rach Ben Tre received heavy RPG, recoilless and automatic weapons fire. 3 sailors were killed and 6 wounded. On 28 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Dong Tam to the northern end of Loi Quan Island between the Cua Dai and Cua Tieu to reduce logistic distances. Operations in Kien Hoa were in close cooperation with the 10th ARVN Rgt and a composite RF battalions but only sporadic contact was made. On 5-7 Oct the MRF returned to the Ban Long but had only limited contact with elements of the 263rd PLAF Bn and on 10 Sep it displaced to Vung Tau to prepare for CORONADO VI. Results: 330 enemy killed, 235 detained, 2 returnees, 35 US KIA, 175 US WIA.

16 Sep.-29 Oct.
Operation: KUNIA
Location: Ho Bo Woods, Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 3-22 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: Operation KUNIA was conducted as part of BARKING SANDS with the 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div initiating search and destroy operations in the Ho Bo Woods in preparation for the arrival of a land clearing team of thirty Rome Plows. By the end of October 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods had been cleared. Results: (included in BARKING SANDS).

19 Sep. 67-31 Jan. 69
Operation: BOLLING/DAN HOA
Location: Tuy Hoa, Phu Hiep, Binh Tinh, Ma Hoa, AO BLACK, Song Ky Lo, Song Da Rang, Suoi Cai, Phu Yen and Phu Bon Provinces. Type: search and destroy, reconnaissance-in-force, pacification, rice protection. Controlling headquarters: 173d Abn Bde (19 Sep 67-8 Feb 68, 1 Apr 68-31 Jan 69); I FFORCEV (8 Feb-1 Apr 68); 22nd ARVN Div. Task organization: 1-503 Inf (19 Sep-6 Nov 67), 2-503 Inf (12 Oct-6 Nov 67), 3-503 Inf (5 Nov 67-16 Jan 68), 4-503 Inf (19 Sep-1 Nov 67, 16 Dec 67-31 Jan 69), TF 2-8 Cav (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), 3-319 Art, C/2-19 Art (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 47th ARVN Rgt. Intelligence: 5th PAVN Div (18B and 95th PAVN Rgts), 30th and 95th PLAF LF Bns, K65 and K76 Sapper Cos. Execution: During the period 14-19 Sep, the bulk of the brigade (minus 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art) was relocated by air from Dak To to Tuy Hoa to commence long-term Operation BOLLING in cooperation with the 47th ARVN Rgt. The 2-8 Cav was opconed to the brigade until 14 Oct to compensate for 2-503 Inf remaining at Dak To, and was air-assaulted into the BOLLING AO on 19 Sep. The operation was designed to provide security for the local rice harvest. Daily contact was maintained with enemy forces in September and October but seldom larger than squad size. During October, the brigade relocated its rear base camp facility from Bien Hoa to An Khe, moving by sea via Saigon and Qui Nhon. On 12 Oct, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 returned from the Highlands, relieving TF 2-8 Cav and on 22 Oct, the new 3-503 Inf arrived in-country from Fort Bragg, undergoing jungle training in An Khe prior to deployment to the BOLLING AO. On 1 Nov, 4-503 Inf was alerted for immediate departure for Dak To, followed five days later by the brigade minus (headquarters, 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 3-319 Art). On 5 Nov, 3-503 Inf arrived at Tuy Hoa from An Khe and assumed responsibility for Operation BOLLING. Contact continued to be light in November; on 16 Dec, the brigade headquarters, 4-503 Inf and C and D/3-319 Art were redeployed from Operation MACARTHUR, closing into the BOLLING AO that same day. On 27 Dec, 3-503 Inf conducted a series of combat assaults into the Song Ky Lo Valley 15 km northwest of Dong Tre and engaged two enemy companies. Elements of 4-503 Inf reinforced the battle area until contact was lost on 29 Dec. Results were 62 enemy killed, 12 US KIA and 34 US WIA. Contact was infrequent in January and a battalion task force built around 3-503 Inf moved to An Khe on 16 Jan 68 to assume responsibility of the Operation DAZZLEM AO63 from the departing 1st Cav Div. On 30 Jan, the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt attacked several targets in the Tuy Hoa area as part of the enemy's Tet Offensive, including a FSB held by C/6-32 Art, the Binh Tin hamlet, Tuy Hoa North AF and the provincial prison. D/4-503 Inf and two companies from the 2nd Bn, 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked toward the airfield and by 0730 on 31 Jan, the enemy force was surrounded and destroyed in Binh Tin hamlet. On 5-6 Feb, two battalions of the 47th ARVN Rgt and RF elements reduced an enemy strong point in the center of Tuy Hoa. During the fighting in and around Tuy Hoa, 316 enemy had been killed and 104 captured. During February, 4-503 Inf in conjunction with Strike Force elements from Cung Son and Dong Tre CIDG Camps, and Task Force MITCHELL (E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm) conducted search and destroy operations west of Tuy Hoa and helped mop up the aftermath of the Tet Offensive. It also provided security for the 577th Eng C Bn and 173d Eng Co working on Routes 7B and 436. On 8 Feb, the 173d Abn Bde (-) departed Tuy Hoa to assumed Opcon of TF POWERHOUSE (1-503 and 2-503 Inf) in Kontum Province in the MACARTHUR AO. Operation BOLLING passed under control of I FFORCEV which assumed opcon of TF 4-503 build around 4-503 Inf, Btys C and D, 3-319 Art and D/16 Arm. A major contact developed on 4 Mar when the 47th ARVN Rgt contacted the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt and 85th PLAF Bn in three hamlets along the coast just north of Tuy Hoa. D/16 Arm and elements of the 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked while the 47th ARVN Rgt provided blocking positions. D/16 was credited with 137 NVA killed during the action while suffering 10 KIA and 21 WIA. Contact during the rest of March was sporadic in the BOLLING AO. On 1 Apr, the brigade returned from the Highlands, relieving the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div at Bong Son64 and assumed control over TF 4-503 again. Contact was light during the month of April except on the 5th when D/16 Arm again supported the 47th ARVN Rgt in heavy contact with two enemy battalions at Ma Hoa village in Tuy Hoa Valley just off Route 7B north of the Song Da Rang. In May, 4-503 Inf conducted extensive bushmaster operations, on 2 May, Co B killed 8 enemy soldiers in the Suoi Cai Valley 18 km west of Tuy Hoa. In June, the enemy continued to avoid decisive contact with Allied force, relying on harassing tactics instead. During the period 16-27 Jul, 4-503 Inf conducted search and clear operations in AO BLACK located 25 km southwest of Cung Son on the Phu Bon and Darlac provincial boundary but there was no significant contact. On 30 July, 4-503 Inf joined the 3/47 ARVN Bn and elements of the 26th ROK Rgt to conduct a combined operation in the Song Ky Lo Valley but contact was again limited. Prisoners confirmed that the bulk of the 18B and 95th PAVN Rgts had departed Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa Province to refit in Cambodia. Contact remained light for the rest of Operation BOLLING, limited to engagements with squad-size enemy forces and booby traps incidents. On 1 Feb 69 the BOLLING/DAN HOA AO became a permanent TAOR called LY DO/WAINWRIGHT. Results: 715 enemy killed, 72 US KIA, 307 US WIA (no info on ARVN casualties).

22-28 Sep.
Operation: RICHMOND
Location: Dinh Quan, Route 20, Long Khanh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 11th ACR. Task organization: 3/11 ACR, 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn, 5th ARVN ACR (elts). Execution: The squadron provided security for engineer road repair efforts north of Dinh Quan along Route 20 in coordination with ARVN forces. There was no contact with enemy forces. Upon termination, the squadron returned to Blackhorse to resume Operation KITTYHAWK. Results: (no info).

22-28 Sep.
Operation: SHELBYVILLE
Location: Hoi An, Dai Loc, Liberty Bridge, Quang Nam Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Mar Div. Task organization: 2/1 Marines, 3/5 Marines, BLT 1/3 Marines, 1/11 Marines. Execution: SHELBYVILLE took place west of Hoi An, 6 km southeast of Dai Loc. BLT 1/3 conducted an airmobile assault on the objective area while 2/1 Marines occupied blocking positions to the east and 3/5 Marines blocked to the south. No major contact developed however but there were numerous cases of booby traps incidents. Results: 50 enemy killed, 1 captured, 59 detained, 10 US KIA, 69 US WIA.

22-29 Sep.
Operation: DO KAE BI 3
Location: Canh Phuoc, Phu Yen Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: WHRID. Task organization: 28th ROK Rgt (-). Execution: operation took place 8 km south of Van Canh. Results: 103 enemy killed (no info on friendly casualties)

23-28 Sep.
Operation: BLUEFIELD II
Location: Lai Khe, Bau Bang, Bo La, Route 301, Binh Duong Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div. Task organization: 1-2 Inf, 2-2 Inf (M), 1-26 Inf, 2-28 Inf, 1-4 Cav (-), 2-33 Art. Execution: (no info). Results: 2 enemy captured, 1 US WIA.

24 Sep.-9 Oct.
Operation: ARKANSAS CITY II
Location: Phuoc Tuy Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 11th ACR. Execution: (no info)

25-26 Sep. Operation: LONG PHI/9/130
Location: Vinh Long Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 9th ARVN Div. Execution: operation
conducted 15 km west of Vinh Long by elts of the 9th ARVN Div
supported by RAGs 23 and 31. Results: 6 enemy killed, 6 captured, 14 detained.

New Operations

26 Sep.-21 Oct.
Operation: AKRON III
Location: Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone), Phuoc Tuy and Bien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-39 Inf, B/2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, 2/48 ARVN Bn, 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 274th PLAF Rgt. Execution: AKRON III was a continuation of land clearing and search and destroy operations in Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone). Contact with the enemy was light and sporadic throughout the operation but the largest known weapons cache in the III CTZ to date was discovered, contacting over 200,000 rounds of small arms, 1,022 small arms and 125 crew served weapons. Results: (no info).

Other

26 Sep.
HMAS PERTH joins NGFS replacing HMAS HOBART, to become the second Australian ship to operate with SEVENTHFLT

[Jason Petho]

Ongoing Operations today in 1967

26 Aug.66-20 Jan.68
Operation: BYRD
Location: Phan Thiet, LZ BETTY, Binh Thuan Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: I FFORCEV. Task organization: TF 2-7: 2-7 Cav, C/1-9 Cav, A/1-21 Art, C/2-20 Art (-), C/8th Eng Bn (-), C/229th Avn Bn, Det 228th Avn Bn. Execution: Planned as a short-term, economy-of-force measure, BYRD became a continuous offensive that would last into 1968. Upon I FFORCEV request, the 1st Cav Div detached at battalion-size task force to help pacify isolated Binh Thuan Province in southern II Corps. Results (at year's end): 351 enemy killed, 151 detained, 8 US KIA, 85 US WIA.

1 Oct.66-17 Jan 68
Operation: DAZZLEM
Location: Camp Radcliff, An Khe, Binh Dinh Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization: Base Defense Task Force. Execution: Operation DAZZLEM was the contingency plan for the defense of Camp Radcliff provided by one infantry battalion with supporting artillery and
reinforcing personnel from residence units. On 17 Jan 68, the 173d Abn Bde relieved the 1st Cav Div from the mission of defending An Khe. Results: 80 enemy killed, 9 detained.

11 Oct.66-17 Nov.67
Operation: UNIONTOWN II
Location: Long Binh, Bien Hoa Province Type: security. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV. Execution: Operation UNIONTOWN was a security operation designed to protect the Long Binh logistical complex, RMK Rock Quarry and II FFORCEV Headquarters. Units were assigned on a rotation basis from each major command under II FFORCEV.

30 Nov. 66-15 Dec.67
Operation: FAIRFAX/RANG DONG
Location: Nha Be, Thu Duc and Binh Chanh Districts, Gia Dinh Province. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV, CMD. Task organization: 1st Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 2-16 Inf; 4th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3-22 Inf; 25th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 4-9 Inf; CMD (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3rd and 5th ARVN Abn Bns, 30th Ranger Bn; 199th LIB (31 Jan-15 Dec.): 2-3 Inf, 3-7 Inf, 4-12 Inf, 2-40 Art; 5th ARVN Ranger Group (31 Jan.-15 Dec): 30th, 33rd and 38th ARVN Ranger Bns. Intelligence: Military Region 4, 165A PLAF Regiment. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE... Results (end of 1966): 149 enemy killed, 40 detained, 11 US KIA, 67 US WIA, 23 ARVN KIA, 58 ARVN WIA, 1 ARVN MIA.

8 Feb.67-31 Jan.68
Operation: LAM SON 67
Location: Phu Loi, An My, Ong Dong Jungle, Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, security, jungle clearing. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 1st Inf Div (8 Feb-17 Mar, 17 Apr 67-31 Jan 68); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (17 Mar-17 Apr). Task organization: 1st Inf Div Revolutionary Development Task Force (various infantry, cavalry and support units were assigned on a rotation basis during the period). Execution: The operation supported the GVN's Revolutionary Development Program in conjunction with ARVN units in Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. LAM SON 67 consisted of cordon and search, reconnaissance in force, harassment, jungle clearing, population control, civic action and psychological warfare operations directed against priority targets. Contact in the AO was characterized by light sporadic incidents with local VC elements. On 6 Jan 68, the Phu Loi base camp received 123 rounds of mixed mortar fire, 46 aircraft were damaged and 6 US WIA. Reacting to the attack, A/2-18 Inf and B/2-2 Inf (M) swept the area to the north of the base and contacted two enemy companies of the Phu Loi PLAF Bn. 92 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 14 US WIA. Operation LAM SON 67 was terminated on 31 Jan 68 with the beginning of the enemy's Tet Offensive. Results: 527 enemy killed, 263 captured, 2,327 detained, 346 defectors, 56 US KIA, 572 US WIA.

12 Feb. 67-18 Jan. 68
Operation: PERSHING
Location: Bong Son, Tuy An, Tam Quan, Hoa Tan, Sa Huynh, Truong Son, An Qui, Trung Xuan, An Lac, An Lao Valley, Kim Son Valley, Suoi Ca Valley, 506 Valley, Nuoc Dinh Valley, Phu My Valley, Song Re Valley, the Crescent, Nui Mieu, Nui Sang, Cay Giep, Dam Tra-O Lake, Route 1, LZ BRONCO BEACH, LZ CRYSTAL, LZ ENGLISH, LZ GARNET, LZ GERONIMO, LZ GLENN, LZ HAMMOND, LZ IRON, LZ MEADE, LZ PAT, LZ SANDRA, LZ STEEL, LZ TOM, LZ TWO BITS, LZ UPLIFT, Binh Dinh and Quang Ngai Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization (As of 12 Feb): 1 s t Bde: 1-8 Cav, 1-12 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-19 Art (-), D/2-17 Art, C/1-21 Art, A/3-18 Art; 2d Bde: 2-5 Cav, 1-5 Cav (-), 1-7 Cav (-), 2-12 Cav, 1-77 Art (-), B/1-8 Art, A/1-21 Art, C/1-30 Art, B/8th Eng; 3d Bde: 2-8 Cav, C/1-5 Cav, 1-21 Art (-), 2-17 Art (-), C/6-16 Art, C/2-19 Art, C/8th Eng; 3d Bde, 25 t h Inf Div (12 Feb-19 Apr): 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf (4-19 Apr), 2-9 Art, A/1-77 Art, 5-16 Art, C/3-4 Cav, D/65th Eng; Div Arty: 2-20 Art (-), 7-13 Art (-), B/29 Art, E/82 Art, 3-18 Art (-); Div Troops: 1-9 Cav, 8th Eng Bn (-). Intelligence: 3rd PAVN Div: 18th and 22nd PAVN Rgts, 2nd PLAF Rgt. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE ... Results: 5,
388 enemy killed, 2,356 captured, 10,609 detained, 221 returnees, 852 US KIA, 4,119 US WIA, 22 US MIA.

13 Feb. 67-10 Mar. 68
Operation: ENTERPRISE
Location: Tan An, Rach Kien, Ben Luc, Binh Phuoc, Tan Tru, Doi Ma Creek, Plain of Reeds9, Base Area 371, Route 14, Long An Province. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, eagle flights. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 3-39 Inf, 2-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-4 Art, C/15th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PLAF MF Bn, 506th PLAF LF Bn. Execution: ENTERPRISE was the continuation of the pacification effort of Long An Province initiated the previous year by the 25th Inf Div with Operation LANIKAI. On 13 Feb, 3-39 Inf relieved 2-14 Inf at Rach Kien. Strength of division elements in the province were subsequently increased to brigade size with movement of 2-60 Inf into Tan Tru, 5-60 Inf into Binh Phuoc and Headquarters, 3d Bde into Tan An. The first major engagement occurred on 9 Apr when 3-39 Inf made contact with the 506th PLAF Bn on the bank of Doi Ma Creek. Additional companies were brought in, killing 247 of the enemy. On 2 May, the 506th Bn exacted vengeance on the 3-39 Inf, attacking one of its companies in night defensive position near Route 4. 17 US were KIA and 48 WIA but no enemy bodies were found. The operation was temporarily extended north to the Plain of Reeds area on 8-14 May with sub-operation NIRVANA II directed against the enemy's Base Area 371. Elements of the 3d Bde joined forces with the 4/50 ARVN Bn of the 25th ARVN Div but found nothing, killing only 14 of the enemy. On 14 May, the 2nd PLAF Bn struck the compound of the 2/50 ARVN Bn in Rach Kien, killing 31 South Vietnamese soldiers and wounding 34. 3d Bde units were committed but couldn't regain contact with the attacking force. After that, contact with the enemy dropped sharply for the remainder of 1967, indicating an apparent enemy desire to avoid friendly forces. On 31 Jan 68, the brigade responded to the Tet Offensive, 5-60 Inf engaged in heavy fighting southwest of Saigon in Gia Dinh Province, killing 128 enemy soldiers. From 1-5 Feb, 3-39 Inf and 2-60 Inf were sent to Kien Hoa Province to help recapture Ben Tre, the provincial capital. On 10 Feb, the brigade HQ at Tan An came under attack from an unknown size enemy force. 33 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 53 US WIA. During March, brigade elements conducted "Aquabush" operations along the numerous canals south of Saigon in conjunction with the 199th Inf Bde (Lt). Pacification activities decreased sharply during the Tet Offensive and the operation was terminated on 10 March. Results: 2,107 enemy killed, 74 US KIA, 380 US WIA.

14 Feb.67-21 Mar.68
Operation: KITTYHAWK
Location: Long Binh, Xuan Loc, Long Giao, Gia Ray, Suoi Cat, Blackhorse, Route 1, Route 2, Long Khanh and Bien Hoa Province. Type: reconnaissance-in-force, cordon and search, security, road clearing. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div (14 Feb 67-15 Feb 68); 11th ACR (15 Feb-21 Mar 68). Task organization: 3-5 Cav, 1/11 ACR, 2/11 ACR, 3/11 ACR. Intelligence: 275th PLAF Rgt. Execution: The purpose of KITTYHAWK was to secure LOCs and selected installations within Long Khanh Province, conduct reconnaissance-in-force operations and cordon and search of selected hamlets within the AO, secure Blackhorse base camp and the Gia Ray rock quarry and provide ready reaction forces along Route 1. On 21 May, K Troop, 3/11 ACR was ambushed by an estimated reinforced enemy battalion near Suoi Cat on Route 1. 30 enemy are killed, 12 US KIA and 13 US WIA. On 27 Jun 1/11 ACR moved to reinforce the 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn which was in heavy contact with elements of the 3rd Bn, 275th PLAF Rgt, killing 49 of the enemy11. On 30 Dec two enemy companies ambushed Troop C, 3-5 Cav on Route 2. Friendly losses are 10 KIA, 29 WIA and 3 MIA. On 31 Jan 68, in reaction to the VC Tet Offensive, the 3-5 Cav was alerted to respond to enemy activity in the Long Binh-Bien Hoa area. A/3-5 Cav bypassed several roadblocks, breaking through enemy forces and reached the Bien Hoa airfield, sweeping nearby wood lines and killing 40. During the period 2-3 Feb, C/3-5 Cav was sent to defend Xuan Loc against an intense ground attack, killing nearly 50 enemy soldiers. On 15 Feb the KITTYHAWK mission was assumed by the 11th ACR as the 3-5 Cav (-) was directed by HQ USARV to deploy to Da Nang, I CTZ. On 21 Mar, the operation was phased into Operation ALCORN COVE. Results: 201 enemy killed, 7 captured, 1 returnee, 62 US KIA, 224 US WIA.

5 Apr.-11 Oct.
Operation: FRANCIS MARION
Location: Plei Me, Duc Co, Plei Djereng, Plei Mrong, Plei Do Lim, Buon Blech, Se San, Ia Drang, Ia Tchar, Dak Ayun, Dak Payou, Chu Pong, Chu Prong, Chu Goungot, Chu Groh, Route 14, Route 14B, Route 19E, Route 509, Hill 521, LZ OASIS, LZ JACKSON HOLE, Pleiku and Darlac Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: (effective 7 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, B/4-42 Art, C/3-4 Cav (-), A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (-), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, Plt B/1-69 Arm, 4-42 Art (-), B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), Plt C/2-8 Inf (-), Cav Plt 1-10 Cav, B/3-6 Art, A/5-16 Art; TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 26 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), C/4-42 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h In f Div: 2-8 Inf, 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), A/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), A/3-6 Art; TF 3-8 Inf: 3-8 Inf, C/6-29 Art, A/5-16 Art; Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 30 May): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (M), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art, B/4th Eng (-); 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, D/16 Arm, E/17 Cav, 173d Eng Co; TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 5-16 Art (-); Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 24 Sep): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 2-8 Inf (M), 3-8 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), A/4-42 Art,, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div: 1-12 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), B/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: 2-1 Cav, D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Intelligence: B3 Front, 1st NVA Div (32nd, 66th and 88th Rgts), 10th NVA Div (95B and 101C Rgts), 200th NVA Art Bn, 407th PLAF MF Sapper Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn.. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE.... Results: 1,204 enemy killed, 122 detained, 11 returnees, 198 US KIA, 982 US WIA, 8 US MIA.

22 Apr.67-2 Jan 68.
Operation: BAKER
Location: Duc Pho, Mo Duc, Vinh Hien, Tan Phong, Dien Truong, An Ba, An Tach, Song Tra Cau, Song Ve, LZ MONTEZUMA (later renamed LZ BRONCO), LZ GUADALCANAL, LZ OLIVE DRAB, LZ LIZ, LZ DRAGON, RAZORBACK Beach, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde TF, 25th Inf Div (redesignated 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div on 1 Aug). Task organization: 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf, 2-9 Art, C/3-4 Cav, B/1-9 Cav, C/2-34 Arm. Intelligence: 1st PLAF Rgt, 2nd PLAF Rgt, 22nd PAVN Rgt. Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: (no info).

14 May.-7 Dec.
Operation: KOLE KOLE
Location: Duc Hoa, Bao Trai, Hiep Hoa, Loc Giang, Trang Bang, Song Vam Co Dong, Rach Tra, Xinh An Ha, Route 10, Hau Nghia and Tay Ninh Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 1-5 Inf (M), 1-27 Inf, 2-27 Inf, 1-8 Art. Intelligence: 2nd Go Mon and 269th PLAF LF Bns. Execution: Operation KOLE KOLE was initiated by the 2d Bde in Hau Nghia Province using EAGLE FLIGHTS and airmobile operations based on current intelligence. Cordon and search, outposting and country fair operations were also conducted in conjunction with the 25th ARVN Div, CIDG and RF/PF. On 17 May, elements of 1/27 Inf and 2/27 Inf fought an eight-hour engagement west of the Vam Co Dong with a VC company. Results were 27 enemy killed, 2 US KIA and 9 US WIA. There was intermittent contact during June and July, particularly along the An Ha canal and near Loc Giang. The brigade also secured engineer operations along Route 10 to improve the GVN's authority and control west of Trang Bang. In early August, the reconnaissance platoon of 1/27 Inf with helicopter support intercepted VC recon elements from Long An Province, killing 26. During September, KOLE KOLE shifted to northern Hau Nghai and southwestern Tay Ninh Province. 1-5 Inf (M) conducted extensive dismounted ambush patrols around Loc Giang along the Vam Co while 2-27 Inf engaged scattered elements of the 269th PLAF Bn. On 21 Oct, an EAGLE FLIGHT from 1-27 Inf engaged an estimated enemy platoon south of Tay Ninh, killing 18. On 31 Oct, 2-27 Inf made contact with elements of the 2nd Go Mon Bn north of the Rach Tra, killing 28 and capturing 2. Enemy activity decreased for the rest of KOLE KOLE and the brigade concentrated on pacification and land clearing operations. Results: 797 enemy killed, 150 detained, 34 returnees, 144 US KIA, 876 US WIA

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: BARKING SANDS
Location: Cu Chi, Trang Bang, Phu Hoa, Iron Triangle, Ho Bo Woods, Song Saigon, Hau Nghia and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: The 1st Bde employed counter guerrilla warfaretechniques including saturation patrolling, checkmate, bushmaster and cordon and search operations to pacify Cu Chi and Trang Bang Districts in Hau Nghia Province and Phu Hoa District in Binh Duong Province. Buddy operations were also conducted with local PF platoons and RF companies. On 30 Aug, 4-9 Inf conducted an airmobile assault against an entrenched VC battalion in the Iron Triangle resulting in 4 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 43 US WIA. During September, primary emphasis was placed on denying VC access to populated areas during the National Elections. Land clearing operations were also initiated along the Song Saigon to eliminate VC concealment. In October, 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods were cleared by Rome Plows following Operation KUNIA. Contact during BARKING SANDS was limited to squad and platoon size elements and no major engagement occurred. Four sub-operations were conducted in the BARKING SANDS AO during the period: KAWELA, AKUMU,WAIMEA and KUNIA (see individual operations below). Results (inclusive of the four sub-operations): 370 enemy killed, 85 detained, 10 returnees, 110 US KIA, 1114 US WIA.

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: DIAMOND HEAD
Location: Tay Ninh West, Dau Tieng, Suoi Da, Prek Klok, Ben Cui, Michelin Plantation, Boi Loi Woods, The Crescent, The Trapezoid, Tay Ninh and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div33. Task organization: 2-12 Inf, 2-22 Inf (M), 3-22 Inf, 2-77 Art, 2-34 Arm (-) (from 22 Sep), C/1-10 Cav, C/4th Eng. Execution: The mission was to conduct search and destroy operations in Tay Ninh Province, cordon and search operations in the Michelin Plantation, and security and reinforcement missions in the Tay Ninh and Prek Klok areas. With one battalion detached to Operation UNIONTOWN and another providing security for the Dau Tieng and Tay Ninh West base camps, contact in the AO were very limited during the months of May, June and July. On 1 Aug, the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div was redesignated the 3d Bde, 25th Inf Div. No movement of troops or units were involved in this redesignation. On 15 Aug, an airmobile cordon and search of Thanh An was conducted by 3-22 Inf in conjunction with VN National Police. 6 enemy were killed and 42 detained. In September, the brigade provided security during the National elections. In October, continued battalion size search and destroy operations were conducted in the Michelin Plantation to prevent its use as an enemy haven, in and south of Ben Cui, and in the northern portion of the Trapezoid, which extends 15 km to the southeast of Dau Tieng. Bushmaster operations were conducted in an area known as the Crescent, 8 km northwest of Dau Tieng. All operations were marked by extremely light contact. In November, operations were conducted in the upper Boi Loi Woods and in the Ben Cui Plantation, again with light contact. During this period operations were curtailed due to two battalions being opcon to the other brigades. On 25-25 Now, 2-22 Inf (M) made contact with a VC company near the Mushroom bend on the Saigon River, killing 20. This was the last contact during DIAMOND HEAD before the operation came to an end on 7 Dec. Results: 237 enemy killed, 496 detained, 4 returnees. (US losses unknown).

1 Jun.67-7 Feb.68
Operation: HOPTAC
Location: Dong Tam, Dinh Tuong Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: Task Force FUNSTON39. Execution: Operation HOPTAC was an internal defense and development operation in Dinh Tuong Province which included security of the Dong Tam base. Task Force FUNSTON provided land and waterborne security for engineer dredging equipment and maintained a ready reaction force to assist local GVN units and installations if needed. In most cases contact with the VC was characterized by light fire fights and sniper fire. On 1 Feb 68 the enemy fired more than 170 82 mm mortar and 75 mm RR rounds into the base resulting in minor damage and 11 US WIA. In the early morning hours of 3, 4, 5 and 7 Feb, the enemy continued to attack the base with mortar and RR fire. The heaviest attack came on 7 Feb with an estimated 200 rounds fired at the base. Elements of 5-60 Inf and 2-39 Inf conducted reaction airmobile assaults and RIF operations 8 km east of Dong tam, making contact with two VC companies, killing 23 while losing 5 KIA and 11 WIA. Results: 296 enemy killed, 11 captured, 3 returnees, 37 US KIA, 364 US WIA.

18 Jun.-12 Oct.
Operation: GREELEY
Location: Kontum, Dak To, Tan Canh, Dak Seang, Dak Pek, Toumorong, Dak Poko, Dak Akoi, Hill 830, Hill 1338, FSB 4, Kontum Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (24 Jun-25 Jul): 1-7 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-12 Cav, 1-21 Art; 1st ARVN Abn TF (24 Jun-25 Jul): 3d, 5th and 8th ARVN Abn Bns; 24th STZ: 1/42 Inf. Intelligence: 24th and 174th PAVN Rgts, K101D PAVN Bn, 304th PLAF MF Bn, 200th PLAF Art Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn . Execution: From 1-18 Jun, the 173d Abn Bde continued participation in Operation FRANCIS MARION, searching further south and east in the Ia Drang Valley. The brigade deployed the 1-503 Inf and 2-503 Inf into the AO, holding 4-503 Inf in reserve at Catecka. No significant contact was made. On 17 Jun, TF MC QUARRIE (2-503 Inf, E/17 Cav, A/3-319 Art) moved by air and motor convoy to the New Dak To Airfield, joined the following day by 1-503 Inf. The mission, named GREELEY, was to assume opcon of the CIDG Camp at Dak To under threat from the 24th PAVN Rgt and assist in its defense. On 18 Jun, 2-503 Inf began searching south of Dak To toward the huge mass of Hill 1338 (Ngok Bor Beang). C/1-503 Inf was also inserted into the area to search for a missing SF and CIDG team which had been destroyed by the NVA on 15-16 Jun, 1400 meters southwest of their camp. On 22 Jun, after a fruitless search of Hill 1338, 2-503 Inf was instructed to return to Dak To on foot. Shortly after leaving its NDP, A/2-503 bumped into an enemy battalion from the 24th PAVN Rgt42 while descending the slopes of Hill 1338. Two platoons were cut off and annihilated while the rest of the company formed a small perimeter and called supporting fires. Cos B and C were rushed to the rescue but arrived too late. 76 Americans had been killed, some executed point blank by the enemy, and 23 wounded. 106 enemy bodies were counted in the battle area. This action became known as 'The Battle of the Slopes' and as one of the costliest engagement for US forces in Vietnam. Concerned by the size of the battle and the US losses, General Larsen at I FFORCEV decided to reinforce GREELEY. On 23 Jun, 2-12 Cav arrived from the PERSHING AO while the rest of the 173d Abn Bde (CP (-) and 4-503 Inf) closed Dak To from Catecka. The next day, 24 Jun, the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (-) and 1st ARVN Abn TF arrived at Kontum. The Allied forces went after the 24th PAVN Rgt, seeking to destroy it. In the next two weeks, the 173d Abn Bde and 2-12 Cav searched west and south of Dak To while the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div and the ARVN Abn TF entered the Dak Akoi Valley northeast of Kontum and 35 km east of Dak To. The sweep found little evidence of the enemy's presence and on 25 Jul the cavalry brigade returned to the coast, while the Vietnamese task force stood down at Kontum to serve as a mobile reaction force. Southwest of Dak To on 10 Jul, 4-503 Inf, while searching for a regimental headquarters, found an occupied enemy bunker complex on Hill 830. Battle raged until 12 Jul with 22 US KIA and 62 US WIA but only 9 enemy bodies found. This was the last significant contact on the month. On 19 Jul, 2 NVA soldiers rallied at Dak Pek CIDG Camp, stating that they were 42 Later identified as the 6th Bn, 24th PAVN Rgt. from the newly infiltrated 174th PAVN Rgt. They were proved correct on 6 Aug when the 1/42 ARVN Bn made heavy contact with that unit 8 km west of the Dak Seang CIDG Camp. The ARVN Abn TF was rushed into the area and fought a bitter twoday battle to capture a hill believed to have been the location of the regimental CP, killing 189 of the enemy. On 9 Aug, 4-503 Inf moved to Dak Pek, joining the 1-503 Inf already there since 4 Aug, but the two battalions found little. Contacts were so low in August that the 173d Abn Bde was credited with only 4 enemy killed. During the period 1-18 Sep, the brigade continued GREELEY in the Dak To – Dak Seang area, supporting CIDG Operation DARBY, but contact was minimal. On 17 Sep, the brigade (-) began moving by air to Tuy Hoa to begin Operation BOLLING. Only 4-503 Inf and A/3-319 stayed at Dak To, forming Task Force 77 with the 3rd ARVN Abn Bn, 1/42 ARVN Bn and 27th MIKE Force Co for an expedition in the Toumorong Valley that lasted nearly three weeks but found nothing. On 11 Oct, TF 77 was disbanded and that same day, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art departed for Tuy Hoa, terminating Operation GREELEY. Results: 191 enemy killed, 17 captured, 129 US KIA, 210 US WIA. (no info on ARVN losses).

3 Jul.67-7 Apr.68
Operation: RILEY
Location: Bearcat, Camp Martin Cox, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div; TF FORSYTH (from 10 Feb). Task organization: 2-39 Inf, 4-39 Inf, 2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, TF FORSYTH. Execution: Operation RILEY was an internal defense and development operation in Bien Hoa Province and included defense of Camp Martin Cox. When not engaged in strike operations, Headquarters, 1st Bde assumed opcon of all elements engaged in RILEY, including TF FORSYTH (a provisional Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment located at Camp Martin Cox). In the absence of the 1st Bde, TF FORSYTH was allocated sufficient forces to secure the camp and to conduct limited consolidation operations in the area. On 31 Jan 68 in response to the VC Tet Offensive, elements of the 2-47 Inf (M) and 4-39 Inf moved to Long Binh Post for perimeter security. Working in coordination with 2-3 Inf from the 199th Inf Bde (Lt), the two battalions had multiple contacts with the enemy during the day near Ho Nai, killing 213 by bodycount and capturing 32. US losses were 4 KIA and 23 WIA. On 10 Feb 68, the 1st Bde moved to Dong Tam and TF FORSYTH assumed responsibility until termination. Results: 472 enemy killed, 41 detained, 2 returnees, 64 US KIA, 315 US WIA.

8 Jul.-30 Oct.
Operation: MARCH I
Location: Plei Trap Valley, Kontum Province. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: B-50 Det Project OMEGA. Execution: Long range reconnaissance and intelligence gathering conducted in the Plei Trap Valley. Results: (no info).

10 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: FREMONT
Location: Camp Evans, Hill 51, Hill 67, Phong Dien District, Thua Thien Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 4th Marines. Task organization: 2/4 Marines (10 Jul-14 Sep), 3/26 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct). Execution: The 4th Marines initiated Operation FREMONT with its own 2/4 to provide security for Camp Evans, Hill 51, the Phong Dien District Headquarters and a radio transmission site on Hill 67. On 20 Jul, 2/4 provided blocking forces near My Chanh for SLF BRAVO in Operation BEAR CHAIN. BLT 2/3 became opcon to 4th Marines on 22 Jul and joined FREMONT, until back loading on 21 Aug. Contact was sporadic in Aug with only 13 US KIA for the month. During Sep, 2/4 in conjunction with ARVN forces helped secure nearby villages and hamlets during the National Elections. On 14 Sep, 2/4 joined Operation KINGFISHER and was replaced by 3/26 Marines. Contacts remained low until termination, being limited to harassing tactics, mines incidents and sniper fire. Results: 123 enemy killed, 8 captured, 17 US KIA, 196 US WIA.

16 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: KINGFISHER
Location: Dong Ha, Con Thien, Gio Linh, Cua Viet, Ca Lu, Route 9, Route 561, Route 606, Hill 216, C-2, Demilitarized Zone, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d and 9th Marines. Task organization: 3/3 Marines, 2/4 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct), 3/4 Marines, 1/9 Marines, 2/9 Marines, 3/9 Marines, 3/26 Marines (15 Aug-11 Sep), 1st Amtrac Bn. Intelligence: 90th and 812th PAVN Rgts. Execution: KINGFISHER was a continuation of Marine operations south of the DMZ follwing BUFFALO and HICKORY II. Contact was light during the first week. On 21 Jul, 3/3 Marines securing a portion of Route 9 for a 'Rough Rider' convoy bound for Khe Sanh found a NVA battalion dug in on Hill 216 overlooking the road. Tanks, 40mm dusters and artillery pounded the hill and forced the enemy to withdraw. On 28 Jul, 2/9 Marines reinforced with tanks, LVTEs and Ontos was pushing into the DMZ north on Route 606 when it was attacked by an estimated NVA battalion. The column was split in company-size segments and fought desperately all day until reinforcements from 3/4 Marines forced the enemy to break contact. 23 Americans were killed and 251 wounded with only 32 NVA confirmed killed. Ground action was light in early Aug with the largest part of the activity involving artillery attacks on Gio Linh, Con Thien, Cua Viet and Dong Ha. On 21 Aug, an NVA battalion ambushed a small Marine convoy moving from the Rockpile to Ca Lu. Elements form 3/3 were brought in, fighting a six-hour engagement until night fell and the enemy fled to the west. 6 US were killed and 35 wounded, Enemy loses were unknown. The NVA tried again on 7 Sep at almost the same location. This time the battle lasted more than 8 hours. The Marines killed 92 of the enemy while losing 5 KIA and 56 WIA. The Communists tried to disrupt the National Elections on 3 Sep, firing more than 41 rounds of artillery into Dong Ha, damaging 17 helicopters. This attack ended the use of Dong Ha as a permanent helicopter base facility. Con Thien however, remained the primary artillery target for the NVA. On 25 Sep alone, 1,200 rounds slammed into the combat base. On 10 Sep, 3/26 Marines made heavy contact with what seemed to be the entire 812th PAVN Rgt 4 miles southwest of Con Thien. The action lasted for four hours until the enemy broke contact, leaving 140 dead on the battle field. Marine losses had been high also with 34 KIA and 192 WIA, forcing 3/26 to return to Phu Bai the next day to refit. On 21 Sep, 2/9 Marines started a search and destroy operation 1,800 meters east of Con Thien when it ran into heavy resistance from an element of the 90th PAVN Rgt. The battle turned into a stalemate after rain had made the area impassable and both sides withdrew. US casualties were 31 KIA and 118 WIA. Enemy killed were reported at 39. The enemy intensified its attack-by-fire against Con Thien in late Sep, hitting the base with over 3,000 rounds during the period 19-27 Sep. The Americans retaliated by massing one of the greatest concentrations of firepower in support of a single division in the history of the Vietnam War. Marine artillery, ships of the 7th Fleet, Marine and Air Force jets and B-52 bombers poured tons of ordnance into know enemy positions in and north of the DMZ. By the end of Sep, NVA pressure of the outpost had subsided. On 14 Oct, 2/4 Marines was guarding a bridge north of Strong point C-2 when it received a ground attack from an unknown size enemy force. AC-47 gunships helped repel the assault during the night. 21 Americans were killed and 23 wounded. Only 24 NVA bodies were found in the area. The last major action of KINGSIFHER took place during a 9th Marines operation on 25-28 Oct. 2/4 Marines was sweeping north of Con Thien on Route 561 when it was hit by an enemy battalion, beating back several attacks and losing 8 KIA and 45 WIA. Results: 1,117 enemy killed, 5 captured, 340 US KIA, 1,461 US WIA.

17 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: ARDMORE
Location: Khe Sanh, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destro, security. Controlling headquarters: 26th Marines (Forward). Task organization: 1/26 Marines, 3/26 Marines, 1/13 Marines. Execution: Operation ARDMORE was a continuation of Operation CROCKETT and involved the same mission and the same forces. On 21 Jul, B/1/26 and M/3/26 fought a NVA battalion dug on Hill 216 along Route 9 in conjunction with 3/3 Marines from Operation KINGFISHER. Contacts in August were minimal and 3/26 was moved to the KINGFISHER AO on 15 Aug. 1/26 Marines continued patrols and company-size search and destroy operations around Khe Sanh, but with limited contact with the enemy. Results: 113 enemy killed, 6 detained, 10 US KIA, 39 US WIA

27 Jul.-8 Nov.
Operation: SONG THAN 14
Location: Bong Son, Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF BRAVO. Task organization: 1st VNMC BN, 2nd VNMC Bn (27 Jul-4 Oct), 3rd VNMC Bn (4 Oct-6 Nov), C/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: On 27 Jul, TF BRAVO relieved TF ALPHA at Bong Son AF and continued search and destroy operations south of Bong Son in conjunction with Operation PERSHING. Results: (no info)

31 Jul.-3 Nov.
Operation: DAN QUYEN 822
Location: Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 22nd ARVN Division. Results: 141 enemy killed, 181 detained, 44 ARVN KIA, 74 ARVN WIA 3 ARVN MIA.

11 Aug.-21 Oct.
Operation: SONG THAN/701/67
Location: Tan Uyen, Bien Hoa Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF ALPHA. Task organization: 2nd VNMC Bn (10-21 Oct), 4th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-10 Oct), 5th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-15 Sep), 6th VNMC Bn (15 Sep-21 Oct), B/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: Operation conducted in the Tan Uyen area in coordination with the US 1st Inf Div. Results: (no info)

16 Aug-31 Oct.
Operation: 8-67/SAMURAI II & III
Location: A Shau Valley, Happy Valley, Thuat Thien and Quang Nam Provinces. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: Det B-52 Project DELTA,81st ARVN Abn Rgr Bn. Execution: Operation searched areas from the northern stretches of the A Shau Valley into Happy Valley, west of Da Nang. Results: (no info).

1 Sep.-17 Nov.
Operation: STRIKE I
Location: Bien Hoa, Long Binh, AO STRIKE, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 2-47 Inf (M). Execution: Operation STRIKE I was conducted to provide security for the Bien Hoa-Long Binh complex and to prevent rocket attacks. On 17 Nov, STRIKE I was combined with Operation UNIONTOWN. Results: (no info).

5 Sep.-30 Oct.
Operation: DRAGON FIRE
Location: Batangan Peninsula, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d ROKMC Bde. Task organization: 1st, 2d and 5th ROKMC Bns. Execution: The 2d ROKMC Bde conducted this operation to clear insurgent elements from the Batagan Peninsula. Results: 541 enemy killed, 17 captured, 121 detained, 45 ROKMC KIA, 200 ROKMC WIA, 3 USMC WIA.

11 Sep-25 Nov.
Operation: WHEELER
Location: Tien Phuoc, Hiep Duc, Song Tranh, Song Chang, Base Area 116, Base Area 117, UDEN AO, Quang Tin Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 101st Abn Div. Task organization: 1-327 Inf, 2-327 Inf, 2-502 Inf, 1-14 Inf (11-24 Sep), 1-35 Inf (4 Oct-4 Nov), 2-320 Art, A/2-9 Art (4 Oct-4 Nov), B/2-9 Art (11-24 Sep), C/3-16 Art, B/1-9 Cav (2-4 Oct), A/2-17 Cav (17-25 Nov), A/326th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PAVN Div (1st PLAF Rgt, 3rd and 21st PAVN Rgts). Execution: ... SEE PREVIOUS DAY FOR INFORMATION... Results were 9 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 18 US WIA. With the 2nd PAVN Div elements avoiding contact during the period 28 Oct-4 Nov, increased emphasis was placed on attempting to locate the division. On 5 Nov, 1-35 Inf was released from operational control of the brigade and placed under opcon of the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div conducting Operation WALLOWA in the Que Son Basin. The last phase of WHEELER (6-25 Nov) saw 2-327 Inf being air-assaulted into the western portion of BA 116 while 1-327 Inf and 2-502 Inf established blocking positions. On 11 Nov, C/2-327 Inf engaged an NVA company in the Song Chang Valley 4 km east of Hiep Duc. 14 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 5 US WIA. This marked the last significant contact of WHEELER, after that, the badly hurt 2nd PAVN Div avoided any further contact. From 23-25 Nov, brigade elements were relieved in place by elements of the 196th Inf Bde (Lt)61 and displaced to Tam Ky Airfield to move by air to the brigade main base camp at Phan Rang for a four-day stand down and preparation for future operations. Results: 1,105 enemy killed, 50 captured, 445 detained, 11 returnees, 124 US KIA, 465 US WIA.

12 Sep-10 Oct.
Operation: CORONADO V
Location: Dong Tam, Cai Lay, Cam Son Secret Zone, Ban Long Base Area, Loi Quan Island, Song My Tho, Rach Ba Rai, Rach Ben Tre, Route 20, Ding Tuong and Kien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div (MRF); 7th ARVN Div. Task organization: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div: 3-47 Inf (12-17 Sep), 4-47 Inf (17 Sep-10 Oct), 3-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-60 Inf (-)(15-17 Sep), 3-34 Art, D/15th Eng, USN TF 117; 7th ARVN Div: 10th ARVN Rgt, 41st ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 263rd and 506th PLAF Bns. Execution: On 11 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Vung Tau to Dong Tam again and began Operation CORONADO V aimed at the 263rd PLAF Bn which had returned to the Cam Son Secret Zone. On 12 Sep, 3-47 Inf swept north from landing sites on the My Tho but turned up almost nothing. The next day, 3-60 Inf and 5-60 Inf (M) with help from the 7th ARVN Div62 began a sweep of the Ban Long area to the east and made contact with what appeared to be a VC covering force near the site of the VNMC heavy contact in July. The enemy withdrew under cover of darkness, leaving 63 bodies behind. As US and ARVN forces left the Ban Long on 14 Sep, the 7th ARVN Div reported that a large force, presumably the 263rd PLAF Bn, remained in the Cam Son, only a few kilometers north from areas previously swept. On 15 Sep, as 5-60 Inf (M) moved overland via Route 20, 3-60 Inf and 3-47 Inf sailed via the Song My Tho up the Rach Ba Rai between the My Tho and the town of Cai Lay. While 3-47 Inf landed unopposed over WHITE Beach, 3-60 Inf ran into two companies of the 263rd lined up in ambush positions along the east bank of the Ba Rai. Some of the boats managed to run the gauntlet but were forced to turn back as most of the column failed to follow. Two companies from 2-60 Inf were helicoptered from Long An Province to encircle the enemy. The battle lasted until nightfall but when the Americans entered the deserted ambush site the next day they found only 24 enemy killed. On 17 Sep the MRF returned to Dong Tam where 4-47 Inf rotated aboard the ships of the MRF replacing 3-47 Inf. On 20 Sep, the MRF displaced to Kien Hoa Province and began widely separated operations in Ham Long, Giong Trom and Huong My Districts, looking for the 516th PLAF Bn but no major contact took place. On 27 Sep, ATCs performing mine sweeping duties along the Rach Ben Tre received heavy RPG, recoilless and automatic weapons fire. 3 sailors were killed and 6 wounded. On 28 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Dong Tam to the northern end of Loi Quan Island between the Cua Dai and Cua Tieu to reduce logistic distances. Operations in Kien Hoa were in close cooperation with the 10th ARVN Rgt and a composite RF battalions but only sporadic contact was made. On 5-7 Oct the MRF returned to the Ban Long but had only limited contact with elements of the 263rd PLAF Bn and on 10 Sep it displaced to Vung Tau to prepare for CORONADO VI. Results: 330 enemy killed, 235 detained, 2 returnees, 35 US KIA, 175 US WIA.

16 Sep.-29 Oct.
Operation: KUNIA
Location: Ho Bo Woods, Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 3-22 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: Operation KUNIA was conducted as part of BARKING SANDS with the 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div initiating search and destroy operations in the Ho Bo Woods in preparation for the arrival of a land clearing team of thirty Rome Plows. By the end of October 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods had been cleared. Results: (included in BARKING SANDS).

19 Sep. 67-31 Jan. 69
Operation: BOLLING/DAN HOA
Location: Tuy Hoa, Phu Hiep, Binh Tinh, Ma Hoa, AO BLACK, Song Ky Lo, Song Da Rang, Suoi Cai, Phu Yen and Phu Bon Provinces. Type: search and destroy, reconnaissance-in-force, pacification, rice protection. Controlling headquarters: 173d Abn Bde (19 Sep 67-8 Feb 68, 1 Apr 68-31 Jan 69); I FFORCEV (8 Feb-1 Apr 68); 22nd ARVN Div. Task organization: 1-503 Inf (19 Sep-6 Nov 67), 2-503 Inf (12 Oct-6 Nov 67), 3-503 Inf (5 Nov 67-16 Jan 68), 4-503 Inf (19 Sep-1 Nov 67, 16 Dec 67-31 Jan 69), TF 2-8 Cav (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), 3-319 Art, C/2-19 Art (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 47th ARVN Rgt. Intelligence: 5th PAVN Div (18B and 95th PAVN Rgts), 30th and 95th PLAF LF Bns, K65 and K76 Sapper Cos. Execution: During the period 14-19 Sep, the bulk of the brigade (minus 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art) was relocated by air from Dak To to Tuy Hoa to commence long-term Operation BOLLING in cooperation with the 47th ARVN Rgt. The 2-8 Cav was opconed to the brigade until 14 Oct to compensate for 2-503 Inf remaining at Dak To, and was air-assaulted into the BOLLING AO on 19 Sep. The operation was designed to provide security for the local rice harvest. Daily contact was maintained with enemy forces in September and October but seldom larger than squad size. During October, the brigade relocated its rear base camp facility from Bien Hoa to An Khe, moving by sea via Saigon and Qui Nhon. On 12 Oct, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 returned from the Highlands, relieving TF 2-8 Cav and on 22 Oct, the new 3-503 Inf arrived in-country from Fort Bragg, undergoing jungle training in An Khe prior to deployment to the BOLLING AO. On 1 Nov, 4-503 Inf was alerted for immediate departure for Dak To, followed five days later by the brigade minus (headquarters, 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 3-319 Art). On 5 Nov, 3-503 Inf arrived at Tuy Hoa from An Khe and assumed responsibility for Operation BOLLING. Contact continued to be light in November; on 16 Dec, the brigade headquarters, 4-503 Inf and C and D/3-319 Art were redeployed from Operation MACARTHUR, closing into the BOLLING AO that same day. On 27 Dec, 3-503 Inf conducted a series of combat assaults into the Song Ky Lo Valley 15 km northwest of Dong Tre and engaged two enemy companies. Elements of 4-503 Inf reinforced the battle area until contact was lost on 29 Dec. Results were 62 enemy killed, 12 US KIA and 34 US WIA. Contact was infrequent in January and a battalion task force built around 3-503 Inf moved to An Khe on 16 Jan 68 to assume responsibility of the Operation DAZZLEM AO63 from the departing 1st Cav Div. On 30 Jan, the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt attacked several targets in the Tuy Hoa area as part of the enemy's Tet Offensive, including a FSB held by C/6-32 Art, the Binh Tin hamlet, Tuy Hoa North AF and the provincial prison. D/4-503 Inf and two companies from the 2nd Bn, 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked toward the airfield and by 0730 on 31 Jan, the enemy force was surrounded and destroyed in Binh Tin hamlet. On 5-6 Feb, two battalions of the 47th ARVN Rgt and RF elements reduced an enemy strong point in the center of Tuy Hoa. During the fighting in and around Tuy Hoa, 316 enemy had been killed and 104 captured. During February, 4-503 Inf in conjunction with Strike Force elements from Cung Son and Dong Tre CIDG Camps, and Task Force MITCHELL (E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm) conducted search and destroy operations west of Tuy Hoa and helped mop up the aftermath of the Tet Offensive. It also provided security for the 577th Eng C Bn and 173d Eng Co working on Routes 7B and 436. On 8 Feb, the 173d Abn Bde (-) departed Tuy Hoa to assumed Opcon of TF POWERHOUSE (1-503 and 2-503 Inf) in Kontum Province in the MACARTHUR AO. Operation BOLLING passed under control of I FFORCEV which assumed opcon of TF 4-503 build around 4-503 Inf, Btys C and D, 3-319 Art and D/16 Arm. A major contact developed on 4 Mar when the 47th ARVN Rgt contacted the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt and 85th PLAF Bn in three hamlets along the coast just north of Tuy Hoa. D/16 Arm and elements of the 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked while the 47th ARVN Rgt provided blocking positions. D/16 was credited with 137 NVA killed during the action while suffering 10 KIA and 21 WIA. Contact during the rest of March was sporadic in the BOLLING AO. On 1 Apr, the brigade returned from the Highlands, relieving the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div at Bong Son64 and assumed control over TF 4-503 again. Contact was light during the month of April except on the 5th when D/16 Arm again supported the 47th ARVN Rgt in heavy contact with two enemy battalions at Ma Hoa village in Tuy Hoa Valley just off Route 7B north of the Song Da Rang. In May, 4-503 Inf conducted extensive bushmaster operations, on 2 May, Co B killed 8 enemy soldiers in the Suoi Cai Valley 18 km west of Tuy Hoa. In June, the enemy continued to avoid decisive contact with Allied force, relying on harassing tactics instead. During the period 16-27 Jul, 4-503 Inf conducted search and clear operations in AO BLACK located 25 km southwest of Cung Son on the Phu Bon and Darlac provincial boundary but there was no significant contact. On 30 July, 4-503 Inf joined the 3/47 ARVN Bn and elements of the 26th ROK Rgt to conduct a combined operation in the Song Ky Lo Valley but contact was again limited. Prisoners confirmed that the bulk of the 18B and 95th PAVN Rgts had departed Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa Province to refit in Cambodia. Contact remained light for the rest of Operation BOLLING, limited to engagements with squad-size enemy forces and booby traps incidents. On 1 Feb 69 the BOLLING/DAN HOA AO became a permanent TAOR called LY DO/WAINWRIGHT. Results: 715 enemy killed, 72 US KIA, 307 US WIA (no info on ARVN casualties).

22-28 Sep.
Operation: RICHMOND
Location: Dinh Quan, Route 20, Long Khanh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 11th ACR. Task organization: 3/11 ACR, 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn, 5th ARVN ACR (elts). Execution: The squadron provided security for engineer road repair efforts north of Dinh Quan along Route 20 in coordination with ARVN forces. There was no contact with enemy forces. Upon termination, the squadron returned to Blackhorse to resume Operation KITTYHAWK. Results: (no info).

22-28 Sep.
Operation: SHELBYVILLE
Location: Hoi An, Dai Loc, Liberty Bridge, Quang Nam Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Mar Div. Task organization: 2/1 Marines, 3/5 Marines, BLT 1/3 Marines, 1/11 Marines. Execution: SHELBYVILLE took place west of Hoi An, 6 km southeast of Dai Loc. BLT 1/3 conducted an airmobile assault on the objective area while 2/1 Marines occupied blocking positions to the east and 3/5 Marines blocked to the south. No major contact developed however but there were numerous cases of booby traps incidents. Results: 50 enemy killed, 1 captured, 59 detained, 10 US KIA, 69 US WIA.

22-29 Sep.
Operation: DO KAE BI 3
Location: Canh Phuoc, Phu Yen Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: WHRID. Task organization: 28th ROK Rgt (-). Execution: operation took place 8 km south of Van Canh. Results: 103 enemy killed (no info on friendly casualties)

23-28 Sep.
Operation: BLUEFIELD II
Location: Lai Khe, Bau Bang, Bo La, Route 301, Binh Duong Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div. Task organization: 1-2 Inf, 2-2 Inf (M), 1-26 Inf, 2-28 Inf, 1-4 Cav (-), 2-33 Art. Execution: (no info). Results: 2 enemy captured, 1 US WIA.

24 Sep.-9 Oct.
Operation: ARKANSAS CITY II
Location: Phuoc Tuy Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 11th ACR. Execution: (no info)

26 Sep.-21 Oct.
Operation: AKRON III
Location: Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone), Phuoc Tuy and Bien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-39 Inf, B/2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, 2/48 ARVN Bn, 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 274th PLAF Rgt. Execution: AKRON III was a continuation of land clearing and search and destroy operations in Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone). Contact with the enemy was light and sporadic throughout the operation but the largest known weapons cache in the III CTZ to date was discovered, contacting over 200,000 rounds of small arms, 1,022 small arms and 125 crew served weapons. Results: (no info).

New Operations

27-28 Sep.
Operation: CUU LONG/48/10
Location: Ben Tre District, Kien Hoa Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 7th ARVN Div. Execution: operation conducted at the confluence of the Ben Tre and Ham Luong rivers by the 10th ARVN Rgt supported by RAGs 21 and 33. Results: 7 enemy captured, 9 detained, 1 ARVN KIA, 8 ARVN WIA.

Other

None

[Jason Petho]

Ongoing Operations today in 1967

26 Aug.66-20 Jan.68
Operation: BYRD
Location: Phan Thiet, LZ BETTY, Binh Thuan Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: I FFORCEV. Task organization: TF 2-7: 2-7 Cav, C/1-9 Cav, A/1-21 Art, C/2-20 Art (-), C/8th Eng Bn (-), C/229th Avn Bn, Det 228th Avn Bn. Execution: Planned as a short-term, economy-of-force measure, BYRD became a continuous offensive that would last into 1968. Upon I FFORCEV request, the 1st Cav Div detached at battalion-size task force to help pacify isolated Binh Thuan Province in southern II Corps. Results (at year's end): 351 enemy killed, 151 detained, 8 US KIA, 85 US WIA.

1 Oct.66-17 Jan 68
Operation: DAZZLEM
Location: Camp Radcliff, An Khe, Binh Dinh Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization: Base Defense Task Force. Execution: Operation DAZZLEM was the contingency plan for the defense of Camp Radcliff provided by one infantry battalion with supporting artillery and
reinforcing personnel from residence units. On 17 Jan 68, the 173d Abn Bde relieved the 1st Cav Div from the mission of defending An Khe. Results: 80 enemy killed, 9 detained.

11 Oct.66-17 Nov.67
Operation: UNIONTOWN II
Location: Long Binh, Bien Hoa Province Type: security. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV. Execution: Operation UNIONTOWN was a security operation designed to protect the Long Binh logistical complex, RMK Rock Quarry and II FFORCEV Headquarters. Units were assigned on a rotation basis from each major command under II FFORCEV.

30 Nov. 66-15 Dec.67
Operation: FAIRFAX/RANG DONG
Location: Nha Be, Thu Duc and Binh Chanh Districts, Gia Dinh Province. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV, CMD. Task organization: 1st Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 2-16 Inf; 4th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3-22 Inf; 25th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 4-9 Inf; CMD (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3rd and 5th ARVN Abn Bns, 30th Ranger Bn; 199th LIB (31 Jan-15 Dec.): 2-3 Inf, 3-7 Inf, 4-12 Inf, 2-40 Art; 5th ARVN Ranger Group (31 Jan.-15 Dec): 30th, 33rd and 38th ARVN Ranger Bns. Intelligence: Military Region 4, 165A PLAF Regiment. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE... Results (end of 1966): 149 enemy killed, 40 detained, 11 US KIA, 67 US WIA, 23 ARVN KIA, 58 ARVN WIA, 1 ARVN MIA.

8 Feb.67-31 Jan.68
Operation: LAM SON 67
Location: Phu Loi, An My, Ong Dong Jungle, Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, security, jungle clearing. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 1st Inf Div (8 Feb-17 Mar, 17 Apr 67-31 Jan 68); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (17 Mar-17 Apr). Task organization: 1st Inf Div Revolutionary Development Task Force (various infantry, cavalry and support units were assigned on a rotation basis during the period). Execution: The operation supported the GVN's Revolutionary Development Program in conjunction with ARVN units in Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. LAM SON 67 consisted of cordon and search, reconnaissance in force, harassment, jungle clearing, population control, civic action and psychological warfare operations directed against priority targets. Contact in the AO was characterized by light sporadic incidents with local VC elements. On 6 Jan 68, the Phu Loi base camp received 123 rounds of mixed mortar fire, 46 aircraft were damaged and 6 US WIA. Reacting to the attack, A/2-18 Inf and B/2-2 Inf (M) swept the area to the north of the base and contacted two enemy companies of the Phu Loi PLAF Bn. 92 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 14 US WIA. Operation LAM SON 67 was terminated on 31 Jan 68 with the beginning of the enemy's Tet Offensive. Results: 527 enemy killed, 263 captured, 2,327 detained, 346 defectors, 56 US KIA, 572 US WIA.

12 Feb. 67-18 Jan. 68
Operation: PERSHING
Location: Bong Son, Tuy An, Tam Quan, Hoa Tan, Sa Huynh, Truong Son, An Qui, Trung Xuan, An Lac, An Lao Valley, Kim Son Valley, Suoi Ca Valley, 506 Valley, Nuoc Dinh Valley, Phu My Valley, Song Re Valley, the Crescent, Nui Mieu, Nui Sang, Cay Giep, Dam Tra-O Lake, Route 1, LZ BRONCO BEACH, LZ CRYSTAL, LZ ENGLISH, LZ GARNET, LZ GERONIMO, LZ GLENN, LZ HAMMOND, LZ IRON, LZ MEADE, LZ PAT, LZ SANDRA, LZ STEEL, LZ TOM, LZ TWO BITS, LZ UPLIFT, Binh Dinh and Quang Ngai Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization (As of 12 Feb): 1 s t Bde: 1-8 Cav, 1-12 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-19 Art (-), D/2-17 Art, C/1-21 Art, A/3-18 Art; 2d Bde: 2-5 Cav, 1-5 Cav (-), 1-7 Cav (-), 2-12 Cav, 1-77 Art (-), B/1-8 Art, A/1-21 Art, C/1-30 Art, B/8th Eng; 3d Bde: 2-8 Cav, C/1-5 Cav, 1-21 Art (-), 2-17 Art (-), C/6-16 Art, C/2-19 Art, C/8th Eng; 3d Bde, 25 t h Inf Div (12 Feb-19 Apr): 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf (4-19 Apr), 2-9 Art, A/1-77 Art, 5-16 Art, C/3-4 Cav, D/65th Eng; Div Arty: 2-20 Art (-), 7-13 Art (-), B/29 Art, E/82 Art, 3-18 Art (-); Div Troops: 1-9 Cav, 8th Eng Bn (-). Intelligence: 3rd PAVN Div: 18th and 22nd PAVN Rgts, 2nd PLAF Rgt. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE ... Results: 5,
388 enemy killed, 2,356 captured, 10,609 detained, 221 returnees, 852 US KIA, 4,119 US WIA, 22 US MIA.

13 Feb. 67-10 Mar. 68
Operation: ENTERPRISE
Location: Tan An, Rach Kien, Ben Luc, Binh Phuoc, Tan Tru, Doi Ma Creek, Plain of Reeds9, Base Area 371, Route 14, Long An Province. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, eagle flights. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 3-39 Inf, 2-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-4 Art, C/15th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PLAF MF Bn, 506th PLAF LF Bn. Execution: ENTERPRISE was the continuation of the pacification effort of Long An Province initiated the previous year by the 25th Inf Div with Operation LANIKAI. On 13 Feb, 3-39 Inf relieved 2-14 Inf at Rach Kien. Strength of division elements in the province were subsequently increased to brigade size with movement of 2-60 Inf into Tan Tru, 5-60 Inf into Binh Phuoc and Headquarters, 3d Bde into Tan An. The first major engagement occurred on 9 Apr when 3-39 Inf made contact with the 506th PLAF Bn on the bank of Doi Ma Creek. Additional companies were brought in, killing 247 of the enemy. On 2 May, the 506th Bn exacted vengeance on the 3-39 Inf, attacking one of its companies in night defensive position near Route 4. 17 US were KIA and 48 WIA but no enemy bodies were found. The operation was temporarily extended north to the Plain of Reeds area on 8-14 May with sub-operation NIRVANA II directed against the enemy's Base Area 371. Elements of the 3d Bde joined forces with the 4/50 ARVN Bn of the 25th ARVN Div but found nothing, killing only 14 of the enemy. On 14 May, the 2nd PLAF Bn struck the compound of the 2/50 ARVN Bn in Rach Kien, killing 31 South Vietnamese soldiers and wounding 34. 3d Bde units were committed but couldn't regain contact with the attacking force. After that, contact with the enemy dropped sharply for the remainder of 1967, indicating an apparent enemy desire to avoid friendly forces. On 31 Jan 68, the brigade responded to the Tet Offensive, 5-60 Inf engaged in heavy fighting southwest of Saigon in Gia Dinh Province, killing 128 enemy soldiers. From 1-5 Feb, 3-39 Inf and 2-60 Inf were sent to Kien Hoa Province to help recapture Ben Tre, the provincial capital. On 10 Feb, the brigade HQ at Tan An came under attack from an unknown size enemy force. 33 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 53 US WIA. During March, brigade elements conducted "Aquabush" operations along the numerous canals south of Saigon in conjunction with the 199th Inf Bde (Lt). Pacification activities decreased sharply during the Tet Offensive and the operation was terminated on 10 March. Results: 2,107 enemy killed, 74 US KIA, 380 US WIA.

14 Feb.67-21 Mar.68
Operation: KITTYHAWK
Location: Long Binh, Xuan Loc, Long Giao, Gia Ray, Suoi Cat, Blackhorse, Route 1, Route 2, Long Khanh and Bien Hoa Province. Type: reconnaissance-in-force, cordon and search, security, road clearing. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div (14 Feb 67-15 Feb 68); 11th ACR (15 Feb-21 Mar 68). Task organization: 3-5 Cav, 1/11 ACR, 2/11 ACR, 3/11 ACR. Intelligence: 275th PLAF Rgt. Execution: The purpose of KITTYHAWK was to secure LOCs and selected installations within Long Khanh Province, conduct reconnaissance-in-force operations and cordon and search of selected hamlets within the AO, secure Blackhorse base camp and the Gia Ray rock quarry and provide ready reaction forces along Route 1. On 21 May, K Troop, 3/11 ACR was ambushed by an estimated reinforced enemy battalion near Suoi Cat on Route 1. 30 enemy are killed, 12 US KIA and 13 US WIA. On 27 Jun 1/11 ACR moved to reinforce the 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn which was in heavy contact with elements of the 3rd Bn, 275th PLAF Rgt, killing 49 of the enemy11. On 30 Dec two enemy companies ambushed Troop C, 3-5 Cav on Route 2. Friendly losses are 10 KIA, 29 WIA and 3 MIA. On 31 Jan 68, in reaction to the VC Tet Offensive, the 3-5 Cav was alerted to respond to enemy activity in the Long Binh-Bien Hoa area. A/3-5 Cav bypassed several roadblocks, breaking through enemy forces and reached the Bien Hoa airfield, sweeping nearby wood lines and killing 40. During the period 2-3 Feb, C/3-5 Cav was sent to defend Xuan Loc against an intense ground attack, killing nearly 50 enemy soldiers. On 15 Feb the KITTYHAWK mission was assumed by the 11th ACR as the 3-5 Cav (-) was directed by HQ USARV to deploy to Da Nang, I CTZ. On 21 Mar, the operation was phased into Operation ALCORN COVE. Results: 201 enemy killed, 7 captured, 1 returnee, 62 US KIA, 224 US WIA.

5 Apr.-11 Oct.
Operation: FRANCIS MARION
Location: Plei Me, Duc Co, Plei Djereng, Plei Mrong, Plei Do Lim, Buon Blech, Se San, Ia Drang, Ia Tchar, Dak Ayun, Dak Payou, Chu Pong, Chu Prong, Chu Goungot, Chu Groh, Route 14, Route 14B, Route 19E, Route 509, Hill 521, LZ OASIS, LZ JACKSON HOLE, Pleiku and Darlac Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: (effective 7 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, B/4-42 Art, C/3-4 Cav (-), A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (-), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, Plt B/1-69 Arm, 4-42 Art (-), B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), Plt C/2-8 Inf (-), Cav Plt 1-10 Cav, B/3-6 Art, A/5-16 Art; TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 26 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), C/4-42 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h In f Div: 2-8 Inf, 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), A/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), A/3-6 Art; TF 3-8 Inf: 3-8 Inf, C/6-29 Art, A/5-16 Art; Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 30 May): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (M), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art, B/4th Eng (-); 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, D/16 Arm, E/17 Cav, 173d Eng Co; TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 5-16 Art (-); Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 24 Sep): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 2-8 Inf (M), 3-8 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), A/4-42 Art,, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div: 1-12 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), B/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: 2-1 Cav, D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Intelligence: B3 Front, 1st NVA Div (32nd, 66th and 88th Rgts), 10th NVA Div (95B and 101C Rgts), 200th NVA Art Bn, 407th PLAF MF Sapper Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn.. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE.... Results: 1,204 enemy killed, 122 detained, 11 returnees, 198 US KIA, 982 US WIA, 8 US MIA.

22 Apr.67-2 Jan 68.
Operation: BAKER
Location: Duc Pho, Mo Duc, Vinh Hien, Tan Phong, Dien Truong, An Ba, An Tach, Song Tra Cau, Song Ve, LZ MONTEZUMA (later renamed LZ BRONCO), LZ GUADALCANAL, LZ OLIVE DRAB, LZ LIZ, LZ DRAGON, RAZORBACK Beach, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde TF, 25th Inf Div (redesignated 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div on 1 Aug). Task organization: 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf, 2-9 Art, C/3-4 Cav, B/1-9 Cav, C/2-34 Arm. Intelligence: 1st PLAF Rgt, 2nd PLAF Rgt, 22nd PAVN Rgt. Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: (no info).

14 May.-7 Dec.
Operation: KOLE KOLE
Location: Duc Hoa, Bao Trai, Hiep Hoa, Loc Giang, Trang Bang, Song Vam Co Dong, Rach Tra, Xinh An Ha, Route 10, Hau Nghia and Tay Ninh Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 1-5 Inf (M), 1-27 Inf, 2-27 Inf, 1-8 Art. Intelligence: 2nd Go Mon and 269th PLAF LF Bns. Execution: Operation KOLE KOLE was initiated by the 2d Bde in Hau Nghia Province using EAGLE FLIGHTS and airmobile operations based on current intelligence. Cordon and search, outposting and country fair operations were also conducted in conjunction with the 25th ARVN Div, CIDG and RF/PF. On 17 May, elements of 1/27 Inf and 2/27 Inf fought an eight-hour engagement west of the Vam Co Dong with a VC company. Results were 27 enemy killed, 2 US KIA and 9 US WIA. There was intermittent contact during June and July, particularly along the An Ha canal and near Loc Giang. The brigade also secured engineer operations along Route 10 to improve the GVN's authority and control west of Trang Bang. In early August, the reconnaissance platoon of 1/27 Inf with helicopter support intercepted VC recon elements from Long An Province, killing 26. During September, KOLE KOLE shifted to northern Hau Nghai and southwestern Tay Ninh Province. 1-5 Inf (M) conducted extensive dismounted ambush patrols around Loc Giang along the Vam Co while 2-27 Inf engaged scattered elements of the 269th PLAF Bn. On 21 Oct, an EAGLE FLIGHT from 1-27 Inf engaged an estimated enemy platoon south of Tay Ninh, killing 18. On 31 Oct, 2-27 Inf made contact with elements of the 2nd Go Mon Bn north of the Rach Tra, killing 28 and capturing 2. Enemy activity decreased for the rest of KOLE KOLE and the brigade concentrated on pacification and land clearing operations. Results: 797 enemy killed, 150 detained, 34 returnees, 144 US KIA, 876 US WIA

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: BARKING SANDS
Location: Cu Chi, Trang Bang, Phu Hoa, Iron Triangle, Ho Bo Woods, Song Saigon, Hau Nghia and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: The 1st Bde employed counter guerrilla warfaretechniques including saturation patrolling, checkmate, bushmaster and cordon and search operations to pacify Cu Chi and Trang Bang Districts in Hau Nghia Province and Phu Hoa District in Binh Duong Province. Buddy operations were also conducted with local PF platoons and RF companies. On 30 Aug, 4-9 Inf conducted an airmobile assault against an entrenched VC battalion in the Iron Triangle resulting in 4 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 43 US WIA. During September, primary emphasis was placed on denying VC access to populated areas during the National Elections. Land clearing operations were also initiated along the Song Saigon to eliminate VC concealment. In October, 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods were cleared by Rome Plows following Operation KUNIA. Contact during BARKING SANDS was limited to squad and platoon size elements and no major engagement occurred. Four sub-operations were conducted in the BARKING SANDS AO during the period: KAWELA, AKUMU,WAIMEA and KUNIA (see individual operations below). Results (inclusive of the four sub-operations): 370 enemy killed, 85 detained, 10 returnees, 110 US KIA, 1114 US WIA.

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: DIAMOND HEAD
Location: Tay Ninh West, Dau Tieng, Suoi Da, Prek Klok, Ben Cui, Michelin Plantation, Boi Loi Woods, The Crescent, The Trapezoid, Tay Ninh and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div33. Task organization: 2-12 Inf, 2-22 Inf (M), 3-22 Inf, 2-77 Art, 2-34 Arm (-) (from 22 Sep), C/1-10 Cav, C/4th Eng. Execution: The mission was to conduct search and destroy operations in Tay Ninh Province, cordon and search operations in the Michelin Plantation, and security and reinforcement missions in the Tay Ninh and Prek Klok areas. With one battalion detached to Operation UNIONTOWN and another providing security for the Dau Tieng and Tay Ninh West base camps, contact in the AO were very limited during the months of May, June and July. On 1 Aug, the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div was redesignated the 3d Bde, 25th Inf Div. No movement of troops or units were involved in this redesignation. On 15 Aug, an airmobile cordon and search of Thanh An was conducted by 3-22 Inf in conjunction with VN National Police. 6 enemy were killed and 42 detained. In September, the brigade provided security during the National elections. In October, continued battalion size search and destroy operations were conducted in the Michelin Plantation to prevent its use as an enemy haven, in and south of Ben Cui, and in the northern portion of the Trapezoid, which extends 15 km to the southeast of Dau Tieng. Bushmaster operations were conducted in an area known as the Crescent, 8 km northwest of Dau Tieng. All operations were marked by extremely light contact. In November, operations were conducted in the upper Boi Loi Woods and in the Ben Cui Plantation, again with light contact. During this period operations were curtailed due to two battalions being opcon to the other brigades. On 25-25 Now, 2-22 Inf (M) made contact with a VC company near the Mushroom bend on the Saigon River, killing 20. This was the last contact during DIAMOND HEAD before the operation came to an end on 7 Dec. Results: 237 enemy killed, 496 detained, 4 returnees. (US losses unknown).

1 Jun.67-7 Feb.68
Operation: HOPTAC
Location: Dong Tam, Dinh Tuong Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: Task Force FUNSTON39. Execution: Operation HOPTAC was an internal defense and development operation in Dinh Tuong Province which included security of the Dong Tam base. Task Force FUNSTON provided land and waterborne security for engineer dredging equipment and maintained a ready reaction force to assist local GVN units and installations if needed. In most cases contact with the VC was characterized by light fire fights and sniper fire. On 1 Feb 68 the enemy fired more than 170 82 mm mortar and 75 mm RR rounds into the base resulting in minor damage and 11 US WIA. In the early morning hours of 3, 4, 5 and 7 Feb, the enemy continued to attack the base with mortar and RR fire. The heaviest attack came on 7 Feb with an estimated 200 rounds fired at the base. Elements of 5-60 Inf and 2-39 Inf conducted reaction airmobile assaults and RIF operations 8 km east of Dong tam, making contact with two VC companies, killing 23 while losing 5 KIA and 11 WIA. Results: 296 enemy killed, 11 captured, 3 returnees, 37 US KIA, 364 US WIA.

18 Jun.-12 Oct.
Operation: GREELEY
Location: Kontum, Dak To, Tan Canh, Dak Seang, Dak Pek, Toumorong, Dak Poko, Dak Akoi, Hill 830, Hill 1338, FSB 4, Kontum Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (24 Jun-25 Jul): 1-7 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-12 Cav, 1-21 Art; 1st ARVN Abn TF (24 Jun-25 Jul): 3d, 5th and 8th ARVN Abn Bns; 24th STZ: 1/42 Inf. Intelligence: 24th and 174th PAVN Rgts, K101D PAVN Bn, 304th PLAF MF Bn, 200th PLAF Art Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn . Execution: From 1-18 Jun, the 173d Abn Bde continued participation in Operation FRANCIS MARION, searching further south and east in the Ia Drang Valley. The brigade deployed the 1-503 Inf and 2-503 Inf into the AO, holding 4-503 Inf in reserve at Catecka. No significant contact was made. On 17 Jun, TF MC QUARRIE (2-503 Inf, E/17 Cav, A/3-319 Art) moved by air and motor convoy to the New Dak To Airfield, joined the following day by 1-503 Inf. The mission, named GREELEY, was to assume opcon of the CIDG Camp at Dak To under threat from the 24th PAVN Rgt and assist in its defense. On 18 Jun, 2-503 Inf began searching south of Dak To toward the huge mass of Hill 1338 (Ngok Bor Beang). C/1-503 Inf was also inserted into the area to search for a missing SF and CIDG team which had been destroyed by the NVA on 15-16 Jun, 1400 meters southwest of their camp. On 22 Jun, after a fruitless search of Hill 1338, 2-503 Inf was instructed to return to Dak To on foot. Shortly after leaving its NDP, A/2-503 bumped into an enemy battalion from the 24th PAVN Rgt42 while descending the slopes of Hill 1338. Two platoons were cut off and annihilated while the rest of the company formed a small perimeter and called supporting fires. Cos B and C were rushed to the rescue but arrived too late. 76 Americans had been killed, some executed point blank by the enemy, and 23 wounded. 106 enemy bodies were counted in the battle area. This action became known as 'The Battle of the Slopes' and as one of the costliest engagement for US forces in Vietnam. Concerned by the size of the battle and the US losses, General Larsen at I FFORCEV decided to reinforce GREELEY. On 23 Jun, 2-12 Cav arrived from the PERSHING AO while the rest of the 173d Abn Bde (CP (-) and 4-503 Inf) closed Dak To from Catecka. The next day, 24 Jun, the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (-) and 1st ARVN Abn TF arrived at Kontum. The Allied forces went after the 24th PAVN Rgt, seeking to destroy it. In the next two weeks, the 173d Abn Bde and 2-12 Cav searched west and south of Dak To while the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div and the ARVN Abn TF entered the Dak Akoi Valley northeast of Kontum and 35 km east of Dak To. The sweep found little evidence of the enemy's presence and on 25 Jul the cavalry brigade returned to the coast, while the Vietnamese task force stood down at Kontum to serve as a mobile reaction force. Southwest of Dak To on 10 Jul, 4-503 Inf, while searching for a regimental headquarters, found an occupied enemy bunker complex on Hill 830. Battle raged until 12 Jul with 22 US KIA and 62 US WIA but only 9 enemy bodies found. This was the last significant contact on the month. On 19 Jul, 2 NVA soldiers rallied at Dak Pek CIDG Camp, stating that they were 42 Later identified as the 6th Bn, 24th PAVN Rgt. from the newly infiltrated 174th PAVN Rgt. They were proved correct on 6 Aug when the 1/42 ARVN Bn made heavy contact with that unit 8 km west of the Dak Seang CIDG Camp. The ARVN Abn TF was rushed into the area and fought a bitter twoday battle to capture a hill believed to have been the location of the regimental CP, killing 189 of the enemy. On 9 Aug, 4-503 Inf moved to Dak Pek, joining the 1-503 Inf already there since 4 Aug, but the two battalions found little. Contacts were so low in August that the 173d Abn Bde was credited with only 4 enemy killed. During the period 1-18 Sep, the brigade continued GREELEY in the Dak To – Dak Seang area, supporting CIDG Operation DARBY, but contact was minimal. On 17 Sep, the brigade (-) began moving by air to Tuy Hoa to begin Operation BOLLING. Only 4-503 Inf and A/3-319 stayed at Dak To, forming Task Force 77 with the 3rd ARVN Abn Bn, 1/42 ARVN Bn and 27th MIKE Force Co for an expedition in the Toumorong Valley that lasted nearly three weeks but found nothing. On 11 Oct, TF 77 was disbanded and that same day, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art departed for Tuy Hoa, terminating Operation GREELEY. Results: 191 enemy killed, 17 captured, 129 US KIA, 210 US WIA. (no info on ARVN losses).

3 Jul.67-7 Apr.68
Operation: RILEY
Location: Bearcat, Camp Martin Cox, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div; TF FORSYTH (from 10 Feb). Task organization: 2-39 Inf, 4-39 Inf, 2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, TF FORSYTH. Execution: Operation RILEY was an internal defense and development operation in Bien Hoa Province and included defense of Camp Martin Cox. When not engaged in strike operations, Headquarters, 1st Bde assumed opcon of all elements engaged in RILEY, including TF FORSYTH (a provisional Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment located at Camp Martin Cox). In the absence of the 1st Bde, TF FORSYTH was allocated sufficient forces to secure the camp and to conduct limited consolidation operations in the area. On 31 Jan 68 in response to the VC Tet Offensive, elements of the 2-47 Inf (M) and 4-39 Inf moved to Long Binh Post for perimeter security. Working in coordination with 2-3 Inf from the 199th Inf Bde (Lt), the two battalions had multiple contacts with the enemy during the day near Ho Nai, killing 213 by bodycount and capturing 32. US losses were 4 KIA and 23 WIA. On 10 Feb 68, the 1st Bde moved to Dong Tam and TF FORSYTH assumed responsibility until termination. Results: 472 enemy killed, 41 detained, 2 returnees, 64 US KIA, 315 US WIA.

8 Jul.-30 Oct.
Operation: MARCH I
Location: Plei Trap Valley, Kontum Province. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: B-50 Det Project OMEGA. Execution: Long range reconnaissance and intelligence gathering conducted in the Plei Trap Valley. Results: (no info).

10 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: FREMONT
Location: Camp Evans, Hill 51, Hill 67, Phong Dien District, Thua Thien Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 4th Marines. Task organization: 2/4 Marines (10 Jul-14 Sep), 3/26 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct). Execution: The 4th Marines initiated Operation FREMONT with its own 2/4 to provide security for Camp Evans, Hill 51, the Phong Dien District Headquarters and a radio transmission site on Hill 67. On 20 Jul, 2/4 provided blocking forces near My Chanh for SLF BRAVO in Operation BEAR CHAIN. BLT 2/3 became opcon to 4th Marines on 22 Jul and joined FREMONT, until back loading on 21 Aug. Contact was sporadic in Aug with only 13 US KIA for the month. During Sep, 2/4 in conjunction with ARVN forces helped secure nearby villages and hamlets during the National Elections. On 14 Sep, 2/4 joined Operation KINGFISHER and was replaced by 3/26 Marines. Contacts remained low until termination, being limited to harassing tactics, mines incidents and sniper fire. Results: 123 enemy killed, 8 captured, 17 US KIA, 196 US WIA.

16 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: KINGFISHER
Location: Dong Ha, Con Thien, Gio Linh, Cua Viet, Ca Lu, Route 9, Route 561, Route 606, Hill 216, C-2, Demilitarized Zone, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d and 9th Marines. Task organization: 3/3 Marines, 2/4 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct), 3/4 Marines, 1/9 Marines, 2/9 Marines, 3/9 Marines, 3/26 Marines (15 Aug-11 Sep), 1st Amtrac Bn. Intelligence: 90th and 812th PAVN Rgts. Execution: KINGFISHER was a continuation of Marine operations south of the DMZ follwing BUFFALO and HICKORY II. Contact was light during the first week. On 21 Jul, 3/3 Marines securing a portion of Route 9 for a 'Rough Rider' convoy bound for Khe Sanh found a NVA battalion dug in on Hill 216 overlooking the road. Tanks, 40mm dusters and artillery pounded the hill and forced the enemy to withdraw. On 28 Jul, 2/9 Marines reinforced with tanks, LVTEs and Ontos was pushing into the DMZ north on Route 606 when it was attacked by an estimated NVA battalion. The column was split in company-size segments and fought desperately all day until reinforcements from 3/4 Marines forced the enemy to break contact. 23 Americans were killed and 251 wounded with only 32 NVA confirmed killed. Ground action was light in early Aug with the largest part of the activity involving artillery attacks on Gio Linh, Con Thien, Cua Viet and Dong Ha. On 21 Aug, an NVA battalion ambushed a small Marine convoy moving from the Rockpile to Ca Lu. Elements form 3/3 were brought in, fighting a six-hour engagement until night fell and the enemy fled to the west. 6 US were killed and 35 wounded, Enemy loses were unknown. The NVA tried again on 7 Sep at almost the same location. This time the battle lasted more than 8 hours. The Marines killed 92 of the enemy while losing 5 KIA and 56 WIA. The Communists tried to disrupt the National Elections on 3 Sep, firing more than 41 rounds of artillery into Dong Ha, damaging 17 helicopters. This attack ended the use of Dong Ha as a permanent helicopter base facility. Con Thien however, remained the primary artillery target for the NVA. On 25 Sep alone, 1,200 rounds slammed into the combat base. On 10 Sep, 3/26 Marines made heavy contact with what seemed to be the entire 812th PAVN Rgt 4 miles southwest of Con Thien. The action lasted for four hours until the enemy broke contact, leaving 140 dead on the battle field. Marine losses had been high also with 34 KIA and 192 WIA, forcing 3/26 to return to Phu Bai the next day to refit. On 21 Sep, 2/9 Marines started a search and destroy operation 1,800 meters east of Con Thien when it ran into heavy resistance from an element of the 90th PAVN Rgt. The battle turned into a stalemate after rain had made the area impassable and both sides withdrew. US casualties were 31 KIA and 118 WIA. Enemy killed were reported at 39. The enemy intensified its attack-by-fire against Con Thien in late Sep, hitting the base with over 3,000 rounds during the period 19-27 Sep. The Americans retaliated by massing one of the greatest concentrations of firepower in support of a single division in the history of the Vietnam War. Marine artillery, ships of the 7th Fleet, Marine and Air Force jets and B-52 bombers poured tons of ordnance into know enemy positions in and north of the DMZ. By the end of Sep, NVA pressure of the outpost had subsided. On 14 Oct, 2/4 Marines was guarding a bridge north of Strong point C-2 when it received a ground attack from an unknown size enemy force. AC-47 gunships helped repel the assault during the night. 21 Americans were killed and 23 wounded. Only 24 NVA bodies were found in the area. The last major action of KINGSIFHER took place during a 9th Marines operation on 25-28 Oct. 2/4 Marines was sweeping north of Con Thien on Route 561 when it was hit by an enemy battalion, beating back several attacks and losing 8 KIA and 45 WIA. Results: 1,117 enemy killed, 5 captured, 340 US KIA, 1,461 US WIA.

17 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: ARDMORE
Location: Khe Sanh, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destro, security. Controlling headquarters: 26th Marines (Forward). Task organization: 1/26 Marines, 3/26 Marines, 1/13 Marines. Execution: Operation ARDMORE was a continuation of Operation CROCKETT and involved the same mission and the same forces. On 21 Jul, B/1/26 and M/3/26 fought a NVA battalion dug on Hill 216 along Route 9 in conjunction with 3/3 Marines from Operation KINGFISHER. Contacts in August were minimal and 3/26 was moved to the KINGFISHER AO on 15 Aug. 1/26 Marines continued patrols and company-size search and destroy operations around Khe Sanh, but with limited contact with the enemy. Results: 113 enemy killed, 6 detained, 10 US KIA, 39 US WIA

27 Jul.-8 Nov.
Operation: SONG THAN 14
Location: Bong Son, Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF BRAVO. Task organization: 1st VNMC BN, 2nd VNMC Bn (27 Jul-4 Oct), 3rd VNMC Bn (4 Oct-6 Nov), C/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: On 27 Jul, TF BRAVO relieved TF ALPHA at Bong Son AF and continued search and destroy operations south of Bong Son in conjunction with Operation PERSHING. Results: (no info)

31 Jul.-3 Nov.
Operation: DAN QUYEN 822
Location: Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 22nd ARVN Division. Results: 141 enemy killed, 181 detained, 44 ARVN KIA, 74 ARVN WIA 3 ARVN MIA.

11 Aug.-21 Oct.
Operation: SONG THAN/701/67
Location: Tan Uyen, Bien Hoa Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF ALPHA. Task organization: 2nd VNMC Bn (10-21 Oct), 4th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-10 Oct), 5th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-15 Sep), 6th VNMC Bn (15 Sep-21 Oct), B/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: Operation conducted in the Tan Uyen area in coordination with the US 1st Inf Div. Results: (no info)

16 Aug-31 Oct.
Operation: 8-67/SAMURAI II & III
Location: A Shau Valley, Happy Valley, Thuat Thien and Quang Nam Provinces. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: Det B-52 Project DELTA,81st ARVN Abn Rgr Bn. Execution: Operation searched areas from the northern stretches of the A Shau Valley into Happy Valley, west of Da Nang. Results: (no info).

1 Sep.-17 Nov.
Operation: STRIKE I
Location: Bien Hoa, Long Binh, AO STRIKE, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 2-47 Inf (M). Execution: Operation STRIKE I was conducted to provide security for the Bien Hoa-Long Binh complex and to prevent rocket attacks. On 17 Nov, STRIKE I was combined with Operation UNIONTOWN. Results: (no info).

5 Sep.-30 Oct.
Operation: DRAGON FIRE
Location: Batangan Peninsula, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d ROKMC Bde. Task organization: 1st, 2d and 5th ROKMC Bns. Execution: The 2d ROKMC Bde conducted this operation to clear insurgent elements from the Batagan Peninsula. Results: 541 enemy killed, 17 captured, 121 detained, 45 ROKMC KIA, 200 ROKMC WIA, 3 USMC WIA.

11 Sep-25 Nov.
Operation: WHEELER
Location: Tien Phuoc, Hiep Duc, Song Tranh, Song Chang, Base Area 116, Base Area 117, UDEN AO, Quang Tin Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 101st Abn Div. Task organization: 1-327 Inf, 2-327 Inf, 2-502 Inf, 1-14 Inf (11-24 Sep), 1-35 Inf (4 Oct-4 Nov), 2-320 Art, A/2-9 Art (4 Oct-4 Nov), B/2-9 Art (11-24 Sep), C/3-16 Art, B/1-9 Cav (2-4 Oct), A/2-17 Cav (17-25 Nov), A/326th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PAVN Div (1st PLAF Rgt, 3rd and 21st PAVN Rgts). Execution: ... SEE PREVIOUS DAY FOR INFORMATION... Results were 9 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 18 US WIA. With the 2nd PAVN Div elements avoiding contact during the period 28 Oct-4 Nov, increased emphasis was placed on attempting to locate the division. On 5 Nov, 1-35 Inf was released from operational control of the brigade and placed under opcon of the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div conducting Operation WALLOWA in the Que Son Basin. The last phase of WHEELER (6-25 Nov) saw 2-327 Inf being air-assaulted into the western portion of BA 116 while 1-327 Inf and 2-502 Inf established blocking positions. On 11 Nov, C/2-327 Inf engaged an NVA company in the Song Chang Valley 4 km east of Hiep Duc. 14 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 5 US WIA. This marked the last significant contact of WHEELER, after that, the badly hurt 2nd PAVN Div avoided any further contact. From 23-25 Nov, brigade elements were relieved in place by elements of the 196th Inf Bde (Lt)61 and displaced to Tam Ky Airfield to move by air to the brigade main base camp at Phan Rang for a four-day stand down and preparation for future operations. Results: 1,105 enemy killed, 50 captured, 445 detained, 11 returnees, 124 US KIA, 465 US WIA.

12 Sep-10 Oct.
Operation: CORONADO V
Location: Dong Tam, Cai Lay, Cam Son Secret Zone, Ban Long Base Area, Loi Quan Island, Song My Tho, Rach Ba Rai, Rach Ben Tre, Route 20, Ding Tuong and Kien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div (MRF); 7th ARVN Div. Task organization: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div: 3-47 Inf (12-17 Sep), 4-47 Inf (17 Sep-10 Oct), 3-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-60 Inf (-)(15-17 Sep), 3-34 Art, D/15th Eng, USN TF 117; 7th ARVN Div: 10th ARVN Rgt, 41st ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 263rd and 506th PLAF Bns. Execution: On 11 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Vung Tau to Dong Tam again and began Operation CORONADO V aimed at the 263rd PLAF Bn which had returned to the Cam Son Secret Zone. On 12 Sep, 3-47 Inf swept north from landing sites on the My Tho but turned up almost nothing. The next day, 3-60 Inf and 5-60 Inf (M) with help from the 7th ARVN Div62 began a sweep of the Ban Long area to the east and made contact with what appeared to be a VC covering force near the site of the VNMC heavy contact in July. The enemy withdrew under cover of darkness, leaving 63 bodies behind. As US and ARVN forces left the Ban Long on 14 Sep, the 7th ARVN Div reported that a large force, presumably the 263rd PLAF Bn, remained in the Cam Son, only a few kilometers north from areas previously swept. On 15 Sep, as 5-60 Inf (M) moved overland via Route 20, 3-60 Inf and 3-47 Inf sailed via the Song My Tho up the Rach Ba Rai between the My Tho and the town of Cai Lay. While 3-47 Inf landed unopposed over WHITE Beach, 3-60 Inf ran into two companies of the 263rd lined up in ambush positions along the east bank of the Ba Rai. Some of the boats managed to run the gauntlet but were forced to turn back as most of the column failed to follow. Two companies from 2-60 Inf were helicoptered from Long An Province to encircle the enemy. The battle lasted until nightfall but when the Americans entered the deserted ambush site the next day they found only 24 enemy killed. On 17 Sep the MRF returned to Dong Tam where 4-47 Inf rotated aboard the ships of the MRF replacing 3-47 Inf. On 20 Sep, the MRF displaced to Kien Hoa Province and began widely separated operations in Ham Long, Giong Trom and Huong My Districts, looking for the 516th PLAF Bn but no major contact took place. On 27 Sep, ATCs performing mine sweeping duties along the Rach Ben Tre received heavy RPG, recoilless and automatic weapons fire. 3 sailors were killed and 6 wounded. On 28 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Dong Tam to the northern end of Loi Quan Island between the Cua Dai and Cua Tieu to reduce logistic distances. Operations in Kien Hoa were in close cooperation with the 10th ARVN Rgt and a composite RF battalions but only sporadic contact was made. On 5-7 Oct the MRF returned to the Ban Long but had only limited contact with elements of the 263rd PLAF Bn and on 10 Sep it displaced to Vung Tau to prepare for CORONADO VI. Results: 330 enemy killed, 235 detained, 2 returnees, 35 US KIA, 175 US WIA.

16 Sep.-29 Oct.
Operation: KUNIA
Location: Ho Bo Woods, Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 3-22 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: Operation KUNIA was conducted as part of BARKING SANDS with the 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div initiating search and destroy operations in the Ho Bo Woods in preparation for the arrival of a land clearing team of thirty Rome Plows. By the end of October 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods had been cleared. Results: (included in BARKING SANDS).

19 Sep. 67-31 Jan. 69
Operation: BOLLING/DAN HOA
Location: Tuy Hoa, Phu Hiep, Binh Tinh, Ma Hoa, AO BLACK, Song Ky Lo, Song Da Rang, Suoi Cai, Phu Yen and Phu Bon Provinces. Type: search and destroy, reconnaissance-in-force, pacification, rice protection. Controlling headquarters: 173d Abn Bde (19 Sep 67-8 Feb 68, 1 Apr 68-31 Jan 69); I FFORCEV (8 Feb-1 Apr 68); 22nd ARVN Div. Task organization: 1-503 Inf (19 Sep-6 Nov 67), 2-503 Inf (12 Oct-6 Nov 67), 3-503 Inf (5 Nov 67-16 Jan 68), 4-503 Inf (19 Sep-1 Nov 67, 16 Dec 67-31 Jan 69), TF 2-8 Cav (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), 3-319 Art, C/2-19 Art (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 47th ARVN Rgt. Intelligence: 5th PAVN Div (18B and 95th PAVN Rgts), 30th and 95th PLAF LF Bns, K65 and K76 Sapper Cos. Execution: During the period 14-19 Sep, the bulk of the brigade (minus 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art) was relocated by air from Dak To to Tuy Hoa to commence long-term Operation BOLLING in cooperation with the 47th ARVN Rgt. The 2-8 Cav was opconed to the brigade until 14 Oct to compensate for 2-503 Inf remaining at Dak To, and was air-assaulted into the BOLLING AO on 19 Sep. The operation was designed to provide security for the local rice harvest. Daily contact was maintained with enemy forces in September and October but seldom larger than squad size. During October, the brigade relocated its rear base camp facility from Bien Hoa to An Khe, moving by sea via Saigon and Qui Nhon. On 12 Oct, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 returned from the Highlands, relieving TF 2-8 Cav and on 22 Oct, the new 3-503 Inf arrived in-country from Fort Bragg, undergoing jungle training in An Khe prior to deployment to the BOLLING AO. On 1 Nov, 4-503 Inf was alerted for immediate departure for Dak To, followed five days later by the brigade minus (headquarters, 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 3-319 Art). On 5 Nov, 3-503 Inf arrived at Tuy Hoa from An Khe and assumed responsibility for Operation BOLLING. Contact continued to be light in November; on 16 Dec, the brigade headquarters, 4-503 Inf and C and D/3-319 Art were redeployed from Operation MACARTHUR, closing into the BOLLING AO that same day. On 27 Dec, 3-503 Inf conducted a series of combat assaults into the Song Ky Lo Valley 15 km northwest of Dong Tre and engaged two enemy companies. Elements of 4-503 Inf reinforced the battle area until contact was lost on 29 Dec. Results were 62 enemy killed, 12 US KIA and 34 US WIA. Contact was infrequent in January and a battalion task force built around 3-503 Inf moved to An Khe on 16 Jan 68 to assume responsibility of the Operation DAZZLEM AO63 from the departing 1st Cav Div. On 30 Jan, the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt attacked several targets in the Tuy Hoa area as part of the enemy's Tet Offensive, including a FSB held by C/6-32 Art, the Binh Tin hamlet, Tuy Hoa North AF and the provincial prison. D/4-503 Inf and two companies from the 2nd Bn, 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked toward the airfield and by 0730 on 31 Jan, the enemy force was surrounded and destroyed in Binh Tin hamlet. On 5-6 Feb, two battalions of the 47th ARVN Rgt and RF elements reduced an enemy strong point in the center of Tuy Hoa. During the fighting in and around Tuy Hoa, 316 enemy had been killed and 104 captured. During February, 4-503 Inf in conjunction with Strike Force elements from Cung Son and Dong Tre CIDG Camps, and Task Force MITCHELL (E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm) conducted search and destroy operations west of Tuy Hoa and helped mop up the aftermath of the Tet Offensive. It also provided security for the 577th Eng C Bn and 173d Eng Co working on Routes 7B and 436. On 8 Feb, the 173d Abn Bde (-) departed Tuy Hoa to assumed Opcon of TF POWERHOUSE (1-503 and 2-503 Inf) in Kontum Province in the MACARTHUR AO. Operation BOLLING passed under control of I FFORCEV which assumed opcon of TF 4-503 build around 4-503 Inf, Btys C and D, 3-319 Art and D/16 Arm. A major contact developed on 4 Mar when the 47th ARVN Rgt contacted the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt and 85th PLAF Bn in three hamlets along the coast just north of Tuy Hoa. D/16 Arm and elements of the 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked while the 47th ARVN Rgt provided blocking positions. D/16 was credited with 137 NVA killed during the action while suffering 10 KIA and 21 WIA. Contact during the rest of March was sporadic in the BOLLING AO. On 1 Apr, the brigade returned from the Highlands, relieving the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div at Bong Son64 and assumed control over TF 4-503 again. Contact was light during the month of April except on the 5th when D/16 Arm again supported the 47th ARVN Rgt in heavy contact with two enemy battalions at Ma Hoa village in Tuy Hoa Valley just off Route 7B north of the Song Da Rang. In May, 4-503 Inf conducted extensive bushmaster operations, on 2 May, Co B killed 8 enemy soldiers in the Suoi Cai Valley 18 km west of Tuy Hoa. In June, the enemy continued to avoid decisive contact with Allied force, relying on harassing tactics instead. During the period 16-27 Jul, 4-503 Inf conducted search and clear operations in AO BLACK located 25 km southwest of Cung Son on the Phu Bon and Darlac provincial boundary but there was no significant contact. On 30 July, 4-503 Inf joined the 3/47 ARVN Bn and elements of the 26th ROK Rgt to conduct a combined operation in the Song Ky Lo Valley but contact was again limited. Prisoners confirmed that the bulk of the 18B and 95th PAVN Rgts had departed Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa Province to refit in Cambodia. Contact remained light for the rest of Operation BOLLING, limited to engagements with squad-size enemy forces and booby traps incidents. On 1 Feb 69 the BOLLING/DAN HOA AO became a permanent TAOR called LY DO/WAINWRIGHT. Results: 715 enemy killed, 72 US KIA, 307 US WIA (no info on ARVN casualties).

22-28 Sep.
Operation: RICHMOND
Location: Dinh Quan, Route 20, Long Khanh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 11th ACR. Task organization: 3/11 ACR, 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn, 5th ARVN ACR (elts). Execution: The squadron provided security for engineer road repair efforts north of Dinh Quan along Route 20 in coordination with ARVN forces. There was no contact with enemy forces. Upon termination, the squadron returned to Blackhorse to resume Operation KITTYHAWK. Results: (no info).

22-28 Sep.
Operation: SHELBYVILLE
Location: Hoi An, Dai Loc, Liberty Bridge, Quang Nam Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Mar Div. Task organization: 2/1 Marines, 3/5 Marines, BLT 1/3 Marines, 1/11 Marines. Execution: SHELBYVILLE took place west of Hoi An, 6 km southeast of Dai Loc. BLT 1/3 conducted an airmobile assault on the objective area while 2/1 Marines occupied blocking positions to the east and 3/5 Marines blocked to the south. No major contact developed however but there were numerous cases of booby traps incidents. Results: 50 enemy killed, 1 captured, 59 detained, 10 US KIA, 69 US WIA.

22-29 Sep.
Operation: DO KAE BI 3
Location: Canh Phuoc, Phu Yen Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: WHRID. Task organization: 28th ROK Rgt (-). Execution: operation took place 8 km south of Van Canh. Results: 103 enemy killed (no info on friendly casualties)

23-28 Sep.
Operation: BLUEFIELD II
Location: Lai Khe, Bau Bang, Bo La, Route 301, Binh Duong Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div. Task organization: 1-2 Inf, 2-2 Inf (M), 1-26 Inf, 2-28 Inf, 1-4 Cav (-), 2-33 Art. Execution: (no info). Results: 2 enemy captured, 1 US WIA.

24 Sep.-9 Oct.
Operation: ARKANSAS CITY II
Location: Phuoc Tuy Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 11th ACR. Execution: (no info)

26 Sep.-21 Oct.
Operation: AKRON III
Location: Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone), Phuoc Tuy and Bien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-39 Inf, B/2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, 2/48 ARVN Bn, 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 274th PLAF Rgt. Execution: AKRON III was a continuation of land clearing and search and destroy operations in Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone). Contact with the enemy was light and sporadic throughout the operation but the largest known weapons cache in the III CTZ to date was discovered, contacting over 200,000 rounds of small arms, 1,022 small arms and 125 crew served weapons. Results: (no info).

27-28 Sep.
Operation: CUU LONG/48/10
Location: Ben Tre District, Kien Hoa Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 7th ARVN Div. Execution: operation conducted at the confluence of the Ben Tre and Ham Luong rivers by the 10th ARVN Rgt supported by RAGs 21 and 33. Results: 7 enemy captured, 9 detained, 1 ARVN KIA, 8 ARVN WIA.

New Operations

28 Sep.
Operation: HAI DUONG 18
Location: Nai Island, Bassac River, Ba Xuyen Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: Ba Xueyn Sector. Execution: operation conducted on Nai Island on the Bassac, 22 km downstream from Can Tho by Ba Xueyn Sector forces, one PRU, one combined LDNN/SEAL squad and with support from RAG 25. Results: 3 enemy captured, 12 detained, 4 returnees.

Other

28 Sep.
Militant Buddhist Thich Tri Quang starts 13-day vigil in front of independence Palace.

[Jason Petho]

Ongoing Operations today in 1967

26 Aug.66-20 Jan.68
Operation: BYRD
Location: Phan Thiet, LZ BETTY, Binh Thuan Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: I FFORCEV. Task organization: TF 2-7: 2-7 Cav, C/1-9 Cav, A/1-21 Art, C/2-20 Art (-), C/8th Eng Bn (-), C/229th Avn Bn, Det 228th Avn Bn. Execution: Planned as a short-term, economy-of-force measure, BYRD became a continuous offensive that would last into 1968. Upon I FFORCEV request, the 1st Cav Div detached at battalion-size task force to help pacify isolated Binh Thuan Province in southern II Corps. Results (at year's end): 351 enemy killed, 151 detained, 8 US KIA, 85 US WIA.

1 Oct.66-17 Jan 68
Operation: DAZZLEM
Location: Camp Radcliff, An Khe, Binh Dinh Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization: Base Defense Task Force. Execution: Operation DAZZLEM was the contingency plan for the defense of Camp Radcliff provided by one infantry battalion with supporting artillery and
reinforcing personnel from residence units. On 17 Jan 68, the 173d Abn Bde relieved the 1st Cav Div from the mission of defending An Khe. Results: 80 enemy killed, 9 detained.

11 Oct.66-17 Nov.67
Operation: UNIONTOWN II
Location: Long Binh, Bien Hoa Province Type: security. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV. Execution: Operation UNIONTOWN was a security operation designed to protect the Long Binh logistical complex, RMK Rock Quarry and II FFORCEV Headquarters. Units were assigned on a rotation basis from each major command under II FFORCEV.

30 Nov. 66-15 Dec.67
Operation: FAIRFAX/RANG DONG
Location: Nha Be, Thu Duc and Binh Chanh Districts, Gia Dinh Province. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV, CMD. Task organization: 1st Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 2-16 Inf; 4th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3-22 Inf; 25th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 4-9 Inf; CMD (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3rd and 5th ARVN Abn Bns, 30th Ranger Bn; 199th LIB (31 Jan-15 Dec.): 2-3 Inf, 3-7 Inf, 4-12 Inf, 2-40 Art; 5th ARVN Ranger Group (31 Jan.-15 Dec): 30th, 33rd and 38th ARVN Ranger Bns. Intelligence: Military Region 4, 165A PLAF Regiment. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE... Results (end of 1966): 149 enemy killed, 40 detained, 11 US KIA, 67 US WIA, 23 ARVN KIA, 58 ARVN WIA, 1 ARVN MIA.

8 Feb.67-31 Jan.68
Operation: LAM SON 67
Location: Phu Loi, An My, Ong Dong Jungle, Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, security, jungle clearing. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 1st Inf Div (8 Feb-17 Mar, 17 Apr 67-31 Jan 68); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (17 Mar-17 Apr). Task organization: 1st Inf Div Revolutionary Development Task Force (various infantry, cavalry and support units were assigned on a rotation basis during the period). Execution: The operation supported the GVN's Revolutionary Development Program in conjunction with ARVN units in Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. LAM SON 67 consisted of cordon and search, reconnaissance in force, harassment, jungle clearing, population control, civic action and psychological warfare operations directed against priority targets. Contact in the AO was characterized by light sporadic incidents with local VC elements. On 6 Jan 68, the Phu Loi base camp received 123 rounds of mixed mortar fire, 46 aircraft were damaged and 6 US WIA. Reacting to the attack, A/2-18 Inf and B/2-2 Inf (M) swept the area to the north of the base and contacted two enemy companies of the Phu Loi PLAF Bn. 92 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 14 US WIA. Operation LAM SON 67 was terminated on 31 Jan 68 with the beginning of the enemy's Tet Offensive. Results: 527 enemy killed, 263 captured, 2,327 detained, 346 defectors, 56 US KIA, 572 US WIA.

12 Feb. 67-18 Jan. 68
Operation: PERSHING
Location: Bong Son, Tuy An, Tam Quan, Hoa Tan, Sa Huynh, Truong Son, An Qui, Trung Xuan, An Lac, An Lao Valley, Kim Son Valley, Suoi Ca Valley, 506 Valley, Nuoc Dinh Valley, Phu My Valley, Song Re Valley, the Crescent, Nui Mieu, Nui Sang, Cay Giep, Dam Tra-O Lake, Route 1, LZ BRONCO BEACH, LZ CRYSTAL, LZ ENGLISH, LZ GARNET, LZ GERONIMO, LZ GLENN, LZ HAMMOND, LZ IRON, LZ MEADE, LZ PAT, LZ SANDRA, LZ STEEL, LZ TOM, LZ TWO BITS, LZ UPLIFT, Binh Dinh and Quang Ngai Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization (As of 12 Feb): 1 s t Bde: 1-8 Cav, 1-12 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-19 Art (-), D/2-17 Art, C/1-21 Art, A/3-18 Art; 2d Bde: 2-5 Cav, 1-5 Cav (-), 1-7 Cav (-), 2-12 Cav, 1-77 Art (-), B/1-8 Art, A/1-21 Art, C/1-30 Art, B/8th Eng; 3d Bde: 2-8 Cav, C/1-5 Cav, 1-21 Art (-), 2-17 Art (-), C/6-16 Art, C/2-19 Art, C/8th Eng; 3d Bde, 25 t h Inf Div (12 Feb-19 Apr): 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf (4-19 Apr), 2-9 Art, A/1-77 Art, 5-16 Art, C/3-4 Cav, D/65th Eng; Div Arty: 2-20 Art (-), 7-13 Art (-), B/29 Art, E/82 Art, 3-18 Art (-); Div Troops: 1-9 Cav, 8th Eng Bn (-). Intelligence: 3rd PAVN Div: 18th and 22nd PAVN Rgts, 2nd PLAF Rgt. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE ... Results: 5,
388 enemy killed, 2,356 captured, 10,609 detained, 221 returnees, 852 US KIA, 4,119 US WIA, 22 US MIA.

13 Feb. 67-10 Mar. 68
Operation: ENTERPRISE
Location: Tan An, Rach Kien, Ben Luc, Binh Phuoc, Tan Tru, Doi Ma Creek, Plain of Reeds9, Base Area 371, Route 14, Long An Province. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, eagle flights. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 3-39 Inf, 2-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-4 Art, C/15th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PLAF MF Bn, 506th PLAF LF Bn. Execution: ENTERPRISE was the continuation of the pacification effort of Long An Province initiated the previous year by the 25th Inf Div with Operation LANIKAI. On 13 Feb, 3-39 Inf relieved 2-14 Inf at Rach Kien. Strength of division elements in the province were subsequently increased to brigade size with movement of 2-60 Inf into Tan Tru, 5-60 Inf into Binh Phuoc and Headquarters, 3d Bde into Tan An. The first major engagement occurred on 9 Apr when 3-39 Inf made contact with the 506th PLAF Bn on the bank of Doi Ma Creek. Additional companies were brought in, killing 247 of the enemy. On 2 May, the 506th Bn exacted vengeance on the 3-39 Inf, attacking one of its companies in night defensive position near Route 4. 17 US were KIA and 48 WIA but no enemy bodies were found. The operation was temporarily extended north to the Plain of Reeds area on 8-14 May with sub-operation NIRVANA II directed against the enemy's Base Area 371. Elements of the 3d Bde joined forces with the 4/50 ARVN Bn of the 25th ARVN Div but found nothing, killing only 14 of the enemy. On 14 May, the 2nd PLAF Bn struck the compound of the 2/50 ARVN Bn in Rach Kien, killing 31 South Vietnamese soldiers and wounding 34. 3d Bde units were committed but couldn't regain contact with the attacking force. After that, contact with the enemy dropped sharply for the remainder of 1967, indicating an apparent enemy desire to avoid friendly forces. On 31 Jan 68, the brigade responded to the Tet Offensive, 5-60 Inf engaged in heavy fighting southwest of Saigon in Gia Dinh Province, killing 128 enemy soldiers. From 1-5 Feb, 3-39 Inf and 2-60 Inf were sent to Kien Hoa Province to help recapture Ben Tre, the provincial capital. On 10 Feb, the brigade HQ at Tan An came under attack from an unknown size enemy force. 33 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 53 US WIA. During March, brigade elements conducted "Aquabush" operations along the numerous canals south of Saigon in conjunction with the 199th Inf Bde (Lt). Pacification activities decreased sharply during the Tet Offensive and the operation was terminated on 10 March. Results: 2,107 enemy killed, 74 US KIA, 380 US WIA.

14 Feb.67-21 Mar.68
Operation: KITTYHAWK
Location: Long Binh, Xuan Loc, Long Giao, Gia Ray, Suoi Cat, Blackhorse, Route 1, Route 2, Long Khanh and Bien Hoa Province. Type: reconnaissance-in-force, cordon and search, security, road clearing. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div (14 Feb 67-15 Feb 68); 11th ACR (15 Feb-21 Mar 68). Task organization: 3-5 Cav, 1/11 ACR, 2/11 ACR, 3/11 ACR. Intelligence: 275th PLAF Rgt. Execution: The purpose of KITTYHAWK was to secure LOCs and selected installations within Long Khanh Province, conduct reconnaissance-in-force operations and cordon and search of selected hamlets within the AO, secure Blackhorse base camp and the Gia Ray rock quarry and provide ready reaction forces along Route 1. On 21 May, K Troop, 3/11 ACR was ambushed by an estimated reinforced enemy battalion near Suoi Cat on Route 1. 30 enemy are killed, 12 US KIA and 13 US WIA. On 27 Jun 1/11 ACR moved to reinforce the 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn which was in heavy contact with elements of the 3rd Bn, 275th PLAF Rgt, killing 49 of the enemy11. On 30 Dec two enemy companies ambushed Troop C, 3-5 Cav on Route 2. Friendly losses are 10 KIA, 29 WIA and 3 MIA. On 31 Jan 68, in reaction to the VC Tet Offensive, the 3-5 Cav was alerted to respond to enemy activity in the Long Binh-Bien Hoa area. A/3-5 Cav bypassed several roadblocks, breaking through enemy forces and reached the Bien Hoa airfield, sweeping nearby wood lines and killing 40. During the period 2-3 Feb, C/3-5 Cav was sent to defend Xuan Loc against an intense ground attack, killing nearly 50 enemy soldiers. On 15 Feb the KITTYHAWK mission was assumed by the 11th ACR as the 3-5 Cav (-) was directed by HQ USARV to deploy to Da Nang, I CTZ. On 21 Mar, the operation was phased into Operation ALCORN COVE. Results: 201 enemy killed, 7 captured, 1 returnee, 62 US KIA, 224 US WIA.

5 Apr.-11 Oct.
Operation: FRANCIS MARION
Location: Plei Me, Duc Co, Plei Djereng, Plei Mrong, Plei Do Lim, Buon Blech, Se San, Ia Drang, Ia Tchar, Dak Ayun, Dak Payou, Chu Pong, Chu Prong, Chu Goungot, Chu Groh, Route 14, Route 14B, Route 19E, Route 509, Hill 521, LZ OASIS, LZ JACKSON HOLE, Pleiku and Darlac Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: (effective 7 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, B/4-42 Art, C/3-4 Cav (-), A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (-), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, Plt B/1-69 Arm, 4-42 Art (-), B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), Plt C/2-8 Inf (-), Cav Plt 1-10 Cav, B/3-6 Art, A/5-16 Art; TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 26 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), C/4-42 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h In f Div: 2-8 Inf, 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), A/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), A/3-6 Art; TF 3-8 Inf: 3-8 Inf, C/6-29 Art, A/5-16 Art; Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 30 May): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (M), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art, B/4th Eng (-); 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, D/16 Arm, E/17 Cav, 173d Eng Co; TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 5-16 Art (-); Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 24 Sep): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 2-8 Inf (M), 3-8 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), A/4-42 Art,, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div: 1-12 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), B/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: 2-1 Cav, D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Intelligence: B3 Front, 1st NVA Div (32nd, 66th and 88th Rgts), 10th NVA Div (95B and 101C Rgts), 200th NVA Art Bn, 407th PLAF MF Sapper Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn.. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE.... Results: 1,204 enemy killed, 122 detained, 11 returnees, 198 US KIA, 982 US WIA, 8 US MIA.

22 Apr.67-2 Jan 68.
Operation: BAKER
Location: Duc Pho, Mo Duc, Vinh Hien, Tan Phong, Dien Truong, An Ba, An Tach, Song Tra Cau, Song Ve, LZ MONTEZUMA (later renamed LZ BRONCO), LZ GUADALCANAL, LZ OLIVE DRAB, LZ LIZ, LZ DRAGON, RAZORBACK Beach, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde TF, 25th Inf Div (redesignated 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div on 1 Aug). Task organization: 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf, 2-9 Art, C/3-4 Cav, B/1-9 Cav, C/2-34 Arm. Intelligence: 1st PLAF Rgt, 2nd PLAF Rgt, 22nd PAVN Rgt. Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: (no info).

14 May.-7 Dec.
Operation: KOLE KOLE
Location: Duc Hoa, Bao Trai, Hiep Hoa, Loc Giang, Trang Bang, Song Vam Co Dong, Rach Tra, Xinh An Ha, Route 10, Hau Nghia and Tay Ninh Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 1-5 Inf (M), 1-27 Inf, 2-27 Inf, 1-8 Art. Intelligence: 2nd Go Mon and 269th PLAF LF Bns. Execution: Operation KOLE KOLE was initiated by the 2d Bde in Hau Nghia Province using EAGLE FLIGHTS and airmobile operations based on current intelligence. Cordon and search, outposting and country fair operations were also conducted in conjunction with the 25th ARVN Div, CIDG and RF/PF. On 17 May, elements of 1/27 Inf and 2/27 Inf fought an eight-hour engagement west of the Vam Co Dong with a VC company. Results were 27 enemy killed, 2 US KIA and 9 US WIA. There was intermittent contact during June and July, particularly along the An Ha canal and near Loc Giang. The brigade also secured engineer operations along Route 10 to improve the GVN's authority and control west of Trang Bang. In early August, the reconnaissance platoon of 1/27 Inf with helicopter support intercepted VC recon elements from Long An Province, killing 26. During September, KOLE KOLE shifted to northern Hau Nghai and southwestern Tay Ninh Province. 1-5 Inf (M) conducted extensive dismounted ambush patrols around Loc Giang along the Vam Co while 2-27 Inf engaged scattered elements of the 269th PLAF Bn. On 21 Oct, an EAGLE FLIGHT from 1-27 Inf engaged an estimated enemy platoon south of Tay Ninh, killing 18. On 31 Oct, 2-27 Inf made contact with elements of the 2nd Go Mon Bn north of the Rach Tra, killing 28 and capturing 2. Enemy activity decreased for the rest of KOLE KOLE and the brigade concentrated on pacification and land clearing operations. Results: 797 enemy killed, 150 detained, 34 returnees, 144 US KIA, 876 US WIA

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: BARKING SANDS
Location: Cu Chi, Trang Bang, Phu Hoa, Iron Triangle, Ho Bo Woods, Song Saigon, Hau Nghia and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: The 1st Bde employed counter guerrilla warfaretechniques including saturation patrolling, checkmate, bushmaster and cordon and search operations to pacify Cu Chi and Trang Bang Districts in Hau Nghia Province and Phu Hoa District in Binh Duong Province. Buddy operations were also conducted with local PF platoons and RF companies. On 30 Aug, 4-9 Inf conducted an airmobile assault against an entrenched VC battalion in the Iron Triangle resulting in 4 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 43 US WIA. During September, primary emphasis was placed on denying VC access to populated areas during the National Elections. Land clearing operations were also initiated along the Song Saigon to eliminate VC concealment. In October, 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods were cleared by Rome Plows following Operation KUNIA. Contact during BARKING SANDS was limited to squad and platoon size elements and no major engagement occurred. Four sub-operations were conducted in the BARKING SANDS AO during the period: KAWELA, AKUMU,WAIMEA and KUNIA (see individual operations below). Results (inclusive of the four sub-operations): 370 enemy killed, 85 detained, 10 returnees, 110 US KIA, 1114 US WIA.

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: DIAMOND HEAD
Location: Tay Ninh West, Dau Tieng, Suoi Da, Prek Klok, Ben Cui, Michelin Plantation, Boi Loi Woods, The Crescent, The Trapezoid, Tay Ninh and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div33. Task organization: 2-12 Inf, 2-22 Inf (M), 3-22 Inf, 2-77 Art, 2-34 Arm (-) (from 22 Sep), C/1-10 Cav, C/4th Eng. Execution: The mission was to conduct search and destroy operations in Tay Ninh Province, cordon and search operations in the Michelin Plantation, and security and reinforcement missions in the Tay Ninh and Prek Klok areas. With one battalion detached to Operation UNIONTOWN and another providing security for the Dau Tieng and Tay Ninh West base camps, contact in the AO were very limited during the months of May, June and July. On 1 Aug, the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div was redesignated the 3d Bde, 25th Inf Div. No movement of troops or units were involved in this redesignation. On 15 Aug, an airmobile cordon and search of Thanh An was conducted by 3-22 Inf in conjunction with VN National Police. 6 enemy were killed and 42 detained. In September, the brigade provided security during the National elections. In October, continued battalion size search and destroy operations were conducted in the Michelin Plantation to prevent its use as an enemy haven, in and south of Ben Cui, and in the northern portion of the Trapezoid, which extends 15 km to the southeast of Dau Tieng. Bushmaster operations were conducted in an area known as the Crescent, 8 km northwest of Dau Tieng. All operations were marked by extremely light contact. In November, operations were conducted in the upper Boi Loi Woods and in the Ben Cui Plantation, again with light contact. During this period operations were curtailed due to two battalions being opcon to the other brigades. On 25-25 Now, 2-22 Inf (M) made contact with a VC company near the Mushroom bend on the Saigon River, killing 20. This was the last contact during DIAMOND HEAD before the operation came to an end on 7 Dec. Results: 237 enemy killed, 496 detained, 4 returnees. (US losses unknown).

1 Jun.67-7 Feb.68
Operation: HOPTAC
Location: Dong Tam, Dinh Tuong Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: Task Force FUNSTON39. Execution: Operation HOPTAC was an internal defense and development operation in Dinh Tuong Province which included security of the Dong Tam base. Task Force FUNSTON provided land and waterborne security for engineer dredging equipment and maintained a ready reaction force to assist local GVN units and installations if needed. In most cases contact with the VC was characterized by light fire fights and sniper fire. On 1 Feb 68 the enemy fired more than 170 82 mm mortar and 75 mm RR rounds into the base resulting in minor damage and 11 US WIA. In the early morning hours of 3, 4, 5 and 7 Feb, the enemy continued to attack the base with mortar and RR fire. The heaviest attack came on 7 Feb with an estimated 200 rounds fired at the base. Elements of 5-60 Inf and 2-39 Inf conducted reaction airmobile assaults and RIF operations 8 km east of Dong tam, making contact with two VC companies, killing 23 while losing 5 KIA and 11 WIA. Results: 296 enemy killed, 11 captured, 3 returnees, 37 US KIA, 364 US WIA.

18 Jun.-12 Oct.
Operation: GREELEY
Location: Kontum, Dak To, Tan Canh, Dak Seang, Dak Pek, Toumorong, Dak Poko, Dak Akoi, Hill 830, Hill 1338, FSB 4, Kontum Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (24 Jun-25 Jul): 1-7 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-12 Cav, 1-21 Art; 1st ARVN Abn TF (24 Jun-25 Jul): 3d, 5th and 8th ARVN Abn Bns; 24th STZ: 1/42 Inf. Intelligence: 24th and 174th PAVN Rgts, K101D PAVN Bn, 304th PLAF MF Bn, 200th PLAF Art Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn . Execution: From 1-18 Jun, the 173d Abn Bde continued participation in Operation FRANCIS MARION, searching further south and east in the Ia Drang Valley. The brigade deployed the 1-503 Inf and 2-503 Inf into the AO, holding 4-503 Inf in reserve at Catecka. No significant contact was made. On 17 Jun, TF MC QUARRIE (2-503 Inf, E/17 Cav, A/3-319 Art) moved by air and motor convoy to the New Dak To Airfield, joined the following day by 1-503 Inf. The mission, named GREELEY, was to assume opcon of the CIDG Camp at Dak To under threat from the 24th PAVN Rgt and assist in its defense. On 18 Jun, 2-503 Inf began searching south of Dak To toward the huge mass of Hill 1338 (Ngok Bor Beang). C/1-503 Inf was also inserted into the area to search for a missing SF and CIDG team which had been destroyed by the NVA on 15-16 Jun, 1400 meters southwest of their camp. On 22 Jun, after a fruitless search of Hill 1338, 2-503 Inf was instructed to return to Dak To on foot. Shortly after leaving its NDP, A/2-503 bumped into an enemy battalion from the 24th PAVN Rgt42 while descending the slopes of Hill 1338. Two platoons were cut off and annihilated while the rest of the company formed a small perimeter and called supporting fires. Cos B and C were rushed to the rescue but arrived too late. 76 Americans had been killed, some executed point blank by the enemy, and 23 wounded. 106 enemy bodies were counted in the battle area. This action became known as 'The Battle of the Slopes' and as one of the costliest engagement for US forces in Vietnam. Concerned by the size of the battle and the US losses, General Larsen at I FFORCEV decided to reinforce GREELEY. On 23 Jun, 2-12 Cav arrived from the PERSHING AO while the rest of the 173d Abn Bde (CP (-) and 4-503 Inf) closed Dak To from Catecka. The next day, 24 Jun, the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (-) and 1st ARVN Abn TF arrived at Kontum. The Allied forces went after the 24th PAVN Rgt, seeking to destroy it. In the next two weeks, the 173d Abn Bde and 2-12 Cav searched west and south of Dak To while the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div and the ARVN Abn TF entered the Dak Akoi Valley northeast of Kontum and 35 km east of Dak To. The sweep found little evidence of the enemy's presence and on 25 Jul the cavalry brigade returned to the coast, while the Vietnamese task force stood down at Kontum to serve as a mobile reaction force. Southwest of Dak To on 10 Jul, 4-503 Inf, while searching for a regimental headquarters, found an occupied enemy bunker complex on Hill 830. Battle raged until 12 Jul with 22 US KIA and 62 US WIA but only 9 enemy bodies found. This was the last significant contact on the month. On 19 Jul, 2 NVA soldiers rallied at Dak Pek CIDG Camp, stating that they were 42 Later identified as the 6th Bn, 24th PAVN Rgt. from the newly infiltrated 174th PAVN Rgt. They were proved correct on 6 Aug when the 1/42 ARVN Bn made heavy contact with that unit 8 km west of the Dak Seang CIDG Camp. The ARVN Abn TF was rushed into the area and fought a bitter twoday battle to capture a hill believed to have been the location of the regimental CP, killing 189 of the enemy. On 9 Aug, 4-503 Inf moved to Dak Pek, joining the 1-503 Inf already there since 4 Aug, but the two battalions found little. Contacts were so low in August that the 173d Abn Bde was credited with only 4 enemy killed. During the period 1-18 Sep, the brigade continued GREELEY in the Dak To – Dak Seang area, supporting CIDG Operation DARBY, but contact was minimal. On 17 Sep, the brigade (-) began moving by air to Tuy Hoa to begin Operation BOLLING. Only 4-503 Inf and A/3-319 stayed at Dak To, forming Task Force 77 with the 3rd ARVN Abn Bn, 1/42 ARVN Bn and 27th MIKE Force Co for an expedition in the Toumorong Valley that lasted nearly three weeks but found nothing. On 11 Oct, TF 77 was disbanded and that same day, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art departed for Tuy Hoa, terminating Operation GREELEY. Results: 191 enemy killed, 17 captured, 129 US KIA, 210 US WIA. (no info on ARVN losses).

3 Jul.67-7 Apr.68
Operation: RILEY
Location: Bearcat, Camp Martin Cox, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div; TF FORSYTH (from 10 Feb). Task organization: 2-39 Inf, 4-39 Inf, 2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, TF FORSYTH. Execution: Operation RILEY was an internal defense and development operation in Bien Hoa Province and included defense of Camp Martin Cox. When not engaged in strike operations, Headquarters, 1st Bde assumed opcon of all elements engaged in RILEY, including TF FORSYTH (a provisional Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment located at Camp Martin Cox). In the absence of the 1st Bde, TF FORSYTH was allocated sufficient forces to secure the camp and to conduct limited consolidation operations in the area. On 31 Jan 68 in response to the VC Tet Offensive, elements of the 2-47 Inf (M) and 4-39 Inf moved to Long Binh Post for perimeter security. Working in coordination with 2-3 Inf from the 199th Inf Bde (Lt), the two battalions had multiple contacts with the enemy during the day near Ho Nai, killing 213 by bodycount and capturing 32. US losses were 4 KIA and 23 WIA. On 10 Feb 68, the 1st Bde moved to Dong Tam and TF FORSYTH assumed responsibility until termination. Results: 472 enemy killed, 41 detained, 2 returnees, 64 US KIA, 315 US WIA.

8 Jul.-30 Oct.
Operation: MARCH I
Location: Plei Trap Valley, Kontum Province. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: B-50 Det Project OMEGA. Execution: Long range reconnaissance and intelligence gathering conducted in the Plei Trap Valley. Results: (no info).

10 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: FREMONT
Location: Camp Evans, Hill 51, Hill 67, Phong Dien District, Thua Thien Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 4th Marines. Task organization: 2/4 Marines (10 Jul-14 Sep), 3/26 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct). Execution: The 4th Marines initiated Operation FREMONT with its own 2/4 to provide security for Camp Evans, Hill 51, the Phong Dien District Headquarters and a radio transmission site on Hill 67. On 20 Jul, 2/4 provided blocking forces near My Chanh for SLF BRAVO in Operation BEAR CHAIN. BLT 2/3 became opcon to 4th Marines on 22 Jul and joined FREMONT, until back loading on 21 Aug. Contact was sporadic in Aug with only 13 US KIA for the month. During Sep, 2/4 in conjunction with ARVN forces helped secure nearby villages and hamlets during the National Elections. On 14 Sep, 2/4 joined Operation KINGFISHER and was replaced by 3/26 Marines. Contacts remained low until termination, being limited to harassing tactics, mines incidents and sniper fire. Results: 123 enemy killed, 8 captured, 17 US KIA, 196 US WIA.

16 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: KINGFISHER
Location: Dong Ha, Con Thien, Gio Linh, Cua Viet, Ca Lu, Route 9, Route 561, Route 606, Hill 216, C-2, Demilitarized Zone, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d and 9th Marines. Task organization: 3/3 Marines, 2/4 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct), 3/4 Marines, 1/9 Marines, 2/9 Marines, 3/9 Marines, 3/26 Marines (15 Aug-11 Sep), 1st Amtrac Bn. Intelligence: 90th and 812th PAVN Rgts. Execution: KINGFISHER was a continuation of Marine operations south of the DMZ follwing BUFFALO and HICKORY II. Contact was light during the first week. On 21 Jul, 3/3 Marines securing a portion of Route 9 for a 'Rough Rider' convoy bound for Khe Sanh found a NVA battalion dug in on Hill 216 overlooking the road. Tanks, 40mm dusters and artillery pounded the hill and forced the enemy to withdraw. On 28 Jul, 2/9 Marines reinforced with tanks, LVTEs and Ontos was pushing into the DMZ north on Route 606 when it was attacked by an estimated NVA battalion. The column was split in company-size segments and fought desperately all day until reinforcements from 3/4 Marines forced the enemy to break contact. 23 Americans were killed and 251 wounded with only 32 NVA confirmed killed. Ground action was light in early Aug with the largest part of the activity involving artillery attacks on Gio Linh, Con Thien, Cua Viet and Dong Ha. On 21 Aug, an NVA battalion ambushed a small Marine convoy moving from the Rockpile to Ca Lu. Elements form 3/3 were brought in, fighting a six-hour engagement until night fell and the enemy fled to the west. 6 US were killed and 35 wounded, Enemy loses were unknown. The NVA tried again on 7 Sep at almost the same location. This time the battle lasted more than 8 hours. The Marines killed 92 of the enemy while losing 5 KIA and 56 WIA. The Communists tried to disrupt the National Elections on 3 Sep, firing more than 41 rounds of artillery into Dong Ha, damaging 17 helicopters. This attack ended the use of Dong Ha as a permanent helicopter base facility. Con Thien however, remained the primary artillery target for the NVA. On 25 Sep alone, 1,200 rounds slammed into the combat base. On 10 Sep, 3/26 Marines made heavy contact with what seemed to be the entire 812th PAVN Rgt 4 miles southwest of Con Thien. The action lasted for four hours until the enemy broke contact, leaving 140 dead on the battle field. Marine losses had been high also with 34 KIA and 192 WIA, forcing 3/26 to return to Phu Bai the next day to refit. On 21 Sep, 2/9 Marines started a search and destroy operation 1,800 meters east of Con Thien when it ran into heavy resistance from an element of the 90th PAVN Rgt. The battle turned into a stalemate after rain had made the area impassable and both sides withdrew. US casualties were 31 KIA and 118 WIA. Enemy killed were reported at 39. The enemy intensified its attack-by-fire against Con Thien in late Sep, hitting the base with over 3,000 rounds during the period 19-27 Sep. The Americans retaliated by massing one of the greatest concentrations of firepower in support of a single division in the history of the Vietnam War. Marine artillery, ships of the 7th Fleet, Marine and Air Force jets and B-52 bombers poured tons of ordnance into know enemy positions in and north of the DMZ. By the end of Sep, NVA pressure of the outpost had subsided. On 14 Oct, 2/4 Marines was guarding a bridge north of Strong point C-2 when it received a ground attack from an unknown size enemy force. AC-47 gunships helped repel the assault during the night. 21 Americans were killed and 23 wounded. Only 24 NVA bodies were found in the area. The last major action of KINGSIFHER took place during a 9th Marines operation on 25-28 Oct. 2/4 Marines was sweeping north of Con Thien on Route 561 when it was hit by an enemy battalion, beating back several attacks and losing 8 KIA and 45 WIA. Results: 1,117 enemy killed, 5 captured, 340 US KIA, 1,461 US WIA.

17 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: ARDMORE
Location: Khe Sanh, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destro, security. Controlling headquarters: 26th Marines (Forward). Task organization: 1/26 Marines, 3/26 Marines, 1/13 Marines. Execution: Operation ARDMORE was a continuation of Operation CROCKETT and involved the same mission and the same forces. On 21 Jul, B/1/26 and M/3/26 fought a NVA battalion dug on Hill 216 along Route 9 in conjunction with 3/3 Marines from Operation KINGFISHER. Contacts in August were minimal and 3/26 was moved to the KINGFISHER AO on 15 Aug. 1/26 Marines continued patrols and company-size search and destroy operations around Khe Sanh, but with limited contact with the enemy. Results: 113 enemy killed, 6 detained, 10 US KIA, 39 US WIA

27 Jul.-8 Nov.
Operation: SONG THAN 14
Location: Bong Son, Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF BRAVO. Task organization: 1st VNMC BN, 2nd VNMC Bn (27 Jul-4 Oct), 3rd VNMC Bn (4 Oct-6 Nov), C/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: On 27 Jul, TF BRAVO relieved TF ALPHA at Bong Son AF and continued search and destroy operations south of Bong Son in conjunction with Operation PERSHING. Results: (no info)

31 Jul.-3 Nov.
Operation: DAN QUYEN 822
Location: Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 22nd ARVN Division. Results: 141 enemy killed, 181 detained, 44 ARVN KIA, 74 ARVN WIA 3 ARVN MIA.

11 Aug.-21 Oct.
Operation: SONG THAN/701/67
Location: Tan Uyen, Bien Hoa Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF ALPHA. Task organization: 2nd VNMC Bn (10-21 Oct), 4th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-10 Oct), 5th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-15 Sep), 6th VNMC Bn (15 Sep-21 Oct), B/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: Operation conducted in the Tan Uyen area in coordination with the US 1st Inf Div. Results: (no info)

16 Aug-31 Oct.
Operation: 8-67/SAMURAI II & III
Location: A Shau Valley, Happy Valley, Thuat Thien and Quang Nam Provinces. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: Det B-52 Project DELTA,81st ARVN Abn Rgr Bn. Execution: Operation searched areas from the northern stretches of the A Shau Valley into Happy Valley, west of Da Nang. Results: (no info).

1 Sep.-17 Nov.
Operation: STRIKE I
Location: Bien Hoa, Long Binh, AO STRIKE, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 2-47 Inf (M). Execution: Operation STRIKE I was conducted to provide security for the Bien Hoa-Long Binh complex and to prevent rocket attacks. On 17 Nov, STRIKE I was combined with Operation UNIONTOWN. Results: (no info).

5 Sep.-30 Oct.
Operation: DRAGON FIRE
Location: Batangan Peninsula, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d ROKMC Bde. Task organization: 1st, 2d and 5th ROKMC Bns. Execution: The 2d ROKMC Bde conducted this operation to clear insurgent elements from the Batagan Peninsula. Results: 541 enemy killed, 17 captured, 121 detained, 45 ROKMC KIA, 200 ROKMC WIA, 3 USMC WIA.

11 Sep-25 Nov.
Operation: WHEELER
Location: Tien Phuoc, Hiep Duc, Song Tranh, Song Chang, Base Area 116, Base Area 117, UDEN AO, Quang Tin Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 101st Abn Div. Task organization: 1-327 Inf, 2-327 Inf, 2-502 Inf, 1-14 Inf (11-24 Sep), 1-35 Inf (4 Oct-4 Nov), 2-320 Art, A/2-9 Art (4 Oct-4 Nov), B/2-9 Art (11-24 Sep), C/3-16 Art, B/1-9 Cav (2-4 Oct), A/2-17 Cav (17-25 Nov), A/326th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PAVN Div (1st PLAF Rgt, 3rd and 21st PAVN Rgts). Execution: ... SEE PREVIOUS DAY FOR INFORMATION... Results were 9 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 18 US WIA. With the 2nd PAVN Div elements avoiding contact during the period 28 Oct-4 Nov, increased emphasis was placed on attempting to locate the division. On 5 Nov, 1-35 Inf was released from operational control of the brigade and placed under opcon of the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div conducting Operation WALLOWA in the Que Son Basin. The last phase of WHEELER (6-25 Nov) saw 2-327 Inf being air-assaulted into the western portion of BA 116 while 1-327 Inf and 2-502 Inf established blocking positions. On 11 Nov, C/2-327 Inf engaged an NVA company in the Song Chang Valley 4 km east of Hiep Duc. 14 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 5 US WIA. This marked the last significant contact of WHEELER, after that, the badly hurt 2nd PAVN Div avoided any further contact. From 23-25 Nov, brigade elements were relieved in place by elements of the 196th Inf Bde (Lt)61 and displaced to Tam Ky Airfield to move by air to the brigade main base camp at Phan Rang for a four-day stand down and preparation for future operations. Results: 1,105 enemy killed, 50 captured, 445 detained, 11 returnees, 124 US KIA, 465 US WIA.

12 Sep-10 Oct.
Operation: CORONADO V
Location: Dong Tam, Cai Lay, Cam Son Secret Zone, Ban Long Base Area, Loi Quan Island, Song My Tho, Rach Ba Rai, Rach Ben Tre, Route 20, Ding Tuong and Kien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div (MRF); 7th ARVN Div. Task organization: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div: 3-47 Inf (12-17 Sep), 4-47 Inf (17 Sep-10 Oct), 3-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-60 Inf (-)(15-17 Sep), 3-34 Art, D/15th Eng, USN TF 117; 7th ARVN Div: 10th ARVN Rgt, 41st ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 263rd and 506th PLAF Bns. Execution: On 11 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Vung Tau to Dong Tam again and began Operation CORONADO V aimed at the 263rd PLAF Bn which had returned to the Cam Son Secret Zone. On 12 Sep, 3-47 Inf swept north from landing sites on the My Tho but turned up almost nothing. The next day, 3-60 Inf and 5-60 Inf (M) with help from the 7th ARVN Div62 began a sweep of the Ban Long area to the east and made contact with what appeared to be a VC covering force near the site of the VNMC heavy contact in July. The enemy withdrew under cover of darkness, leaving 63 bodies behind. As US and ARVN forces left the Ban Long on 14 Sep, the 7th ARVN Div reported that a large force, presumably the 263rd PLAF Bn, remained in the Cam Son, only a few kilometers north from areas previously swept. On 15 Sep, as 5-60 Inf (M) moved overland via Route 20, 3-60 Inf and 3-47 Inf sailed via the Song My Tho up the Rach Ba Rai between the My Tho and the town of Cai Lay. While 3-47 Inf landed unopposed over WHITE Beach, 3-60 Inf ran into two companies of the 263rd lined up in ambush positions along the east bank of the Ba Rai. Some of the boats managed to run the gauntlet but were forced to turn back as most of the column failed to follow. Two companies from 2-60 Inf were helicoptered from Long An Province to encircle the enemy. The battle lasted until nightfall but when the Americans entered the deserted ambush site the next day they found only 24 enemy killed. On 17 Sep the MRF returned to Dong Tam where 4-47 Inf rotated aboard the ships of the MRF replacing 3-47 Inf. On 20 Sep, the MRF displaced to Kien Hoa Province and began widely separated operations in Ham Long, Giong Trom and Huong My Districts, looking for the 516th PLAF Bn but no major contact took place. On 27 Sep, ATCs performing mine sweeping duties along the Rach Ben Tre received heavy RPG, recoilless and automatic weapons fire. 3 sailors were killed and 6 wounded. On 28 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Dong Tam to the northern end of Loi Quan Island between the Cua Dai and Cua Tieu to reduce logistic distances. Operations in Kien Hoa were in close cooperation with the 10th ARVN Rgt and a composite RF battalions but only sporadic contact was made. On 5-7 Oct the MRF returned to the Ban Long but had only limited contact with elements of the 263rd PLAF Bn and on 10 Sep it displaced to Vung Tau to prepare for CORONADO VI. Results: 330 enemy killed, 235 detained, 2 returnees, 35 US KIA, 175 US WIA.

16 Sep.-29 Oct.
Operation: KUNIA
Location: Ho Bo Woods, Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 3-22 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: Operation KUNIA was conducted as part of BARKING SANDS with the 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div initiating search and destroy operations in the Ho Bo Woods in preparation for the arrival of a land clearing team of thirty Rome Plows. By the end of October 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods had been cleared. Results: (included in BARKING SANDS).

19 Sep. 67-31 Jan. 69
Operation: BOLLING/DAN HOA
Location: Tuy Hoa, Phu Hiep, Binh Tinh, Ma Hoa, AO BLACK, Song Ky Lo, Song Da Rang, Suoi Cai, Phu Yen and Phu Bon Provinces. Type: search and destroy, reconnaissance-in-force, pacification, rice protection. Controlling headquarters: 173d Abn Bde (19 Sep 67-8 Feb 68, 1 Apr 68-31 Jan 69); I FFORCEV (8 Feb-1 Apr 68); 22nd ARVN Div. Task organization: 1-503 Inf (19 Sep-6 Nov 67), 2-503 Inf (12 Oct-6 Nov 67), 3-503 Inf (5 Nov 67-16 Jan 68), 4-503 Inf (19 Sep-1 Nov 67, 16 Dec 67-31 Jan 69), TF 2-8 Cav (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), 3-319 Art, C/2-19 Art (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 47th ARVN Rgt. Intelligence: 5th PAVN Div (18B and 95th PAVN Rgts), 30th and 95th PLAF LF Bns, K65 and K76 Sapper Cos. Execution: During the period 14-19 Sep, the bulk of the brigade (minus 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art) was relocated by air from Dak To to Tuy Hoa to commence long-term Operation BOLLING in cooperation with the 47th ARVN Rgt. The 2-8 Cav was opconed to the brigade until 14 Oct to compensate for 2-503 Inf remaining at Dak To, and was air-assaulted into the BOLLING AO on 19 Sep. The operation was designed to provide security for the local rice harvest. Daily contact was maintained with enemy forces in September and October but seldom larger than squad size. During October, the brigade relocated its rear base camp facility from Bien Hoa to An Khe, moving by sea via Saigon and Qui Nhon. On 12 Oct, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 returned from the Highlands, relieving TF 2-8 Cav and on 22 Oct, the new 3-503 Inf arrived in-country from Fort Bragg, undergoing jungle training in An Khe prior to deployment to the BOLLING AO. On 1 Nov, 4-503 Inf was alerted for immediate departure for Dak To, followed five days later by the brigade minus (headquarters, 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 3-319 Art). On 5 Nov, 3-503 Inf arrived at Tuy Hoa from An Khe and assumed responsibility for Operation BOLLING. Contact continued to be light in November; on 16 Dec, the brigade headquarters, 4-503 Inf and C and D/3-319 Art were redeployed from Operation MACARTHUR, closing into the BOLLING AO that same day. On 27 Dec, 3-503 Inf conducted a series of combat assaults into the Song Ky Lo Valley 15 km northwest of Dong Tre and engaged two enemy companies. Elements of 4-503 Inf reinforced the battle area until contact was lost on 29 Dec. Results were 62 enemy killed, 12 US KIA and 34 US WIA. Contact was infrequent in January and a battalion task force built around 3-503 Inf moved to An Khe on 16 Jan 68 to assume responsibility of the Operation DAZZLEM AO63 from the departing 1st Cav Div. On 30 Jan, the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt attacked several targets in the Tuy Hoa area as part of the enemy's Tet Offensive, including a FSB held by C/6-32 Art, the Binh Tin hamlet, Tuy Hoa North AF and the provincial prison. D/4-503 Inf and two companies from the 2nd Bn, 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked toward the airfield and by 0730 on 31 Jan, the enemy force was surrounded and destroyed in Binh Tin hamlet. On 5-6 Feb, two battalions of the 47th ARVN Rgt and RF elements reduced an enemy strong point in the center of Tuy Hoa. During the fighting in and around Tuy Hoa, 316 enemy had been killed and 104 captured. During February, 4-503 Inf in conjunction with Strike Force elements from Cung Son and Dong Tre CIDG Camps, and Task Force MITCHELL (E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm) conducted search and destroy operations west of Tuy Hoa and helped mop up the aftermath of the Tet Offensive. It also provided security for the 577th Eng C Bn and 173d Eng Co working on Routes 7B and 436. On 8 Feb, the 173d Abn Bde (-) departed Tuy Hoa to assumed Opcon of TF POWERHOUSE (1-503 and 2-503 Inf) in Kontum Province in the MACARTHUR AO. Operation BOLLING passed under control of I FFORCEV which assumed opcon of TF 4-503 build around 4-503 Inf, Btys C and D, 3-319 Art and D/16 Arm. A major contact developed on 4 Mar when the 47th ARVN Rgt contacted the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt and 85th PLAF Bn in three hamlets along the coast just north of Tuy Hoa. D/16 Arm and elements of the 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked while the 47th ARVN Rgt provided blocking positions. D/16 was credited with 137 NVA killed during the action while suffering 10 KIA and 21 WIA. Contact during the rest of March was sporadic in the BOLLING AO. On 1 Apr, the brigade returned from the Highlands, relieving the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div at Bong Son64 and assumed control over TF 4-503 again. Contact was light during the month of April except on the 5th when D/16 Arm again supported the 47th ARVN Rgt in heavy contact with two enemy battalions at Ma Hoa village in Tuy Hoa Valley just off Route 7B north of the Song Da Rang. In May, 4-503 Inf conducted extensive bushmaster operations, on 2 May, Co B killed 8 enemy soldiers in the Suoi Cai Valley 18 km west of Tuy Hoa. In June, the enemy continued to avoid decisive contact with Allied force, relying on harassing tactics instead. During the period 16-27 Jul, 4-503 Inf conducted search and clear operations in AO BLACK located 25 km southwest of Cung Son on the Phu Bon and Darlac provincial boundary but there was no significant contact. On 30 July, 4-503 Inf joined the 3/47 ARVN Bn and elements of the 26th ROK Rgt to conduct a combined operation in the Song Ky Lo Valley but contact was again limited. Prisoners confirmed that the bulk of the 18B and 95th PAVN Rgts had departed Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa Province to refit in Cambodia. Contact remained light for the rest of Operation BOLLING, limited to engagements with squad-size enemy forces and booby traps incidents. On 1 Feb 69 the BOLLING/DAN HOA AO became a permanent TAOR called LY DO/WAINWRIGHT. Results: 715 enemy killed, 72 US KIA, 307 US WIA (no info on ARVN casualties).

22-29 Sep.
Operation: DO KAE BI 3
Location: Canh Phuoc, Phu Yen Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: WHRID. Task organization: 28th ROK Rgt (-). Execution: operation took place 8 km south of Van Canh. Results: 103 enemy killed (no info on friendly casualties)

24 Sep.-9 Oct.
Operation: ARKANSAS CITY II
Location: Phuoc Tuy Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 11th ACR. Execution: (no info)

26 Sep.-21 Oct.
Operation: AKRON III
Location: Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone), Phuoc Tuy and Bien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-39 Inf, B/2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, 2/48 ARVN Bn, 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 274th PLAF Rgt. Execution: AKRON III was a continuation of land clearing and search and destroy operations in Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone). Contact with the enemy was light and sporadic throughout the operation but the largest known weapons cache in the III CTZ to date was discovered, contacting over 200,000 rounds of small arms, 1,022 small arms and 125 crew served weapons. Results: (no info).

New Operations

29 Sep.-1 Oct.
Operation: LAM SON 132
Location: Thua Thien Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st ARVN Div. Results: 31 enemy killed, 12 captured, 29 detained.

29 Sep.-11 Nov.
Operation: KENMORE
Location: Xuyen Moc, AO WARATAH, AO BANKSIA, Phuoc Tuy Province. Controlling headquarters: 1ATF. Task organization: 7RAR, A Sqn 3 Cav, 4 Fld Rgt, A/1-35 Art, A/1-83d Art. Execution: Operation took place in AOs WARATAH and BANKSIA, 6 km southeast of Xuyen Moc and bordering 24 km of coastline with infrequent contact. Results: 16 enemy killed, 1 captured, no friendly casualties.

29 Sep.-19 Nov.
Operation: SHENANDOAH II
Location: Lai Khe, Loc Ninh, Chon Thanh, Suoi Ong Thanh, Michelin Plantation, Long Nguyen Secret Zone, Route 13, LZ APPLE, FSB CAISSON II, FSB CAISSON III, FSB CAISSON IV, FSB CAISSON V, FSB CAISSON VI, FSB CAISSON VII, FSB LORRAINE II, Binh Duong and Binh Long Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Inf Div; 1st Bde, 1st Inf Div (29 Sep-19 Nov); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (30 Sep-30 Oct). Task organization: 1-2 Inf (29 Sep-18 Oct; 21-28 Oct), 2-2 Inf (M)(29 Sep-23 Oct), 1-16 Inf (29 Sep; 18-29 Oct; 8-19 Nov), 1-18 Inf (4-13 Oct; 29 Oct-19 Nov), 1-26 Inf (31 Oct-8 Nov), 1-28 Inf (29 Sep-10 Oct; 13 Oct-11 Nov), 2-28 Inf (7-18 Oct; 30 Oct-19 Nov), 2-12 Inf (2-7 Nov), 1-4 Cav (29 Sep-30 Oct), 1-5 Art (29 Sep-19 Nov), 6-15 Art (30 Oct-19 Nov), 2-33 Art (30 Sep-30 Oct). Intelligence: 9th PLAF Div (271st, 272nd, 273rd PLAF Rgts). Execution: Operation SHENANDOAH II initially covered an area from slightly south of Lai Khe, north approximately 18 miles and west to the edge of the Michelin Plantation, a region known as the Long Nguyen Secret Zone where the 271st PLAF Rgt was reported. The AO was expanded later to include the area between Lai Khe and Loc Ninh and between Route 13 west to the 25th Inf Div AO. On 29 Sep, 1-2 Inf began search and destroy operation in AO MIKE 12 miles north of Lai Khe while 1-28 Inf displaced via motor convoy from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh. Simultaneously, 1-4 Cav with A/2-2 Inf (M) opcon began clearing Route 13 From Lai Khe to Chon Thanh and secured FSBs CAISSON II & III. The first engagement with the VC took place on 4 Oct when 1-2 Inf made contact with an unknown size enemy force 10 km southwest of Chon Thanh. 12 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 26 US WIA. In reaction, 1-18 Inf moved by helicopter from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh and was air-assaulted into an LZ 1 km west of the 1-2 Inf contact. The LZ was cold but 29 enemy bodies KBA were found in the immediate vicinity. On 6 Oct, 1-18 Inf received mortar fire followed by a heavy ground assault. Result was 50 enemy killed, 3 US KIA and 4 US WIA. On 7 Oct, another battalion, 2-28 Inf, was added to the operation, moving via road convoy to Chon Thanh and then to field location. On 10 Oct, 1-28 Inf, having made little contact, was extracted from the field and returned to Phuoc Vinh. The next major engagement occurred on 11 Oct when B/1-18 Inf made contact with an estimated 100-150 enemy 31 km west of Highway 13, killing 21 while losing 1 KIA and 4 WIA. On 13 Oct, 1-28 Inf returned to the SHENANDOAH II AO, relieving 1-18 Inf in place. Contact during the next few days was limited but on 17 Oct, Cos A & D, 2-28 Inf were ambushed while following a trail south of the Suoi Ong Thanh. Contact began at 1015 when Co A received sniper fire. Close fighting began to develop rapidly and the two companies were soon engulfed by a very heavy volume of fire. The battalion's CO65, S-2, SGM and both company commanders became casualties. Both companies pulled back under fire to allow for close air support and artillery fire as Co B and C were rushed in to reinforced, followed by Co D, 1/16 inf later in the afternoon when the enemy broke contact. Losses had been very heavy for the Americans with 52 KIA, 72 WIA and 2 MIA. 103 enemy bodies were counted in the battle area the next day. On 18 Oct, 2-28 Inf was relieved in place by the rest of 1-16 Inf and was extracted to Lai 65 LTC Terry de la Mesa Allen, Jr., KIA 17 Oct 67. Khe, followed by 1-2 Inf which returned to Phuoc Vinh. On 19 Oct, 1-16 Inf continued search and destroy operations in the vicinity of the 17 Oct battle while 1-28 Inf was extracted briefly to Chon Thanh to allow for a B-52 strike to take place before returning to the field. On 21 Oct, 1-2 Inf was inserted into the AO again after a road march from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh but contact remained low for the rest on the month. At 0115 on 29 Oct, two battalions of the 273rd PLAF Rgt launched a ground assault on the Loc Ninh District Headquarters and Loc Ninh CIDG Camp. Two reconnaissance companies from the 5th ARVN Div reacted immediately, being airlifted from Phu Loi to Loc Ninh and counterattacking along with two CIDG companies to regain the northern part of the sub sector compound, clearing it by 1300. At that point, Operation SHENANDOAH II was expanded to include the battle of Loc Ninh, with 1-18 Inf deploying to the battle area to occupy blocking positions 4 km west of the town. 2/9 ARVN Bn was also brought in and deployed in and around the sub sector compound. On 30 Oct, the 1st Bde CP arrived at Quan Loi to control US forces at Loc Ninh. That same day, A/1-18 Inf made contact with an enemy company, killing 85. At 0100 on 31 Oct, elements of the 272nd and 273rd PLAF Rgts renewed their attacks on the sub sector and SF compounds. Very heavy fighting took place all night with TACAIR and AC-47 gunships supporting the defenders until 0700 when the enemy broke contact. Later that day, 1-28 Inf conducted an air-assault 4 km southeast of Loc Ninh while 1-26 joined the operation, securing FSB CAISSON VII near An Loc where the 5th ARVN TAC CP was also established. 126 enemy had been killed during the night attack at the cost of 9 KIA and 56 WIA for the Allied forces. 1 Nov was relatively quite but starting at 0045 on 2 Nov, a third attack was launched, this time on the sub sector compound, CIDG camp, 1-18 Inf NDP and the 6-15 Art FSB near the Loc Ninh Airfield. All were repulsed with a combination of heavy, accurate fire by the defenders, artillery and effective close air support. At 0820, 1-26 Inf conducted an airmobile assault 6 km northwest of Loc Ninh, followed later in the afternoon by 2-12 Inf detached from the 25th Inf Div. 296 more enemies had been killed during the attack at the cost of 7 killed and 36 wounded to friendly forces. On 3 Nov, the 36th ARVN Rgr Bn arrived to participate in reconnaissance-in-force operations with the four US infantry battalions. On 7 Nov, 1-26 Inf engaged an unknown size enemy force 6 km northeast of Loc Ninh, killing 66 but losing 17 KIA and 21 WIA. This was the last major engagement of SHENANDOAH II, the 272nd and 273rd avoiding any further contact with Allied forces. Results: 956 enemy killed, 63 detained, 107 US KIA, 322 US WIA.

Other

29 Sep.
The office of the ACofS for Military Assistance is established as a result of the study of MACV Military Assistance and Advisory Resources.

29 Sep.
President Johnson outlines terms for peace negotiations in a speech in San Antonio, which becomes labeled the “San Antonio Formula.”

29 Sep.
New American Embassy Chancery dedicated in Saigon.

[Jason Petho]

Ongoing Operations today in 1967

26 Aug.66-20 Jan.68
Operation: BYRD
Location: Phan Thiet, LZ BETTY, Binh Thuan Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: I FFORCEV. Task organization: TF 2-7: 2-7 Cav, C/1-9 Cav, A/1-21 Art, C/2-20 Art (-), C/8th Eng Bn (-), C/229th Avn Bn, Det 228th Avn Bn. Execution: Planned as a short-term, economy-of-force measure, BYRD became a continuous offensive that would last into 1968. Upon I FFORCEV request, the 1st Cav Div detached at battalion-size task force to help pacify isolated Binh Thuan Province in southern II Corps. Results (at year's end): 351 enemy killed, 151 detained, 8 US KIA, 85 US WIA.

1 Oct.66-17 Jan 68
Operation: DAZZLEM
Location: Camp Radcliff, An Khe, Binh Dinh Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization: Base Defense Task Force. Execution: Operation DAZZLEM was the contingency plan for the defense of Camp Radcliff provided by one infantry battalion with supporting artillery and
reinforcing personnel from residence units. On 17 Jan 68, the 173d Abn Bde relieved the 1st Cav Div from the mission of defending An Khe. Results: 80 enemy killed, 9 detained.

11 Oct.66-17 Nov.67
Operation: UNIONTOWN II
Location: Long Binh, Bien Hoa Province Type: security. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV. Execution: Operation UNIONTOWN was a security operation designed to protect the Long Binh logistical complex, RMK Rock Quarry and II FFORCEV Headquarters. Units were assigned on a rotation basis from each major command under II FFORCEV.

30 Nov. 66-15 Dec.67
Operation: FAIRFAX/RANG DONG
Location: Nha Be, Thu Duc and Binh Chanh Districts, Gia Dinh Province. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV, CMD. Task organization: 1st Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 2-16 Inf; 4th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3-22 Inf; 25th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 4-9 Inf; CMD (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3rd and 5th ARVN Abn Bns, 30th Ranger Bn; 199th LIB (31 Jan-15 Dec.): 2-3 Inf, 3-7 Inf, 4-12 Inf, 2-40 Art; 5th ARVN Ranger Group (31 Jan.-15 Dec): 30th, 33rd and 38th ARVN Ranger Bns. Intelligence: Military Region 4, 165A PLAF Regiment. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE... Results (end of 1966): 149 enemy killed, 40 detained, 11 US KIA, 67 US WIA, 23 ARVN KIA, 58 ARVN WIA, 1 ARVN MIA.

8 Feb.67-31 Jan.68
Operation: LAM SON 67
Location: Phu Loi, An My, Ong Dong Jungle, Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, security, jungle clearing. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 1st Inf Div (8 Feb-17 Mar, 17 Apr 67-31 Jan 68); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (17 Mar-17 Apr). Task organization: 1st Inf Div Revolutionary Development Task Force (various infantry, cavalry and support units were assigned on a rotation basis during the period). Execution: The operation supported the GVN's Revolutionary Development Program in conjunction with ARVN units in Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. LAM SON 67 consisted of cordon and search, reconnaissance in force, harassment, jungle clearing, population control, civic action and psychological warfare operations directed against priority targets. Contact in the AO was characterized by light sporadic incidents with local VC elements. On 6 Jan 68, the Phu Loi base camp received 123 rounds of mixed mortar fire, 46 aircraft were damaged and 6 US WIA. Reacting to the attack, A/2-18 Inf and B/2-2 Inf (M) swept the area to the north of the base and contacted two enemy companies of the Phu Loi PLAF Bn. 92 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 14 US WIA. Operation LAM SON 67 was terminated on 31 Jan 68 with the beginning of the enemy's Tet Offensive. Results: 527 enemy killed, 263 captured, 2,327 detained, 346 defectors, 56 US KIA, 572 US WIA.

12 Feb. 67-18 Jan. 68
Operation: PERSHING
Location: Bong Son, Tuy An, Tam Quan, Hoa Tan, Sa Huynh, Truong Son, An Qui, Trung Xuan, An Lac, An Lao Valley, Kim Son Valley, Suoi Ca Valley, 506 Valley, Nuoc Dinh Valley, Phu My Valley, Song Re Valley, the Crescent, Nui Mieu, Nui Sang, Cay Giep, Dam Tra-O Lake, Route 1, LZ BRONCO BEACH, LZ CRYSTAL, LZ ENGLISH, LZ GARNET, LZ GERONIMO, LZ GLENN, LZ HAMMOND, LZ IRON, LZ MEADE, LZ PAT, LZ SANDRA, LZ STEEL, LZ TOM, LZ TWO BITS, LZ UPLIFT, Binh Dinh and Quang Ngai Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization (As of 12 Feb): 1 s t Bde: 1-8 Cav, 1-12 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-19 Art (-), D/2-17 Art, C/1-21 Art, A/3-18 Art; 2d Bde: 2-5 Cav, 1-5 Cav (-), 1-7 Cav (-), 2-12 Cav, 1-77 Art (-), B/1-8 Art, A/1-21 Art, C/1-30 Art, B/8th Eng; 3d Bde: 2-8 Cav, C/1-5 Cav, 1-21 Art (-), 2-17 Art (-), C/6-16 Art, C/2-19 Art, C/8th Eng; 3d Bde, 25 t h Inf Div (12 Feb-19 Apr): 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf (4-19 Apr), 2-9 Art, A/1-77 Art, 5-16 Art, C/3-4 Cav, D/65th Eng; Div Arty: 2-20 Art (-), 7-13 Art (-), B/29 Art, E/82 Art, 3-18 Art (-); Div Troops: 1-9 Cav, 8th Eng Bn (-). Intelligence: 3rd PAVN Div: 18th and 22nd PAVN Rgts, 2nd PLAF Rgt. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE ... Results: 5,
388 enemy killed, 2,356 captured, 10,609 detained, 221 returnees, 852 US KIA, 4,119 US WIA, 22 US MIA.

13 Feb. 67-10 Mar. 68
Operation: ENTERPRISE
Location: Tan An, Rach Kien, Ben Luc, Binh Phuoc, Tan Tru, Doi Ma Creek, Plain of Reeds9, Base Area 371, Route 14, Long An Province. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, eagle flights. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 3-39 Inf, 2-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-4 Art, C/15th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PLAF MF Bn, 506th PLAF LF Bn. Execution: ENTERPRISE was the continuation of the pacification effort of Long An Province initiated the previous year by the 25th Inf Div with Operation LANIKAI. On 13 Feb, 3-39 Inf relieved 2-14 Inf at Rach Kien. Strength of division elements in the province were subsequently increased to brigade size with movement of 2-60 Inf into Tan Tru, 5-60 Inf into Binh Phuoc and Headquarters, 3d Bde into Tan An. The first major engagement occurred on 9 Apr when 3-39 Inf made contact with the 506th PLAF Bn on the bank of Doi Ma Creek. Additional companies were brought in, killing 247 of the enemy. On 2 May, the 506th Bn exacted vengeance on the 3-39 Inf, attacking one of its companies in night defensive position near Route 4. 17 US were KIA and 48 WIA but no enemy bodies were found. The operation was temporarily extended north to the Plain of Reeds area on 8-14 May with sub-operation NIRVANA II directed against the enemy's Base Area 371. Elements of the 3d Bde joined forces with the 4/50 ARVN Bn of the 25th ARVN Div but found nothing, killing only 14 of the enemy. On 14 May, the 2nd PLAF Bn struck the compound of the 2/50 ARVN Bn in Rach Kien, killing 31 South Vietnamese soldiers and wounding 34. 3d Bde units were committed but couldn't regain contact with the attacking force. After that, contact with the enemy dropped sharply for the remainder of 1967, indicating an apparent enemy desire to avoid friendly forces. On 31 Jan 68, the brigade responded to the Tet Offensive, 5-60 Inf engaged in heavy fighting southwest of Saigon in Gia Dinh Province, killing 128 enemy soldiers. From 1-5 Feb, 3-39 Inf and 2-60 Inf were sent to Kien Hoa Province to help recapture Ben Tre, the provincial capital. On 10 Feb, the brigade HQ at Tan An came under attack from an unknown size enemy force. 33 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 53 US WIA. During March, brigade elements conducted "Aquabush" operations along the numerous canals south of Saigon in conjunction with the 199th Inf Bde (Lt). Pacification activities decreased sharply during the Tet Offensive and the operation was terminated on 10 March. Results: 2,107 enemy killed, 74 US KIA, 380 US WIA.

14 Feb.67-21 Mar.68
Operation: KITTYHAWK
Location: Long Binh, Xuan Loc, Long Giao, Gia Ray, Suoi Cat, Blackhorse, Route 1, Route 2, Long Khanh and Bien Hoa Province. Type: reconnaissance-in-force, cordon and search, security, road clearing. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div (14 Feb 67-15 Feb 68); 11th ACR (15 Feb-21 Mar 68). Task organization: 3-5 Cav, 1/11 ACR, 2/11 ACR, 3/11 ACR. Intelligence: 275th PLAF Rgt. Execution: The purpose of KITTYHAWK was to secure LOCs and selected installations within Long Khanh Province, conduct reconnaissance-in-force operations and cordon and search of selected hamlets within the AO, secure Blackhorse base camp and the Gia Ray rock quarry and provide ready reaction forces along Route 1. On 21 May, K Troop, 3/11 ACR was ambushed by an estimated reinforced enemy battalion near Suoi Cat on Route 1. 30 enemy are killed, 12 US KIA and 13 US WIA. On 27 Jun 1/11 ACR moved to reinforce the 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn which was in heavy contact with elements of the 3rd Bn, 275th PLAF Rgt, killing 49 of the enemy11. On 30 Dec two enemy companies ambushed Troop C, 3-5 Cav on Route 2. Friendly losses are 10 KIA, 29 WIA and 3 MIA. On 31 Jan 68, in reaction to the VC Tet Offensive, the 3-5 Cav was alerted to respond to enemy activity in the Long Binh-Bien Hoa area. A/3-5 Cav bypassed several roadblocks, breaking through enemy forces and reached the Bien Hoa airfield, sweeping nearby wood lines and killing 40. During the period 2-3 Feb, C/3-5 Cav was sent to defend Xuan Loc against an intense ground attack, killing nearly 50 enemy soldiers. On 15 Feb the KITTYHAWK mission was assumed by the 11th ACR as the 3-5 Cav (-) was directed by HQ USARV to deploy to Da Nang, I CTZ. On 21 Mar, the operation was phased into Operation ALCORN COVE. Results: 201 enemy killed, 7 captured, 1 returnee, 62 US KIA, 224 US WIA.

5 Apr.-11 Oct.
Operation: FRANCIS MARION
Location: Plei Me, Duc Co, Plei Djereng, Plei Mrong, Plei Do Lim, Buon Blech, Se San, Ia Drang, Ia Tchar, Dak Ayun, Dak Payou, Chu Pong, Chu Prong, Chu Goungot, Chu Groh, Route 14, Route 14B, Route 19E, Route 509, Hill 521, LZ OASIS, LZ JACKSON HOLE, Pleiku and Darlac Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: (effective 7 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, B/4-42 Art, C/3-4 Cav (-), A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (-), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, Plt B/1-69 Arm, 4-42 Art (-), B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), Plt C/2-8 Inf (-), Cav Plt 1-10 Cav, B/3-6 Art, A/5-16 Art; TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 26 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), C/4-42 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h In f Div: 2-8 Inf, 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), A/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), A/3-6 Art; TF 3-8 Inf: 3-8 Inf, C/6-29 Art, A/5-16 Art; Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 30 May): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (M), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art, B/4th Eng (-); 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, D/16 Arm, E/17 Cav, 173d Eng Co; TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 5-16 Art (-); Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 24 Sep): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 2-8 Inf (M), 3-8 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), A/4-42 Art,, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div: 1-12 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), B/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: 2-1 Cav, D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Intelligence: B3 Front, 1st NVA Div (32nd, 66th and 88th Rgts), 10th NVA Div (95B and 101C Rgts), 200th NVA Art Bn, 407th PLAF MF Sapper Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn.. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE.... Results: 1,204 enemy killed, 122 detained, 11 returnees, 198 US KIA, 982 US WIA, 8 US MIA.

22 Apr.67-2 Jan 68.
Operation: BAKER
Location: Duc Pho, Mo Duc, Vinh Hien, Tan Phong, Dien Truong, An Ba, An Tach, Song Tra Cau, Song Ve, LZ MONTEZUMA (later renamed LZ BRONCO), LZ GUADALCANAL, LZ OLIVE DRAB, LZ LIZ, LZ DRAGON, RAZORBACK Beach, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde TF, 25th Inf Div (redesignated 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div on 1 Aug). Task organization: 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf, 2-9 Art, C/3-4 Cav, B/1-9 Cav, C/2-34 Arm. Intelligence: 1st PLAF Rgt, 2nd PLAF Rgt, 22nd PAVN Rgt. Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: (no info).

14 May.-7 Dec.
Operation: KOLE KOLE
Location: Duc Hoa, Bao Trai, Hiep Hoa, Loc Giang, Trang Bang, Song Vam Co Dong, Rach Tra, Xinh An Ha, Route 10, Hau Nghia and Tay Ninh Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 1-5 Inf (M), 1-27 Inf, 2-27 Inf, 1-8 Art. Intelligence: 2nd Go Mon and 269th PLAF LF Bns. Execution: Operation KOLE KOLE was initiated by the 2d Bde in Hau Nghia Province using EAGLE FLIGHTS and airmobile operations based on current intelligence. Cordon and search, outposting and country fair operations were also conducted in conjunction with the 25th ARVN Div, CIDG and RF/PF. On 17 May, elements of 1/27 Inf and 2/27 Inf fought an eight-hour engagement west of the Vam Co Dong with a VC company. Results were 27 enemy killed, 2 US KIA and 9 US WIA. There was intermittent contact during June and July, particularly along the An Ha canal and near Loc Giang. The brigade also secured engineer operations along Route 10 to improve the GVN's authority and control west of Trang Bang. In early August, the reconnaissance platoon of 1/27 Inf with helicopter support intercepted VC recon elements from Long An Province, killing 26. During September, KOLE KOLE shifted to northern Hau Nghai and southwestern Tay Ninh Province. 1-5 Inf (M) conducted extensive dismounted ambush patrols around Loc Giang along the Vam Co while 2-27 Inf engaged scattered elements of the 269th PLAF Bn. On 21 Oct, an EAGLE FLIGHT from 1-27 Inf engaged an estimated enemy platoon south of Tay Ninh, killing 18. On 31 Oct, 2-27 Inf made contact with elements of the 2nd Go Mon Bn north of the Rach Tra, killing 28 and capturing 2. Enemy activity decreased for the rest of KOLE KOLE and the brigade concentrated on pacification and land clearing operations. Results: 797 enemy killed, 150 detained, 34 returnees, 144 US KIA, 876 US WIA

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: BARKING SANDS
Location: Cu Chi, Trang Bang, Phu Hoa, Iron Triangle, Ho Bo Woods, Song Saigon, Hau Nghia and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: The 1st Bde employed counter guerrilla warfaretechniques including saturation patrolling, checkmate, bushmaster and cordon and search operations to pacify Cu Chi and Trang Bang Districts in Hau Nghia Province and Phu Hoa District in Binh Duong Province. Buddy operations were also conducted with local PF platoons and RF companies. On 30 Aug, 4-9 Inf conducted an airmobile assault against an entrenched VC battalion in the Iron Triangle resulting in 4 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 43 US WIA. During September, primary emphasis was placed on denying VC access to populated areas during the National Elections. Land clearing operations were also initiated along the Song Saigon to eliminate VC concealment. In October, 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods were cleared by Rome Plows following Operation KUNIA. Contact during BARKING SANDS was limited to squad and platoon size elements and no major engagement occurred. Four sub-operations were conducted in the BARKING SANDS AO during the period: KAWELA, AKUMU,WAIMEA and KUNIA (see individual operations below). Results (inclusive of the four sub-operations): 370 enemy killed, 85 detained, 10 returnees, 110 US KIA, 1114 US WIA.

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: DIAMOND HEAD
Location: Tay Ninh West, Dau Tieng, Suoi Da, Prek Klok, Ben Cui, Michelin Plantation, Boi Loi Woods, The Crescent, The Trapezoid, Tay Ninh and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div33. Task organization: 2-12 Inf, 2-22 Inf (M), 3-22 Inf, 2-77 Art, 2-34 Arm (-) (from 22 Sep), C/1-10 Cav, C/4th Eng. Execution: The mission was to conduct search and destroy operations in Tay Ninh Province, cordon and search operations in the Michelin Plantation, and security and reinforcement missions in the Tay Ninh and Prek Klok areas. With one battalion detached to Operation UNIONTOWN and another providing security for the Dau Tieng and Tay Ninh West base camps, contact in the AO were very limited during the months of May, June and July. On 1 Aug, the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div was redesignated the 3d Bde, 25th Inf Div. No movement of troops or units were involved in this redesignation. On 15 Aug, an airmobile cordon and search of Thanh An was conducted by 3-22 Inf in conjunction with VN National Police. 6 enemy were killed and 42 detained. In September, the brigade provided security during the National elections. In October, continued battalion size search and destroy operations were conducted in the Michelin Plantation to prevent its use as an enemy haven, in and south of Ben Cui, and in the northern portion of the Trapezoid, which extends 15 km to the southeast of Dau Tieng. Bushmaster operations were conducted in an area known as the Crescent, 8 km northwest of Dau Tieng. All operations were marked by extremely light contact. In November, operations were conducted in the upper Boi Loi Woods and in the Ben Cui Plantation, again with light contact. During this period operations were curtailed due to two battalions being opcon to the other brigades. On 25-25 Now, 2-22 Inf (M) made contact with a VC company near the Mushroom bend on the Saigon River, killing 20. This was the last contact during DIAMOND HEAD before the operation came to an end on 7 Dec. Results: 237 enemy killed, 496 detained, 4 returnees. (US losses unknown).

1 Jun.67-7 Feb.68
Operation: HOPTAC
Location: Dong Tam, Dinh Tuong Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: Task Force FUNSTON39. Execution: Operation HOPTAC was an internal defense and development operation in Dinh Tuong Province which included security of the Dong Tam base. Task Force FUNSTON provided land and waterborne security for engineer dredging equipment and maintained a ready reaction force to assist local GVN units and installations if needed. In most cases contact with the VC was characterized by light fire fights and sniper fire. On 1 Feb 68 the enemy fired more than 170 82 mm mortar and 75 mm RR rounds into the base resulting in minor damage and 11 US WIA. In the early morning hours of 3, 4, 5 and 7 Feb, the enemy continued to attack the base with mortar and RR fire. The heaviest attack came on 7 Feb with an estimated 200 rounds fired at the base. Elements of 5-60 Inf and 2-39 Inf conducted reaction airmobile assaults and RIF operations 8 km east of Dong tam, making contact with two VC companies, killing 23 while losing 5 KIA and 11 WIA. Results: 296 enemy killed, 11 captured, 3 returnees, 37 US KIA, 364 US WIA.

18 Jun.-12 Oct.
Operation: GREELEY
Location: Kontum, Dak To, Tan Canh, Dak Seang, Dak Pek, Toumorong, Dak Poko, Dak Akoi, Hill 830, Hill 1338, FSB 4, Kontum Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (24 Jun-25 Jul): 1-7 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-12 Cav, 1-21 Art; 1st ARVN Abn TF (24 Jun-25 Jul): 3d, 5th and 8th ARVN Abn Bns; 24th STZ: 1/42 Inf. Intelligence: 24th and 174th PAVN Rgts, K101D PAVN Bn, 304th PLAF MF Bn, 200th PLAF Art Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn . Execution: From 1-18 Jun, the 173d Abn Bde continued participation in Operation FRANCIS MARION, searching further south and east in the Ia Drang Valley. The brigade deployed the 1-503 Inf and 2-503 Inf into the AO, holding 4-503 Inf in reserve at Catecka. No significant contact was made. On 17 Jun, TF MC QUARRIE (2-503 Inf, E/17 Cav, A/3-319 Art) moved by air and motor convoy to the New Dak To Airfield, joined the following day by 1-503 Inf. The mission, named GREELEY, was to assume opcon of the CIDG Camp at Dak To under threat from the 24th PAVN Rgt and assist in its defense. On 18 Jun, 2-503 Inf began searching south of Dak To toward the huge mass of Hill 1338 (Ngok Bor Beang). C/1-503 Inf was also inserted into the area to search for a missing SF and CIDG team which had been destroyed by the NVA on 15-16 Jun, 1400 meters southwest of their camp. On 22 Jun, after a fruitless search of Hill 1338, 2-503 Inf was instructed to return to Dak To on foot. Shortly after leaving its NDP, A/2-503 bumped into an enemy battalion from the 24th PAVN Rgt42 while descending the slopes of Hill 1338. Two platoons were cut off and annihilated while the rest of the company formed a small perimeter and called supporting fires. Cos B and C were rushed to the rescue but arrived too late. 76 Americans had been killed, some executed point blank by the enemy, and 23 wounded. 106 enemy bodies were counted in the battle area. This action became known as 'The Battle of the Slopes' and as one of the costliest engagement for US forces in Vietnam. Concerned by the size of the battle and the US losses, General Larsen at I FFORCEV decided to reinforce GREELEY. On 23 Jun, 2-12 Cav arrived from the PERSHING AO while the rest of the 173d Abn Bde (CP (-) and 4-503 Inf) closed Dak To from Catecka. The next day, 24 Jun, the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (-) and 1st ARVN Abn TF arrived at Kontum. The Allied forces went after the 24th PAVN Rgt, seeking to destroy it. In the next two weeks, the 173d Abn Bde and 2-12 Cav searched west and south of Dak To while the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div and the ARVN Abn TF entered the Dak Akoi Valley northeast of Kontum and 35 km east of Dak To. The sweep found little evidence of the enemy's presence and on 25 Jul the cavalry brigade returned to the coast, while the Vietnamese task force stood down at Kontum to serve as a mobile reaction force. Southwest of Dak To on 10 Jul, 4-503 Inf, while searching for a regimental headquarters, found an occupied enemy bunker complex on Hill 830. Battle raged until 12 Jul with 22 US KIA and 62 US WIA but only 9 enemy bodies found. This was the last significant contact on the month. On 19 Jul, 2 NVA soldiers rallied at Dak Pek CIDG Camp, stating that they were 42 Later identified as the 6th Bn, 24th PAVN Rgt. from the newly infiltrated 174th PAVN Rgt. They were proved correct on 6 Aug when the 1/42 ARVN Bn made heavy contact with that unit 8 km west of the Dak Seang CIDG Camp. The ARVN Abn TF was rushed into the area and fought a bitter twoday battle to capture a hill believed to have been the location of the regimental CP, killing 189 of the enemy. On 9 Aug, 4-503 Inf moved to Dak Pek, joining the 1-503 Inf already there since 4 Aug, but the two battalions found little. Contacts were so low in August that the 173d Abn Bde was credited with only 4 enemy killed. During the period 1-18 Sep, the brigade continued GREELEY in the Dak To – Dak Seang area, supporting CIDG Operation DARBY, but contact was minimal. On 17 Sep, the brigade (-) began moving by air to Tuy Hoa to begin Operation BOLLING. Only 4-503 Inf and A/3-319 stayed at Dak To, forming Task Force 77 with the 3rd ARVN Abn Bn, 1/42 ARVN Bn and 27th MIKE Force Co for an expedition in the Toumorong Valley that lasted nearly three weeks but found nothing. On 11 Oct, TF 77 was disbanded and that same day, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art departed for Tuy Hoa, terminating Operation GREELEY. Results: 191 enemy killed, 17 captured, 129 US KIA, 210 US WIA. (no info on ARVN losses).

3 Jul.67-7 Apr.68
Operation: RILEY
Location: Bearcat, Camp Martin Cox, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div; TF FORSYTH (from 10 Feb). Task organization: 2-39 Inf, 4-39 Inf, 2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, TF FORSYTH. Execution: Operation RILEY was an internal defense and development operation in Bien Hoa Province and included defense of Camp Martin Cox. When not engaged in strike operations, Headquarters, 1st Bde assumed opcon of all elements engaged in RILEY, including TF FORSYTH (a provisional Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment located at Camp Martin Cox). In the absence of the 1st Bde, TF FORSYTH was allocated sufficient forces to secure the camp and to conduct limited consolidation operations in the area. On 31 Jan 68 in response to the VC Tet Offensive, elements of the 2-47 Inf (M) and 4-39 Inf moved to Long Binh Post for perimeter security. Working in coordination with 2-3 Inf from the 199th Inf Bde (Lt), the two battalions had multiple contacts with the enemy during the day near Ho Nai, killing 213 by bodycount and capturing 32. US losses were 4 KIA and 23 WIA. On 10 Feb 68, the 1st Bde moved to Dong Tam and TF FORSYTH assumed responsibility until termination. Results: 472 enemy killed, 41 detained, 2 returnees, 64 US KIA, 315 US WIA.

8 Jul.-30 Oct.
Operation: MARCH I
Location: Plei Trap Valley, Kontum Province. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: B-50 Det Project OMEGA. Execution: Long range reconnaissance and intelligence gathering conducted in the Plei Trap Valley. Results: (no info).

10 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: FREMONT
Location: Camp Evans, Hill 51, Hill 67, Phong Dien District, Thua Thien Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 4th Marines. Task organization: 2/4 Marines (10 Jul-14 Sep), 3/26 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct). Execution: The 4th Marines initiated Operation FREMONT with its own 2/4 to provide security for Camp Evans, Hill 51, the Phong Dien District Headquarters and a radio transmission site on Hill 67. On 20 Jul, 2/4 provided blocking forces near My Chanh for SLF BRAVO in Operation BEAR CHAIN. BLT 2/3 became opcon to 4th Marines on 22 Jul and joined FREMONT, until back loading on 21 Aug. Contact was sporadic in Aug with only 13 US KIA for the month. During Sep, 2/4 in conjunction with ARVN forces helped secure nearby villages and hamlets during the National Elections. On 14 Sep, 2/4 joined Operation KINGFISHER and was replaced by 3/26 Marines. Contacts remained low until termination, being limited to harassing tactics, mines incidents and sniper fire. Results: 123 enemy killed, 8 captured, 17 US KIA, 196 US WIA.

16 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: KINGFISHER
Location: Dong Ha, Con Thien, Gio Linh, Cua Viet, Ca Lu, Route 9, Route 561, Route 606, Hill 216, C-2, Demilitarized Zone, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d and 9th Marines. Task organization: 3/3 Marines, 2/4 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct), 3/4 Marines, 1/9 Marines, 2/9 Marines, 3/9 Marines, 3/26 Marines (15 Aug-11 Sep), 1st Amtrac Bn. Intelligence: 90th and 812th PAVN Rgts. Execution: KINGFISHER was a continuation of Marine operations south of the DMZ follwing BUFFALO and HICKORY II. Contact was light during the first week. On 21 Jul, 3/3 Marines securing a portion of Route 9 for a 'Rough Rider' convoy bound for Khe Sanh found a NVA battalion dug in on Hill 216 overlooking the road. Tanks, 40mm dusters and artillery pounded the hill and forced the enemy to withdraw. On 28 Jul, 2/9 Marines reinforced with tanks, LVTEs and Ontos was pushing into the DMZ north on Route 606 when it was attacked by an estimated NVA battalion. The column was split in company-size segments and fought desperately all day until reinforcements from 3/4 Marines forced the enemy to break contact. 23 Americans were killed and 251 wounded with only 32 NVA confirmed killed. Ground action was light in early Aug with the largest part of the activity involving artillery attacks on Gio Linh, Con Thien, Cua Viet and Dong Ha. On 21 Aug, an NVA battalion ambushed a small Marine convoy moving from the Rockpile to Ca Lu. Elements form 3/3 were brought in, fighting a six-hour engagement until night fell and the enemy fled to the west. 6 US were killed and 35 wounded, Enemy loses were unknown. The NVA tried again on 7 Sep at almost the same location. This time the battle lasted more than 8 hours. The Marines killed 92 of the enemy while losing 5 KIA and 56 WIA. The Communists tried to disrupt the National Elections on 3 Sep, firing more than 41 rounds of artillery into Dong Ha, damaging 17 helicopters. This attack ended the use of Dong Ha as a permanent helicopter base facility. Con Thien however, remained the primary artillery target for the NVA. On 25 Sep alone, 1,200 rounds slammed into the combat base. On 10 Sep, 3/26 Marines made heavy contact with what seemed to be the entire 812th PAVN Rgt 4 miles southwest of Con Thien. The action lasted for four hours until the enemy broke contact, leaving 140 dead on the battle field. Marine losses had been high also with 34 KIA and 192 WIA, forcing 3/26 to return to Phu Bai the next day to refit. On 21 Sep, 2/9 Marines started a search and destroy operation 1,800 meters east of Con Thien when it ran into heavy resistance from an element of the 90th PAVN Rgt. The battle turned into a stalemate after rain had made the area impassable and both sides withdrew. US casualties were 31 KIA and 118 WIA. Enemy killed were reported at 39. The enemy intensified its attack-by-fire against Con Thien in late Sep, hitting the base with over 3,000 rounds during the period 19-27 Sep. The Americans retaliated by massing one of the greatest concentrations of firepower in support of a single division in the history of the Vietnam War. Marine artillery, ships of the 7th Fleet, Marine and Air Force jets and B-52 bombers poured tons of ordnance into know enemy positions in and north of the DMZ. By the end of Sep, NVA pressure of the outpost had subsided. On 14 Oct, 2/4 Marines was guarding a bridge north of Strong point C-2 when it received a ground attack from an unknown size enemy force. AC-47 gunships helped repel the assault during the night. 21 Americans were killed and 23 wounded. Only 24 NVA bodies were found in the area. The last major action of KINGSIFHER took place during a 9th Marines operation on 25-28 Oct. 2/4 Marines was sweeping north of Con Thien on Route 561 when it was hit by an enemy battalion, beating back several attacks and losing 8 KIA and 45 WIA. Results: 1,117 enemy killed, 5 captured, 340 US KIA, 1,461 US WIA.

17 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: ARDMORE
Location: Khe Sanh, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destro, security. Controlling headquarters: 26th Marines (Forward). Task organization: 1/26 Marines, 3/26 Marines, 1/13 Marines. Execution: Operation ARDMORE was a continuation of Operation CROCKETT and involved the same mission and the same forces. On 21 Jul, B/1/26 and M/3/26 fought a NVA battalion dug on Hill 216 along Route 9 in conjunction with 3/3 Marines from Operation KINGFISHER. Contacts in August were minimal and 3/26 was moved to the KINGFISHER AO on 15 Aug. 1/26 Marines continued patrols and company-size search and destroy operations around Khe Sanh, but with limited contact with the enemy. Results: 113 enemy killed, 6 detained, 10 US KIA, 39 US WIA

27 Jul.-8 Nov.
Operation: SONG THAN 14
Location: Bong Son, Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF BRAVO. Task organization: 1st VNMC BN, 2nd VNMC Bn (27 Jul-4 Oct), 3rd VNMC Bn (4 Oct-6 Nov), C/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: On 27 Jul, TF BRAVO relieved TF ALPHA at Bong Son AF and continued search and destroy operations south of Bong Son in conjunction with Operation PERSHING. Results: (no info)

31 Jul.-3 Nov.
Operation: DAN QUYEN 822
Location: Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 22nd ARVN Division. Results: 141 enemy killed, 181 detained, 44 ARVN KIA, 74 ARVN WIA 3 ARVN MIA.

11 Aug.-21 Oct.
Operation: SONG THAN/701/67
Location: Tan Uyen, Bien Hoa Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF ALPHA. Task organization: 2nd VNMC Bn (10-21 Oct), 4th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-10 Oct), 5th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-15 Sep), 6th VNMC Bn (15 Sep-21 Oct), B/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: Operation conducted in the Tan Uyen area in coordination with the US 1st Inf Div. Results: (no info)

16 Aug-31 Oct.
Operation: 8-67/SAMURAI II & III
Location: A Shau Valley, Happy Valley, Thuat Thien and Quang Nam Provinces. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: Det B-52 Project DELTA,81st ARVN Abn Rgr Bn. Execution: Operation searched areas from the northern stretches of the A Shau Valley into Happy Valley, west of Da Nang. Results: (no info).

1 Sep.-17 Nov.
Operation: STRIKE I
Location: Bien Hoa, Long Binh, AO STRIKE, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 2-47 Inf (M). Execution: Operation STRIKE I was conducted to provide security for the Bien Hoa-Long Binh complex and to prevent rocket attacks. On 17 Nov, STRIKE I was combined with Operation UNIONTOWN. Results: (no info).

5 Sep.-30 Oct.
Operation: DRAGON FIRE
Location: Batangan Peninsula, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d ROKMC Bde. Task organization: 1st, 2d and 5th ROKMC Bns. Execution: The 2d ROKMC Bde conducted this operation to clear insurgent elements from the Batagan Peninsula. Results: 541 enemy killed, 17 captured, 121 detained, 45 ROKMC KIA, 200 ROKMC WIA, 3 USMC WIA.

11 Sep-25 Nov.
Operation: WHEELER
Location: Tien Phuoc, Hiep Duc, Song Tranh, Song Chang, Base Area 116, Base Area 117, UDEN AO, Quang Tin Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 101st Abn Div. Task organization: 1-327 Inf, 2-327 Inf, 2-502 Inf, 1-14 Inf (11-24 Sep), 1-35 Inf (4 Oct-4 Nov), 2-320 Art, A/2-9 Art (4 Oct-4 Nov), B/2-9 Art (11-24 Sep), C/3-16 Art, B/1-9 Cav (2-4 Oct), A/2-17 Cav (17-25 Nov), A/326th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PAVN Div (1st PLAF Rgt, 3rd and 21st PAVN Rgts). Execution: ... SEE PREVIOUS DAY FOR INFORMATION... Results were 9 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 18 US WIA. With the 2nd PAVN Div elements avoiding contact during the period 28 Oct-4 Nov, increased emphasis was placed on attempting to locate the division. On 5 Nov, 1-35 Inf was released from operational control of the brigade and placed under opcon of the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div conducting Operation WALLOWA in the Que Son Basin. The last phase of WHEELER (6-25 Nov) saw 2-327 Inf being air-assaulted into the western portion of BA 116 while 1-327 Inf and 2-502 Inf established blocking positions. On 11 Nov, C/2-327 Inf engaged an NVA company in the Song Chang Valley 4 km east of Hiep Duc. 14 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 5 US WIA. This marked the last significant contact of WHEELER, after that, the badly hurt 2nd PAVN Div avoided any further contact. From 23-25 Nov, brigade elements were relieved in place by elements of the 196th Inf Bde (Lt)61 and displaced to Tam Ky Airfield to move by air to the brigade main base camp at Phan Rang for a four-day stand down and preparation for future operations. Results: 1,105 enemy killed, 50 captured, 445 detained, 11 returnees, 124 US KIA, 465 US WIA.

12 Sep-10 Oct.
Operation: CORONADO V
Location: Dong Tam, Cai Lay, Cam Son Secret Zone, Ban Long Base Area, Loi Quan Island, Song My Tho, Rach Ba Rai, Rach Ben Tre, Route 20, Ding Tuong and Kien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div (MRF); 7th ARVN Div. Task organization: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div: 3-47 Inf (12-17 Sep), 4-47 Inf (17 Sep-10 Oct), 3-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-60 Inf (-)(15-17 Sep), 3-34 Art, D/15th Eng, USN TF 117; 7th ARVN Div: 10th ARVN Rgt, 41st ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 263rd and 506th PLAF Bns. Execution: On 11 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Vung Tau to Dong Tam again and began Operation CORONADO V aimed at the 263rd PLAF Bn which had returned to the Cam Son Secret Zone. On 12 Sep, 3-47 Inf swept north from landing sites on the My Tho but turned up almost nothing. The next day, 3-60 Inf and 5-60 Inf (M) with help from the 7th ARVN Div62 began a sweep of the Ban Long area to the east and made contact with what appeared to be a VC covering force near the site of the VNMC heavy contact in July. The enemy withdrew under cover of darkness, leaving 63 bodies behind. As US and ARVN forces left the Ban Long on 14 Sep, the 7th ARVN Div reported that a large force, presumably the 263rd PLAF Bn, remained in the Cam Son, only a few kilometers north from areas previously swept. On 15 Sep, as 5-60 Inf (M) moved overland via Route 20, 3-60 Inf and 3-47 Inf sailed via the Song My Tho up the Rach Ba Rai between the My Tho and the town of Cai Lay. While 3-47 Inf landed unopposed over WHITE Beach, 3-60 Inf ran into two companies of the 263rd lined up in ambush positions along the east bank of the Ba Rai. Some of the boats managed to run the gauntlet but were forced to turn back as most of the column failed to follow. Two companies from 2-60 Inf were helicoptered from Long An Province to encircle the enemy. The battle lasted until nightfall but when the Americans entered the deserted ambush site the next day they found only 24 enemy killed. On 17 Sep the MRF returned to Dong Tam where 4-47 Inf rotated aboard the ships of the MRF replacing 3-47 Inf. On 20 Sep, the MRF displaced to Kien Hoa Province and began widely separated operations in Ham Long, Giong Trom and Huong My Districts, looking for the 516th PLAF Bn but no major contact took place. On 27 Sep, ATCs performing mine sweeping duties along the Rach Ben Tre received heavy RPG, recoilless and automatic weapons fire. 3 sailors were killed and 6 wounded. On 28 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Dong Tam to the northern end of Loi Quan Island between the Cua Dai and Cua Tieu to reduce logistic distances. Operations in Kien Hoa were in close cooperation with the 10th ARVN Rgt and a composite RF battalions but only sporadic contact was made. On 5-7 Oct the MRF returned to the Ban Long but had only limited contact with elements of the 263rd PLAF Bn and on 10 Sep it displaced to Vung Tau to prepare for CORONADO VI. Results: 330 enemy killed, 235 detained, 2 returnees, 35 US KIA, 175 US WIA.

16 Sep.-29 Oct.
Operation: KUNIA
Location: Ho Bo Woods, Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 3-22 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: Operation KUNIA was conducted as part of BARKING SANDS with the 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div initiating search and destroy operations in the Ho Bo Woods in preparation for the arrival of a land clearing team of thirty Rome Plows. By the end of October 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods had been cleared. Results: (included in BARKING SANDS).

19 Sep. 67-31 Jan. 69
Operation: BOLLING/DAN HOA
Location: Tuy Hoa, Phu Hiep, Binh Tinh, Ma Hoa, AO BLACK, Song Ky Lo, Song Da Rang, Suoi Cai, Phu Yen and Phu Bon Provinces. Type: search and destroy, reconnaissance-in-force, pacification, rice protection. Controlling headquarters: 173d Abn Bde (19 Sep 67-8 Feb 68, 1 Apr 68-31 Jan 69); I FFORCEV (8 Feb-1 Apr 68); 22nd ARVN Div. Task organization: 1-503 Inf (19 Sep-6 Nov 67), 2-503 Inf (12 Oct-6 Nov 67), 3-503 Inf (5 Nov 67-16 Jan 68), 4-503 Inf (19 Sep-1 Nov 67, 16 Dec 67-31 Jan 69), TF 2-8 Cav (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), 3-319 Art, C/2-19 Art (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 47th ARVN Rgt. Intelligence: 5th PAVN Div (18B and 95th PAVN Rgts), 30th and 95th PLAF LF Bns, K65 and K76 Sapper Cos. Execution: During the period 14-19 Sep, the bulk of the brigade (minus 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art) was relocated by air from Dak To to Tuy Hoa to commence long-term Operation BOLLING in cooperation with the 47th ARVN Rgt. The 2-8 Cav was opconed to the brigade until 14 Oct to compensate for 2-503 Inf remaining at Dak To, and was air-assaulted into the BOLLING AO on 19 Sep. The operation was designed to provide security for the local rice harvest. Daily contact was maintained with enemy forces in September and October but seldom larger than squad size. During October, the brigade relocated its rear base camp facility from Bien Hoa to An Khe, moving by sea via Saigon and Qui Nhon. On 12 Oct, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 returned from the Highlands, relieving TF 2-8 Cav and on 22 Oct, the new 3-503 Inf arrived in-country from Fort Bragg, undergoing jungle training in An Khe prior to deployment to the BOLLING AO. On 1 Nov, 4-503 Inf was alerted for immediate departure for Dak To, followed five days later by the brigade minus (headquarters, 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 3-319 Art). On 5 Nov, 3-503 Inf arrived at Tuy Hoa from An Khe and assumed responsibility for Operation BOLLING. Contact continued to be light in November; on 16 Dec, the brigade headquarters, 4-503 Inf and C and D/3-319 Art were redeployed from Operation MACARTHUR, closing into the BOLLING AO that same day. On 27 Dec, 3-503 Inf conducted a series of combat assaults into the Song Ky Lo Valley 15 km northwest of Dong Tre and engaged two enemy companies. Elements of 4-503 Inf reinforced the battle area until contact was lost on 29 Dec. Results were 62 enemy killed, 12 US KIA and 34 US WIA. Contact was infrequent in January and a battalion task force built around 3-503 Inf moved to An Khe on 16 Jan 68 to assume responsibility of the Operation DAZZLEM AO63 from the departing 1st Cav Div. On 30 Jan, the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt attacked several targets in the Tuy Hoa area as part of the enemy's Tet Offensive, including a FSB held by C/6-32 Art, the Binh Tin hamlet, Tuy Hoa North AF and the provincial prison. D/4-503 Inf and two companies from the 2nd Bn, 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked toward the airfield and by 0730 on 31 Jan, the enemy force was surrounded and destroyed in Binh Tin hamlet. On 5-6 Feb, two battalions of the 47th ARVN Rgt and RF elements reduced an enemy strong point in the center of Tuy Hoa. During the fighting in and around Tuy Hoa, 316 enemy had been killed and 104 captured. During February, 4-503 Inf in conjunction with Strike Force elements from Cung Son and Dong Tre CIDG Camps, and Task Force MITCHELL (E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm) conducted search and destroy operations west of Tuy Hoa and helped mop up the aftermath of the Tet Offensive. It also provided security for the 577th Eng C Bn and 173d Eng Co working on Routes 7B and 436. On 8 Feb, the 173d Abn Bde (-) departed Tuy Hoa to assumed Opcon of TF POWERHOUSE (1-503 and 2-503 Inf) in Kontum Province in the MACARTHUR AO. Operation BOLLING passed under control of I FFORCEV which assumed opcon of TF 4-503 build around 4-503 Inf, Btys C and D, 3-319 Art and D/16 Arm. A major contact developed on 4 Mar when the 47th ARVN Rgt contacted the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt and 85th PLAF Bn in three hamlets along the coast just north of Tuy Hoa. D/16 Arm and elements of the 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked while the 47th ARVN Rgt provided blocking positions. D/16 was credited with 137 NVA killed during the action while suffering 10 KIA and 21 WIA. Contact during the rest of March was sporadic in the BOLLING AO. On 1 Apr, the brigade returned from the Highlands, relieving the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div at Bong Son64 and assumed control over TF 4-503 again. Contact was light during the month of April except on the 5th when D/16 Arm again supported the 47th ARVN Rgt in heavy contact with two enemy battalions at Ma Hoa village in Tuy Hoa Valley just off Route 7B north of the Song Da Rang. In May, 4-503 Inf conducted extensive bushmaster operations, on 2 May, Co B killed 8 enemy soldiers in the Suoi Cai Valley 18 km west of Tuy Hoa. In June, the enemy continued to avoid decisive contact with Allied force, relying on harassing tactics instead. During the period 16-27 Jul, 4-503 Inf conducted search and clear operations in AO BLACK located 25 km southwest of Cung Son on the Phu Bon and Darlac provincial boundary but there was no significant contact. On 30 July, 4-503 Inf joined the 3/47 ARVN Bn and elements of the 26th ROK Rgt to conduct a combined operation in the Song Ky Lo Valley but contact was again limited. Prisoners confirmed that the bulk of the 18B and 95th PAVN Rgts had departed Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa Province to refit in Cambodia. Contact remained light for the rest of Operation BOLLING, limited to engagements with squad-size enemy forces and booby traps incidents. On 1 Feb 69 the BOLLING/DAN HOA AO became a permanent TAOR called LY DO/WAINWRIGHT. Results: 715 enemy killed, 72 US KIA, 307 US WIA (no info on ARVN casualties).

24 Sep.-9 Oct.
Operation: ARKANSAS CITY II
Location: Phuoc Tuy Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 11th ACR. Execution: (no info)

26 Sep.-21 Oct.
Operation: AKRON III
Location: Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone), Phuoc Tuy and Bien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-39 Inf, B/2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, 2/48 ARVN Bn, 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 274th PLAF Rgt. Execution: AKRON III was a continuation of land clearing and search and destroy operations in Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone). Contact with the enemy was light and sporadic throughout the operation but the largest known weapons cache in the III CTZ to date was discovered, contacting over 200,000 rounds of small arms, 1,022 small arms and 125 crew served weapons. Results: (no info).

29 Sep.-1 Oct.
Operation: LAM SON 132
Location: Thua Thien Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st ARVN Div. Results: 31 enemy killed, 12 captured, 29 detained.

29 Sep.-11 Nov.
Operation: KENMORE
Location: Xuyen Moc, AO WARATAH, AO BANKSIA, Phuoc Tuy Province. Controlling headquarters: 1ATF. Task organization: 7RAR, A Sqn 3 Cav, 4 Fld Rgt, A/1-35 Art, A/1-83d Art. Execution: Operation took place in AOs WARATAH and BANKSIA, 6 km southeast of Xuyen Moc and bordering 24 km of coastline with infrequent contact. Results: 16 enemy killed, 1 captured, no friendly casualties.

29 Sep.-19 Nov.
Operation: SHENANDOAH II
Location: Lai Khe, Loc Ninh, Chon Thanh, Suoi Ong Thanh, Michelin Plantation, Long Nguyen Secret Zone, Route 13, LZ APPLE, FSB CAISSON II, FSB CAISSON III, FSB CAISSON IV, FSB CAISSON V, FSB CAISSON VI, FSB CAISSON VII, FSB LORRAINE II, Binh Duong and Binh Long Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Inf Div; 1st Bde, 1st Inf Div (29 Sep-19 Nov); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (30 Sep-30 Oct). Task organization: 1-2 Inf (29 Sep-18 Oct; 21-28 Oct), 2-2 Inf (M)(29 Sep-23 Oct), 1-16 Inf (29 Sep; 18-29 Oct; 8-19 Nov), 1-18 Inf (4-13 Oct; 29 Oct-19 Nov), 1-26 Inf (31 Oct-8 Nov), 1-28 Inf (29 Sep-10 Oct; 13 Oct-11 Nov), 2-28 Inf (7-18 Oct; 30 Oct-19 Nov), 2-12 Inf (2-7 Nov), 1-4 Cav (29 Sep-30 Oct), 1-5 Art (29 Sep-19 Nov), 6-15 Art (30 Oct-19 Nov), 2-33 Art (30 Sep-30 Oct). Intelligence: 9th PLAF Div (271st, 272nd, 273rd PLAF Rgts). Execution: Operation SHENANDOAH II initially covered an area from slightly south of Lai Khe, north approximately 18 miles and west to the edge of the Michelin Plantation, a region known as the Long Nguyen Secret Zone where the 271st PLAF Rgt was reported. The AO was expanded later to include the area between Lai Khe and Loc Ninh and between Route 13 west to the 25th Inf Div AO. On 29 Sep, 1-2 Inf began search and destroy operation in AO MIKE 12 miles north of Lai Khe while 1-28 Inf displaced via motor convoy from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh. Simultaneously, 1-4 Cav with A/2-2 Inf (M) opcon began clearing Route 13 From Lai Khe to Chon Thanh and secured FSBs CAISSON II & III. The first engagement with the VC took place on 4 Oct when 1-2 Inf made contact with an unknown size enemy force 10 km southwest of Chon Thanh. 12 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 26 US WIA. In reaction, 1-18 Inf moved by helicopter from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh and was air-assaulted into an LZ 1 km west of the 1-2 Inf contact. The LZ was cold but 29 enemy bodies KBA were found in the immediate vicinity. On 6 Oct, 1-18 Inf received mortar fire followed by a heavy ground assault. Result was 50 enemy killed, 3 US KIA and 4 US WIA. On 7 Oct, another battalion, 2-28 Inf, was added to the operation, moving via road convoy to Chon Thanh and then to field location. On 10 Oct, 1-28 Inf, having made little contact, was extracted from the field and returned to Phuoc Vinh. The next major engagement occurred on 11 Oct when B/1-18 Inf made contact with an estimated 100-150 enemy 31 km west of Highway 13, killing 21 while losing 1 KIA and 4 WIA. On 13 Oct, 1-28 Inf returned to the SHENANDOAH II AO, relieving 1-18 Inf in place. Contact during the next few days was limited but on 17 Oct, Cos A & D, 2-28 Inf were ambushed while following a trail south of the Suoi Ong Thanh. Contact began at 1015 when Co A received sniper fire. Close fighting began to develop rapidly and the two companies were soon engulfed by a very heavy volume of fire. The battalion's CO65, S-2, SGM and both company commanders became casualties. Both companies pulled back under fire to allow for close air support and artillery fire as Co B and C were rushed in to reinforced, followed by Co D, 1/16 inf later in the afternoon when the enemy broke contact. Losses had been very heavy for the Americans with 52 KIA, 72 WIA and 2 MIA. 103 enemy bodies were counted in the battle area the next day. On 18 Oct, 2-28 Inf was relieved in place by the rest of 1-16 Inf and was extracted to Lai 65 LTC Terry de la Mesa Allen, Jr., KIA 17 Oct 67. Khe, followed by 1-2 Inf which returned to Phuoc Vinh. On 19 Oct, 1-16 Inf continued search and destroy operations in the vicinity of the 17 Oct battle while 1-28 Inf was extracted briefly to Chon Thanh to allow for a B-52 strike to take place before returning to the field. On 21 Oct, 1-2 Inf was inserted into the AO again after a road march from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh but contact remained low for the rest on the month. At 0115 on 29 Oct, two battalions of the 273rd PLAF Rgt launched a ground assault on the Loc Ninh District Headquarters and Loc Ninh CIDG Camp. Two reconnaissance companies from the 5th ARVN Div reacted immediately, being airlifted from Phu Loi to Loc Ninh and counterattacking along with two CIDG companies to regain the northern part of the sub sector compound, clearing it by 1300. At that point, Operation SHENANDOAH II was expanded to include the battle of Loc Ninh, with 1-18 Inf deploying to the battle area to occupy blocking positions 4 km west of the town. 2/9 ARVN Bn was also brought in and deployed in and around the sub sector compound. On 30 Oct, the 1st Bde CP arrived at Quan Loi to control US forces at Loc Ninh. That same day, A/1-18 Inf made contact with an enemy company, killing 85. At 0100 on 31 Oct, elements of the 272nd and 273rd PLAF Rgts renewed their attacks on the sub sector and SF compounds. Very heavy fighting took place all night with TACAIR and AC-47 gunships supporting the defenders until 0700 when the enemy broke contact. Later that day, 1-28 Inf conducted an air-assault 4 km southeast of Loc Ninh while 1-26 joined the operation, securing FSB CAISSON VII near An Loc where the 5th ARVN TAC CP was also established. 126 enemy had been killed during the night attack at the cost of 9 KIA and 56 WIA for the Allied forces. 1 Nov was relatively quite but starting at 0045 on 2 Nov, a third attack was launched, this time on the sub sector compound, CIDG camp, 1-18 Inf NDP and the 6-15 Art FSB near the Loc Ninh Airfield. All were repulsed with a combination of heavy, accurate fire by the defenders, artillery and effective close air support. At 0820, 1-26 Inf conducted an airmobile assault 6 km northwest of Loc Ninh, followed later in the afternoon by 2-12 Inf detached from the 25th Inf Div. 296 more enemies had been killed during the attack at the cost of 7 killed and 36 wounded to friendly forces. On 3 Nov, the 36th ARVN Rgr Bn arrived to participate in reconnaissance-in-force operations with the four US infantry battalions. On 7 Nov, 1-26 Inf engaged an unknown size enemy force 6 km northeast of Loc Ninh, killing 66 but losing 17 KIA and 21 WIA. This was the last major engagement of SHENANDOAH II, the 272nd and 273rd avoiding any further contact with Allied forces. Results: 956 enemy killed, 63 detained, 107 US KIA, 322 US WIA.

New Operations

30 Sep.-1 Oct.
Operation: INTOSH JOYCE 19
Location: Long Khanh Province. Execution: (no other info).

30 Sep.-2 Oct.
Operation: QUYET THANG 614
Location: Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2nd ARVN Div. Results: 65 enemy killed, 16 detained, 9 ARVN KIA, 28 ARVN WIA.

Other

None

[Jason Petho]

Ongoing Operations today in 1967

26 Aug.66-20 Jan.68
Operation: BYRD
Location: Phan Thiet, LZ BETTY, Binh Thuan Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: I FFORCEV. Task organization: TF 2-7: 2-7 Cav, C/1-9 Cav, A/1-21 Art, C/2-20 Art (-), C/8th Eng Bn (-), C/229th Avn Bn, Det 228th Avn Bn. Execution: Planned as a short-term, economy-of-force measure, BYRD became a continuous offensive that would last into 1968. Upon I FFORCEV request, the 1st Cav Div detached at battalion-size task force to help pacify isolated Binh Thuan Province in southern II Corps. Results (at year's end): 351 enemy killed, 151 detained, 8 US KIA, 85 US WIA.

1 Oct.66-17 Jan 68
Operation: DAZZLEM
Location: Camp Radcliff, An Khe, Binh Dinh Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization: Base Defense Task Force. Execution: Operation DAZZLEM was the contingency plan for the defense of Camp Radcliff provided by one infantry battalion with supporting artillery and
reinforcing personnel from residence units. On 17 Jan 68, the 173d Abn Bde relieved the 1st Cav Div from the mission of defending An Khe. Results: 80 enemy killed, 9 detained.

11 Oct.66-17 Nov.67
Operation: UNIONTOWN II
Location: Long Binh, Bien Hoa Province Type: security. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV. Execution: Operation UNIONTOWN was a security operation designed to protect the Long Binh logistical complex, RMK Rock Quarry and II FFORCEV Headquarters. Units were assigned on a rotation basis from each major command under II FFORCEV.

30 Nov. 66-15 Dec.67
Operation: FAIRFAX/RANG DONG
Location: Nha Be, Thu Duc and Binh Chanh Districts, Gia Dinh Province. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV, CMD. Task organization: 1st Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 2-16 Inf; 4th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3-22 Inf; 25th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 4-9 Inf; CMD (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3rd and 5th ARVN Abn Bns, 30th Ranger Bn; 199th LIB (31 Jan-15 Dec.): 2-3 Inf, 3-7 Inf, 4-12 Inf, 2-40 Art; 5th ARVN Ranger Group (31 Jan.-15 Dec): 30th, 33rd and 38th ARVN Ranger Bns. Intelligence: Military Region 4, 165A PLAF Regiment. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE... Results (end of 1966): 149 enemy killed, 40 detained, 11 US KIA, 67 US WIA, 23 ARVN KIA, 58 ARVN WIA, 1 ARVN MIA.

8 Feb.67-31 Jan.68
Operation: LAM SON 67
Location: Phu Loi, An My, Ong Dong Jungle, Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, security, jungle clearing. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 1st Inf Div (8 Feb-17 Mar, 17 Apr 67-31 Jan 68); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (17 Mar-17 Apr). Task organization: 1st Inf Div Revolutionary Development Task Force (various infantry, cavalry and support units were assigned on a rotation basis during the period). Execution: The operation supported the GVN's Revolutionary Development Program in conjunction with ARVN units in Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. LAM SON 67 consisted of cordon and search, reconnaissance in force, harassment, jungle clearing, population control, civic action and psychological warfare operations directed against priority targets. Contact in the AO was characterized by light sporadic incidents with local VC elements. On 6 Jan 68, the Phu Loi base camp received 123 rounds of mixed mortar fire, 46 aircraft were damaged and 6 US WIA. Reacting to the attack, A/2-18 Inf and B/2-2 Inf (M) swept the area to the north of the base and contacted two enemy companies of the Phu Loi PLAF Bn. 92 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 14 US WIA. Operation LAM SON 67 was terminated on 31 Jan 68 with the beginning of the enemy's Tet Offensive. Results: 527 enemy killed, 263 captured, 2,327 detained, 346 defectors, 56 US KIA, 572 US WIA.

12 Feb. 67-18 Jan. 68
Operation: PERSHING
Location: Bong Son, Tuy An, Tam Quan, Hoa Tan, Sa Huynh, Truong Son, An Qui, Trung Xuan, An Lac, An Lao Valley, Kim Son Valley, Suoi Ca Valley, 506 Valley, Nuoc Dinh Valley, Phu My Valley, Song Re Valley, the Crescent, Nui Mieu, Nui Sang, Cay Giep, Dam Tra-O Lake, Route 1, LZ BRONCO BEACH, LZ CRYSTAL, LZ ENGLISH, LZ GARNET, LZ GERONIMO, LZ GLENN, LZ HAMMOND, LZ IRON, LZ MEADE, LZ PAT, LZ SANDRA, LZ STEEL, LZ TOM, LZ TWO BITS, LZ UPLIFT, Binh Dinh and Quang Ngai Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization (As of 12 Feb): 1 s t Bde: 1-8 Cav, 1-12 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-19 Art (-), D/2-17 Art, C/1-21 Art, A/3-18 Art; 2d Bde: 2-5 Cav, 1-5 Cav (-), 1-7 Cav (-), 2-12 Cav, 1-77 Art (-), B/1-8 Art, A/1-21 Art, C/1-30 Art, B/8th Eng; 3d Bde: 2-8 Cav, C/1-5 Cav, 1-21 Art (-), 2-17 Art (-), C/6-16 Art, C/2-19 Art, C/8th Eng; 3d Bde, 25 t h Inf Div (12 Feb-19 Apr): 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf (4-19 Apr), 2-9 Art, A/1-77 Art, 5-16 Art, C/3-4 Cav, D/65th Eng; Div Arty: 2-20 Art (-), 7-13 Art (-), B/29 Art, E/82 Art, 3-18 Art (-); Div Troops: 1-9 Cav, 8th Eng Bn (-). Intelligence: 3rd PAVN Div: 18th and 22nd PAVN Rgts, 2nd PLAF Rgt. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE ... Results: 5,
388 enemy killed, 2,356 captured, 10,609 detained, 221 returnees, 852 US KIA, 4,119 US WIA, 22 US MIA.

13 Feb. 67-10 Mar. 68
Operation: ENTERPRISE
Location: Tan An, Rach Kien, Ben Luc, Binh Phuoc, Tan Tru, Doi Ma Creek, Plain of Reeds9, Base Area 371, Route 14, Long An Province. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, eagle flights. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 3-39 Inf, 2-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-4 Art, C/15th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PLAF MF Bn, 506th PLAF LF Bn. Execution: ENTERPRISE was the continuation of the pacification effort of Long An Province initiated the previous year by the 25th Inf Div with Operation LANIKAI. On 13 Feb, 3-39 Inf relieved 2-14 Inf at Rach Kien. Strength of division elements in the province were subsequently increased to brigade size with movement of 2-60 Inf into Tan Tru, 5-60 Inf into Binh Phuoc and Headquarters, 3d Bde into Tan An. The first major engagement occurred on 9 Apr when 3-39 Inf made contact with the 506th PLAF Bn on the bank of Doi Ma Creek. Additional companies were brought in, killing 247 of the enemy. On 2 May, the 506th Bn exacted vengeance on the 3-39 Inf, attacking one of its companies in night defensive position near Route 4. 17 US were KIA and 48 WIA but no enemy bodies were found. The operation was temporarily extended north to the Plain of Reeds area on 8-14 May with sub-operation NIRVANA II directed against the enemy's Base Area 371. Elements of the 3d Bde joined forces with the 4/50 ARVN Bn of the 25th ARVN Div but found nothing, killing only 14 of the enemy. On 14 May, the 2nd PLAF Bn struck the compound of the 2/50 ARVN Bn in Rach Kien, killing 31 South Vietnamese soldiers and wounding 34. 3d Bde units were committed but couldn't regain contact with the attacking force. After that, contact with the enemy dropped sharply for the remainder of 1967, indicating an apparent enemy desire to avoid friendly forces. On 31 Jan 68, the brigade responded to the Tet Offensive, 5-60 Inf engaged in heavy fighting southwest of Saigon in Gia Dinh Province, killing 128 enemy soldiers. From 1-5 Feb, 3-39 Inf and 2-60 Inf were sent to Kien Hoa Province to help recapture Ben Tre, the provincial capital. On 10 Feb, the brigade HQ at Tan An came under attack from an unknown size enemy force. 33 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 53 US WIA. During March, brigade elements conducted "Aquabush" operations along the numerous canals south of Saigon in conjunction with the 199th Inf Bde (Lt). Pacification activities decreased sharply during the Tet Offensive and the operation was terminated on 10 March. Results: 2,107 enemy killed, 74 US KIA, 380 US WIA.

14 Feb.67-21 Mar.68
Operation: KITTYHAWK
Location: Long Binh, Xuan Loc, Long Giao, Gia Ray, Suoi Cat, Blackhorse, Route 1, Route 2, Long Khanh and Bien Hoa Province. Type: reconnaissance-in-force, cordon and search, security, road clearing. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div (14 Feb 67-15 Feb 68); 11th ACR (15 Feb-21 Mar 68). Task organization: 3-5 Cav, 1/11 ACR, 2/11 ACR, 3/11 ACR. Intelligence: 275th PLAF Rgt. Execution: The purpose of KITTYHAWK was to secure LOCs and selected installations within Long Khanh Province, conduct reconnaissance-in-force operations and cordon and search of selected hamlets within the AO, secure Blackhorse base camp and the Gia Ray rock quarry and provide ready reaction forces along Route 1. On 21 May, K Troop, 3/11 ACR was ambushed by an estimated reinforced enemy battalion near Suoi Cat on Route 1. 30 enemy are killed, 12 US KIA and 13 US WIA. On 27 Jun 1/11 ACR moved to reinforce the 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn which was in heavy contact with elements of the 3rd Bn, 275th PLAF Rgt, killing 49 of the enemy11. On 30 Dec two enemy companies ambushed Troop C, 3-5 Cav on Route 2. Friendly losses are 10 KIA, 29 WIA and 3 MIA. On 31 Jan 68, in reaction to the VC Tet Offensive, the 3-5 Cav was alerted to respond to enemy activity in the Long Binh-Bien Hoa area. A/3-5 Cav bypassed several roadblocks, breaking through enemy forces and reached the Bien Hoa airfield, sweeping nearby wood lines and killing 40. During the period 2-3 Feb, C/3-5 Cav was sent to defend Xuan Loc against an intense ground attack, killing nearly 50 enemy soldiers. On 15 Feb the KITTYHAWK mission was assumed by the 11th ACR as the 3-5 Cav (-) was directed by HQ USARV to deploy to Da Nang, I CTZ. On 21 Mar, the operation was phased into Operation ALCORN COVE. Results: 201 enemy killed, 7 captured, 1 returnee, 62 US KIA, 224 US WIA.

5 Apr.-11 Oct.
Operation: FRANCIS MARION
Location: Plei Me, Duc Co, Plei Djereng, Plei Mrong, Plei Do Lim, Buon Blech, Se San, Ia Drang, Ia Tchar, Dak Ayun, Dak Payou, Chu Pong, Chu Prong, Chu Goungot, Chu Groh, Route 14, Route 14B, Route 19E, Route 509, Hill 521, LZ OASIS, LZ JACKSON HOLE, Pleiku and Darlac Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: (effective 7 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, B/4-42 Art, C/3-4 Cav (-), A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (-), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, Plt B/1-69 Arm, 4-42 Art (-), B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), Plt C/2-8 Inf (-), Cav Plt 1-10 Cav, B/3-6 Art, A/5-16 Art; TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 26 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), C/4-42 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h In f Div: 2-8 Inf, 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), A/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), A/3-6 Art; TF 3-8 Inf: 3-8 Inf, C/6-29 Art, A/5-16 Art; Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 30 May): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (M), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art, B/4th Eng (-); 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, D/16 Arm, E/17 Cav, 173d Eng Co; TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 5-16 Art (-); Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 24 Sep): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 2-8 Inf (M), 3-8 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), A/4-42 Art,, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div: 1-12 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), B/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: 2-1 Cav, D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Intelligence: B3 Front, 1st NVA Div (32nd, 66th and 88th Rgts), 10th NVA Div (95B and 101C Rgts), 200th NVA Art Bn, 407th PLAF MF Sapper Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn.. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE.... Results: 1,204 enemy killed, 122 detained, 11 returnees, 198 US KIA, 982 US WIA, 8 US MIA.

22 Apr.67-2 Jan 68.
Operation: BAKER
Location: Duc Pho, Mo Duc, Vinh Hien, Tan Phong, Dien Truong, An Ba, An Tach, Song Tra Cau, Song Ve, LZ MONTEZUMA (later renamed LZ BRONCO), LZ GUADALCANAL, LZ OLIVE DRAB, LZ LIZ, LZ DRAGON, RAZORBACK Beach, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde TF, 25th Inf Div (redesignated 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div on 1 Aug). Task organization: 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf, 2-9 Art, C/3-4 Cav, B/1-9 Cav, C/2-34 Arm. Intelligence: 1st PLAF Rgt, 2nd PLAF Rgt, 22nd PAVN Rgt. Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: (no info).

14 May.-7 Dec.
Operation: KOLE KOLE
Location: Duc Hoa, Bao Trai, Hiep Hoa, Loc Giang, Trang Bang, Song Vam Co Dong, Rach Tra, Xinh An Ha, Route 10, Hau Nghia and Tay Ninh Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 1-5 Inf (M), 1-27 Inf, 2-27 Inf, 1-8 Art. Intelligence: 2nd Go Mon and 269th PLAF LF Bns. Execution: Operation KOLE KOLE was initiated by the 2d Bde in Hau Nghia Province using EAGLE FLIGHTS and airmobile operations based on current intelligence. Cordon and search, outposting and country fair operations were also conducted in conjunction with the 25th ARVN Div, CIDG and RF/PF. On 17 May, elements of 1/27 Inf and 2/27 Inf fought an eight-hour engagement west of the Vam Co Dong with a VC company. Results were 27 enemy killed, 2 US KIA and 9 US WIA. There was intermittent contact during June and July, particularly along the An Ha canal and near Loc Giang. The brigade also secured engineer operations along Route 10 to improve the GVN's authority and control west of Trang Bang. In early August, the reconnaissance platoon of 1/27 Inf with helicopter support intercepted VC recon elements from Long An Province, killing 26. During September, KOLE KOLE shifted to northern Hau Nghai and southwestern Tay Ninh Province. 1-5 Inf (M) conducted extensive dismounted ambush patrols around Loc Giang along the Vam Co while 2-27 Inf engaged scattered elements of the 269th PLAF Bn. On 21 Oct, an EAGLE FLIGHT from 1-27 Inf engaged an estimated enemy platoon south of Tay Ninh, killing 18. On 31 Oct, 2-27 Inf made contact with elements of the 2nd Go Mon Bn north of the Rach Tra, killing 28 and capturing 2. Enemy activity decreased for the rest of KOLE KOLE and the brigade concentrated on pacification and land clearing operations. Results: 797 enemy killed, 150 detained, 34 returnees, 144 US KIA, 876 US WIA

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: BARKING SANDS
Location: Cu Chi, Trang Bang, Phu Hoa, Iron Triangle, Ho Bo Woods, Song Saigon, Hau Nghia and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: The 1st Bde employed counter guerrilla warfaretechniques including saturation patrolling, checkmate, bushmaster and cordon and search operations to pacify Cu Chi and Trang Bang Districts in Hau Nghia Province and Phu Hoa District in Binh Duong Province. Buddy operations were also conducted with local PF platoons and RF companies. On 30 Aug, 4-9 Inf conducted an airmobile assault against an entrenched VC battalion in the Iron Triangle resulting in 4 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 43 US WIA. During September, primary emphasis was placed on denying VC access to populated areas during the National Elections. Land clearing operations were also initiated along the Song Saigon to eliminate VC concealment. In October, 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods were cleared by Rome Plows following Operation KUNIA. Contact during BARKING SANDS was limited to squad and platoon size elements and no major engagement occurred. Four sub-operations were conducted in the BARKING SANDS AO during the period: KAWELA, AKUMU,WAIMEA and KUNIA (see individual operations below). Results (inclusive of the four sub-operations): 370 enemy killed, 85 detained, 10 returnees, 110 US KIA, 1114 US WIA.

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: DIAMOND HEAD
Location: Tay Ninh West, Dau Tieng, Suoi Da, Prek Klok, Ben Cui, Michelin Plantation, Boi Loi Woods, The Crescent, The Trapezoid, Tay Ninh and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div33. Task organization: 2-12 Inf, 2-22 Inf (M), 3-22 Inf, 2-77 Art, 2-34 Arm (-) (from 22 Sep), C/1-10 Cav, C/4th Eng. Execution: The mission was to conduct search and destroy operations in Tay Ninh Province, cordon and search operations in the Michelin Plantation, and security and reinforcement missions in the Tay Ninh and Prek Klok areas. With one battalion detached to Operation UNIONTOWN and another providing security for the Dau Tieng and Tay Ninh West base camps, contact in the AO were very limited during the months of May, June and July. On 1 Aug, the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div was redesignated the 3d Bde, 25th Inf Div. No movement of troops or units were involved in this redesignation. On 15 Aug, an airmobile cordon and search of Thanh An was conducted by 3-22 Inf in conjunction with VN National Police. 6 enemy were killed and 42 detained. In September, the brigade provided security during the National elections. In October, continued battalion size search and destroy operations were conducted in the Michelin Plantation to prevent its use as an enemy haven, in and south of Ben Cui, and in the northern portion of the Trapezoid, which extends 15 km to the southeast of Dau Tieng. Bushmaster operations were conducted in an area known as the Crescent, 8 km northwest of Dau Tieng. All operations were marked by extremely light contact. In November, operations were conducted in the upper Boi Loi Woods and in the Ben Cui Plantation, again with light contact. During this period operations were curtailed due to two battalions being opcon to the other brigades. On 25-25 Now, 2-22 Inf (M) made contact with a VC company near the Mushroom bend on the Saigon River, killing 20. This was the last contact during DIAMOND HEAD before the operation came to an end on 7 Dec. Results: 237 enemy killed, 496 detained, 4 returnees. (US losses unknown).

1 Jun.67-7 Feb.68
Operation: HOPTAC
Location: Dong Tam, Dinh Tuong Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: Task Force FUNSTON39. Execution: Operation HOPTAC was an internal defense and development operation in Dinh Tuong Province which included security of the Dong Tam base. Task Force FUNSTON provided land and waterborne security for engineer dredging equipment and maintained a ready reaction force to assist local GVN units and installations if needed. In most cases contact with the VC was characterized by light fire fights and sniper fire. On 1 Feb 68 the enemy fired more than 170 82 mm mortar and 75 mm RR rounds into the base resulting in minor damage and 11 US WIA. In the early morning hours of 3, 4, 5 and 7 Feb, the enemy continued to attack the base with mortar and RR fire. The heaviest attack came on 7 Feb with an estimated 200 rounds fired at the base. Elements of 5-60 Inf and 2-39 Inf conducted reaction airmobile assaults and RIF operations 8 km east of Dong tam, making contact with two VC companies, killing 23 while losing 5 KIA and 11 WIA. Results: 296 enemy killed, 11 captured, 3 returnees, 37 US KIA, 364 US WIA.

18 Jun.-12 Oct.
Operation: GREELEY
Location: Kontum, Dak To, Tan Canh, Dak Seang, Dak Pek, Toumorong, Dak Poko, Dak Akoi, Hill 830, Hill 1338, FSB 4, Kontum Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (24 Jun-25 Jul): 1-7 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-12 Cav, 1-21 Art; 1st ARVN Abn TF (24 Jun-25 Jul): 3d, 5th and 8th ARVN Abn Bns; 24th STZ: 1/42 Inf. Intelligence: 24th and 174th PAVN Rgts, K101D PAVN Bn, 304th PLAF MF Bn, 200th PLAF Art Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn . Execution: From 1-18 Jun, the 173d Abn Bde continued participation in Operation FRANCIS MARION, searching further south and east in the Ia Drang Valley. The brigade deployed the 1-503 Inf and 2-503 Inf into the AO, holding 4-503 Inf in reserve at Catecka. No significant contact was made. On 17 Jun, TF MC QUARRIE (2-503 Inf, E/17 Cav, A/3-319 Art) moved by air and motor convoy to the New Dak To Airfield, joined the following day by 1-503 Inf. The mission, named GREELEY, was to assume opcon of the CIDG Camp at Dak To under threat from the 24th PAVN Rgt and assist in its defense. On 18 Jun, 2-503 Inf began searching south of Dak To toward the huge mass of Hill 1338 (Ngok Bor Beang). C/1-503 Inf was also inserted into the area to search for a missing SF and CIDG team which had been destroyed by the NVA on 15-16 Jun, 1400 meters southwest of their camp. On 22 Jun, after a fruitless search of Hill 1338, 2-503 Inf was instructed to return to Dak To on foot. Shortly after leaving its NDP, A/2-503 bumped into an enemy battalion from the 24th PAVN Rgt42 while descending the slopes of Hill 1338. Two platoons were cut off and annihilated while the rest of the company formed a small perimeter and called supporting fires. Cos B and C were rushed to the rescue but arrived too late. 76 Americans had been killed, some executed point blank by the enemy, and 23 wounded. 106 enemy bodies were counted in the battle area. This action became known as 'The Battle of the Slopes' and as one of the costliest engagement for US forces in Vietnam. Concerned by the size of the battle and the US losses, General Larsen at I FFORCEV decided to reinforce GREELEY. On 23 Jun, 2-12 Cav arrived from the PERSHING AO while the rest of the 173d Abn Bde (CP (-) and 4-503 Inf) closed Dak To from Catecka. The next day, 24 Jun, the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (-) and 1st ARVN Abn TF arrived at Kontum. The Allied forces went after the 24th PAVN Rgt, seeking to destroy it. In the next two weeks, the 173d Abn Bde and 2-12 Cav searched west and south of Dak To while the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div and the ARVN Abn TF entered the Dak Akoi Valley northeast of Kontum and 35 km east of Dak To. The sweep found little evidence of the enemy's presence and on 25 Jul the cavalry brigade returned to the coast, while the Vietnamese task force stood down at Kontum to serve as a mobile reaction force. Southwest of Dak To on 10 Jul, 4-503 Inf, while searching for a regimental headquarters, found an occupied enemy bunker complex on Hill 830. Battle raged until 12 Jul with 22 US KIA and 62 US WIA but only 9 enemy bodies found. This was the last significant contact on the month. On 19 Jul, 2 NVA soldiers rallied at Dak Pek CIDG Camp, stating that they were 42 Later identified as the 6th Bn, 24th PAVN Rgt. from the newly infiltrated 174th PAVN Rgt. They were proved correct on 6 Aug when the 1/42 ARVN Bn made heavy contact with that unit 8 km west of the Dak Seang CIDG Camp. The ARVN Abn TF was rushed into the area and fought a bitter twoday battle to capture a hill believed to have been the location of the regimental CP, killing 189 of the enemy. On 9 Aug, 4-503 Inf moved to Dak Pek, joining the 1-503 Inf already there since 4 Aug, but the two battalions found little. Contacts were so low in August that the 173d Abn Bde was credited with only 4 enemy killed. During the period 1-18 Sep, the brigade continued GREELEY in the Dak To – Dak Seang area, supporting CIDG Operation DARBY, but contact was minimal. On 17 Sep, the brigade (-) began moving by air to Tuy Hoa to begin Operation BOLLING. Only 4-503 Inf and A/3-319 stayed at Dak To, forming Task Force 77 with the 3rd ARVN Abn Bn, 1/42 ARVN Bn and 27th MIKE Force Co for an expedition in the Toumorong Valley that lasted nearly three weeks but found nothing. On 11 Oct, TF 77 was disbanded and that same day, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art departed for Tuy Hoa, terminating Operation GREELEY. Results: 191 enemy killed, 17 captured, 129 US KIA, 210 US WIA. (no info on ARVN losses).

3 Jul.67-7 Apr.68
Operation: RILEY
Location: Bearcat, Camp Martin Cox, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div; TF FORSYTH (from 10 Feb). Task organization: 2-39 Inf, 4-39 Inf, 2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, TF FORSYTH. Execution: Operation RILEY was an internal defense and development operation in Bien Hoa Province and included defense of Camp Martin Cox. When not engaged in strike operations, Headquarters, 1st Bde assumed opcon of all elements engaged in RILEY, including TF FORSYTH (a provisional Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment located at Camp Martin Cox). In the absence of the 1st Bde, TF FORSYTH was allocated sufficient forces to secure the camp and to conduct limited consolidation operations in the area. On 31 Jan 68 in response to the VC Tet Offensive, elements of the 2-47 Inf (M) and 4-39 Inf moved to Long Binh Post for perimeter security. Working in coordination with 2-3 Inf from the 199th Inf Bde (Lt), the two battalions had multiple contacts with the enemy during the day near Ho Nai, killing 213 by bodycount and capturing 32. US losses were 4 KIA and 23 WIA. On 10 Feb 68, the 1st Bde moved to Dong Tam and TF FORSYTH assumed responsibility until termination. Results: 472 enemy killed, 41 detained, 2 returnees, 64 US KIA, 315 US WIA.

8 Jul.-30 Oct.
Operation: MARCH I
Location: Plei Trap Valley, Kontum Province. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: B-50 Det Project OMEGA. Execution: Long range reconnaissance and intelligence gathering conducted in the Plei Trap Valley. Results: (no info).

10 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: FREMONT
Location: Camp Evans, Hill 51, Hill 67, Phong Dien District, Thua Thien Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 4th Marines. Task organization: 2/4 Marines (10 Jul-14 Sep), 3/26 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct). Execution: The 4th Marines initiated Operation FREMONT with its own 2/4 to provide security for Camp Evans, Hill 51, the Phong Dien District Headquarters and a radio transmission site on Hill 67. On 20 Jul, 2/4 provided blocking forces near My Chanh for SLF BRAVO in Operation BEAR CHAIN. BLT 2/3 became opcon to 4th Marines on 22 Jul and joined FREMONT, until back loading on 21 Aug. Contact was sporadic in Aug with only 13 US KIA for the month. During Sep, 2/4 in conjunction with ARVN forces helped secure nearby villages and hamlets during the National Elections. On 14 Sep, 2/4 joined Operation KINGFISHER and was replaced by 3/26 Marines. Contacts remained low until termination, being limited to harassing tactics, mines incidents and sniper fire. Results: 123 enemy killed, 8 captured, 17 US KIA, 196 US WIA.

16 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: KINGFISHER
Location: Dong Ha, Con Thien, Gio Linh, Cua Viet, Ca Lu, Route 9, Route 561, Route 606, Hill 216, C-2, Demilitarized Zone, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d and 9th Marines. Task organization: 3/3 Marines, 2/4 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct), 3/4 Marines, 1/9 Marines, 2/9 Marines, 3/9 Marines, 3/26 Marines (15 Aug-11 Sep), 1st Amtrac Bn. Intelligence: 90th and 812th PAVN Rgts. Execution: KINGFISHER was a continuation of Marine operations south of the DMZ follwing BUFFALO and HICKORY II. Contact was light during the first week. On 21 Jul, 3/3 Marines securing a portion of Route 9 for a 'Rough Rider' convoy bound for Khe Sanh found a NVA battalion dug in on Hill 216 overlooking the road. Tanks, 40mm dusters and artillery pounded the hill and forced the enemy to withdraw. On 28 Jul, 2/9 Marines reinforced with tanks, LVTEs and Ontos was pushing into the DMZ north on Route 606 when it was attacked by an estimated NVA battalion. The column was split in company-size segments and fought desperately all day until reinforcements from 3/4 Marines forced the enemy to break contact. 23 Americans were killed and 251 wounded with only 32 NVA confirmed killed. Ground action was light in early Aug with the largest part of the activity involving artillery attacks on Gio Linh, Con Thien, Cua Viet and Dong Ha. On 21 Aug, an NVA battalion ambushed a small Marine convoy moving from the Rockpile to Ca Lu. Elements form 3/3 were brought in, fighting a six-hour engagement until night fell and the enemy fled to the west. 6 US were killed and 35 wounded, Enemy loses were unknown. The NVA tried again on 7 Sep at almost the same location. This time the battle lasted more than 8 hours. The Marines killed 92 of the enemy while losing 5 KIA and 56 WIA. The Communists tried to disrupt the National Elections on 3 Sep, firing more than 41 rounds of artillery into Dong Ha, damaging 17 helicopters. This attack ended the use of Dong Ha as a permanent helicopter base facility. Con Thien however, remained the primary artillery target for the NVA. On 25 Sep alone, 1,200 rounds slammed into the combat base. On 10 Sep, 3/26 Marines made heavy contact with what seemed to be the entire 812th PAVN Rgt 4 miles southwest of Con Thien. The action lasted for four hours until the enemy broke contact, leaving 140 dead on the battle field. Marine losses had been high also with 34 KIA and 192 WIA, forcing 3/26 to return to Phu Bai the next day to refit. On 21 Sep, 2/9 Marines started a search and destroy operation 1,800 meters east of Con Thien when it ran into heavy resistance from an element of the 90th PAVN Rgt. The battle turned into a stalemate after rain had made the area impassable and both sides withdrew. US casualties were 31 KIA and 118 WIA. Enemy killed were reported at 39. The enemy intensified its attack-by-fire against Con Thien in late Sep, hitting the base with over 3,000 rounds during the period 19-27 Sep. The Americans retaliated by massing one of the greatest concentrations of firepower in support of a single division in the history of the Vietnam War. Marine artillery, ships of the 7th Fleet, Marine and Air Force jets and B-52 bombers poured tons of ordnance into know enemy positions in and north of the DMZ. By the end of Sep, NVA pressure of the outpost had subsided. On 14 Oct, 2/4 Marines was guarding a bridge north of Strong point C-2 when it received a ground attack from an unknown size enemy force. AC-47 gunships helped repel the assault during the night. 21 Americans were killed and 23 wounded. Only 24 NVA bodies were found in the area. The last major action of KINGSIFHER took place during a 9th Marines operation on 25-28 Oct. 2/4 Marines was sweeping north of Con Thien on Route 561 when it was hit by an enemy battalion, beating back several attacks and losing 8 KIA and 45 WIA. Results: 1,117 enemy killed, 5 captured, 340 US KIA, 1,461 US WIA.

17 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: ARDMORE
Location: Khe Sanh, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destro, security. Controlling headquarters: 26th Marines (Forward). Task organization: 1/26 Marines, 3/26 Marines, 1/13 Marines. Execution: Operation ARDMORE was a continuation of Operation CROCKETT and involved the same mission and the same forces. On 21 Jul, B/1/26 and M/3/26 fought a NVA battalion dug on Hill 216 along Route 9 in conjunction with 3/3 Marines from Operation KINGFISHER. Contacts in August were minimal and 3/26 was moved to the KINGFISHER AO on 15 Aug. 1/26 Marines continued patrols and company-size search and destroy operations around Khe Sanh, but with limited contact with the enemy. Results: 113 enemy killed, 6 detained, 10 US KIA, 39 US WIA

27 Jul.-8 Nov.
Operation: SONG THAN 14
Location: Bong Son, Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF BRAVO. Task organization: 1st VNMC BN, 2nd VNMC Bn (27 Jul-4 Oct), 3rd VNMC Bn (4 Oct-6 Nov), C/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: On 27 Jul, TF BRAVO relieved TF ALPHA at Bong Son AF and continued search and destroy operations south of Bong Son in conjunction with Operation PERSHING. Results: (no info)

31 Jul.-3 Nov.
Operation: DAN QUYEN 822
Location: Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 22nd ARVN Division. Results: 141 enemy killed, 181 detained, 44 ARVN KIA, 74 ARVN WIA 3 ARVN MIA.

11 Aug.-21 Oct.
Operation: SONG THAN/701/67
Location: Tan Uyen, Bien Hoa Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF ALPHA. Task organization: 2nd VNMC Bn (10-21 Oct), 4th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-10 Oct), 5th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-15 Sep), 6th VNMC Bn (15 Sep-21 Oct), B/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: Operation conducted in the Tan Uyen area in coordination with the US 1st Inf Div. Results: (no info)

16 Aug-31 Oct.
Operation: 8-67/SAMURAI II & III
Location: A Shau Valley, Happy Valley, Thuat Thien and Quang Nam Provinces. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: Det B-52 Project DELTA,81st ARVN Abn Rgr Bn. Execution: Operation searched areas from the northern stretches of the A Shau Valley into Happy Valley, west of Da Nang. Results: (no info).

1 Sep.-17 Nov.
Operation: STRIKE I
Location: Bien Hoa, Long Binh, AO STRIKE, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 2-47 Inf (M). Execution: Operation STRIKE I was conducted to provide security for the Bien Hoa-Long Binh complex and to prevent rocket attacks. On 17 Nov, STRIKE I was combined with Operation UNIONTOWN. Results: (no info).

5 Sep.-30 Oct.
Operation: DRAGON FIRE
Location: Batangan Peninsula, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d ROKMC Bde. Task organization: 1st, 2d and 5th ROKMC Bns. Execution: The 2d ROKMC Bde conducted this operation to clear insurgent elements from the Batagan Peninsula. Results: 541 enemy killed, 17 captured, 121 detained, 45 ROKMC KIA, 200 ROKMC WIA, 3 USMC WIA.

11 Sep-25 Nov.
Operation: WHEELER
Location: Tien Phuoc, Hiep Duc, Song Tranh, Song Chang, Base Area 116, Base Area 117, UDEN AO, Quang Tin Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 101st Abn Div. Task organization: 1-327 Inf, 2-327 Inf, 2-502 Inf, 1-14 Inf (11-24 Sep), 1-35 Inf (4 Oct-4 Nov), 2-320 Art, A/2-9 Art (4 Oct-4 Nov), B/2-9 Art (11-24 Sep), C/3-16 Art, B/1-9 Cav (2-4 Oct), A/2-17 Cav (17-25 Nov), A/326th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PAVN Div (1st PLAF Rgt, 3rd and 21st PAVN Rgts). Execution: ... SEE PREVIOUS DAY FOR INFORMATION... Results were 9 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 18 US WIA. With the 2nd PAVN Div elements avoiding contact during the period 28 Oct-4 Nov, increased emphasis was placed on attempting to locate the division. On 5 Nov, 1-35 Inf was released from operational control of the brigade and placed under opcon of the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div conducting Operation WALLOWA in the Que Son Basin. The last phase of WHEELER (6-25 Nov) saw 2-327 Inf being air-assaulted into the western portion of BA 116 while 1-327 Inf and 2-502 Inf established blocking positions. On 11 Nov, C/2-327 Inf engaged an NVA company in the Song Chang Valley 4 km east of Hiep Duc. 14 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 5 US WIA. This marked the last significant contact of WHEELER, after that, the badly hurt 2nd PAVN Div avoided any further contact. From 23-25 Nov, brigade elements were relieved in place by elements of the 196th Inf Bde (Lt)61 and displaced to Tam Ky Airfield to move by air to the brigade main base camp at Phan Rang for a four-day stand down and preparation for future operations. Results: 1,105 enemy killed, 50 captured, 445 detained, 11 returnees, 124 US KIA, 465 US WIA.

12 Sep-10 Oct.
Operation: CORONADO V
Location: Dong Tam, Cai Lay, Cam Son Secret Zone, Ban Long Base Area, Loi Quan Island, Song My Tho, Rach Ba Rai, Rach Ben Tre, Route 20, Ding Tuong and Kien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div (MRF); 7th ARVN Div. Task organization: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div: 3-47 Inf (12-17 Sep), 4-47 Inf (17 Sep-10 Oct), 3-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-60 Inf (-)(15-17 Sep), 3-34 Art, D/15th Eng, USN TF 117; 7th ARVN Div: 10th ARVN Rgt, 41st ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 263rd and 506th PLAF Bns. Execution: On 11 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Vung Tau to Dong Tam again and began Operation CORONADO V aimed at the 263rd PLAF Bn which had returned to the Cam Son Secret Zone. On 12 Sep, 3-47 Inf swept north from landing sites on the My Tho but turned up almost nothing. The next day, 3-60 Inf and 5-60 Inf (M) with help from the 7th ARVN Div62 began a sweep of the Ban Long area to the east and made contact with what appeared to be a VC covering force near the site of the VNMC heavy contact in July. The enemy withdrew under cover of darkness, leaving 63 bodies behind. As US and ARVN forces left the Ban Long on 14 Sep, the 7th ARVN Div reported that a large force, presumably the 263rd PLAF Bn, remained in the Cam Son, only a few kilometers north from areas previously swept. On 15 Sep, as 5-60 Inf (M) moved overland via Route 20, 3-60 Inf and 3-47 Inf sailed via the Song My Tho up the Rach Ba Rai between the My Tho and the town of Cai Lay. While 3-47 Inf landed unopposed over WHITE Beach, 3-60 Inf ran into two companies of the 263rd lined up in ambush positions along the east bank of the Ba Rai. Some of the boats managed to run the gauntlet but were forced to turn back as most of the column failed to follow. Two companies from 2-60 Inf were helicoptered from Long An Province to encircle the enemy. The battle lasted until nightfall but when the Americans entered the deserted ambush site the next day they found only 24 enemy killed. On 17 Sep the MRF returned to Dong Tam where 4-47 Inf rotated aboard the ships of the MRF replacing 3-47 Inf. On 20 Sep, the MRF displaced to Kien Hoa Province and began widely separated operations in Ham Long, Giong Trom and Huong My Districts, looking for the 516th PLAF Bn but no major contact took place. On 27 Sep, ATCs performing mine sweeping duties along the Rach Ben Tre received heavy RPG, recoilless and automatic weapons fire. 3 sailors were killed and 6 wounded. On 28 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Dong Tam to the northern end of Loi Quan Island between the Cua Dai and Cua Tieu to reduce logistic distances. Operations in Kien Hoa were in close cooperation with the 10th ARVN Rgt and a composite RF battalions but only sporadic contact was made. On 5-7 Oct the MRF returned to the Ban Long but had only limited contact with elements of the 263rd PLAF Bn and on 10 Sep it displaced to Vung Tau to prepare for CORONADO VI. Results: 330 enemy killed, 235 detained, 2 returnees, 35 US KIA, 175 US WIA.

16 Sep.-29 Oct.
Operation: KUNIA
Location: Ho Bo Woods, Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 3-22 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: Operation KUNIA was conducted as part of BARKING SANDS with the 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div initiating search and destroy operations in the Ho Bo Woods in preparation for the arrival of a land clearing team of thirty Rome Plows. By the end of October 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods had been cleared. Results: (included in BARKING SANDS).

19 Sep. 67-31 Jan. 69
Operation: BOLLING/DAN HOA
Location: Tuy Hoa, Phu Hiep, Binh Tinh, Ma Hoa, AO BLACK, Song Ky Lo, Song Da Rang, Suoi Cai, Phu Yen and Phu Bon Provinces. Type: search and destroy, reconnaissance-in-force, pacification, rice protection. Controlling headquarters: 173d Abn Bde (19 Sep 67-8 Feb 68, 1 Apr 68-31 Jan 69); I FFORCEV (8 Feb-1 Apr 68); 22nd ARVN Div. Task organization: 1-503 Inf (19 Sep-6 Nov 67), 2-503 Inf (12 Oct-6 Nov 67), 3-503 Inf (5 Nov 67-16 Jan 68), 4-503 Inf (19 Sep-1 Nov 67, 16 Dec 67-31 Jan 69), TF 2-8 Cav (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), 3-319 Art, C/2-19 Art (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 47th ARVN Rgt. Intelligence: 5th PAVN Div (18B and 95th PAVN Rgts), 30th and 95th PLAF LF Bns, K65 and K76 Sapper Cos. Execution: During the period 14-19 Sep, the bulk of the brigade (minus 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art) was relocated by air from Dak To to Tuy Hoa to commence long-term Operation BOLLING in cooperation with the 47th ARVN Rgt. The 2-8 Cav was opconed to the brigade until 14 Oct to compensate for 2-503 Inf remaining at Dak To, and was air-assaulted into the BOLLING AO on 19 Sep. The operation was designed to provide security for the local rice harvest. Daily contact was maintained with enemy forces in September and October but seldom larger than squad size. During October, the brigade relocated its rear base camp facility from Bien Hoa to An Khe, moving by sea via Saigon and Qui Nhon. On 12 Oct, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 returned from the Highlands, relieving TF 2-8 Cav and on 22 Oct, the new 3-503 Inf arrived in-country from Fort Bragg, undergoing jungle training in An Khe prior to deployment to the BOLLING AO. On 1 Nov, 4-503 Inf was alerted for immediate departure for Dak To, followed five days later by the brigade minus (headquarters, 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 3-319 Art). On 5 Nov, 3-503 Inf arrived at Tuy Hoa from An Khe and assumed responsibility for Operation BOLLING. Contact continued to be light in November; on 16 Dec, the brigade headquarters, 4-503 Inf and C and D/3-319 Art were redeployed from Operation MACARTHUR, closing into the BOLLING AO that same day. On 27 Dec, 3-503 Inf conducted a series of combat assaults into the Song Ky Lo Valley 15 km northwest of Dong Tre and engaged two enemy companies. Elements of 4-503 Inf reinforced the battle area until contact was lost on 29 Dec. Results were 62 enemy killed, 12 US KIA and 34 US WIA. Contact was infrequent in January and a battalion task force built around 3-503 Inf moved to An Khe on 16 Jan 68 to assume responsibility of the Operation DAZZLEM AO63 from the departing 1st Cav Div. On 30 Jan, the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt attacked several targets in the Tuy Hoa area as part of the enemy's Tet Offensive, including a FSB held by C/6-32 Art, the Binh Tin hamlet, Tuy Hoa North AF and the provincial prison. D/4-503 Inf and two companies from the 2nd Bn, 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked toward the airfield and by 0730 on 31 Jan, the enemy force was surrounded and destroyed in Binh Tin hamlet. On 5-6 Feb, two battalions of the 47th ARVN Rgt and RF elements reduced an enemy strong point in the center of Tuy Hoa. During the fighting in and around Tuy Hoa, 316 enemy had been killed and 104 captured. During February, 4-503 Inf in conjunction with Strike Force elements from Cung Son and Dong Tre CIDG Camps, and Task Force MITCHELL (E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm) conducted search and destroy operations west of Tuy Hoa and helped mop up the aftermath of the Tet Offensive. It also provided security for the 577th Eng C Bn and 173d Eng Co working on Routes 7B and 436. On 8 Feb, the 173d Abn Bde (-) departed Tuy Hoa to assumed Opcon of TF POWERHOUSE (1-503 and 2-503 Inf) in Kontum Province in the MACARTHUR AO. Operation BOLLING passed under control of I FFORCEV which assumed opcon of TF 4-503 build around 4-503 Inf, Btys C and D, 3-319 Art and D/16 Arm. A major contact developed on 4 Mar when the 47th ARVN Rgt contacted the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt and 85th PLAF Bn in three hamlets along the coast just north of Tuy Hoa. D/16 Arm and elements of the 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked while the 47th ARVN Rgt provided blocking positions. D/16 was credited with 137 NVA killed during the action while suffering 10 KIA and 21 WIA. Contact during the rest of March was sporadic in the BOLLING AO. On 1 Apr, the brigade returned from the Highlands, relieving the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div at Bong Son64 and assumed control over TF 4-503 again. Contact was light during the month of April except on the 5th when D/16 Arm again supported the 47th ARVN Rgt in heavy contact with two enemy battalions at Ma Hoa village in Tuy Hoa Valley just off Route 7B north of the Song Da Rang. In May, 4-503 Inf conducted extensive bushmaster operations, on 2 May, Co B killed 8 enemy soldiers in the Suoi Cai Valley 18 km west of Tuy Hoa. In June, the enemy continued to avoid decisive contact with Allied force, relying on harassing tactics instead. During the period 16-27 Jul, 4-503 Inf conducted search and clear operations in AO BLACK located 25 km southwest of Cung Son on the Phu Bon and Darlac provincial boundary but there was no significant contact. On 30 July, 4-503 Inf joined the 3/47 ARVN Bn and elements of the 26th ROK Rgt to conduct a combined operation in the Song Ky Lo Valley but contact was again limited. Prisoners confirmed that the bulk of the 18B and 95th PAVN Rgts had departed Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa Province to refit in Cambodia. Contact remained light for the rest of Operation BOLLING, limited to engagements with squad-size enemy forces and booby traps incidents. On 1 Feb 69 the BOLLING/DAN HOA AO became a permanent TAOR called LY DO/WAINWRIGHT. Results: 715 enemy killed, 72 US KIA, 307 US WIA (no info on ARVN casualties).

24 Sep.-9 Oct.
Operation: ARKANSAS CITY II
Location: Phuoc Tuy Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 11th ACR. Execution: (no info)

26 Sep.-21 Oct.
Operation: AKRON III
Location: Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone), Phuoc Tuy and Bien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-39 Inf, B/2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, 2/48 ARVN Bn, 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 274th PLAF Rgt. Execution: AKRON III was a continuation of land clearing and search and destroy operations in Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone). Contact with the enemy was light and sporadic throughout the operation but the largest known weapons cache in the III CTZ to date was discovered, contacting over 200,000 rounds of small arms, 1,022 small arms and 125 crew served weapons. Results: (no info).

29 Sep.-1 Oct.
Operation: LAM SON 132
Location: Thua Thien Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st ARVN Div. Results: 31 enemy killed, 12 captured, 29 detained.

29 Sep.-11 Nov.
Operation: KENMORE
Location: Xuyen Moc, AO WARATAH, AO BANKSIA, Phuoc Tuy Province. Controlling headquarters: 1ATF. Task organization: 7RAR, A Sqn 3 Cav, 4 Fld Rgt, A/1-35 Art, A/1-83d Art. Execution: Operation took place in AOs WARATAH and BANKSIA, 6 km southeast of Xuyen Moc and bordering 24 km of coastline with infrequent contact. Results: 16 enemy killed, 1 captured, no friendly casualties.

29 Sep.-19 Nov.
Operation: SHENANDOAH II
Location: Lai Khe, Loc Ninh, Chon Thanh, Suoi Ong Thanh, Michelin Plantation, Long Nguyen Secret Zone, Route 13, LZ APPLE, FSB CAISSON II, FSB CAISSON III, FSB CAISSON IV, FSB CAISSON V, FSB CAISSON VI, FSB CAISSON VII, FSB LORRAINE II, Binh Duong and Binh Long Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Inf Div; 1st Bde, 1st Inf Div (29 Sep-19 Nov); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (30 Sep-30 Oct). Task organization: 1-2 Inf (29 Sep-18 Oct; 21-28 Oct), 2-2 Inf (M)(29 Sep-23 Oct), 1-16 Inf (29 Sep; 18-29 Oct; 8-19 Nov), 1-18 Inf (4-13 Oct; 29 Oct-19 Nov), 1-26 Inf (31 Oct-8 Nov), 1-28 Inf (29 Sep-10 Oct; 13 Oct-11 Nov), 2-28 Inf (7-18 Oct; 30 Oct-19 Nov), 2-12 Inf (2-7 Nov), 1-4 Cav (29 Sep-30 Oct), 1-5 Art (29 Sep-19 Nov), 6-15 Art (30 Oct-19 Nov), 2-33 Art (30 Sep-30 Oct). Intelligence: 9th PLAF Div (271st, 272nd, 273rd PLAF Rgts). Execution: Operation SHENANDOAH II initially covered an area from slightly south of Lai Khe, north approximately 18 miles and west to the edge of the Michelin Plantation, a region known as the Long Nguyen Secret Zone where the 271st PLAF Rgt was reported. The AO was expanded later to include the area between Lai Khe and Loc Ninh and between Route 13 west to the 25th Inf Div AO. On 29 Sep, 1-2 Inf began search and destroy operation in AO MIKE 12 miles north of Lai Khe while 1-28 Inf displaced via motor convoy from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh. Simultaneously, 1-4 Cav with A/2-2 Inf (M) opcon began clearing Route 13 From Lai Khe to Chon Thanh and secured FSBs CAISSON II & III. The first engagement with the VC took place on 4 Oct when 1-2 Inf made contact with an unknown size enemy force 10 km southwest of Chon Thanh. 12 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 26 US WIA. In reaction, 1-18 Inf moved by helicopter from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh and was air-assaulted into an LZ 1 km west of the 1-2 Inf contact. The LZ was cold but 29 enemy bodies KBA were found in the immediate vicinity. On 6 Oct, 1-18 Inf received mortar fire followed by a heavy ground assault. Result was 50 enemy killed, 3 US KIA and 4 US WIA. On 7 Oct, another battalion, 2-28 Inf, was added to the operation, moving via road convoy to Chon Thanh and then to field location. On 10 Oct, 1-28 Inf, having made little contact, was extracted from the field and returned to Phuoc Vinh. The next major engagement occurred on 11 Oct when B/1-18 Inf made contact with an estimated 100-150 enemy 31 km west of Highway 13, killing 21 while losing 1 KIA and 4 WIA. On 13 Oct, 1-28 Inf returned to the SHENANDOAH II AO, relieving 1-18 Inf in place. Contact during the next few days was limited but on 17 Oct, Cos A & D, 2-28 Inf were ambushed while following a trail south of the Suoi Ong Thanh. Contact began at 1015 when Co A received sniper fire. Close fighting began to develop rapidly and the two companies were soon engulfed by a very heavy volume of fire. The battalion's CO65, S-2, SGM and both company commanders became casualties. Both companies pulled back under fire to allow for close air support and artillery fire as Co B and C were rushed in to reinforced, followed by Co D, 1/16 inf later in the afternoon when the enemy broke contact. Losses had been very heavy for the Americans with 52 KIA, 72 WIA and 2 MIA. 103 enemy bodies were counted in the battle area the next day. On 18 Oct, 2-28 Inf was relieved in place by the rest of 1-16 Inf and was extracted to Lai 65 LTC Terry de la Mesa Allen, Jr., KIA 17 Oct 67. Khe, followed by 1-2 Inf which returned to Phuoc Vinh. On 19 Oct, 1-16 Inf continued search and destroy operations in the vicinity of the 17 Oct battle while 1-28 Inf was extracted briefly to Chon Thanh to allow for a B-52 strike to take place before returning to the field. On 21 Oct, 1-2 Inf was inserted into the AO again after a road march from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh but contact remained low for the rest on the month. At 0115 on 29 Oct, two battalions of the 273rd PLAF Rgt launched a ground assault on the Loc Ninh District Headquarters and Loc Ninh CIDG Camp. Two reconnaissance companies from the 5th ARVN Div reacted immediately, being airlifted from Phu Loi to Loc Ninh and counterattacking along with two CIDG companies to regain the northern part of the sub sector compound, clearing it by 1300. At that point, Operation SHENANDOAH II was expanded to include the battle of Loc Ninh, with 1-18 Inf deploying to the battle area to occupy blocking positions 4 km west of the town. 2/9 ARVN Bn was also brought in and deployed in and around the sub sector compound. On 30 Oct, the 1st Bde CP arrived at Quan Loi to control US forces at Loc Ninh. That same day, A/1-18 Inf made contact with an enemy company, killing 85. At 0100 on 31 Oct, elements of the 272nd and 273rd PLAF Rgts renewed their attacks on the sub sector and SF compounds. Very heavy fighting took place all night with TACAIR and AC-47 gunships supporting the defenders until 0700 when the enemy broke contact. Later that day, 1-28 Inf conducted an air-assault 4 km southeast of Loc Ninh while 1-26 joined the operation, securing FSB CAISSON VII near An Loc where the 5th ARVN TAC CP was also established. 126 enemy had been killed during the night attack at the cost of 9 KIA and 56 WIA for the Allied forces. 1 Nov was relatively quite but starting at 0045 on 2 Nov, a third attack was launched, this time on the sub sector compound, CIDG camp, 1-18 Inf NDP and the 6-15 Art FSB near the Loc Ninh Airfield. All were repulsed with a combination of heavy, accurate fire by the defenders, artillery and effective close air support. At 0820, 1-26 Inf conducted an airmobile assault 6 km northwest of Loc Ninh, followed later in the afternoon by 2-12 Inf detached from the 25th Inf Div. 296 more enemies had been killed during the attack at the cost of 7 killed and 36 wounded to friendly forces. On 3 Nov, the 36th ARVN Rgr Bn arrived to participate in reconnaissance-in-force operations with the four US infantry battalions. On 7 Nov, 1-26 Inf engaged an unknown size enemy force 6 km northeast of Loc Ninh, killing 66 but losing 17 KIA and 21 WIA. This was the last major engagement of SHENANDOAH II, the 272nd and 273rd avoiding any further contact with Allied forces. Results: 956 enemy killed, 63 detained, 107 US KIA, 322 US WIA.

30 Sep.-1 Oct.
Operation: INTOSH JOYCE 19
Location: Long Khanh Province. Execution: (no other info).

30 Sep.-2 Oct.
Operation: QUYET THANG 614
Location: Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2nd ARVN Div. Results: 65 enemy killed, 16 detained, 9 ARVN KIA, 28 ARVN WIA.

New Operations

None

Other

1 Oct.
US military strength in RVN is 476,000

1 Oct.
National Assembly validates presidential election shortly before midnight deadline.

[Jason Petho]

Ongoing Operations today in 1967

26 Aug.66-20 Jan.68
Operation: BYRD
Location: Phan Thiet, LZ BETTY, Binh Thuan Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: I FFORCEV. Task organization: TF 2-7: 2-7 Cav, C/1-9 Cav, A/1-21 Art, C/2-20 Art (-), C/8th Eng Bn (-), C/229th Avn Bn, Det 228th Avn Bn. Execution: Planned as a short-term, economy-of-force measure, BYRD became a continuous offensive that would last into 1968. Upon I FFORCEV request, the 1st Cav Div detached at battalion-size task force to help pacify isolated Binh Thuan Province in southern II Corps. Results (at year's end): 351 enemy killed, 151 detained, 8 US KIA, 85 US WIA.

1 Oct.66-17 Jan 68
Operation: DAZZLEM
Location: Camp Radcliff, An Khe, Binh Dinh Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization: Base Defense Task Force. Execution: Operation DAZZLEM was the contingency plan for the defense of Camp Radcliff provided by one infantry battalion with supporting artillery and
reinforcing personnel from residence units. On 17 Jan 68, the 173d Abn Bde relieved the 1st Cav Div from the mission of defending An Khe. Results: 80 enemy killed, 9 detained.

11 Oct.66-17 Nov.67
Operation: UNIONTOWN II
Location: Long Binh, Bien Hoa Province Type: security. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV. Execution: Operation UNIONTOWN was a security operation designed to protect the Long Binh logistical complex, RMK Rock Quarry and II FFORCEV Headquarters. Units were assigned on a rotation basis from each major command under II FFORCEV.

30 Nov. 66-15 Dec.67
Operation: FAIRFAX/RANG DONG
Location: Nha Be, Thu Duc and Binh Chanh Districts, Gia Dinh Province. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV, CMD. Task organization: 1st Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 2-16 Inf; 4th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3-22 Inf; 25th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 4-9 Inf; CMD (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3rd and 5th ARVN Abn Bns, 30th Ranger Bn; 199th LIB (31 Jan-15 Dec.): 2-3 Inf, 3-7 Inf, 4-12 Inf, 2-40 Art; 5th ARVN Ranger Group (31 Jan.-15 Dec): 30th, 33rd and 38th ARVN Ranger Bns. Intelligence: Military Region 4, 165A PLAF Regiment. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE... Results (end of 1966): 149 enemy killed, 40 detained, 11 US KIA, 67 US WIA, 23 ARVN KIA, 58 ARVN WIA, 1 ARVN MIA.

8 Feb.67-31 Jan.68
Operation: LAM SON 67
Location: Phu Loi, An My, Ong Dong Jungle, Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, security, jungle clearing. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 1st Inf Div (8 Feb-17 Mar, 17 Apr 67-31 Jan 68); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (17 Mar-17 Apr). Task organization: 1st Inf Div Revolutionary Development Task Force (various infantry, cavalry and support units were assigned on a rotation basis during the period). Execution: The operation supported the GVN's Revolutionary Development Program in conjunction with ARVN units in Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. LAM SON 67 consisted of cordon and search, reconnaissance in force, harassment, jungle clearing, population control, civic action and psychological warfare operations directed against priority targets. Contact in the AO was characterized by light sporadic incidents with local VC elements. On 6 Jan 68, the Phu Loi base camp received 123 rounds of mixed mortar fire, 46 aircraft were damaged and 6 US WIA. Reacting to the attack, A/2-18 Inf and B/2-2 Inf (M) swept the area to the north of the base and contacted two enemy companies of the Phu Loi PLAF Bn. 92 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 14 US WIA. Operation LAM SON 67 was terminated on 31 Jan 68 with the beginning of the enemy's Tet Offensive. Results: 527 enemy killed, 263 captured, 2,327 detained, 346 defectors, 56 US KIA, 572 US WIA.

12 Feb. 67-18 Jan. 68
Operation: PERSHING
Location: Bong Son, Tuy An, Tam Quan, Hoa Tan, Sa Huynh, Truong Son, An Qui, Trung Xuan, An Lac, An Lao Valley, Kim Son Valley, Suoi Ca Valley, 506 Valley, Nuoc Dinh Valley, Phu My Valley, Song Re Valley, the Crescent, Nui Mieu, Nui Sang, Cay Giep, Dam Tra-O Lake, Route 1, LZ BRONCO BEACH, LZ CRYSTAL, LZ ENGLISH, LZ GARNET, LZ GERONIMO, LZ GLENN, LZ HAMMOND, LZ IRON, LZ MEADE, LZ PAT, LZ SANDRA, LZ STEEL, LZ TOM, LZ TWO BITS, LZ UPLIFT, Binh Dinh and Quang Ngai Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization (As of 12 Feb): 1 s t Bde: 1-8 Cav, 1-12 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-19 Art (-), D/2-17 Art, C/1-21 Art, A/3-18 Art; 2d Bde: 2-5 Cav, 1-5 Cav (-), 1-7 Cav (-), 2-12 Cav, 1-77 Art (-), B/1-8 Art, A/1-21 Art, C/1-30 Art, B/8th Eng; 3d Bde: 2-8 Cav, C/1-5 Cav, 1-21 Art (-), 2-17 Art (-), C/6-16 Art, C/2-19 Art, C/8th Eng; 3d Bde, 25 t h Inf Div (12 Feb-19 Apr): 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf (4-19 Apr), 2-9 Art, A/1-77 Art, 5-16 Art, C/3-4 Cav, D/65th Eng; Div Arty: 2-20 Art (-), 7-13 Art (-), B/29 Art, E/82 Art, 3-18 Art (-); Div Troops: 1-9 Cav, 8th Eng Bn (-). Intelligence: 3rd PAVN Div: 18th and 22nd PAVN Rgts, 2nd PLAF Rgt. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE ... Results: 5,
388 enemy killed, 2,356 captured, 10,609 detained, 221 returnees, 852 US KIA, 4,119 US WIA, 22 US MIA.

13 Feb. 67-10 Mar. 68
Operation: ENTERPRISE
Location: Tan An, Rach Kien, Ben Luc, Binh Phuoc, Tan Tru, Doi Ma Creek, Plain of Reeds9, Base Area 371, Route 14, Long An Province. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, eagle flights. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 3-39 Inf, 2-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-4 Art, C/15th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PLAF MF Bn, 506th PLAF LF Bn. Execution: ENTERPRISE was the continuation of the pacification effort of Long An Province initiated the previous year by the 25th Inf Div with Operation LANIKAI. On 13 Feb, 3-39 Inf relieved 2-14 Inf at Rach Kien. Strength of division elements in the province were subsequently increased to brigade size with movement of 2-60 Inf into Tan Tru, 5-60 Inf into Binh Phuoc and Headquarters, 3d Bde into Tan An. The first major engagement occurred on 9 Apr when 3-39 Inf made contact with the 506th PLAF Bn on the bank of Doi Ma Creek. Additional companies were brought in, killing 247 of the enemy. On 2 May, the 506th Bn exacted vengeance on the 3-39 Inf, attacking one of its companies in night defensive position near Route 4. 17 US were KIA and 48 WIA but no enemy bodies were found. The operation was temporarily extended north to the Plain of Reeds area on 8-14 May with sub-operation NIRVANA II directed against the enemy's Base Area 371. Elements of the 3d Bde joined forces with the 4/50 ARVN Bn of the 25th ARVN Div but found nothing, killing only 14 of the enemy. On 14 May, the 2nd PLAF Bn struck the compound of the 2/50 ARVN Bn in Rach Kien, killing 31 South Vietnamese soldiers and wounding 34. 3d Bde units were committed but couldn't regain contact with the attacking force. After that, contact with the enemy dropped sharply for the remainder of 1967, indicating an apparent enemy desire to avoid friendly forces. On 31 Jan 68, the brigade responded to the Tet Offensive, 5-60 Inf engaged in heavy fighting southwest of Saigon in Gia Dinh Province, killing 128 enemy soldiers. From 1-5 Feb, 3-39 Inf and 2-60 Inf were sent to Kien Hoa Province to help recapture Ben Tre, the provincial capital. On 10 Feb, the brigade HQ at Tan An came under attack from an unknown size enemy force. 33 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 53 US WIA. During March, brigade elements conducted "Aquabush" operations along the numerous canals south of Saigon in conjunction with the 199th Inf Bde (Lt). Pacification activities decreased sharply during the Tet Offensive and the operation was terminated on 10 March. Results: 2,107 enemy killed, 74 US KIA, 380 US WIA.

14 Feb.67-21 Mar.68
Operation: KITTYHAWK
Location: Long Binh, Xuan Loc, Long Giao, Gia Ray, Suoi Cat, Blackhorse, Route 1, Route 2, Long Khanh and Bien Hoa Province. Type: reconnaissance-in-force, cordon and search, security, road clearing. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div (14 Feb 67-15 Feb 68); 11th ACR (15 Feb-21 Mar 68). Task organization: 3-5 Cav, 1/11 ACR, 2/11 ACR, 3/11 ACR. Intelligence: 275th PLAF Rgt. Execution: The purpose of KITTYHAWK was to secure LOCs and selected installations within Long Khanh Province, conduct reconnaissance-in-force operations and cordon and search of selected hamlets within the AO, secure Blackhorse base camp and the Gia Ray rock quarry and provide ready reaction forces along Route 1. On 21 May, K Troop, 3/11 ACR was ambushed by an estimated reinforced enemy battalion near Suoi Cat on Route 1. 30 enemy are killed, 12 US KIA and 13 US WIA. On 27 Jun 1/11 ACR moved to reinforce the 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn which was in heavy contact with elements of the 3rd Bn, 275th PLAF Rgt, killing 49 of the enemy11. On 30 Dec two enemy companies ambushed Troop C, 3-5 Cav on Route 2. Friendly losses are 10 KIA, 29 WIA and 3 MIA. On 31 Jan 68, in reaction to the VC Tet Offensive, the 3-5 Cav was alerted to respond to enemy activity in the Long Binh-Bien Hoa area. A/3-5 Cav bypassed several roadblocks, breaking through enemy forces and reached the Bien Hoa airfield, sweeping nearby wood lines and killing 40. During the period 2-3 Feb, C/3-5 Cav was sent to defend Xuan Loc against an intense ground attack, killing nearly 50 enemy soldiers. On 15 Feb the KITTYHAWK mission was assumed by the 11th ACR as the 3-5 Cav (-) was directed by HQ USARV to deploy to Da Nang, I CTZ. On 21 Mar, the operation was phased into Operation ALCORN COVE. Results: 201 enemy killed, 7 captured, 1 returnee, 62 US KIA, 224 US WIA.

5 Apr.-11 Oct.
Operation: FRANCIS MARION
Location: Plei Me, Duc Co, Plei Djereng, Plei Mrong, Plei Do Lim, Buon Blech, Se San, Ia Drang, Ia Tchar, Dak Ayun, Dak Payou, Chu Pong, Chu Prong, Chu Goungot, Chu Groh, Route 14, Route 14B, Route 19E, Route 509, Hill 521, LZ OASIS, LZ JACKSON HOLE, Pleiku and Darlac Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: (effective 7 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, B/4-42 Art, C/3-4 Cav (-), A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (-), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, Plt B/1-69 Arm, 4-42 Art (-), B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), Plt C/2-8 Inf (-), Cav Plt 1-10 Cav, B/3-6 Art, A/5-16 Art; TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 26 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), C/4-42 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h In f Div: 2-8 Inf, 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), A/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), A/3-6 Art; TF 3-8 Inf: 3-8 Inf, C/6-29 Art, A/5-16 Art; Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 30 May): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (M), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art, B/4th Eng (-); 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, D/16 Arm, E/17 Cav, 173d Eng Co; TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 5-16 Art (-); Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 24 Sep): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 2-8 Inf (M), 3-8 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), A/4-42 Art,, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div: 1-12 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), B/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: 2-1 Cav, D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Intelligence: B3 Front, 1st NVA Div (32nd, 66th and 88th Rgts), 10th NVA Div (95B and 101C Rgts), 200th NVA Art Bn, 407th PLAF MF Sapper Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn.. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE.... Results: 1,204 enemy killed, 122 detained, 11 returnees, 198 US KIA, 982 US WIA, 8 US MIA.

22 Apr.67-2 Jan 68.
Operation: BAKER
Location: Duc Pho, Mo Duc, Vinh Hien, Tan Phong, Dien Truong, An Ba, An Tach, Song Tra Cau, Song Ve, LZ MONTEZUMA (later renamed LZ BRONCO), LZ GUADALCANAL, LZ OLIVE DRAB, LZ LIZ, LZ DRAGON, RAZORBACK Beach, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde TF, 25th Inf Div (redesignated 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div on 1 Aug). Task organization: 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf, 2-9 Art, C/3-4 Cav, B/1-9 Cav, C/2-34 Arm. Intelligence: 1st PLAF Rgt, 2nd PLAF Rgt, 22nd PAVN Rgt. Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: (no info).

14 May.-7 Dec.
Operation: KOLE KOLE
Location: Duc Hoa, Bao Trai, Hiep Hoa, Loc Giang, Trang Bang, Song Vam Co Dong, Rach Tra, Xinh An Ha, Route 10, Hau Nghia and Tay Ninh Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 1-5 Inf (M), 1-27 Inf, 2-27 Inf, 1-8 Art. Intelligence: 2nd Go Mon and 269th PLAF LF Bns. Execution: Operation KOLE KOLE was initiated by the 2d Bde in Hau Nghia Province using EAGLE FLIGHTS and airmobile operations based on current intelligence. Cordon and search, outposting and country fair operations were also conducted in conjunction with the 25th ARVN Div, CIDG and RF/PF. On 17 May, elements of 1/27 Inf and 2/27 Inf fought an eight-hour engagement west of the Vam Co Dong with a VC company. Results were 27 enemy killed, 2 US KIA and 9 US WIA. There was intermittent contact during June and July, particularly along the An Ha canal and near Loc Giang. The brigade also secured engineer operations along Route 10 to improve the GVN's authority and control west of Trang Bang. In early August, the reconnaissance platoon of 1/27 Inf with helicopter support intercepted VC recon elements from Long An Province, killing 26. During September, KOLE KOLE shifted to northern Hau Nghai and southwestern Tay Ninh Province. 1-5 Inf (M) conducted extensive dismounted ambush patrols around Loc Giang along the Vam Co while 2-27 Inf engaged scattered elements of the 269th PLAF Bn. On 21 Oct, an EAGLE FLIGHT from 1-27 Inf engaged an estimated enemy platoon south of Tay Ninh, killing 18. On 31 Oct, 2-27 Inf made contact with elements of the 2nd Go Mon Bn north of the Rach Tra, killing 28 and capturing 2. Enemy activity decreased for the rest of KOLE KOLE and the brigade concentrated on pacification and land clearing operations. Results: 797 enemy killed, 150 detained, 34 returnees, 144 US KIA, 876 US WIA

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: BARKING SANDS
Location: Cu Chi, Trang Bang, Phu Hoa, Iron Triangle, Ho Bo Woods, Song Saigon, Hau Nghia and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: The 1st Bde employed counter guerrilla warfaretechniques including saturation patrolling, checkmate, bushmaster and cordon and search operations to pacify Cu Chi and Trang Bang Districts in Hau Nghia Province and Phu Hoa District in Binh Duong Province. Buddy operations were also conducted with local PF platoons and RF companies. On 30 Aug, 4-9 Inf conducted an airmobile assault against an entrenched VC battalion in the Iron Triangle resulting in 4 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 43 US WIA. During September, primary emphasis was placed on denying VC access to populated areas during the National Elections. Land clearing operations were also initiated along the Song Saigon to eliminate VC concealment. In October, 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods were cleared by Rome Plows following Operation KUNIA. Contact during BARKING SANDS was limited to squad and platoon size elements and no major engagement occurred. Four sub-operations were conducted in the BARKING SANDS AO during the period: KAWELA, AKUMU,WAIMEA and KUNIA (see individual operations below). Results (inclusive of the four sub-operations): 370 enemy killed, 85 detained, 10 returnees, 110 US KIA, 1114 US WIA.

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: DIAMOND HEAD
Location: Tay Ninh West, Dau Tieng, Suoi Da, Prek Klok, Ben Cui, Michelin Plantation, Boi Loi Woods, The Crescent, The Trapezoid, Tay Ninh and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div33. Task organization: 2-12 Inf, 2-22 Inf (M), 3-22 Inf, 2-77 Art, 2-34 Arm (-) (from 22 Sep), C/1-10 Cav, C/4th Eng. Execution: The mission was to conduct search and destroy operations in Tay Ninh Province, cordon and search operations in the Michelin Plantation, and security and reinforcement missions in the Tay Ninh and Prek Klok areas. With one battalion detached to Operation UNIONTOWN and another providing security for the Dau Tieng and Tay Ninh West base camps, contact in the AO were very limited during the months of May, June and July. On 1 Aug, the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div was redesignated the 3d Bde, 25th Inf Div. No movement of troops or units were involved in this redesignation. On 15 Aug, an airmobile cordon and search of Thanh An was conducted by 3-22 Inf in conjunction with VN National Police. 6 enemy were killed and 42 detained. In September, the brigade provided security during the National elections. In October, continued battalion size search and destroy operations were conducted in the Michelin Plantation to prevent its use as an enemy haven, in and south of Ben Cui, and in the northern portion of the Trapezoid, which extends 15 km to the southeast of Dau Tieng. Bushmaster operations were conducted in an area known as the Crescent, 8 km northwest of Dau Tieng. All operations were marked by extremely light contact. In November, operations were conducted in the upper Boi Loi Woods and in the Ben Cui Plantation, again with light contact. During this period operations were curtailed due to two battalions being opcon to the other brigades. On 25-25 Now, 2-22 Inf (M) made contact with a VC company near the Mushroom bend on the Saigon River, killing 20. This was the last contact during DIAMOND HEAD before the operation came to an end on 7 Dec. Results: 237 enemy killed, 496 detained, 4 returnees. (US losses unknown).

1 Jun.67-7 Feb.68
Operation: HOPTAC
Location: Dong Tam, Dinh Tuong Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: Task Force FUNSTON39. Execution: Operation HOPTAC was an internal defense and development operation in Dinh Tuong Province which included security of the Dong Tam base. Task Force FUNSTON provided land and waterborne security for engineer dredging equipment and maintained a ready reaction force to assist local GVN units and installations if needed. In most cases contact with the VC was characterized by light fire fights and sniper fire. On 1 Feb 68 the enemy fired more than 170 82 mm mortar and 75 mm RR rounds into the base resulting in minor damage and 11 US WIA. In the early morning hours of 3, 4, 5 and 7 Feb, the enemy continued to attack the base with mortar and RR fire. The heaviest attack came on 7 Feb with an estimated 200 rounds fired at the base. Elements of 5-60 Inf and 2-39 Inf conducted reaction airmobile assaults and RIF operations 8 km east of Dong tam, making contact with two VC companies, killing 23 while losing 5 KIA and 11 WIA. Results: 296 enemy killed, 11 captured, 3 returnees, 37 US KIA, 364 US WIA.

18 Jun.-12 Oct.
Operation: GREELEY
Location: Kontum, Dak To, Tan Canh, Dak Seang, Dak Pek, Toumorong, Dak Poko, Dak Akoi, Hill 830, Hill 1338, FSB 4, Kontum Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (24 Jun-25 Jul): 1-7 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-12 Cav, 1-21 Art; 1st ARVN Abn TF (24 Jun-25 Jul): 3d, 5th and 8th ARVN Abn Bns; 24th STZ: 1/42 Inf. Intelligence: 24th and 174th PAVN Rgts, K101D PAVN Bn, 304th PLAF MF Bn, 200th PLAF Art Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn . Execution: From 1-18 Jun, the 173d Abn Bde continued participation in Operation FRANCIS MARION, searching further south and east in the Ia Drang Valley. The brigade deployed the 1-503 Inf and 2-503 Inf into the AO, holding 4-503 Inf in reserve at Catecka. No significant contact was made. On 17 Jun, TF MC QUARRIE (2-503 Inf, E/17 Cav, A/3-319 Art) moved by air and motor convoy to the New Dak To Airfield, joined the following day by 1-503 Inf. The mission, named GREELEY, was to assume opcon of the CIDG Camp at Dak To under threat from the 24th PAVN Rgt and assist in its defense. On 18 Jun, 2-503 Inf began searching south of Dak To toward the huge mass of Hill 1338 (Ngok Bor Beang). C/1-503 Inf was also inserted into the area to search for a missing SF and CIDG team which had been destroyed by the NVA on 15-16 Jun, 1400 meters southwest of their camp. On 22 Jun, after a fruitless search of Hill 1338, 2-503 Inf was instructed to return to Dak To on foot. Shortly after leaving its NDP, A/2-503 bumped into an enemy battalion from the 24th PAVN Rgt42 while descending the slopes of Hill 1338. Two platoons were cut off and annihilated while the rest of the company formed a small perimeter and called supporting fires. Cos B and C were rushed to the rescue but arrived too late. 76 Americans had been killed, some executed point blank by the enemy, and 23 wounded. 106 enemy bodies were counted in the battle area. This action became known as 'The Battle of the Slopes' and as one of the costliest engagement for US forces in Vietnam. Concerned by the size of the battle and the US losses, General Larsen at I FFORCEV decided to reinforce GREELEY. On 23 Jun, 2-12 Cav arrived from the PERSHING AO while the rest of the 173d Abn Bde (CP (-) and 4-503 Inf) closed Dak To from Catecka. The next day, 24 Jun, the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (-) and 1st ARVN Abn TF arrived at Kontum. The Allied forces went after the 24th PAVN Rgt, seeking to destroy it. In the next two weeks, the 173d Abn Bde and 2-12 Cav searched west and south of Dak To while the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div and the ARVN Abn TF entered the Dak Akoi Valley northeast of Kontum and 35 km east of Dak To. The sweep found little evidence of the enemy's presence and on 25 Jul the cavalry brigade returned to the coast, while the Vietnamese task force stood down at Kontum to serve as a mobile reaction force. Southwest of Dak To on 10 Jul, 4-503 Inf, while searching for a regimental headquarters, found an occupied enemy bunker complex on Hill 830. Battle raged until 12 Jul with 22 US KIA and 62 US WIA but only 9 enemy bodies found. This was the last significant contact on the month. On 19 Jul, 2 NVA soldiers rallied at Dak Pek CIDG Camp, stating that they were 42 Later identified as the 6th Bn, 24th PAVN Rgt. from the newly infiltrated 174th PAVN Rgt. They were proved correct on 6 Aug when the 1/42 ARVN Bn made heavy contact with that unit 8 km west of the Dak Seang CIDG Camp. The ARVN Abn TF was rushed into the area and fought a bitter twoday battle to capture a hill believed to have been the location of the regimental CP, killing 189 of the enemy. On 9 Aug, 4-503 Inf moved to Dak Pek, joining the 1-503 Inf already there since 4 Aug, but the two battalions found little. Contacts were so low in August that the 173d Abn Bde was credited with only 4 enemy killed. During the period 1-18 Sep, the brigade continued GREELEY in the Dak To – Dak Seang area, supporting CIDG Operation DARBY, but contact was minimal. On 17 Sep, the brigade (-) began moving by air to Tuy Hoa to begin Operation BOLLING. Only 4-503 Inf and A/3-319 stayed at Dak To, forming Task Force 77 with the 3rd ARVN Abn Bn, 1/42 ARVN Bn and 27th MIKE Force Co for an expedition in the Toumorong Valley that lasted nearly three weeks but found nothing. On 11 Oct, TF 77 was disbanded and that same day, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art departed for Tuy Hoa, terminating Operation GREELEY. Results: 191 enemy killed, 17 captured, 129 US KIA, 210 US WIA. (no info on ARVN losses).

3 Jul.67-7 Apr.68
Operation: RILEY
Location: Bearcat, Camp Martin Cox, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div; TF FORSYTH (from 10 Feb). Task organization: 2-39 Inf, 4-39 Inf, 2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, TF FORSYTH. Execution: Operation RILEY was an internal defense and development operation in Bien Hoa Province and included defense of Camp Martin Cox. When not engaged in strike operations, Headquarters, 1st Bde assumed opcon of all elements engaged in RILEY, including TF FORSYTH (a provisional Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment located at Camp Martin Cox). In the absence of the 1st Bde, TF FORSYTH was allocated sufficient forces to secure the camp and to conduct limited consolidation operations in the area. On 31 Jan 68 in response to the VC Tet Offensive, elements of the 2-47 Inf (M) and 4-39 Inf moved to Long Binh Post for perimeter security. Working in coordination with 2-3 Inf from the 199th Inf Bde (Lt), the two battalions had multiple contacts with the enemy during the day near Ho Nai, killing 213 by bodycount and capturing 32. US losses were 4 KIA and 23 WIA. On 10 Feb 68, the 1st Bde moved to Dong Tam and TF FORSYTH assumed responsibility until termination. Results: 472 enemy killed, 41 detained, 2 returnees, 64 US KIA, 315 US WIA.

8 Jul.-30 Oct.
Operation: MARCH I
Location: Plei Trap Valley, Kontum Province. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: B-50 Det Project OMEGA. Execution: Long range reconnaissance and intelligence gathering conducted in the Plei Trap Valley. Results: (no info).

10 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: FREMONT
Location: Camp Evans, Hill 51, Hill 67, Phong Dien District, Thua Thien Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 4th Marines. Task organization: 2/4 Marines (10 Jul-14 Sep), 3/26 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct). Execution: The 4th Marines initiated Operation FREMONT with its own 2/4 to provide security for Camp Evans, Hill 51, the Phong Dien District Headquarters and a radio transmission site on Hill 67. On 20 Jul, 2/4 provided blocking forces near My Chanh for SLF BRAVO in Operation BEAR CHAIN. BLT 2/3 became opcon to 4th Marines on 22 Jul and joined FREMONT, until back loading on 21 Aug. Contact was sporadic in Aug with only 13 US KIA for the month. During Sep, 2/4 in conjunction with ARVN forces helped secure nearby villages and hamlets during the National Elections. On 14 Sep, 2/4 joined Operation KINGFISHER and was replaced by 3/26 Marines. Contacts remained low until termination, being limited to harassing tactics, mines incidents and sniper fire. Results: 123 enemy killed, 8 captured, 17 US KIA, 196 US WIA.

16 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: KINGFISHER
Location: Dong Ha, Con Thien, Gio Linh, Cua Viet, Ca Lu, Route 9, Route 561, Route 606, Hill 216, C-2, Demilitarized Zone, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d and 9th Marines. Task organization: 3/3 Marines, 2/4 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct), 3/4 Marines, 1/9 Marines, 2/9 Marines, 3/9 Marines, 3/26 Marines (15 Aug-11 Sep), 1st Amtrac Bn. Intelligence: 90th and 812th PAVN Rgts. Execution: KINGFISHER was a continuation of Marine operations south of the DMZ follwing BUFFALO and HICKORY II. Contact was light during the first week. On 21 Jul, 3/3 Marines securing a portion of Route 9 for a 'Rough Rider' convoy bound for Khe Sanh found a NVA battalion dug in on Hill 216 overlooking the road. Tanks, 40mm dusters and artillery pounded the hill and forced the enemy to withdraw. On 28 Jul, 2/9 Marines reinforced with tanks, LVTEs and Ontos was pushing into the DMZ north on Route 606 when it was attacked by an estimated NVA battalion. The column was split in company-size segments and fought desperately all day until reinforcements from 3/4 Marines forced the enemy to break contact. 23 Americans were killed and 251 wounded with only 32 NVA confirmed killed. Ground action was light in early Aug with the largest part of the activity involving artillery attacks on Gio Linh, Con Thien, Cua Viet and Dong Ha. On 21 Aug, an NVA battalion ambushed a small Marine convoy moving from the Rockpile to Ca Lu. Elements form 3/3 were brought in, fighting a six-hour engagement until night fell and the enemy fled to the west. 6 US were killed and 35 wounded, Enemy loses were unknown. The NVA tried again on 7 Sep at almost the same location. This time the battle lasted more than 8 hours. The Marines killed 92 of the enemy while losing 5 KIA and 56 WIA. The Communists tried to disrupt the National Elections on 3 Sep, firing more than 41 rounds of artillery into Dong Ha, damaging 17 helicopters. This attack ended the use of Dong Ha as a permanent helicopter base facility. Con Thien however, remained the primary artillery target for the NVA. On 25 Sep alone, 1,200 rounds slammed into the combat base. On 10 Sep, 3/26 Marines made heavy contact with what seemed to be the entire 812th PAVN Rgt 4 miles southwest of Con Thien. The action lasted for four hours until the enemy broke contact, leaving 140 dead on the battle field. Marine losses had been high also with 34 KIA and 192 WIA, forcing 3/26 to return to Phu Bai the next day to refit. On 21 Sep, 2/9 Marines started a search and destroy operation 1,800 meters east of Con Thien when it ran into heavy resistance from an element of the 90th PAVN Rgt. The battle turned into a stalemate after rain had made the area impassable and both sides withdrew. US casualties were 31 KIA and 118 WIA. Enemy killed were reported at 39. The enemy intensified its attack-by-fire against Con Thien in late Sep, hitting the base with over 3,000 rounds during the period 19-27 Sep. The Americans retaliated by massing one of the greatest concentrations of firepower in support of a single division in the history of the Vietnam War. Marine artillery, ships of the 7th Fleet, Marine and Air Force jets and B-52 bombers poured tons of ordnance into know enemy positions in and north of the DMZ. By the end of Sep, NVA pressure of the outpost had subsided. On 14 Oct, 2/4 Marines was guarding a bridge north of Strong point C-2 when it received a ground attack from an unknown size enemy force. AC-47 gunships helped repel the assault during the night. 21 Americans were killed and 23 wounded. Only 24 NVA bodies were found in the area. The last major action of KINGSIFHER took place during a 9th Marines operation on 25-28 Oct. 2/4 Marines was sweeping north of Con Thien on Route 561 when it was hit by an enemy battalion, beating back several attacks and losing 8 KIA and 45 WIA. Results: 1,117 enemy killed, 5 captured, 340 US KIA, 1,461 US WIA.

17 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: ARDMORE
Location: Khe Sanh, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destro, security. Controlling headquarters: 26th Marines (Forward). Task organization: 1/26 Marines, 3/26 Marines, 1/13 Marines. Execution: Operation ARDMORE was a continuation of Operation CROCKETT and involved the same mission and the same forces. On 21 Jul, B/1/26 and M/3/26 fought a NVA battalion dug on Hill 216 along Route 9 in conjunction with 3/3 Marines from Operation KINGFISHER. Contacts in August were minimal and 3/26 was moved to the KINGFISHER AO on 15 Aug. 1/26 Marines continued patrols and company-size search and destroy operations around Khe Sanh, but with limited contact with the enemy. Results: 113 enemy killed, 6 detained, 10 US KIA, 39 US WIA

27 Jul.-8 Nov.
Operation: SONG THAN 14
Location: Bong Son, Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF BRAVO. Task organization: 1st VNMC BN, 2nd VNMC Bn (27 Jul-4 Oct), 3rd VNMC Bn (4 Oct-6 Nov), C/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: On 27 Jul, TF BRAVO relieved TF ALPHA at Bong Son AF and continued search and destroy operations south of Bong Son in conjunction with Operation PERSHING. Results: (no info)

31 Jul.-3 Nov.
Operation: DAN QUYEN 822
Location: Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 22nd ARVN Division. Results: 141 enemy killed, 181 detained, 44 ARVN KIA, 74 ARVN WIA 3 ARVN MIA.

11 Aug.-21 Oct.
Operation: SONG THAN/701/67
Location: Tan Uyen, Bien Hoa Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF ALPHA. Task organization: 2nd VNMC Bn (10-21 Oct), 4th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-10 Oct), 5th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-15 Sep), 6th VNMC Bn (15 Sep-21 Oct), B/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: Operation conducted in the Tan Uyen area in coordination with the US 1st Inf Div. Results: (no info)

16 Aug-31 Oct.
Operation: 8-67/SAMURAI II & III
Location: A Shau Valley, Happy Valley, Thuat Thien and Quang Nam Provinces. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: Det B-52 Project DELTA,81st ARVN Abn Rgr Bn. Execution: Operation searched areas from the northern stretches of the A Shau Valley into Happy Valley, west of Da Nang. Results: (no info).

1 Sep.-17 Nov.
Operation: STRIKE I
Location: Bien Hoa, Long Binh, AO STRIKE, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 2-47 Inf (M). Execution: Operation STRIKE I was conducted to provide security for the Bien Hoa-Long Binh complex and to prevent rocket attacks. On 17 Nov, STRIKE I was combined with Operation UNIONTOWN. Results: (no info).

5 Sep.-30 Oct.
Operation: DRAGON FIRE
Location: Batangan Peninsula, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d ROKMC Bde. Task organization: 1st, 2d and 5th ROKMC Bns. Execution: The 2d ROKMC Bde conducted this operation to clear insurgent elements from the Batagan Peninsula. Results: 541 enemy killed, 17 captured, 121 detained, 45 ROKMC KIA, 200 ROKMC WIA, 3 USMC WIA.

11 Sep-25 Nov.
Operation: WHEELER
Location: Tien Phuoc, Hiep Duc, Song Tranh, Song Chang, Base Area 116, Base Area 117, UDEN AO, Quang Tin Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 101st Abn Div. Task organization: 1-327 Inf, 2-327 Inf, 2-502 Inf, 1-14 Inf (11-24 Sep), 1-35 Inf (4 Oct-4 Nov), 2-320 Art, A/2-9 Art (4 Oct-4 Nov), B/2-9 Art (11-24 Sep), C/3-16 Art, B/1-9 Cav (2-4 Oct), A/2-17 Cav (17-25 Nov), A/326th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PAVN Div (1st PLAF Rgt, 3rd and 21st PAVN Rgts). Execution: ... SEE PREVIOUS DAY FOR INFORMATION... Results were 9 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 18 US WIA. With the 2nd PAVN Div elements avoiding contact during the period 28 Oct-4 Nov, increased emphasis was placed on attempting to locate the division. On 5 Nov, 1-35 Inf was released from operational control of the brigade and placed under opcon of the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div conducting Operation WALLOWA in the Que Son Basin. The last phase of WHEELER (6-25 Nov) saw 2-327 Inf being air-assaulted into the western portion of BA 116 while 1-327 Inf and 2-502 Inf established blocking positions. On 11 Nov, C/2-327 Inf engaged an NVA company in the Song Chang Valley 4 km east of Hiep Duc. 14 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 5 US WIA. This marked the last significant contact of WHEELER, after that, the badly hurt 2nd PAVN Div avoided any further contact. From 23-25 Nov, brigade elements were relieved in place by elements of the 196th Inf Bde (Lt)61 and displaced to Tam Ky Airfield to move by air to the brigade main base camp at Phan Rang for a four-day stand down and preparation for future operations. Results: 1,105 enemy killed, 50 captured, 445 detained, 11 returnees, 124 US KIA, 465 US WIA.

12 Sep-10 Oct.
Operation: CORONADO V
Location: Dong Tam, Cai Lay, Cam Son Secret Zone, Ban Long Base Area, Loi Quan Island, Song My Tho, Rach Ba Rai, Rach Ben Tre, Route 20, Ding Tuong and Kien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div (MRF); 7th ARVN Div. Task organization: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div: 3-47 Inf (12-17 Sep), 4-47 Inf (17 Sep-10 Oct), 3-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-60 Inf (-)(15-17 Sep), 3-34 Art, D/15th Eng, USN TF 117; 7th ARVN Div: 10th ARVN Rgt, 41st ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 263rd and 506th PLAF Bns. Execution: On 11 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Vung Tau to Dong Tam again and began Operation CORONADO V aimed at the 263rd PLAF Bn which had returned to the Cam Son Secret Zone. On 12 Sep, 3-47 Inf swept north from landing sites on the My Tho but turned up almost nothing. The next day, 3-60 Inf and 5-60 Inf (M) with help from the 7th ARVN Div62 began a sweep of the Ban Long area to the east and made contact with what appeared to be a VC covering force near the site of the VNMC heavy contact in July. The enemy withdrew under cover of darkness, leaving 63 bodies behind. As US and ARVN forces left the Ban Long on 14 Sep, the 7th ARVN Div reported that a large force, presumably the 263rd PLAF Bn, remained in the Cam Son, only a few kilometers north from areas previously swept. On 15 Sep, as 5-60 Inf (M) moved overland via Route 20, 3-60 Inf and 3-47 Inf sailed via the Song My Tho up the Rach Ba Rai between the My Tho and the town of Cai Lay. While 3-47 Inf landed unopposed over WHITE Beach, 3-60 Inf ran into two companies of the 263rd lined up in ambush positions along the east bank of the Ba Rai. Some of the boats managed to run the gauntlet but were forced to turn back as most of the column failed to follow. Two companies from 2-60 Inf were helicoptered from Long An Province to encircle the enemy. The battle lasted until nightfall but when the Americans entered the deserted ambush site the next day they found only 24 enemy killed. On 17 Sep the MRF returned to Dong Tam where 4-47 Inf rotated aboard the ships of the MRF replacing 3-47 Inf. On 20 Sep, the MRF displaced to Kien Hoa Province and began widely separated operations in Ham Long, Giong Trom and Huong My Districts, looking for the 516th PLAF Bn but no major contact took place. On 27 Sep, ATCs performing mine sweeping duties along the Rach Ben Tre received heavy RPG, recoilless and automatic weapons fire. 3 sailors were killed and 6 wounded. On 28 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Dong Tam to the northern end of Loi Quan Island between the Cua Dai and Cua Tieu to reduce logistic distances. Operations in Kien Hoa were in close cooperation with the 10th ARVN Rgt and a composite RF battalions but only sporadic contact was made. On 5-7 Oct the MRF returned to the Ban Long but had only limited contact with elements of the 263rd PLAF Bn and on 10 Sep it displaced to Vung Tau to prepare for CORONADO VI. Results: 330 enemy killed, 235 detained, 2 returnees, 35 US KIA, 175 US WIA.

16 Sep.-29 Oct.
Operation: KUNIA
Location: Ho Bo Woods, Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 3-22 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: Operation KUNIA was conducted as part of BARKING SANDS with the 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div initiating search and destroy operations in the Ho Bo Woods in preparation for the arrival of a land clearing team of thirty Rome Plows. By the end of October 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods had been cleared. Results: (included in BARKING SANDS).

19 Sep. 67-31 Jan. 69
Operation: BOLLING/DAN HOA
Location: Tuy Hoa, Phu Hiep, Binh Tinh, Ma Hoa, AO BLACK, Song Ky Lo, Song Da Rang, Suoi Cai, Phu Yen and Phu Bon Provinces. Type: search and destroy, reconnaissance-in-force, pacification, rice protection. Controlling headquarters: 173d Abn Bde (19 Sep 67-8 Feb 68, 1 Apr 68-31 Jan 69); I FFORCEV (8 Feb-1 Apr 68); 22nd ARVN Div. Task organization: 1-503 Inf (19 Sep-6 Nov 67), 2-503 Inf (12 Oct-6 Nov 67), 3-503 Inf (5 Nov 67-16 Jan 68), 4-503 Inf (19 Sep-1 Nov 67, 16 Dec 67-31 Jan 69), TF 2-8 Cav (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), 3-319 Art, C/2-19 Art (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 47th ARVN Rgt. Intelligence: 5th PAVN Div (18B and 95th PAVN Rgts), 30th and 95th PLAF LF Bns, K65 and K76 Sapper Cos. Execution: During the period 14-19 Sep, the bulk of the brigade (minus 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art) was relocated by air from Dak To to Tuy Hoa to commence long-term Operation BOLLING in cooperation with the 47th ARVN Rgt. The 2-8 Cav was opconed to the brigade until 14 Oct to compensate for 2-503 Inf remaining at Dak To, and was air-assaulted into the BOLLING AO on 19 Sep. The operation was designed to provide security for the local rice harvest. Daily contact was maintained with enemy forces in September and October but seldom larger than squad size. During October, the brigade relocated its rear base camp facility from Bien Hoa to An Khe, moving by sea via Saigon and Qui Nhon. On 12 Oct, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 returned from the Highlands, relieving TF 2-8 Cav and on 22 Oct, the new 3-503 Inf arrived in-country from Fort Bragg, undergoing jungle training in An Khe prior to deployment to the BOLLING AO. On 1 Nov, 4-503 Inf was alerted for immediate departure for Dak To, followed five days later by the brigade minus (headquarters, 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 3-319 Art). On 5 Nov, 3-503 Inf arrived at Tuy Hoa from An Khe and assumed responsibility for Operation BOLLING. Contact continued to be light in November; on 16 Dec, the brigade headquarters, 4-503 Inf and C and D/3-319 Art were redeployed from Operation MACARTHUR, closing into the BOLLING AO that same day. On 27 Dec, 3-503 Inf conducted a series of combat assaults into the Song Ky Lo Valley 15 km northwest of Dong Tre and engaged two enemy companies. Elements of 4-503 Inf reinforced the battle area until contact was lost on 29 Dec. Results were 62 enemy killed, 12 US KIA and 34 US WIA. Contact was infrequent in January and a battalion task force built around 3-503 Inf moved to An Khe on 16 Jan 68 to assume responsibility of the Operation DAZZLEM AO63 from the departing 1st Cav Div. On 30 Jan, the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt attacked several targets in the Tuy Hoa area as part of the enemy's Tet Offensive, including a FSB held by C/6-32 Art, the Binh Tin hamlet, Tuy Hoa North AF and the provincial prison. D/4-503 Inf and two companies from the 2nd Bn, 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked toward the airfield and by 0730 on 31 Jan, the enemy force was surrounded and destroyed in Binh Tin hamlet. On 5-6 Feb, two battalions of the 47th ARVN Rgt and RF elements reduced an enemy strong point in the center of Tuy Hoa. During the fighting in and around Tuy Hoa, 316 enemy had been killed and 104 captured. During February, 4-503 Inf in conjunction with Strike Force elements from Cung Son and Dong Tre CIDG Camps, and Task Force MITCHELL (E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm) conducted search and destroy operations west of Tuy Hoa and helped mop up the aftermath of the Tet Offensive. It also provided security for the 577th Eng C Bn and 173d Eng Co working on Routes 7B and 436. On 8 Feb, the 173d Abn Bde (-) departed Tuy Hoa to assumed Opcon of TF POWERHOUSE (1-503 and 2-503 Inf) in Kontum Province in the MACARTHUR AO. Operation BOLLING passed under control of I FFORCEV which assumed opcon of TF 4-503 build around 4-503 Inf, Btys C and D, 3-319 Art and D/16 Arm. A major contact developed on 4 Mar when the 47th ARVN Rgt contacted the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt and 85th PLAF Bn in three hamlets along the coast just north of Tuy Hoa. D/16 Arm and elements of the 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked while the 47th ARVN Rgt provided blocking positions. D/16 was credited with 137 NVA killed during the action while suffering 10 KIA and 21 WIA. Contact during the rest of March was sporadic in the BOLLING AO. On 1 Apr, the brigade returned from the Highlands, relieving the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div at Bong Son64 and assumed control over TF 4-503 again. Contact was light during the month of April except on the 5th when D/16 Arm again supported the 47th ARVN Rgt in heavy contact with two enemy battalions at Ma Hoa village in Tuy Hoa Valley just off Route 7B north of the Song Da Rang. In May, 4-503 Inf conducted extensive bushmaster operations, on 2 May, Co B killed 8 enemy soldiers in the Suoi Cai Valley 18 km west of Tuy Hoa. In June, the enemy continued to avoid decisive contact with Allied force, relying on harassing tactics instead. During the period 16-27 Jul, 4-503 Inf conducted search and clear operations in AO BLACK located 25 km southwest of Cung Son on the Phu Bon and Darlac provincial boundary but there was no significant contact. On 30 July, 4-503 Inf joined the 3/47 ARVN Bn and elements of the 26th ROK Rgt to conduct a combined operation in the Song Ky Lo Valley but contact was again limited. Prisoners confirmed that the bulk of the 18B and 95th PAVN Rgts had departed Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa Province to refit in Cambodia. Contact remained light for the rest of Operation BOLLING, limited to engagements with squad-size enemy forces and booby traps incidents. On 1 Feb 69 the BOLLING/DAN HOA AO became a permanent TAOR called LY DO/WAINWRIGHT. Results: 715 enemy killed, 72 US KIA, 307 US WIA (no info on ARVN casualties).

24 Sep.-9 Oct.
Operation: ARKANSAS CITY II
Location: Phuoc Tuy Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 11th ACR. Execution: (no info)

26 Sep.-21 Oct.
Operation: AKRON III
Location: Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone), Phuoc Tuy and Bien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-39 Inf, B/2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, 2/48 ARVN Bn, 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 274th PLAF Rgt. Execution: AKRON III was a continuation of land clearing and search and destroy operations in Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone). Contact with the enemy was light and sporadic throughout the operation but the largest known weapons cache in the III CTZ to date was discovered, contacting over 200,000 rounds of small arms, 1,022 small arms and 125 crew served weapons. Results: (no info).

29 Sep.-11 Nov.
Operation: KENMORE
Location: Xuyen Moc, AO WARATAH, AO BANKSIA, Phuoc Tuy Province. Controlling headquarters: 1ATF. Task organization: 7RAR, A Sqn 3 Cav, 4 Fld Rgt, A/1-35 Art, A/1-83d Art. Execution: Operation took place in AOs WARATAH and BANKSIA, 6 km southeast of Xuyen Moc and bordering 24 km of coastline with infrequent contact. Results: 16 enemy killed, 1 captured, no friendly casualties.

29 Sep.-19 Nov.
Operation: SHENANDOAH II
Location: Lai Khe, Loc Ninh, Chon Thanh, Suoi Ong Thanh, Michelin Plantation, Long Nguyen Secret Zone, Route 13, LZ APPLE, FSB CAISSON II, FSB CAISSON III, FSB CAISSON IV, FSB CAISSON V, FSB CAISSON VI, FSB CAISSON VII, FSB LORRAINE II, Binh Duong and Binh Long Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Inf Div; 1st Bde, 1st Inf Div (29 Sep-19 Nov); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (30 Sep-30 Oct). Task organization: 1-2 Inf (29 Sep-18 Oct; 21-28 Oct), 2-2 Inf (M)(29 Sep-23 Oct), 1-16 Inf (29 Sep; 18-29 Oct; 8-19 Nov), 1-18 Inf (4-13 Oct; 29 Oct-19 Nov), 1-26 Inf (31 Oct-8 Nov), 1-28 Inf (29 Sep-10 Oct; 13 Oct-11 Nov), 2-28 Inf (7-18 Oct; 30 Oct-19 Nov), 2-12 Inf (2-7 Nov), 1-4 Cav (29 Sep-30 Oct), 1-5 Art (29 Sep-19 Nov), 6-15 Art (30 Oct-19 Nov), 2-33 Art (30 Sep-30 Oct). Intelligence: 9th PLAF Div (271st, 272nd, 273rd PLAF Rgts). Execution: Operation SHENANDOAH II initially covered an area from slightly south of Lai Khe, north approximately 18 miles and west to the edge of the Michelin Plantation, a region known as the Long Nguyen Secret Zone where the 271st PLAF Rgt was reported. The AO was expanded later to include the area between Lai Khe and Loc Ninh and between Route 13 west to the 25th Inf Div AO. On 29 Sep, 1-2 Inf began search and destroy operation in AO MIKE 12 miles north of Lai Khe while 1-28 Inf displaced via motor convoy from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh. Simultaneously, 1-4 Cav with A/2-2 Inf (M) opcon began clearing Route 13 From Lai Khe to Chon Thanh and secured FSBs CAISSON II & III. The first engagement with the VC took place on 4 Oct when 1-2 Inf made contact with an unknown size enemy force 10 km southwest of Chon Thanh. 12 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 26 US WIA. In reaction, 1-18 Inf moved by helicopter from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh and was air-assaulted into an LZ 1 km west of the 1-2 Inf contact. The LZ was cold but 29 enemy bodies KBA were found in the immediate vicinity. On 6 Oct, 1-18 Inf received mortar fire followed by a heavy ground assault. Result was 50 enemy killed, 3 US KIA and 4 US WIA. On 7 Oct, another battalion, 2-28 Inf, was added to the operation, moving via road convoy to Chon Thanh and then to field location. On 10 Oct, 1-28 Inf, having made little contact, was extracted from the field and returned to Phuoc Vinh. The next major engagement occurred on 11 Oct when B/1-18 Inf made contact with an estimated 100-150 enemy 31 km west of Highway 13, killing 21 while losing 1 KIA and 4 WIA. On 13 Oct, 1-28 Inf returned to the SHENANDOAH II AO, relieving 1-18 Inf in place. Contact during the next few days was limited but on 17 Oct, Cos A & D, 2-28 Inf were ambushed while following a trail south of the Suoi Ong Thanh. Contact began at 1015 when Co A received sniper fire. Close fighting began to develop rapidly and the two companies were soon engulfed by a very heavy volume of fire. The battalion's CO65, S-2, SGM and both company commanders became casualties. Both companies pulled back under fire to allow for close air support and artillery fire as Co B and C were rushed in to reinforced, followed by Co D, 1/16 inf later in the afternoon when the enemy broke contact. Losses had been very heavy for the Americans with 52 KIA, 72 WIA and 2 MIA. 103 enemy bodies were counted in the battle area the next day. On 18 Oct, 2-28 Inf was relieved in place by the rest of 1-16 Inf and was extracted to Lai 65 LTC Terry de la Mesa Allen, Jr., KIA 17 Oct 67. Khe, followed by 1-2 Inf which returned to Phuoc Vinh. On 19 Oct, 1-16 Inf continued search and destroy operations in the vicinity of the 17 Oct battle while 1-28 Inf was extracted briefly to Chon Thanh to allow for a B-52 strike to take place before returning to the field. On 21 Oct, 1-2 Inf was inserted into the AO again after a road march from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh but contact remained low for the rest on the month. At 0115 on 29 Oct, two battalions of the 273rd PLAF Rgt launched a ground assault on the Loc Ninh District Headquarters and Loc Ninh CIDG Camp. Two reconnaissance companies from the 5th ARVN Div reacted immediately, being airlifted from Phu Loi to Loc Ninh and counterattacking along with two CIDG companies to regain the northern part of the sub sector compound, clearing it by 1300. At that point, Operation SHENANDOAH II was expanded to include the battle of Loc Ninh, with 1-18 Inf deploying to the battle area to occupy blocking positions 4 km west of the town. 2/9 ARVN Bn was also brought in and deployed in and around the sub sector compound. On 30 Oct, the 1st Bde CP arrived at Quan Loi to control US forces at Loc Ninh. That same day, A/1-18 Inf made contact with an enemy company, killing 85. At 0100 on 31 Oct, elements of the 272nd and 273rd PLAF Rgts renewed their attacks on the sub sector and SF compounds. Very heavy fighting took place all night with TACAIR and AC-47 gunships supporting the defenders until 0700 when the enemy broke contact. Later that day, 1-28 Inf conducted an air-assault 4 km southeast of Loc Ninh while 1-26 joined the operation, securing FSB CAISSON VII near An Loc where the 5th ARVN TAC CP was also established. 126 enemy had been killed during the night attack at the cost of 9 KIA and 56 WIA for the Allied forces. 1 Nov was relatively quite but starting at 0045 on 2 Nov, a third attack was launched, this time on the sub sector compound, CIDG camp, 1-18 Inf NDP and the 6-15 Art FSB near the Loc Ninh Airfield. All were repulsed with a combination of heavy, accurate fire by the defenders, artillery and effective close air support. At 0820, 1-26 Inf conducted an airmobile assault 6 km northwest of Loc Ninh, followed later in the afternoon by 2-12 Inf detached from the 25th Inf Div. 296 more enemies had been killed during the attack at the cost of 7 killed and 36 wounded to friendly forces. On 3 Nov, the 36th ARVN Rgr Bn arrived to participate in reconnaissance-in-force operations with the four US infantry battalions. On 7 Nov, 1-26 Inf engaged an unknown size enemy force 6 km northeast of Loc Ninh, killing 66 but losing 17 KIA and 21 WIA. This was the last major engagement of SHENANDOAH II, the 272nd and 273rd avoiding any further contact with Allied forces. Results: 956 enemy killed, 63 detained, 107 US KIA, 322 US WIA.

30 Sep.-2 Oct.
Operation: QUYET THANG 614
Location: Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2nd ARVN Div. Results: 65 enemy killed, 16 detained, 9 ARVN KIA, 28 ARVN WIA.

New Operations

None

Other

None

[Jason Petho]

Ongoing Operations today in 1967

26 Aug.66-20 Jan.68
Operation: BYRD
Location: Phan Thiet, LZ BETTY, Binh Thuan Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: I FFORCEV. Task organization: TF 2-7: 2-7 Cav, C/1-9 Cav, A/1-21 Art, C/2-20 Art (-), C/8th Eng Bn (-), C/229th Avn Bn, Det 228th Avn Bn. Execution: Planned as a short-term, economy-of-force measure, BYRD became a continuous offensive that would last into 1968. Upon I FFORCEV request, the 1st Cav Div detached at battalion-size task force to help pacify isolated Binh Thuan Province in southern II Corps. Results (at year's end): 351 enemy killed, 151 detained, 8 US KIA, 85 US WIA.

1 Oct.66-17 Jan 68
Operation: DAZZLEM
Location: Camp Radcliff, An Khe, Binh Dinh Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization: Base Defense Task Force. Execution: Operation DAZZLEM was the contingency plan for the defense of Camp Radcliff provided by one infantry battalion with supporting artillery and
reinforcing personnel from residence units. On 17 Jan 68, the 173d Abn Bde relieved the 1st Cav Div from the mission of defending An Khe. Results: 80 enemy killed, 9 detained.

11 Oct.66-17 Nov.67
Operation: UNIONTOWN II
Location: Long Binh, Bien Hoa Province Type: security. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV. Execution: Operation UNIONTOWN was a security operation designed to protect the Long Binh logistical complex, RMK Rock Quarry and II FFORCEV Headquarters. Units were assigned on a rotation basis from each major command under II FFORCEV.

30 Nov. 66-15 Dec.67
Operation: FAIRFAX/RANG DONG
Location: Nha Be, Thu Duc and Binh Chanh Districts, Gia Dinh Province. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV, CMD. Task organization: 1st Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 2-16 Inf; 4th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3-22 Inf; 25th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 4-9 Inf; CMD (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3rd and 5th ARVN Abn Bns, 30th Ranger Bn; 199th LIB (31 Jan-15 Dec.): 2-3 Inf, 3-7 Inf, 4-12 Inf, 2-40 Art; 5th ARVN Ranger Group (31 Jan.-15 Dec): 30th, 33rd and 38th ARVN Ranger Bns. Intelligence: Military Region 4, 165A PLAF Regiment. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE... Results (end of 1966): 149 enemy killed, 40 detained, 11 US KIA, 67 US WIA, 23 ARVN KIA, 58 ARVN WIA, 1 ARVN MIA.

8 Feb.67-31 Jan.68
Operation: LAM SON 67
Location: Phu Loi, An My, Ong Dong Jungle, Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, security, jungle clearing. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 1st Inf Div (8 Feb-17 Mar, 17 Apr 67-31 Jan 68); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (17 Mar-17 Apr). Task organization: 1st Inf Div Revolutionary Development Task Force (various infantry, cavalry and support units were assigned on a rotation basis during the period). Execution: The operation supported the GVN's Revolutionary Development Program in conjunction with ARVN units in Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. LAM SON 67 consisted of cordon and search, reconnaissance in force, harassment, jungle clearing, population control, civic action and psychological warfare operations directed against priority targets. Contact in the AO was characterized by light sporadic incidents with local VC elements. On 6 Jan 68, the Phu Loi base camp received 123 rounds of mixed mortar fire, 46 aircraft were damaged and 6 US WIA. Reacting to the attack, A/2-18 Inf and B/2-2 Inf (M) swept the area to the north of the base and contacted two enemy companies of the Phu Loi PLAF Bn. 92 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 14 US WIA. Operation LAM SON 67 was terminated on 31 Jan 68 with the beginning of the enemy's Tet Offensive. Results: 527 enemy killed, 263 captured, 2,327 detained, 346 defectors, 56 US KIA, 572 US WIA.

12 Feb. 67-18 Jan. 68
Operation: PERSHING
Location: Bong Son, Tuy An, Tam Quan, Hoa Tan, Sa Huynh, Truong Son, An Qui, Trung Xuan, An Lac, An Lao Valley, Kim Son Valley, Suoi Ca Valley, 506 Valley, Nuoc Dinh Valley, Phu My Valley, Song Re Valley, the Crescent, Nui Mieu, Nui Sang, Cay Giep, Dam Tra-O Lake, Route 1, LZ BRONCO BEACH, LZ CRYSTAL, LZ ENGLISH, LZ GARNET, LZ GERONIMO, LZ GLENN, LZ HAMMOND, LZ IRON, LZ MEADE, LZ PAT, LZ SANDRA, LZ STEEL, LZ TOM, LZ TWO BITS, LZ UPLIFT, Binh Dinh and Quang Ngai Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization (As of 12 Feb): 1 s t Bde: 1-8 Cav, 1-12 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-19 Art (-), D/2-17 Art, C/1-21 Art, A/3-18 Art; 2d Bde: 2-5 Cav, 1-5 Cav (-), 1-7 Cav (-), 2-12 Cav, 1-77 Art (-), B/1-8 Art, A/1-21 Art, C/1-30 Art, B/8th Eng; 3d Bde: 2-8 Cav, C/1-5 Cav, 1-21 Art (-), 2-17 Art (-), C/6-16 Art, C/2-19 Art, C/8th Eng; 3d Bde, 25 t h Inf Div (12 Feb-19 Apr): 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf (4-19 Apr), 2-9 Art, A/1-77 Art, 5-16 Art, C/3-4 Cav, D/65th Eng; Div Arty: 2-20 Art (-), 7-13 Art (-), B/29 Art, E/82 Art, 3-18 Art (-); Div Troops: 1-9 Cav, 8th Eng Bn (-). Intelligence: 3rd PAVN Div: 18th and 22nd PAVN Rgts, 2nd PLAF Rgt. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE ... Results: 5,
388 enemy killed, 2,356 captured, 10,609 detained, 221 returnees, 852 US KIA, 4,119 US WIA, 22 US MIA.

13 Feb. 67-10 Mar. 68
Operation: ENTERPRISE
Location: Tan An, Rach Kien, Ben Luc, Binh Phuoc, Tan Tru, Doi Ma Creek, Plain of Reeds9, Base Area 371, Route 14, Long An Province. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, eagle flights. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 3-39 Inf, 2-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-4 Art, C/15th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PLAF MF Bn, 506th PLAF LF Bn. Execution: ENTERPRISE was the continuation of the pacification effort of Long An Province initiated the previous year by the 25th Inf Div with Operation LANIKAI. On 13 Feb, 3-39 Inf relieved 2-14 Inf at Rach Kien. Strength of division elements in the province were subsequently increased to brigade size with movement of 2-60 Inf into Tan Tru, 5-60 Inf into Binh Phuoc and Headquarters, 3d Bde into Tan An. The first major engagement occurred on 9 Apr when 3-39 Inf made contact with the 506th PLAF Bn on the bank of Doi Ma Creek. Additional companies were brought in, killing 247 of the enemy. On 2 May, the 506th Bn exacted vengeance on the 3-39 Inf, attacking one of its companies in night defensive position near Route 4. 17 US were KIA and 48 WIA but no enemy bodies were found. The operation was temporarily extended north to the Plain of Reeds area on 8-14 May with sub-operation NIRVANA II directed against the enemy's Base Area 371. Elements of the 3d Bde joined forces with the 4/50 ARVN Bn of the 25th ARVN Div but found nothing, killing only 14 of the enemy. On 14 May, the 2nd PLAF Bn struck the compound of the 2/50 ARVN Bn in Rach Kien, killing 31 South Vietnamese soldiers and wounding 34. 3d Bde units were committed but couldn't regain contact with the attacking force. After that, contact with the enemy dropped sharply for the remainder of 1967, indicating an apparent enemy desire to avoid friendly forces. On 31 Jan 68, the brigade responded to the Tet Offensive, 5-60 Inf engaged in heavy fighting southwest of Saigon in Gia Dinh Province, killing 128 enemy soldiers. From 1-5 Feb, 3-39 Inf and 2-60 Inf were sent to Kien Hoa Province to help recapture Ben Tre, the provincial capital. On 10 Feb, the brigade HQ at Tan An came under attack from an unknown size enemy force. 33 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 53 US WIA. During March, brigade elements conducted "Aquabush" operations along the numerous canals south of Saigon in conjunction with the 199th Inf Bde (Lt). Pacification activities decreased sharply during the Tet Offensive and the operation was terminated on 10 March. Results: 2,107 enemy killed, 74 US KIA, 380 US WIA.

14 Feb.67-21 Mar.68
Operation: KITTYHAWK
Location: Long Binh, Xuan Loc, Long Giao, Gia Ray, Suoi Cat, Blackhorse, Route 1, Route 2, Long Khanh and Bien Hoa Province. Type: reconnaissance-in-force, cordon and search, security, road clearing. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div (14 Feb 67-15 Feb 68); 11th ACR (15 Feb-21 Mar 68). Task organization: 3-5 Cav, 1/11 ACR, 2/11 ACR, 3/11 ACR. Intelligence: 275th PLAF Rgt. Execution: The purpose of KITTYHAWK was to secure LOCs and selected installations within Long Khanh Province, conduct reconnaissance-in-force operations and cordon and search of selected hamlets within the AO, secure Blackhorse base camp and the Gia Ray rock quarry and provide ready reaction forces along Route 1. On 21 May, K Troop, 3/11 ACR was ambushed by an estimated reinforced enemy battalion near Suoi Cat on Route 1. 30 enemy are killed, 12 US KIA and 13 US WIA. On 27 Jun 1/11 ACR moved to reinforce the 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn which was in heavy contact with elements of the 3rd Bn, 275th PLAF Rgt, killing 49 of the enemy11. On 30 Dec two enemy companies ambushed Troop C, 3-5 Cav on Route 2. Friendly losses are 10 KIA, 29 WIA and 3 MIA. On 31 Jan 68, in reaction to the VC Tet Offensive, the 3-5 Cav was alerted to respond to enemy activity in the Long Binh-Bien Hoa area. A/3-5 Cav bypassed several roadblocks, breaking through enemy forces and reached the Bien Hoa airfield, sweeping nearby wood lines and killing 40. During the period 2-3 Feb, C/3-5 Cav was sent to defend Xuan Loc against an intense ground attack, killing nearly 50 enemy soldiers. On 15 Feb the KITTYHAWK mission was assumed by the 11th ACR as the 3-5 Cav (-) was directed by HQ USARV to deploy to Da Nang, I CTZ. On 21 Mar, the operation was phased into Operation ALCORN COVE. Results: 201 enemy killed, 7 captured, 1 returnee, 62 US KIA, 224 US WIA.

5 Apr.-11 Oct.
Operation: FRANCIS MARION
Location: Plei Me, Duc Co, Plei Djereng, Plei Mrong, Plei Do Lim, Buon Blech, Se San, Ia Drang, Ia Tchar, Dak Ayun, Dak Payou, Chu Pong, Chu Prong, Chu Goungot, Chu Groh, Route 14, Route 14B, Route 19E, Route 509, Hill 521, LZ OASIS, LZ JACKSON HOLE, Pleiku and Darlac Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: (effective 7 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, B/4-42 Art, C/3-4 Cav (-), A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (-), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, Plt B/1-69 Arm, 4-42 Art (-), B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), Plt C/2-8 Inf (-), Cav Plt 1-10 Cav, B/3-6 Art, A/5-16 Art; TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 26 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), C/4-42 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h In f Div: 2-8 Inf, 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), A/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), A/3-6 Art; TF 3-8 Inf: 3-8 Inf, C/6-29 Art, A/5-16 Art; Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 30 May): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (M), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art, B/4th Eng (-); 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, D/16 Arm, E/17 Cav, 173d Eng Co; TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 5-16 Art (-); Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 24 Sep): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 2-8 Inf (M), 3-8 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), A/4-42 Art,, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div: 1-12 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), B/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: 2-1 Cav, D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Intelligence: B3 Front, 1st NVA Div (32nd, 66th and 88th Rgts), 10th NVA Div (95B and 101C Rgts), 200th NVA Art Bn, 407th PLAF MF Sapper Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn.. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE.... Results: 1,204 enemy killed, 122 detained, 11 returnees, 198 US KIA, 982 US WIA, 8 US MIA.

22 Apr.67-2 Jan 68.
Operation: BAKER
Location: Duc Pho, Mo Duc, Vinh Hien, Tan Phong, Dien Truong, An Ba, An Tach, Song Tra Cau, Song Ve, LZ MONTEZUMA (later renamed LZ BRONCO), LZ GUADALCANAL, LZ OLIVE DRAB, LZ LIZ, LZ DRAGON, RAZORBACK Beach, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde TF, 25th Inf Div (redesignated 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div on 1 Aug). Task organization: 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf, 2-9 Art, C/3-4 Cav, B/1-9 Cav, C/2-34 Arm. Intelligence: 1st PLAF Rgt, 2nd PLAF Rgt, 22nd PAVN Rgt. Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: (no info).

14 May.-7 Dec.
Operation: KOLE KOLE
Location: Duc Hoa, Bao Trai, Hiep Hoa, Loc Giang, Trang Bang, Song Vam Co Dong, Rach Tra, Xinh An Ha, Route 10, Hau Nghia and Tay Ninh Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 1-5 Inf (M), 1-27 Inf, 2-27 Inf, 1-8 Art. Intelligence: 2nd Go Mon and 269th PLAF LF Bns. Execution: Operation KOLE KOLE was initiated by the 2d Bde in Hau Nghia Province using EAGLE FLIGHTS and airmobile operations based on current intelligence. Cordon and search, outposting and country fair operations were also conducted in conjunction with the 25th ARVN Div, CIDG and RF/PF. On 17 May, elements of 1/27 Inf and 2/27 Inf fought an eight-hour engagement west of the Vam Co Dong with a VC company. Results were 27 enemy killed, 2 US KIA and 9 US WIA. There was intermittent contact during June and July, particularly along the An Ha canal and near Loc Giang. The brigade also secured engineer operations along Route 10 to improve the GVN's authority and control west of Trang Bang. In early August, the reconnaissance platoon of 1/27 Inf with helicopter support intercepted VC recon elements from Long An Province, killing 26. During September, KOLE KOLE shifted to northern Hau Nghai and southwestern Tay Ninh Province. 1-5 Inf (M) conducted extensive dismounted ambush patrols around Loc Giang along the Vam Co while 2-27 Inf engaged scattered elements of the 269th PLAF Bn. On 21 Oct, an EAGLE FLIGHT from 1-27 Inf engaged an estimated enemy platoon south of Tay Ninh, killing 18. On 31 Oct, 2-27 Inf made contact with elements of the 2nd Go Mon Bn north of the Rach Tra, killing 28 and capturing 2. Enemy activity decreased for the rest of KOLE KOLE and the brigade concentrated on pacification and land clearing operations. Results: 797 enemy killed, 150 detained, 34 returnees, 144 US KIA, 876 US WIA

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: BARKING SANDS
Location: Cu Chi, Trang Bang, Phu Hoa, Iron Triangle, Ho Bo Woods, Song Saigon, Hau Nghia and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: The 1st Bde employed counter guerrilla warfaretechniques including saturation patrolling, checkmate, bushmaster and cordon and search operations to pacify Cu Chi and Trang Bang Districts in Hau Nghia Province and Phu Hoa District in Binh Duong Province. Buddy operations were also conducted with local PF platoons and RF companies. On 30 Aug, 4-9 Inf conducted an airmobile assault against an entrenched VC battalion in the Iron Triangle resulting in 4 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 43 US WIA. During September, primary emphasis was placed on denying VC access to populated areas during the National Elections. Land clearing operations were also initiated along the Song Saigon to eliminate VC concealment. In October, 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods were cleared by Rome Plows following Operation KUNIA. Contact during BARKING SANDS was limited to squad and platoon size elements and no major engagement occurred. Four sub-operations were conducted in the BARKING SANDS AO during the period: KAWELA, AKUMU,WAIMEA and KUNIA (see individual operations below). Results (inclusive of the four sub-operations): 370 enemy killed, 85 detained, 10 returnees, 110 US KIA, 1114 US WIA.

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: DIAMOND HEAD
Location: Tay Ninh West, Dau Tieng, Suoi Da, Prek Klok, Ben Cui, Michelin Plantation, Boi Loi Woods, The Crescent, The Trapezoid, Tay Ninh and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div33. Task organization: 2-12 Inf, 2-22 Inf (M), 3-22 Inf, 2-77 Art, 2-34 Arm (-) (from 22 Sep), C/1-10 Cav, C/4th Eng. Execution: The mission was to conduct search and destroy operations in Tay Ninh Province, cordon and search operations in the Michelin Plantation, and security and reinforcement missions in the Tay Ninh and Prek Klok areas. With one battalion detached to Operation UNIONTOWN and another providing security for the Dau Tieng and Tay Ninh West base camps, contact in the AO were very limited during the months of May, June and July. On 1 Aug, the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div was redesignated the 3d Bde, 25th Inf Div. No movement of troops or units were involved in this redesignation. On 15 Aug, an airmobile cordon and search of Thanh An was conducted by 3-22 Inf in conjunction with VN National Police. 6 enemy were killed and 42 detained. In September, the brigade provided security during the National elections. In October, continued battalion size search and destroy operations were conducted in the Michelin Plantation to prevent its use as an enemy haven, in and south of Ben Cui, and in the northern portion of the Trapezoid, which extends 15 km to the southeast of Dau Tieng. Bushmaster operations were conducted in an area known as the Crescent, 8 km northwest of Dau Tieng. All operations were marked by extremely light contact. In November, operations were conducted in the upper Boi Loi Woods and in the Ben Cui Plantation, again with light contact. During this period operations were curtailed due to two battalions being opcon to the other brigades. On 25-25 Now, 2-22 Inf (M) made contact with a VC company near the Mushroom bend on the Saigon River, killing 20. This was the last contact during DIAMOND HEAD before the operation came to an end on 7 Dec. Results: 237 enemy killed, 496 detained, 4 returnees. (US losses unknown).

1 Jun.67-7 Feb.68
Operation: HOPTAC
Location: Dong Tam, Dinh Tuong Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: Task Force FUNSTON39. Execution: Operation HOPTAC was an internal defense and development operation in Dinh Tuong Province which included security of the Dong Tam base. Task Force FUNSTON provided land and waterborne security for engineer dredging equipment and maintained a ready reaction force to assist local GVN units and installations if needed. In most cases contact with the VC was characterized by light fire fights and sniper fire. On 1 Feb 68 the enemy fired more than 170 82 mm mortar and 75 mm RR rounds into the base resulting in minor damage and 11 US WIA. In the early morning hours of 3, 4, 5 and 7 Feb, the enemy continued to attack the base with mortar and RR fire. The heaviest attack came on 7 Feb with an estimated 200 rounds fired at the base. Elements of 5-60 Inf and 2-39 Inf conducted reaction airmobile assaults and RIF operations 8 km east of Dong tam, making contact with two VC companies, killing 23 while losing 5 KIA and 11 WIA. Results: 296 enemy killed, 11 captured, 3 returnees, 37 US KIA, 364 US WIA.

18 Jun.-12 Oct.
Operation: GREELEY
Location: Kontum, Dak To, Tan Canh, Dak Seang, Dak Pek, Toumorong, Dak Poko, Dak Akoi, Hill 830, Hill 1338, FSB 4, Kontum Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (24 Jun-25 Jul): 1-7 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-12 Cav, 1-21 Art; 1st ARVN Abn TF (24 Jun-25 Jul): 3d, 5th and 8th ARVN Abn Bns; 24th STZ: 1/42 Inf. Intelligence: 24th and 174th PAVN Rgts, K101D PAVN Bn, 304th PLAF MF Bn, 200th PLAF Art Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn . Execution: From 1-18 Jun, the 173d Abn Bde continued participation in Operation FRANCIS MARION, searching further south and east in the Ia Drang Valley. The brigade deployed the 1-503 Inf and 2-503 Inf into the AO, holding 4-503 Inf in reserve at Catecka. No significant contact was made. On 17 Jun, TF MC QUARRIE (2-503 Inf, E/17 Cav, A/3-319 Art) moved by air and motor convoy to the New Dak To Airfield, joined the following day by 1-503 Inf. The mission, named GREELEY, was to assume opcon of the CIDG Camp at Dak To under threat from the 24th PAVN Rgt and assist in its defense. On 18 Jun, 2-503 Inf began searching south of Dak To toward the huge mass of Hill 1338 (Ngok Bor Beang). C/1-503 Inf was also inserted into the area to search for a missing SF and CIDG team which had been destroyed by the NVA on 15-16 Jun, 1400 meters southwest of their camp. On 22 Jun, after a fruitless search of Hill 1338, 2-503 Inf was instructed to return to Dak To on foot. Shortly after leaving its NDP, A/2-503 bumped into an enemy battalion from the 24th PAVN Rgt42 while descending the slopes of Hill 1338. Two platoons were cut off and annihilated while the rest of the company formed a small perimeter and called supporting fires. Cos B and C were rushed to the rescue but arrived too late. 76 Americans had been killed, some executed point blank by the enemy, and 23 wounded. 106 enemy bodies were counted in the battle area. This action became known as 'The Battle of the Slopes' and as one of the costliest engagement for US forces in Vietnam. Concerned by the size of the battle and the US losses, General Larsen at I FFORCEV decided to reinforce GREELEY. On 23 Jun, 2-12 Cav arrived from the PERSHING AO while the rest of the 173d Abn Bde (CP (-) and 4-503 Inf) closed Dak To from Catecka. The next day, 24 Jun, the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (-) and 1st ARVN Abn TF arrived at Kontum. The Allied forces went after the 24th PAVN Rgt, seeking to destroy it. In the next two weeks, the 173d Abn Bde and 2-12 Cav searched west and south of Dak To while the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div and the ARVN Abn TF entered the Dak Akoi Valley northeast of Kontum and 35 km east of Dak To. The sweep found little evidence of the enemy's presence and on 25 Jul the cavalry brigade returned to the coast, while the Vietnamese task force stood down at Kontum to serve as a mobile reaction force. Southwest of Dak To on 10 Jul, 4-503 Inf, while searching for a regimental headquarters, found an occupied enemy bunker complex on Hill 830. Battle raged until 12 Jul with 22 US KIA and 62 US WIA but only 9 enemy bodies found. This was the last significant contact on the month. On 19 Jul, 2 NVA soldiers rallied at Dak Pek CIDG Camp, stating that they were 42 Later identified as the 6th Bn, 24th PAVN Rgt. from the newly infiltrated 174th PAVN Rgt. They were proved correct on 6 Aug when the 1/42 ARVN Bn made heavy contact with that unit 8 km west of the Dak Seang CIDG Camp. The ARVN Abn TF was rushed into the area and fought a bitter twoday battle to capture a hill believed to have been the location of the regimental CP, killing 189 of the enemy. On 9 Aug, 4-503 Inf moved to Dak Pek, joining the 1-503 Inf already there since 4 Aug, but the two battalions found little. Contacts were so low in August that the 173d Abn Bde was credited with only 4 enemy killed. During the period 1-18 Sep, the brigade continued GREELEY in the Dak To – Dak Seang area, supporting CIDG Operation DARBY, but contact was minimal. On 17 Sep, the brigade (-) began moving by air to Tuy Hoa to begin Operation BOLLING. Only 4-503 Inf and A/3-319 stayed at Dak To, forming Task Force 77 with the 3rd ARVN Abn Bn, 1/42 ARVN Bn and 27th MIKE Force Co for an expedition in the Toumorong Valley that lasted nearly three weeks but found nothing. On 11 Oct, TF 77 was disbanded and that same day, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art departed for Tuy Hoa, terminating Operation GREELEY. Results: 191 enemy killed, 17 captured, 129 US KIA, 210 US WIA. (no info on ARVN losses).

3 Jul.67-7 Apr.68
Operation: RILEY
Location: Bearcat, Camp Martin Cox, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div; TF FORSYTH (from 10 Feb). Task organization: 2-39 Inf, 4-39 Inf, 2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, TF FORSYTH. Execution: Operation RILEY was an internal defense and development operation in Bien Hoa Province and included defense of Camp Martin Cox. When not engaged in strike operations, Headquarters, 1st Bde assumed opcon of all elements engaged in RILEY, including TF FORSYTH (a provisional Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment located at Camp Martin Cox). In the absence of the 1st Bde, TF FORSYTH was allocated sufficient forces to secure the camp and to conduct limited consolidation operations in the area. On 31 Jan 68 in response to the VC Tet Offensive, elements of the 2-47 Inf (M) and 4-39 Inf moved to Long Binh Post for perimeter security. Working in coordination with 2-3 Inf from the 199th Inf Bde (Lt), the two battalions had multiple contacts with the enemy during the day near Ho Nai, killing 213 by bodycount and capturing 32. US losses were 4 KIA and 23 WIA. On 10 Feb 68, the 1st Bde moved to Dong Tam and TF FORSYTH assumed responsibility until termination. Results: 472 enemy killed, 41 detained, 2 returnees, 64 US KIA, 315 US WIA.

8 Jul.-30 Oct.
Operation: MARCH I
Location: Plei Trap Valley, Kontum Province. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: B-50 Det Project OMEGA. Execution: Long range reconnaissance and intelligence gathering conducted in the Plei Trap Valley. Results: (no info).

10 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: FREMONT
Location: Camp Evans, Hill 51, Hill 67, Phong Dien District, Thua Thien Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 4th Marines. Task organization: 2/4 Marines (10 Jul-14 Sep), 3/26 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct). Execution: The 4th Marines initiated Operation FREMONT with its own 2/4 to provide security for Camp Evans, Hill 51, the Phong Dien District Headquarters and a radio transmission site on Hill 67. On 20 Jul, 2/4 provided blocking forces near My Chanh for SLF BRAVO in Operation BEAR CHAIN. BLT 2/3 became opcon to 4th Marines on 22 Jul and joined FREMONT, until back loading on 21 Aug. Contact was sporadic in Aug with only 13 US KIA for the month. During Sep, 2/4 in conjunction with ARVN forces helped secure nearby villages and hamlets during the National Elections. On 14 Sep, 2/4 joined Operation KINGFISHER and was replaced by 3/26 Marines. Contacts remained low until termination, being limited to harassing tactics, mines incidents and sniper fire. Results: 123 enemy killed, 8 captured, 17 US KIA, 196 US WIA.

16 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: KINGFISHER
Location: Dong Ha, Con Thien, Gio Linh, Cua Viet, Ca Lu, Route 9, Route 561, Route 606, Hill 216, C-2, Demilitarized Zone, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d and 9th Marines. Task organization: 3/3 Marines, 2/4 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct), 3/4 Marines, 1/9 Marines, 2/9 Marines, 3/9 Marines, 3/26 Marines (15 Aug-11 Sep), 1st Amtrac Bn. Intelligence: 90th and 812th PAVN Rgts. Execution: KINGFISHER was a continuation of Marine operations south of the DMZ follwing BUFFALO and HICKORY II. Contact was light during the first week. On 21 Jul, 3/3 Marines securing a portion of Route 9 for a 'Rough Rider' convoy bound for Khe Sanh found a NVA battalion dug in on Hill 216 overlooking the road. Tanks, 40mm dusters and artillery pounded the hill and forced the enemy to withdraw. On 28 Jul, 2/9 Marines reinforced with tanks, LVTEs and Ontos was pushing into the DMZ north on Route 606 when it was attacked by an estimated NVA battalion. The column was split in company-size segments and fought desperately all day until reinforcements from 3/4 Marines forced the enemy to break contact. 23 Americans were killed and 251 wounded with only 32 NVA confirmed killed. Ground action was light in early Aug with the largest part of the activity involving artillery attacks on Gio Linh, Con Thien, Cua Viet and Dong Ha. On 21 Aug, an NVA battalion ambushed a small Marine convoy moving from the Rockpile to Ca Lu. Elements form 3/3 were brought in, fighting a six-hour engagement until night fell and the enemy fled to the west. 6 US were killed and 35 wounded, Enemy loses were unknown. The NVA tried again on 7 Sep at almost the same location. This time the battle lasted more than 8 hours. The Marines killed 92 of the enemy while losing 5 KIA and 56 WIA. The Communists tried to disrupt the National Elections on 3 Sep, firing more than 41 rounds of artillery into Dong Ha, damaging 17 helicopters. This attack ended the use of Dong Ha as a permanent helicopter base facility. Con Thien however, remained the primary artillery target for the NVA. On 25 Sep alone, 1,200 rounds slammed into the combat base. On 10 Sep, 3/26 Marines made heavy contact with what seemed to be the entire 812th PAVN Rgt 4 miles southwest of Con Thien. The action lasted for four hours until the enemy broke contact, leaving 140 dead on the battle field. Marine losses had been high also with 34 KIA and 192 WIA, forcing 3/26 to return to Phu Bai the next day to refit. On 21 Sep, 2/9 Marines started a search and destroy operation 1,800 meters east of Con Thien when it ran into heavy resistance from an element of the 90th PAVN Rgt. The battle turned into a stalemate after rain had made the area impassable and both sides withdrew. US casualties were 31 KIA and 118 WIA. Enemy killed were reported at 39. The enemy intensified its attack-by-fire against Con Thien in late Sep, hitting the base with over 3,000 rounds during the period 19-27 Sep. The Americans retaliated by massing one of the greatest concentrations of firepower in support of a single division in the history of the Vietnam War. Marine artillery, ships of the 7th Fleet, Marine and Air Force jets and B-52 bombers poured tons of ordnance into know enemy positions in and north of the DMZ. By the end of Sep, NVA pressure of the outpost had subsided. On 14 Oct, 2/4 Marines was guarding a bridge north of Strong point C-2 when it received a ground attack from an unknown size enemy force. AC-47 gunships helped repel the assault during the night. 21 Americans were killed and 23 wounded. Only 24 NVA bodies were found in the area. The last major action of KINGSIFHER took place during a 9th Marines operation on 25-28 Oct. 2/4 Marines was sweeping north of Con Thien on Route 561 when it was hit by an enemy battalion, beating back several attacks and losing 8 KIA and 45 WIA. Results: 1,117 enemy killed, 5 captured, 340 US KIA, 1,461 US WIA.

17 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: ARDMORE
Location: Khe Sanh, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destro, security. Controlling headquarters: 26th Marines (Forward). Task organization: 1/26 Marines, 3/26 Marines, 1/13 Marines. Execution: Operation ARDMORE was a continuation of Operation CROCKETT and involved the same mission and the same forces. On 21 Jul, B/1/26 and M/3/26 fought a NVA battalion dug on Hill 216 along Route 9 in conjunction with 3/3 Marines from Operation KINGFISHER. Contacts in August were minimal and 3/26 was moved to the KINGFISHER AO on 15 Aug. 1/26 Marines continued patrols and company-size search and destroy operations around Khe Sanh, but with limited contact with the enemy. Results: 113 enemy killed, 6 detained, 10 US KIA, 39 US WIA

27 Jul.-8 Nov.
Operation: SONG THAN 14
Location: Bong Son, Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF BRAVO. Task organization: 1st VNMC BN, 2nd VNMC Bn (27 Jul-4 Oct), 3rd VNMC Bn (4 Oct-6 Nov), C/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: On 27 Jul, TF BRAVO relieved TF ALPHA at Bong Son AF and continued search and destroy operations south of Bong Son in conjunction with Operation PERSHING. Results: (no info)

31 Jul.-3 Nov.
Operation: DAN QUYEN 822
Location: Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 22nd ARVN Division. Results: 141 enemy killed, 181 detained, 44 ARVN KIA, 74 ARVN WIA 3 ARVN MIA.

11 Aug.-21 Oct.
Operation: SONG THAN/701/67
Location: Tan Uyen, Bien Hoa Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF ALPHA. Task organization: 2nd VNMC Bn (10-21 Oct), 4th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-10 Oct), 5th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-15 Sep), 6th VNMC Bn (15 Sep-21 Oct), B/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: Operation conducted in the Tan Uyen area in coordination with the US 1st Inf Div. Results: (no info)

16 Aug-31 Oct.
Operation: 8-67/SAMURAI II & III
Location: A Shau Valley, Happy Valley, Thuat Thien and Quang Nam Provinces. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: Det B-52 Project DELTA,81st ARVN Abn Rgr Bn. Execution: Operation searched areas from the northern stretches of the A Shau Valley into Happy Valley, west of Da Nang. Results: (no info).

1 Sep.-17 Nov.
Operation: STRIKE I
Location: Bien Hoa, Long Binh, AO STRIKE, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 2-47 Inf (M). Execution: Operation STRIKE I was conducted to provide security for the Bien Hoa-Long Binh complex and to prevent rocket attacks. On 17 Nov, STRIKE I was combined with Operation UNIONTOWN. Results: (no info).

5 Sep.-30 Oct.
Operation: DRAGON FIRE
Location: Batangan Peninsula, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d ROKMC Bde. Task organization: 1st, 2d and 5th ROKMC Bns. Execution: The 2d ROKMC Bde conducted this operation to clear insurgent elements from the Batagan Peninsula. Results: 541 enemy killed, 17 captured, 121 detained, 45 ROKMC KIA, 200 ROKMC WIA, 3 USMC WIA.

11 Sep-25 Nov.
Operation: WHEELER
Location: Tien Phuoc, Hiep Duc, Song Tranh, Song Chang, Base Area 116, Base Area 117, UDEN AO, Quang Tin Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 101st Abn Div. Task organization: 1-327 Inf, 2-327 Inf, 2-502 Inf, 1-14 Inf (11-24 Sep), 1-35 Inf (4 Oct-4 Nov), 2-320 Art, A/2-9 Art (4 Oct-4 Nov), B/2-9 Art (11-24 Sep), C/3-16 Art, B/1-9 Cav (2-4 Oct), A/2-17 Cav (17-25 Nov), A/326th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PAVN Div (1st PLAF Rgt, 3rd and 21st PAVN Rgts). Execution: ... SEE PREVIOUS DAY FOR INFORMATION... Results were 9 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 18 US WIA. With the 2nd PAVN Div elements avoiding contact during the period 28 Oct-4 Nov, increased emphasis was placed on attempting to locate the division. On 5 Nov, 1-35 Inf was released from operational control of the brigade and placed under opcon of the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div conducting Operation WALLOWA in the Que Son Basin. The last phase of WHEELER (6-25 Nov) saw 2-327 Inf being air-assaulted into the western portion of BA 116 while 1-327 Inf and 2-502 Inf established blocking positions. On 11 Nov, C/2-327 Inf engaged an NVA company in the Song Chang Valley 4 km east of Hiep Duc. 14 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 5 US WIA. This marked the last significant contact of WHEELER, after that, the badly hurt 2nd PAVN Div avoided any further contact. From 23-25 Nov, brigade elements were relieved in place by elements of the 196th Inf Bde (Lt)61 and displaced to Tam Ky Airfield to move by air to the brigade main base camp at Phan Rang for a four-day stand down and preparation for future operations. Results: 1,105 enemy killed, 50 captured, 445 detained, 11 returnees, 124 US KIA, 465 US WIA.

12 Sep-10 Oct.
Operation: CORONADO V
Location: Dong Tam, Cai Lay, Cam Son Secret Zone, Ban Long Base Area, Loi Quan Island, Song My Tho, Rach Ba Rai, Rach Ben Tre, Route 20, Ding Tuong and Kien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div (MRF); 7th ARVN Div. Task organization: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div: 3-47 Inf (12-17 Sep), 4-47 Inf (17 Sep-10 Oct), 3-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-60 Inf (-)(15-17 Sep), 3-34 Art, D/15th Eng, USN TF 117; 7th ARVN Div: 10th ARVN Rgt, 41st ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 263rd and 506th PLAF Bns. Execution: On 11 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Vung Tau to Dong Tam again and began Operation CORONADO V aimed at the 263rd PLAF Bn which had returned to the Cam Son Secret Zone. On 12 Sep, 3-47 Inf swept north from landing sites on the My Tho but turned up almost nothing. The next day, 3-60 Inf and 5-60 Inf (M) with help from the 7th ARVN Div62 began a sweep of the Ban Long area to the east and made contact with what appeared to be a VC covering force near the site of the VNMC heavy contact in July. The enemy withdrew under cover of darkness, leaving 63 bodies behind. As US and ARVN forces left the Ban Long on 14 Sep, the 7th ARVN Div reported that a large force, presumably the 263rd PLAF Bn, remained in the Cam Son, only a few kilometers north from areas previously swept. On 15 Sep, as 5-60 Inf (M) moved overland via Route 20, 3-60 Inf and 3-47 Inf sailed via the Song My Tho up the Rach Ba Rai between the My Tho and the town of Cai Lay. While 3-47 Inf landed unopposed over WHITE Beach, 3-60 Inf ran into two companies of the 263rd lined up in ambush positions along the east bank of the Ba Rai. Some of the boats managed to run the gauntlet but were forced to turn back as most of the column failed to follow. Two companies from 2-60 Inf were helicoptered from Long An Province to encircle the enemy. The battle lasted until nightfall but when the Americans entered the deserted ambush site the next day they found only 24 enemy killed. On 17 Sep the MRF returned to Dong Tam where 4-47 Inf rotated aboard the ships of the MRF replacing 3-47 Inf. On 20 Sep, the MRF displaced to Kien Hoa Province and began widely separated operations in Ham Long, Giong Trom and Huong My Districts, looking for the 516th PLAF Bn but no major contact took place. On 27 Sep, ATCs performing mine sweeping duties along the Rach Ben Tre received heavy RPG, recoilless and automatic weapons fire. 3 sailors were killed and 6 wounded. On 28 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Dong Tam to the northern end of Loi Quan Island between the Cua Dai and Cua Tieu to reduce logistic distances. Operations in Kien Hoa were in close cooperation with the 10th ARVN Rgt and a composite RF battalions but only sporadic contact was made. On 5-7 Oct the MRF returned to the Ban Long but had only limited contact with elements of the 263rd PLAF Bn and on 10 Sep it displaced to Vung Tau to prepare for CORONADO VI. Results: 330 enemy killed, 235 detained, 2 returnees, 35 US KIA, 175 US WIA.

16 Sep.-29 Oct.
Operation: KUNIA
Location: Ho Bo Woods, Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 3-22 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: Operation KUNIA was conducted as part of BARKING SANDS with the 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div initiating search and destroy operations in the Ho Bo Woods in preparation for the arrival of a land clearing team of thirty Rome Plows. By the end of October 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods had been cleared. Results: (included in BARKING SANDS).

19 Sep. 67-31 Jan. 69
Operation: BOLLING/DAN HOA
Location: Tuy Hoa, Phu Hiep, Binh Tinh, Ma Hoa, AO BLACK, Song Ky Lo, Song Da Rang, Suoi Cai, Phu Yen and Phu Bon Provinces. Type: search and destroy, reconnaissance-in-force, pacification, rice protection. Controlling headquarters: 173d Abn Bde (19 Sep 67-8 Feb 68, 1 Apr 68-31 Jan 69); I FFORCEV (8 Feb-1 Apr 68); 22nd ARVN Div. Task organization: 1-503 Inf (19 Sep-6 Nov 67), 2-503 Inf (12 Oct-6 Nov 67), 3-503 Inf (5 Nov 67-16 Jan 68), 4-503 Inf (19 Sep-1 Nov 67, 16 Dec 67-31 Jan 69), TF 2-8 Cav (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), 3-319 Art, C/2-19 Art (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 47th ARVN Rgt. Intelligence: 5th PAVN Div (18B and 95th PAVN Rgts), 30th and 95th PLAF LF Bns, K65 and K76 Sapper Cos. Execution: During the period 14-19 Sep, the bulk of the brigade (minus 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art) was relocated by air from Dak To to Tuy Hoa to commence long-term Operation BOLLING in cooperation with the 47th ARVN Rgt. The 2-8 Cav was opconed to the brigade until 14 Oct to compensate for 2-503 Inf remaining at Dak To, and was air-assaulted into the BOLLING AO on 19 Sep. The operation was designed to provide security for the local rice harvest. Daily contact was maintained with enemy forces in September and October but seldom larger than squad size. During October, the brigade relocated its rear base camp facility from Bien Hoa to An Khe, moving by sea via Saigon and Qui Nhon. On 12 Oct, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 returned from the Highlands, relieving TF 2-8 Cav and on 22 Oct, the new 3-503 Inf arrived in-country from Fort Bragg, undergoing jungle training in An Khe prior to deployment to the BOLLING AO. On 1 Nov, 4-503 Inf was alerted for immediate departure for Dak To, followed five days later by the brigade minus (headquarters, 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 3-319 Art). On 5 Nov, 3-503 Inf arrived at Tuy Hoa from An Khe and assumed responsibility for Operation BOLLING. Contact continued to be light in November; on 16 Dec, the brigade headquarters, 4-503 Inf and C and D/3-319 Art were redeployed from Operation MACARTHUR, closing into the BOLLING AO that same day. On 27 Dec, 3-503 Inf conducted a series of combat assaults into the Song Ky Lo Valley 15 km northwest of Dong Tre and engaged two enemy companies. Elements of 4-503 Inf reinforced the battle area until contact was lost on 29 Dec. Results were 62 enemy killed, 12 US KIA and 34 US WIA. Contact was infrequent in January and a battalion task force built around 3-503 Inf moved to An Khe on 16 Jan 68 to assume responsibility of the Operation DAZZLEM AO63 from the departing 1st Cav Div. On 30 Jan, the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt attacked several targets in the Tuy Hoa area as part of the enemy's Tet Offensive, including a FSB held by C/6-32 Art, the Binh Tin hamlet, Tuy Hoa North AF and the provincial prison. D/4-503 Inf and two companies from the 2nd Bn, 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked toward the airfield and by 0730 on 31 Jan, the enemy force was surrounded and destroyed in Binh Tin hamlet. On 5-6 Feb, two battalions of the 47th ARVN Rgt and RF elements reduced an enemy strong point in the center of Tuy Hoa. During the fighting in and around Tuy Hoa, 316 enemy had been killed and 104 captured. During February, 4-503 Inf in conjunction with Strike Force elements from Cung Son and Dong Tre CIDG Camps, and Task Force MITCHELL (E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm) conducted search and destroy operations west of Tuy Hoa and helped mop up the aftermath of the Tet Offensive. It also provided security for the 577th Eng C Bn and 173d Eng Co working on Routes 7B and 436. On 8 Feb, the 173d Abn Bde (-) departed Tuy Hoa to assumed Opcon of TF POWERHOUSE (1-503 and 2-503 Inf) in Kontum Province in the MACARTHUR AO. Operation BOLLING passed under control of I FFORCEV which assumed opcon of TF 4-503 build around 4-503 Inf, Btys C and D, 3-319 Art and D/16 Arm. A major contact developed on 4 Mar when the 47th ARVN Rgt contacted the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt and 85th PLAF Bn in three hamlets along the coast just north of Tuy Hoa. D/16 Arm and elements of the 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked while the 47th ARVN Rgt provided blocking positions. D/16 was credited with 137 NVA killed during the action while suffering 10 KIA and 21 WIA. Contact during the rest of March was sporadic in the BOLLING AO. On 1 Apr, the brigade returned from the Highlands, relieving the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div at Bong Son64 and assumed control over TF 4-503 again. Contact was light during the month of April except on the 5th when D/16 Arm again supported the 47th ARVN Rgt in heavy contact with two enemy battalions at Ma Hoa village in Tuy Hoa Valley just off Route 7B north of the Song Da Rang. In May, 4-503 Inf conducted extensive bushmaster operations, on 2 May, Co B killed 8 enemy soldiers in the Suoi Cai Valley 18 km west of Tuy Hoa. In June, the enemy continued to avoid decisive contact with Allied force, relying on harassing tactics instead. During the period 16-27 Jul, 4-503 Inf conducted search and clear operations in AO BLACK located 25 km southwest of Cung Son on the Phu Bon and Darlac provincial boundary but there was no significant contact. On 30 July, 4-503 Inf joined the 3/47 ARVN Bn and elements of the 26th ROK Rgt to conduct a combined operation in the Song Ky Lo Valley but contact was again limited. Prisoners confirmed that the bulk of the 18B and 95th PAVN Rgts had departed Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa Province to refit in Cambodia. Contact remained light for the rest of Operation BOLLING, limited to engagements with squad-size enemy forces and booby traps incidents. On 1 Feb 69 the BOLLING/DAN HOA AO became a permanent TAOR called LY DO/WAINWRIGHT. Results: 715 enemy killed, 72 US KIA, 307 US WIA (no info on ARVN casualties).

24 Sep.-9 Oct.
Operation: ARKANSAS CITY II
Location: Phuoc Tuy Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 11th ACR. Execution: (no info)

26 Sep.-21 Oct.
Operation: AKRON III
Location: Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone), Phuoc Tuy and Bien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-39 Inf, B/2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, 2/48 ARVN Bn, 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 274th PLAF Rgt. Execution: AKRON III was a continuation of land clearing and search and destroy operations in Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone). Contact with the enemy was light and sporadic throughout the operation but the largest known weapons cache in the III CTZ to date was discovered, contacting over 200,000 rounds of small arms, 1,022 small arms and 125 crew served weapons. Results: (no info).

29 Sep.-11 Nov.
Operation: KENMORE
Location: Xuyen Moc, AO WARATAH, AO BANKSIA, Phuoc Tuy Province. Controlling headquarters: 1ATF. Task organization: 7RAR, A Sqn 3 Cav, 4 Fld Rgt, A/1-35 Art, A/1-83d Art. Execution: Operation took place in AOs WARATAH and BANKSIA, 6 km southeast of Xuyen Moc and bordering 24 km of coastline with infrequent contact. Results: 16 enemy killed, 1 captured, no friendly casualties.

29 Sep.-19 Nov.
Operation: SHENANDOAH II
Location: Lai Khe, Loc Ninh, Chon Thanh, Suoi Ong Thanh, Michelin Plantation, Long Nguyen Secret Zone, Route 13, LZ APPLE, FSB CAISSON II, FSB CAISSON III, FSB CAISSON IV, FSB CAISSON V, FSB CAISSON VI, FSB CAISSON VII, FSB LORRAINE II, Binh Duong and Binh Long Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Inf Div; 1st Bde, 1st Inf Div (29 Sep-19 Nov); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (30 Sep-30 Oct). Task organization: 1-2 Inf (29 Sep-18 Oct; 21-28 Oct), 2-2 Inf (M)(29 Sep-23 Oct), 1-16 Inf (29 Sep; 18-29 Oct; 8-19 Nov), 1-18 Inf (4-13 Oct; 29 Oct-19 Nov), 1-26 Inf (31 Oct-8 Nov), 1-28 Inf (29 Sep-10 Oct; 13 Oct-11 Nov), 2-28 Inf (7-18 Oct; 30 Oct-19 Nov), 2-12 Inf (2-7 Nov), 1-4 Cav (29 Sep-30 Oct), 1-5 Art (29 Sep-19 Nov), 6-15 Art (30 Oct-19 Nov), 2-33 Art (30 Sep-30 Oct). Intelligence: 9th PLAF Div (271st, 272nd, 273rd PLAF Rgts). Execution: Operation SHENANDOAH II initially covered an area from slightly south of Lai Khe, north approximately 18 miles and west to the edge of the Michelin Plantation, a region known as the Long Nguyen Secret Zone where the 271st PLAF Rgt was reported. The AO was expanded later to include the area between Lai Khe and Loc Ninh and between Route 13 west to the 25th Inf Div AO. On 29 Sep, 1-2 Inf began search and destroy operation in AO MIKE 12 miles north of Lai Khe while 1-28 Inf displaced via motor convoy from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh. Simultaneously, 1-4 Cav with A/2-2 Inf (M) opcon began clearing Route 13 From Lai Khe to Chon Thanh and secured FSBs CAISSON II & III. The first engagement with the VC took place on 4 Oct when 1-2 Inf made contact with an unknown size enemy force 10 km southwest of Chon Thanh. 12 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 26 US WIA. In reaction, 1-18 Inf moved by helicopter from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh and was air-assaulted into an LZ 1 km west of the 1-2 Inf contact. The LZ was cold but 29 enemy bodies KBA were found in the immediate vicinity. On 6 Oct, 1-18 Inf received mortar fire followed by a heavy ground assault. Result was 50 enemy killed, 3 US KIA and 4 US WIA. On 7 Oct, another battalion, 2-28 Inf, was added to the operation, moving via road convoy to Chon Thanh and then to field location. On 10 Oct, 1-28 Inf, having made little contact, was extracted from the field and returned to Phuoc Vinh. The next major engagement occurred on 11 Oct when B/1-18 Inf made contact with an estimated 100-150 enemy 31 km west of Highway 13, killing 21 while losing 1 KIA and 4 WIA. On 13 Oct, 1-28 Inf returned to the SHENANDOAH II AO, relieving 1-18 Inf in place. Contact during the next few days was limited but on 17 Oct, Cos A & D, 2-28 Inf were ambushed while following a trail south of the Suoi Ong Thanh. Contact began at 1015 when Co A received sniper fire. Close fighting began to develop rapidly and the two companies were soon engulfed by a very heavy volume of fire. The battalion's CO65, S-2, SGM and both company commanders became casualties. Both companies pulled back under fire to allow for close air support and artillery fire as Co B and C were rushed in to reinforced, followed by Co D, 1/16 inf later in the afternoon when the enemy broke contact. Losses had been very heavy for the Americans with 52 KIA, 72 WIA and 2 MIA. 103 enemy bodies were counted in the battle area the next day. On 18 Oct, 2-28 Inf was relieved in place by the rest of 1-16 Inf and was extracted to Lai 65 LTC Terry de la Mesa Allen, Jr., KIA 17 Oct 67. Khe, followed by 1-2 Inf which returned to Phuoc Vinh. On 19 Oct, 1-16 Inf continued search and destroy operations in the vicinity of the 17 Oct battle while 1-28 Inf was extracted briefly to Chon Thanh to allow for a B-52 strike to take place before returning to the field. On 21 Oct, 1-2 Inf was inserted into the AO again after a road march from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh but contact remained low for the rest on the month. At 0115 on 29 Oct, two battalions of the 273rd PLAF Rgt launched a ground assault on the Loc Ninh District Headquarters and Loc Ninh CIDG Camp. Two reconnaissance companies from the 5th ARVN Div reacted immediately, being airlifted from Phu Loi to Loc Ninh and counterattacking along with two CIDG companies to regain the northern part of the sub sector compound, clearing it by 1300. At that point, Operation SHENANDOAH II was expanded to include the battle of Loc Ninh, with 1-18 Inf deploying to the battle area to occupy blocking positions 4 km west of the town. 2/9 ARVN Bn was also brought in and deployed in and around the sub sector compound. On 30 Oct, the 1st Bde CP arrived at Quan Loi to control US forces at Loc Ninh. That same day, A/1-18 Inf made contact with an enemy company, killing 85. At 0100 on 31 Oct, elements of the 272nd and 273rd PLAF Rgts renewed their attacks on the sub sector and SF compounds. Very heavy fighting took place all night with TACAIR and AC-47 gunships supporting the defenders until 0700 when the enemy broke contact. Later that day, 1-28 Inf conducted an air-assault 4 km southeast of Loc Ninh while 1-26 joined the operation, securing FSB CAISSON VII near An Loc where the 5th ARVN TAC CP was also established. 126 enemy had been killed during the night attack at the cost of 9 KIA and 56 WIA for the Allied forces. 1 Nov was relatively quite but starting at 0045 on 2 Nov, a third attack was launched, this time on the sub sector compound, CIDG camp, 1-18 Inf NDP and the 6-15 Art FSB near the Loc Ninh Airfield. All were repulsed with a combination of heavy, accurate fire by the defenders, artillery and effective close air support. At 0820, 1-26 Inf conducted an airmobile assault 6 km northwest of Loc Ninh, followed later in the afternoon by 2-12 Inf detached from the 25th Inf Div. 296 more enemies had been killed during the attack at the cost of 7 killed and 36 wounded to friendly forces. On 3 Nov, the 36th ARVN Rgr Bn arrived to participate in reconnaissance-in-force operations with the four US infantry battalions. On 7 Nov, 1-26 Inf engaged an unknown size enemy force 6 km northeast of Loc Ninh, killing 66 but losing 17 KIA and 21 WIA. This was the last major engagement of SHENANDOAH II, the 272nd and 273rd avoiding any further contact with Allied forces. Results: 956 enemy killed, 63 detained, 107 US KIA, 322 US WIA.

New Operations

3 Oct.
Operation: CRIMSON TIDE II
Location: Can Tho, Tan Dinh Island, Bassac River, Phong Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: TF 116 GAME WARDEN. Execution: USN SEAL and RF troops supported by RAGs 25 and 29 searched Tan Dinh Insland again, destroying 75 bunkers and 18 sampans. Results: 4 USN WIA.

Other

3 Oct.
US aircraft strike key bridges at Loc Binh and Cao Bang in North Vietnam on 15 km from the Chinese border.

[Jason Petho]

Ongoing Operations today in 1967

26 Aug.66-20 Jan.68
Operation: BYRD
Location: Phan Thiet, LZ BETTY, Binh Thuan Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: I FFORCEV. Task organization: TF 2-7: 2-7 Cav, C/1-9 Cav, A/1-21 Art, C/2-20 Art (-), C/8th Eng Bn (-), C/229th Avn Bn, Det 228th Avn Bn. Execution: Planned as a short-term, economy-of-force measure, BYRD became a continuous offensive that would last into 1968. Upon I FFORCEV request, the 1st Cav Div detached at battalion-size task force to help pacify isolated Binh Thuan Province in southern II Corps. Results (at year's end): 351 enemy killed, 151 detained, 8 US KIA, 85 US WIA.

1 Oct.66-17 Jan 68
Operation: DAZZLEM
Location: Camp Radcliff, An Khe, Binh Dinh Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization: Base Defense Task Force. Execution: Operation DAZZLEM was the contingency plan for the defense of Camp Radcliff provided by one infantry battalion with supporting artillery and
reinforcing personnel from residence units. On 17 Jan 68, the 173d Abn Bde relieved the 1st Cav Div from the mission of defending An Khe. Results: 80 enemy killed, 9 detained.

11 Oct.66-17 Nov.67
Operation: UNIONTOWN II
Location: Long Binh, Bien Hoa Province Type: security. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV. Execution: Operation UNIONTOWN was a security operation designed to protect the Long Binh logistical complex, RMK Rock Quarry and II FFORCEV Headquarters. Units were assigned on a rotation basis from each major command under II FFORCEV.

30 Nov. 66-15 Dec.67
Operation: FAIRFAX/RANG DONG
Location: Nha Be, Thu Duc and Binh Chanh Districts, Gia Dinh Province. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV, CMD. Task organization: 1st Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 2-16 Inf; 4th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3-22 Inf; 25th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 4-9 Inf; CMD (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3rd and 5th ARVN Abn Bns, 30th Ranger Bn; 199th LIB (31 Jan-15 Dec.): 2-3 Inf, 3-7 Inf, 4-12 Inf, 2-40 Art; 5th ARVN Ranger Group (31 Jan.-15 Dec): 30th, 33rd and 38th ARVN Ranger Bns. Intelligence: Military Region 4, 165A PLAF Regiment. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE... Results (end of 1966): 149 enemy killed, 40 detained, 11 US KIA, 67 US WIA, 23 ARVN KIA, 58 ARVN WIA, 1 ARVN MIA.

8 Feb.67-31 Jan.68
Operation: LAM SON 67
Location: Phu Loi, An My, Ong Dong Jungle, Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, security, jungle clearing. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 1st Inf Div (8 Feb-17 Mar, 17 Apr 67-31 Jan 68); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (17 Mar-17 Apr). Task organization: 1st Inf Div Revolutionary Development Task Force (various infantry, cavalry and support units were assigned on a rotation basis during the period). Execution: The operation supported the GVN's Revolutionary Development Program in conjunction with ARVN units in Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. LAM SON 67 consisted of cordon and search, reconnaissance in force, harassment, jungle clearing, population control, civic action and psychological warfare operations directed against priority targets. Contact in the AO was characterized by light sporadic incidents with local VC elements. On 6 Jan 68, the Phu Loi base camp received 123 rounds of mixed mortar fire, 46 aircraft were damaged and 6 US WIA. Reacting to the attack, A/2-18 Inf and B/2-2 Inf (M) swept the area to the north of the base and contacted two enemy companies of the Phu Loi PLAF Bn. 92 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 14 US WIA. Operation LAM SON 67 was terminated on 31 Jan 68 with the beginning of the enemy's Tet Offensive. Results: 527 enemy killed, 263 captured, 2,327 detained, 346 defectors, 56 US KIA, 572 US WIA.

12 Feb. 67-18 Jan. 68
Operation: PERSHING
Location: Bong Son, Tuy An, Tam Quan, Hoa Tan, Sa Huynh, Truong Son, An Qui, Trung Xuan, An Lac, An Lao Valley, Kim Son Valley, Suoi Ca Valley, 506 Valley, Nuoc Dinh Valley, Phu My Valley, Song Re Valley, the Crescent, Nui Mieu, Nui Sang, Cay Giep, Dam Tra-O Lake, Route 1, LZ BRONCO BEACH, LZ CRYSTAL, LZ ENGLISH, LZ GARNET, LZ GERONIMO, LZ GLENN, LZ HAMMOND, LZ IRON, LZ MEADE, LZ PAT, LZ SANDRA, LZ STEEL, LZ TOM, LZ TWO BITS, LZ UPLIFT, Binh Dinh and Quang Ngai Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization (As of 12 Feb): 1 s t Bde: 1-8 Cav, 1-12 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-19 Art (-), D/2-17 Art, C/1-21 Art, A/3-18 Art; 2d Bde: 2-5 Cav, 1-5 Cav (-), 1-7 Cav (-), 2-12 Cav, 1-77 Art (-), B/1-8 Art, A/1-21 Art, C/1-30 Art, B/8th Eng; 3d Bde: 2-8 Cav, C/1-5 Cav, 1-21 Art (-), 2-17 Art (-), C/6-16 Art, C/2-19 Art, C/8th Eng; 3d Bde, 25 t h Inf Div (12 Feb-19 Apr): 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf (4-19 Apr), 2-9 Art, A/1-77 Art, 5-16 Art, C/3-4 Cav, D/65th Eng; Div Arty: 2-20 Art (-), 7-13 Art (-), B/29 Art, E/82 Art, 3-18 Art (-); Div Troops: 1-9 Cav, 8th Eng Bn (-). Intelligence: 3rd PAVN Div: 18th and 22nd PAVN Rgts, 2nd PLAF Rgt. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE ... Results: 5,
388 enemy killed, 2,356 captured, 10,609 detained, 221 returnees, 852 US KIA, 4,119 US WIA, 22 US MIA.

13 Feb. 67-10 Mar. 68
Operation: ENTERPRISE
Location: Tan An, Rach Kien, Ben Luc, Binh Phuoc, Tan Tru, Doi Ma Creek, Plain of Reeds9, Base Area 371, Route 14, Long An Province. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, eagle flights. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 3-39 Inf, 2-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-4 Art, C/15th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PLAF MF Bn, 506th PLAF LF Bn. Execution: ENTERPRISE was the continuation of the pacification effort of Long An Province initiated the previous year by the 25th Inf Div with Operation LANIKAI. On 13 Feb, 3-39 Inf relieved 2-14 Inf at Rach Kien. Strength of division elements in the province were subsequently increased to brigade size with movement of 2-60 Inf into Tan Tru, 5-60 Inf into Binh Phuoc and Headquarters, 3d Bde into Tan An. The first major engagement occurred on 9 Apr when 3-39 Inf made contact with the 506th PLAF Bn on the bank of Doi Ma Creek. Additional companies were brought in, killing 247 of the enemy. On 2 May, the 506th Bn exacted vengeance on the 3-39 Inf, attacking one of its companies in night defensive position near Route 4. 17 US were KIA and 48 WIA but no enemy bodies were found. The operation was temporarily extended north to the Plain of Reeds area on 8-14 May with sub-operation NIRVANA II directed against the enemy's Base Area 371. Elements of the 3d Bde joined forces with the 4/50 ARVN Bn of the 25th ARVN Div but found nothing, killing only 14 of the enemy. On 14 May, the 2nd PLAF Bn struck the compound of the 2/50 ARVN Bn in Rach Kien, killing 31 South Vietnamese soldiers and wounding 34. 3d Bde units were committed but couldn't regain contact with the attacking force. After that, contact with the enemy dropped sharply for the remainder of 1967, indicating an apparent enemy desire to avoid friendly forces. On 31 Jan 68, the brigade responded to the Tet Offensive, 5-60 Inf engaged in heavy fighting southwest of Saigon in Gia Dinh Province, killing 128 enemy soldiers. From 1-5 Feb, 3-39 Inf and 2-60 Inf were sent to Kien Hoa Province to help recapture Ben Tre, the provincial capital. On 10 Feb, the brigade HQ at Tan An came under attack from an unknown size enemy force. 33 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 53 US WIA. During March, brigade elements conducted "Aquabush" operations along the numerous canals south of Saigon in conjunction with the 199th Inf Bde (Lt). Pacification activities decreased sharply during the Tet Offensive and the operation was terminated on 10 March. Results: 2,107 enemy killed, 74 US KIA, 380 US WIA.

14 Feb.67-21 Mar.68
Operation: KITTYHAWK
Location: Long Binh, Xuan Loc, Long Giao, Gia Ray, Suoi Cat, Blackhorse, Route 1, Route 2, Long Khanh and Bien Hoa Province. Type: reconnaissance-in-force, cordon and search, security, road clearing. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div (14 Feb 67-15 Feb 68); 11th ACR (15 Feb-21 Mar 68). Task organization: 3-5 Cav, 1/11 ACR, 2/11 ACR, 3/11 ACR. Intelligence: 275th PLAF Rgt. Execution: The purpose of KITTYHAWK was to secure LOCs and selected installations within Long Khanh Province, conduct reconnaissance-in-force operations and cordon and search of selected hamlets within the AO, secure Blackhorse base camp and the Gia Ray rock quarry and provide ready reaction forces along Route 1. On 21 May, K Troop, 3/11 ACR was ambushed by an estimated reinforced enemy battalion near Suoi Cat on Route 1. 30 enemy are killed, 12 US KIA and 13 US WIA. On 27 Jun 1/11 ACR moved to reinforce the 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn which was in heavy contact with elements of the 3rd Bn, 275th PLAF Rgt, killing 49 of the enemy11. On 30 Dec two enemy companies ambushed Troop C, 3-5 Cav on Route 2. Friendly losses are 10 KIA, 29 WIA and 3 MIA. On 31 Jan 68, in reaction to the VC Tet Offensive, the 3-5 Cav was alerted to respond to enemy activity in the Long Binh-Bien Hoa area. A/3-5 Cav bypassed several roadblocks, breaking through enemy forces and reached the Bien Hoa airfield, sweeping nearby wood lines and killing 40. During the period 2-3 Feb, C/3-5 Cav was sent to defend Xuan Loc against an intense ground attack, killing nearly 50 enemy soldiers. On 15 Feb the KITTYHAWK mission was assumed by the 11th ACR as the 3-5 Cav (-) was directed by HQ USARV to deploy to Da Nang, I CTZ. On 21 Mar, the operation was phased into Operation ALCORN COVE. Results: 201 enemy killed, 7 captured, 1 returnee, 62 US KIA, 224 US WIA.

5 Apr.-11 Oct.
Operation: FRANCIS MARION
Location: Plei Me, Duc Co, Plei Djereng, Plei Mrong, Plei Do Lim, Buon Blech, Se San, Ia Drang, Ia Tchar, Dak Ayun, Dak Payou, Chu Pong, Chu Prong, Chu Goungot, Chu Groh, Route 14, Route 14B, Route 19E, Route 509, Hill 521, LZ OASIS, LZ JACKSON HOLE, Pleiku and Darlac Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: (effective 7 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, B/4-42 Art, C/3-4 Cav (-), A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (-), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, Plt B/1-69 Arm, 4-42 Art (-), B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), Plt C/2-8 Inf (-), Cav Plt 1-10 Cav, B/3-6 Art, A/5-16 Art; TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 26 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), C/4-42 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h In f Div: 2-8 Inf, 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), A/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), A/3-6 Art; TF 3-8 Inf: 3-8 Inf, C/6-29 Art, A/5-16 Art; Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 30 May): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (M), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art, B/4th Eng (-); 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, D/16 Arm, E/17 Cav, 173d Eng Co; TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 5-16 Art (-); Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 24 Sep): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 2-8 Inf (M), 3-8 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), A/4-42 Art,, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div: 1-12 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), B/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: 2-1 Cav, D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Intelligence: B3 Front, 1st NVA Div (32nd, 66th and 88th Rgts), 10th NVA Div (95B and 101C Rgts), 200th NVA Art Bn, 407th PLAF MF Sapper Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn.. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE.... Results: 1,204 enemy killed, 122 detained, 11 returnees, 198 US KIA, 982 US WIA, 8 US MIA.

22 Apr.67-2 Jan 68.
Operation: BAKER
Location: Duc Pho, Mo Duc, Vinh Hien, Tan Phong, Dien Truong, An Ba, An Tach, Song Tra Cau, Song Ve, LZ MONTEZUMA (later renamed LZ BRONCO), LZ GUADALCANAL, LZ OLIVE DRAB, LZ LIZ, LZ DRAGON, RAZORBACK Beach, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde TF, 25th Inf Div (redesignated 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div on 1 Aug). Task organization: 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf, 2-9 Art, C/3-4 Cav, B/1-9 Cav, C/2-34 Arm. Intelligence: 1st PLAF Rgt, 2nd PLAF Rgt, 22nd PAVN Rgt. Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: (no info).

14 May.-7 Dec.
Operation: KOLE KOLE
Location: Duc Hoa, Bao Trai, Hiep Hoa, Loc Giang, Trang Bang, Song Vam Co Dong, Rach Tra, Xinh An Ha, Route 10, Hau Nghia and Tay Ninh Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 1-5 Inf (M), 1-27 Inf, 2-27 Inf, 1-8 Art. Intelligence: 2nd Go Mon and 269th PLAF LF Bns. Execution: Operation KOLE KOLE was initiated by the 2d Bde in Hau Nghia Province using EAGLE FLIGHTS and airmobile operations based on current intelligence. Cordon and search, outposting and country fair operations were also conducted in conjunction with the 25th ARVN Div, CIDG and RF/PF. On 17 May, elements of 1/27 Inf and 2/27 Inf fought an eight-hour engagement west of the Vam Co Dong with a VC company. Results were 27 enemy killed, 2 US KIA and 9 US WIA. There was intermittent contact during June and July, particularly along the An Ha canal and near Loc Giang. The brigade also secured engineer operations along Route 10 to improve the GVN's authority and control west of Trang Bang. In early August, the reconnaissance platoon of 1/27 Inf with helicopter support intercepted VC recon elements from Long An Province, killing 26. During September, KOLE KOLE shifted to northern Hau Nghai and southwestern Tay Ninh Province. 1-5 Inf (M) conducted extensive dismounted ambush patrols around Loc Giang along the Vam Co while 2-27 Inf engaged scattered elements of the 269th PLAF Bn. On 21 Oct, an EAGLE FLIGHT from 1-27 Inf engaged an estimated enemy platoon south of Tay Ninh, killing 18. On 31 Oct, 2-27 Inf made contact with elements of the 2nd Go Mon Bn north of the Rach Tra, killing 28 and capturing 2. Enemy activity decreased for the rest of KOLE KOLE and the brigade concentrated on pacification and land clearing operations. Results: 797 enemy killed, 150 detained, 34 returnees, 144 US KIA, 876 US WIA

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: BARKING SANDS
Location: Cu Chi, Trang Bang, Phu Hoa, Iron Triangle, Ho Bo Woods, Song Saigon, Hau Nghia and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: The 1st Bde employed counter guerrilla warfaretechniques including saturation patrolling, checkmate, bushmaster and cordon and search operations to pacify Cu Chi and Trang Bang Districts in Hau Nghia Province and Phu Hoa District in Binh Duong Province. Buddy operations were also conducted with local PF platoons and RF companies. On 30 Aug, 4-9 Inf conducted an airmobile assault against an entrenched VC battalion in the Iron Triangle resulting in 4 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 43 US WIA. During September, primary emphasis was placed on denying VC access to populated areas during the National Elections. Land clearing operations were also initiated along the Song Saigon to eliminate VC concealment. In October, 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods were cleared by Rome Plows following Operation KUNIA. Contact during BARKING SANDS was limited to squad and platoon size elements and no major engagement occurred. Four sub-operations were conducted in the BARKING SANDS AO during the period: KAWELA, AKUMU,WAIMEA and KUNIA (see individual operations below). Results (inclusive of the four sub-operations): 370 enemy killed, 85 detained, 10 returnees, 110 US KIA, 1114 US WIA.

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: DIAMOND HEAD
Location: Tay Ninh West, Dau Tieng, Suoi Da, Prek Klok, Ben Cui, Michelin Plantation, Boi Loi Woods, The Crescent, The Trapezoid, Tay Ninh and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div33. Task organization: 2-12 Inf, 2-22 Inf (M), 3-22 Inf, 2-77 Art, 2-34 Arm (-) (from 22 Sep), C/1-10 Cav, C/4th Eng. Execution: The mission was to conduct search and destroy operations in Tay Ninh Province, cordon and search operations in the Michelin Plantation, and security and reinforcement missions in the Tay Ninh and Prek Klok areas. With one battalion detached to Operation UNIONTOWN and another providing security for the Dau Tieng and Tay Ninh West base camps, contact in the AO were very limited during the months of May, June and July. On 1 Aug, the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div was redesignated the 3d Bde, 25th Inf Div. No movement of troops or units were involved in this redesignation. On 15 Aug, an airmobile cordon and search of Thanh An was conducted by 3-22 Inf in conjunction with VN National Police. 6 enemy were killed and 42 detained. In September, the brigade provided security during the National elections. In October, continued battalion size search and destroy operations were conducted in the Michelin Plantation to prevent its use as an enemy haven, in and south of Ben Cui, and in the northern portion of the Trapezoid, which extends 15 km to the southeast of Dau Tieng. Bushmaster operations were conducted in an area known as the Crescent, 8 km northwest of Dau Tieng. All operations were marked by extremely light contact. In November, operations were conducted in the upper Boi Loi Woods and in the Ben Cui Plantation, again with light contact. During this period operations were curtailed due to two battalions being opcon to the other brigades. On 25-25 Now, 2-22 Inf (M) made contact with a VC company near the Mushroom bend on the Saigon River, killing 20. This was the last contact during DIAMOND HEAD before the operation came to an end on 7 Dec. Results: 237 enemy killed, 496 detained, 4 returnees. (US losses unknown).

1 Jun.67-7 Feb.68
Operation: HOPTAC
Location: Dong Tam, Dinh Tuong Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: Task Force FUNSTON39. Execution: Operation HOPTAC was an internal defense and development operation in Dinh Tuong Province which included security of the Dong Tam base. Task Force FUNSTON provided land and waterborne security for engineer dredging equipment and maintained a ready reaction force to assist local GVN units and installations if needed. In most cases contact with the VC was characterized by light fire fights and sniper fire. On 1 Feb 68 the enemy fired more than 170 82 mm mortar and 75 mm RR rounds into the base resulting in minor damage and 11 US WIA. In the early morning hours of 3, 4, 5 and 7 Feb, the enemy continued to attack the base with mortar and RR fire. The heaviest attack came on 7 Feb with an estimated 200 rounds fired at the base. Elements of 5-60 Inf and 2-39 Inf conducted reaction airmobile assaults and RIF operations 8 km east of Dong tam, making contact with two VC companies, killing 23 while losing 5 KIA and 11 WIA. Results: 296 enemy killed, 11 captured, 3 returnees, 37 US KIA, 364 US WIA.

18 Jun.-12 Oct.
Operation: GREELEY
Location: Kontum, Dak To, Tan Canh, Dak Seang, Dak Pek, Toumorong, Dak Poko, Dak Akoi, Hill 830, Hill 1338, FSB 4, Kontum Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (24 Jun-25 Jul): 1-7 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-12 Cav, 1-21 Art; 1st ARVN Abn TF (24 Jun-25 Jul): 3d, 5th and 8th ARVN Abn Bns; 24th STZ: 1/42 Inf. Intelligence: 24th and 174th PAVN Rgts, K101D PAVN Bn, 304th PLAF MF Bn, 200th PLAF Art Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn . Execution: From 1-18 Jun, the 173d Abn Bde continued participation in Operation FRANCIS MARION, searching further south and east in the Ia Drang Valley. The brigade deployed the 1-503 Inf and 2-503 Inf into the AO, holding 4-503 Inf in reserve at Catecka. No significant contact was made. On 17 Jun, TF MC QUARRIE (2-503 Inf, E/17 Cav, A/3-319 Art) moved by air and motor convoy to the New Dak To Airfield, joined the following day by 1-503 Inf. The mission, named GREELEY, was to assume opcon of the CIDG Camp at Dak To under threat from the 24th PAVN Rgt and assist in its defense. On 18 Jun, 2-503 Inf began searching south of Dak To toward the huge mass of Hill 1338 (Ngok Bor Beang). C/1-503 Inf was also inserted into the area to search for a missing SF and CIDG team which had been destroyed by the NVA on 15-16 Jun, 1400 meters southwest of their camp. On 22 Jun, after a fruitless search of Hill 1338, 2-503 Inf was instructed to return to Dak To on foot. Shortly after leaving its NDP, A/2-503 bumped into an enemy battalion from the 24th PAVN Rgt42 while descending the slopes of Hill 1338. Two platoons were cut off and annihilated while the rest of the company formed a small perimeter and called supporting fires. Cos B and C were rushed to the rescue but arrived too late. 76 Americans had been killed, some executed point blank by the enemy, and 23 wounded. 106 enemy bodies were counted in the battle area. This action became known as 'The Battle of the Slopes' and as one of the costliest engagement for US forces in Vietnam. Concerned by the size of the battle and the US losses, General Larsen at I FFORCEV decided to reinforce GREELEY. On 23 Jun, 2-12 Cav arrived from the PERSHING AO while the rest of the 173d Abn Bde (CP (-) and 4-503 Inf) closed Dak To from Catecka. The next day, 24 Jun, the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (-) and 1st ARVN Abn TF arrived at Kontum. The Allied forces went after the 24th PAVN Rgt, seeking to destroy it. In the next two weeks, the 173d Abn Bde and 2-12 Cav searched west and south of Dak To while the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div and the ARVN Abn TF entered the Dak Akoi Valley northeast of Kontum and 35 km east of Dak To. The sweep found little evidence of the enemy's presence and on 25 Jul the cavalry brigade returned to the coast, while the Vietnamese task force stood down at Kontum to serve as a mobile reaction force. Southwest of Dak To on 10 Jul, 4-503 Inf, while searching for a regimental headquarters, found an occupied enemy bunker complex on Hill 830. Battle raged until 12 Jul with 22 US KIA and 62 US WIA but only 9 enemy bodies found. This was the last significant contact on the month. On 19 Jul, 2 NVA soldiers rallied at Dak Pek CIDG Camp, stating that they were 42 Later identified as the 6th Bn, 24th PAVN Rgt. from the newly infiltrated 174th PAVN Rgt. They were proved correct on 6 Aug when the 1/42 ARVN Bn made heavy contact with that unit 8 km west of the Dak Seang CIDG Camp. The ARVN Abn TF was rushed into the area and fought a bitter twoday battle to capture a hill believed to have been the location of the regimental CP, killing 189 of the enemy. On 9 Aug, 4-503 Inf moved to Dak Pek, joining the 1-503 Inf already there since 4 Aug, but the two battalions found little. Contacts were so low in August that the 173d Abn Bde was credited with only 4 enemy killed. During the period 1-18 Sep, the brigade continued GREELEY in the Dak To – Dak Seang area, supporting CIDG Operation DARBY, but contact was minimal. On 17 Sep, the brigade (-) began moving by air to Tuy Hoa to begin Operation BOLLING. Only 4-503 Inf and A/3-319 stayed at Dak To, forming Task Force 77 with the 3rd ARVN Abn Bn, 1/42 ARVN Bn and 27th MIKE Force Co for an expedition in the Toumorong Valley that lasted nearly three weeks but found nothing. On 11 Oct, TF 77 was disbanded and that same day, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art departed for Tuy Hoa, terminating Operation GREELEY. Results: 191 enemy killed, 17 captured, 129 US KIA, 210 US WIA. (no info on ARVN losses).

3 Jul.67-7 Apr.68
Operation: RILEY
Location: Bearcat, Camp Martin Cox, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div; TF FORSYTH (from 10 Feb). Task organization: 2-39 Inf, 4-39 Inf, 2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, TF FORSYTH. Execution: Operation RILEY was an internal defense and development operation in Bien Hoa Province and included defense of Camp Martin Cox. When not engaged in strike operations, Headquarters, 1st Bde assumed opcon of all elements engaged in RILEY, including TF FORSYTH (a provisional Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment located at Camp Martin Cox). In the absence of the 1st Bde, TF FORSYTH was allocated sufficient forces to secure the camp and to conduct limited consolidation operations in the area. On 31 Jan 68 in response to the VC Tet Offensive, elements of the 2-47 Inf (M) and 4-39 Inf moved to Long Binh Post for perimeter security. Working in coordination with 2-3 Inf from the 199th Inf Bde (Lt), the two battalions had multiple contacts with the enemy during the day near Ho Nai, killing 213 by bodycount and capturing 32. US losses were 4 KIA and 23 WIA. On 10 Feb 68, the 1st Bde moved to Dong Tam and TF FORSYTH assumed responsibility until termination. Results: 472 enemy killed, 41 detained, 2 returnees, 64 US KIA, 315 US WIA.

8 Jul.-30 Oct.
Operation: MARCH I
Location: Plei Trap Valley, Kontum Province. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: B-50 Det Project OMEGA. Execution: Long range reconnaissance and intelligence gathering conducted in the Plei Trap Valley. Results: (no info).

10 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: FREMONT
Location: Camp Evans, Hill 51, Hill 67, Phong Dien District, Thua Thien Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 4th Marines. Task organization: 2/4 Marines (10 Jul-14 Sep), 3/26 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct). Execution: The 4th Marines initiated Operation FREMONT with its own 2/4 to provide security for Camp Evans, Hill 51, the Phong Dien District Headquarters and a radio transmission site on Hill 67. On 20 Jul, 2/4 provided blocking forces near My Chanh for SLF BRAVO in Operation BEAR CHAIN. BLT 2/3 became opcon to 4th Marines on 22 Jul and joined FREMONT, until back loading on 21 Aug. Contact was sporadic in Aug with only 13 US KIA for the month. During Sep, 2/4 in conjunction with ARVN forces helped secure nearby villages and hamlets during the National Elections. On 14 Sep, 2/4 joined Operation KINGFISHER and was replaced by 3/26 Marines. Contacts remained low until termination, being limited to harassing tactics, mines incidents and sniper fire. Results: 123 enemy killed, 8 captured, 17 US KIA, 196 US WIA.

16 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: KINGFISHER
Location: Dong Ha, Con Thien, Gio Linh, Cua Viet, Ca Lu, Route 9, Route 561, Route 606, Hill 216, C-2, Demilitarized Zone, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d and 9th Marines. Task organization: 3/3 Marines, 2/4 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct), 3/4 Marines, 1/9 Marines, 2/9 Marines, 3/9 Marines, 3/26 Marines (15 Aug-11 Sep), 1st Amtrac Bn. Intelligence: 90th and 812th PAVN Rgts. Execution: KINGFISHER was a continuation of Marine operations south of the DMZ follwing BUFFALO and HICKORY II. Contact was light during the first week. On 21 Jul, 3/3 Marines securing a portion of Route 9 for a 'Rough Rider' convoy bound for Khe Sanh found a NVA battalion dug in on Hill 216 overlooking the road. Tanks, 40mm dusters and artillery pounded the hill and forced the enemy to withdraw. On 28 Jul, 2/9 Marines reinforced with tanks, LVTEs and Ontos was pushing into the DMZ north on Route 606 when it was attacked by an estimated NVA battalion. The column was split in company-size segments and fought desperately all day until reinforcements from 3/4 Marines forced the enemy to break contact. 23 Americans were killed and 251 wounded with only 32 NVA confirmed killed. Ground action was light in early Aug with the largest part of the activity involving artillery attacks on Gio Linh, Con Thien, Cua Viet and Dong Ha. On 21 Aug, an NVA battalion ambushed a small Marine convoy moving from the Rockpile to Ca Lu. Elements form 3/3 were brought in, fighting a six-hour engagement until night fell and the enemy fled to the west. 6 US were killed and 35 wounded, Enemy loses were unknown. The NVA tried again on 7 Sep at almost the same location. This time the battle lasted more than 8 hours. The Marines killed 92 of the enemy while losing 5 KIA and 56 WIA. The Communists tried to disrupt the National Elections on 3 Sep, firing more than 41 rounds of artillery into Dong Ha, damaging 17 helicopters. This attack ended the use of Dong Ha as a permanent helicopter base facility. Con Thien however, remained the primary artillery target for the NVA. On 25 Sep alone, 1,200 rounds slammed into the combat base. On 10 Sep, 3/26 Marines made heavy contact with what seemed to be the entire 812th PAVN Rgt 4 miles southwest of Con Thien. The action lasted for four hours until the enemy broke contact, leaving 140 dead on the battle field. Marine losses had been high also with 34 KIA and 192 WIA, forcing 3/26 to return to Phu Bai the next day to refit. On 21 Sep, 2/9 Marines started a search and destroy operation 1,800 meters east of Con Thien when it ran into heavy resistance from an element of the 90th PAVN Rgt. The battle turned into a stalemate after rain had made the area impassable and both sides withdrew. US casualties were 31 KIA and 118 WIA. Enemy killed were reported at 39. The enemy intensified its attack-by-fire against Con Thien in late Sep, hitting the base with over 3,000 rounds during the period 19-27 Sep. The Americans retaliated by massing one of the greatest concentrations of firepower in support of a single division in the history of the Vietnam War. Marine artillery, ships of the 7th Fleet, Marine and Air Force jets and B-52 bombers poured tons of ordnance into know enemy positions in and north of the DMZ. By the end of Sep, NVA pressure of the outpost had subsided. On 14 Oct, 2/4 Marines was guarding a bridge north of Strong point C-2 when it received a ground attack from an unknown size enemy force. AC-47 gunships helped repel the assault during the night. 21 Americans were killed and 23 wounded. Only 24 NVA bodies were found in the area. The last major action of KINGSIFHER took place during a 9th Marines operation on 25-28 Oct. 2/4 Marines was sweeping north of Con Thien on Route 561 when it was hit by an enemy battalion, beating back several attacks and losing 8 KIA and 45 WIA. Results: 1,117 enemy killed, 5 captured, 340 US KIA, 1,461 US WIA.

17 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: ARDMORE
Location: Khe Sanh, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destro, security. Controlling headquarters: 26th Marines (Forward). Task organization: 1/26 Marines, 3/26 Marines, 1/13 Marines. Execution: Operation ARDMORE was a continuation of Operation CROCKETT and involved the same mission and the same forces. On 21 Jul, B/1/26 and M/3/26 fought a NVA battalion dug on Hill 216 along Route 9 in conjunction with 3/3 Marines from Operation KINGFISHER. Contacts in August were minimal and 3/26 was moved to the KINGFISHER AO on 15 Aug. 1/26 Marines continued patrols and company-size search and destroy operations around Khe Sanh, but with limited contact with the enemy. Results: 113 enemy killed, 6 detained, 10 US KIA, 39 US WIA

27 Jul.-8 Nov.
Operation: SONG THAN 14
Location: Bong Son, Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF BRAVO. Task organization: 1st VNMC BN, 2nd VNMC Bn (27 Jul-4 Oct), 3rd VNMC Bn (4 Oct-6 Nov), C/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: On 27 Jul, TF BRAVO relieved TF ALPHA at Bong Son AF and continued search and destroy operations south of Bong Son in conjunction with Operation PERSHING. Results: (no info)

31 Jul.-3 Nov.
Operation: DAN QUYEN 822
Location: Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 22nd ARVN Division. Results: 141 enemy killed, 181 detained, 44 ARVN KIA, 74 ARVN WIA 3 ARVN MIA.

11 Aug.-21 Oct.
Operation: SONG THAN/701/67
Location: Tan Uyen, Bien Hoa Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF ALPHA. Task organization: 2nd VNMC Bn (10-21 Oct), 4th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-10 Oct), 5th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-15 Sep), 6th VNMC Bn (15 Sep-21 Oct), B/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: Operation conducted in the Tan Uyen area in coordination with the US 1st Inf Div. Results: (no info)

16 Aug-31 Oct.
Operation: 8-67/SAMURAI II & III
Location: A Shau Valley, Happy Valley, Thuat Thien and Quang Nam Provinces. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: Det B-52 Project DELTA,81st ARVN Abn Rgr Bn. Execution: Operation searched areas from the northern stretches of the A Shau Valley into Happy Valley, west of Da Nang. Results: (no info).

1 Sep.-17 Nov.
Operation: STRIKE I
Location: Bien Hoa, Long Binh, AO STRIKE, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 2-47 Inf (M). Execution: Operation STRIKE I was conducted to provide security for the Bien Hoa-Long Binh complex and to prevent rocket attacks. On 17 Nov, STRIKE I was combined with Operation UNIONTOWN. Results: (no info).

5 Sep.-30 Oct.
Operation: DRAGON FIRE
Location: Batangan Peninsula, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d ROKMC Bde. Task organization: 1st, 2d and 5th ROKMC Bns. Execution: The 2d ROKMC Bde conducted this operation to clear insurgent elements from the Batagan Peninsula. Results: 541 enemy killed, 17 captured, 121 detained, 45 ROKMC KIA, 200 ROKMC WIA, 3 USMC WIA.

11 Sep-25 Nov.
Operation: WHEELER
Location: Tien Phuoc, Hiep Duc, Song Tranh, Song Chang, Base Area 116, Base Area 117, UDEN AO, Quang Tin Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 101st Abn Div. Task organization: 1-327 Inf, 2-327 Inf, 2-502 Inf, 1-14 Inf (11-24 Sep), 1-35 Inf (4 Oct-4 Nov), 2-320 Art, A/2-9 Art (4 Oct-4 Nov), B/2-9 Art (11-24 Sep), C/3-16 Art, B/1-9 Cav (2-4 Oct), A/2-17 Cav (17-25 Nov), A/326th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PAVN Div (1st PLAF Rgt, 3rd and 21st PAVN Rgts). Execution: ... SEE PREVIOUS DAY FOR INFORMATION... Results were 9 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 18 US WIA. With the 2nd PAVN Div elements avoiding contact during the period 28 Oct-4 Nov, increased emphasis was placed on attempting to locate the division. On 5 Nov, 1-35 Inf was released from operational control of the brigade and placed under opcon of the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div conducting Operation WALLOWA in the Que Son Basin. The last phase of WHEELER (6-25 Nov) saw 2-327 Inf being air-assaulted into the western portion of BA 116 while 1-327 Inf and 2-502 Inf established blocking positions. On 11 Nov, C/2-327 Inf engaged an NVA company in the Song Chang Valley 4 km east of Hiep Duc. 14 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 5 US WIA. This marked the last significant contact of WHEELER, after that, the badly hurt 2nd PAVN Div avoided any further contact. From 23-25 Nov, brigade elements were relieved in place by elements of the 196th Inf Bde (Lt)61 and displaced to Tam Ky Airfield to move by air to the brigade main base camp at Phan Rang for a four-day stand down and preparation for future operations. Results: 1,105 enemy killed, 50 captured, 445 detained, 11 returnees, 124 US KIA, 465 US WIA.

12 Sep-10 Oct.
Operation: CORONADO V
Location: Dong Tam, Cai Lay, Cam Son Secret Zone, Ban Long Base Area, Loi Quan Island, Song My Tho, Rach Ba Rai, Rach Ben Tre, Route 20, Ding Tuong and Kien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div (MRF); 7th ARVN Div. Task organization: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div: 3-47 Inf (12-17 Sep), 4-47 Inf (17 Sep-10 Oct), 3-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-60 Inf (-)(15-17 Sep), 3-34 Art, D/15th Eng, USN TF 117; 7th ARVN Div: 10th ARVN Rgt, 41st ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 263rd and 506th PLAF Bns. Execution: On 11 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Vung Tau to Dong Tam again and began Operation CORONADO V aimed at the 263rd PLAF Bn which had returned to the Cam Son Secret Zone. On 12 Sep, 3-47 Inf swept north from landing sites on the My Tho but turned up almost nothing. The next day, 3-60 Inf and 5-60 Inf (M) with help from the 7th ARVN Div62 began a sweep of the Ban Long area to the east and made contact with what appeared to be a VC covering force near the site of the VNMC heavy contact in July. The enemy withdrew under cover of darkness, leaving 63 bodies behind. As US and ARVN forces left the Ban Long on 14 Sep, the 7th ARVN Div reported that a large force, presumably the 263rd PLAF Bn, remained in the Cam Son, only a few kilometers north from areas previously swept. On 15 Sep, as 5-60 Inf (M) moved overland via Route 20, 3-60 Inf and 3-47 Inf sailed via the Song My Tho up the Rach Ba Rai between the My Tho and the town of Cai Lay. While 3-47 Inf landed unopposed over WHITE Beach, 3-60 Inf ran into two companies of the 263rd lined up in ambush positions along the east bank of the Ba Rai. Some of the boats managed to run the gauntlet but were forced to turn back as most of the column failed to follow. Two companies from 2-60 Inf were helicoptered from Long An Province to encircle the enemy. The battle lasted until nightfall but when the Americans entered the deserted ambush site the next day they found only 24 enemy killed. On 17 Sep the MRF returned to Dong Tam where 4-47 Inf rotated aboard the ships of the MRF replacing 3-47 Inf. On 20 Sep, the MRF displaced to Kien Hoa Province and began widely separated operations in Ham Long, Giong Trom and Huong My Districts, looking for the 516th PLAF Bn but no major contact took place. On 27 Sep, ATCs performing mine sweeping duties along the Rach Ben Tre received heavy RPG, recoilless and automatic weapons fire. 3 sailors were killed and 6 wounded. On 28 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Dong Tam to the northern end of Loi Quan Island between the Cua Dai and Cua Tieu to reduce logistic distances. Operations in Kien Hoa were in close cooperation with the 10th ARVN Rgt and a composite RF battalions but only sporadic contact was made. On 5-7 Oct the MRF returned to the Ban Long but had only limited contact with elements of the 263rd PLAF Bn and on 10 Sep it displaced to Vung Tau to prepare for CORONADO VI. Results: 330 enemy killed, 235 detained, 2 returnees, 35 US KIA, 175 US WIA.

16 Sep.-29 Oct.
Operation: KUNIA
Location: Ho Bo Woods, Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 3-22 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: Operation KUNIA was conducted as part of BARKING SANDS with the 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div initiating search and destroy operations in the Ho Bo Woods in preparation for the arrival of a land clearing team of thirty Rome Plows. By the end of October 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods had been cleared. Results: (included in BARKING SANDS).

19 Sep. 67-31 Jan. 69
Operation: BOLLING/DAN HOA
Location: Tuy Hoa, Phu Hiep, Binh Tinh, Ma Hoa, AO BLACK, Song Ky Lo, Song Da Rang, Suoi Cai, Phu Yen and Phu Bon Provinces. Type: search and destroy, reconnaissance-in-force, pacification, rice protection. Controlling headquarters: 173d Abn Bde (19 Sep 67-8 Feb 68, 1 Apr 68-31 Jan 69); I FFORCEV (8 Feb-1 Apr 68); 22nd ARVN Div. Task organization: 1-503 Inf (19 Sep-6 Nov 67), 2-503 Inf (12 Oct-6 Nov 67), 3-503 Inf (5 Nov 67-16 Jan 68), 4-503 Inf (19 Sep-1 Nov 67, 16 Dec 67-31 Jan 69), TF 2-8 Cav (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), 3-319 Art, C/2-19 Art (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 47th ARVN Rgt. Intelligence: 5th PAVN Div (18B and 95th PAVN Rgts), 30th and 95th PLAF LF Bns, K65 and K76 Sapper Cos. Execution: During the period 14-19 Sep, the bulk of the brigade (minus 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art) was relocated by air from Dak To to Tuy Hoa to commence long-term Operation BOLLING in cooperation with the 47th ARVN Rgt. The 2-8 Cav was opconed to the brigade until 14 Oct to compensate for 2-503 Inf remaining at Dak To, and was air-assaulted into the BOLLING AO on 19 Sep. The operation was designed to provide security for the local rice harvest. Daily contact was maintained with enemy forces in September and October but seldom larger than squad size. During October, the brigade relocated its rear base camp facility from Bien Hoa to An Khe, moving by sea via Saigon and Qui Nhon. On 12 Oct, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 returned from the Highlands, relieving TF 2-8 Cav and on 22 Oct, the new 3-503 Inf arrived in-country from Fort Bragg, undergoing jungle training in An Khe prior to deployment to the BOLLING AO. On 1 Nov, 4-503 Inf was alerted for immediate departure for Dak To, followed five days later by the brigade minus (headquarters, 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 3-319 Art). On 5 Nov, 3-503 Inf arrived at Tuy Hoa from An Khe and assumed responsibility for Operation BOLLING. Contact continued to be light in November; on 16 Dec, the brigade headquarters, 4-503 Inf and C and D/3-319 Art were redeployed from Operation MACARTHUR, closing into the BOLLING AO that same day. On 27 Dec, 3-503 Inf conducted a series of combat assaults into the Song Ky Lo Valley 15 km northwest of Dong Tre and engaged two enemy companies. Elements of 4-503 Inf reinforced the battle area until contact was lost on 29 Dec. Results were 62 enemy killed, 12 US KIA and 34 US WIA. Contact was infrequent in January and a battalion task force built around 3-503 Inf moved to An Khe on 16 Jan 68 to assume responsibility of the Operation DAZZLEM AO63 from the departing 1st Cav Div. On 30 Jan, the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt attacked several targets in the Tuy Hoa area as part of the enemy's Tet Offensive, including a FSB held by C/6-32 Art, the Binh Tin hamlet, Tuy Hoa North AF and the provincial prison. D/4-503 Inf and two companies from the 2nd Bn, 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked toward the airfield and by 0730 on 31 Jan, the enemy force was surrounded and destroyed in Binh Tin hamlet. On 5-6 Feb, two battalions of the 47th ARVN Rgt and RF elements reduced an enemy strong point in the center of Tuy Hoa. During the fighting in and around Tuy Hoa, 316 enemy had been killed and 104 captured. During February, 4-503 Inf in conjunction with Strike Force elements from Cung Son and Dong Tre CIDG Camps, and Task Force MITCHELL (E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm) conducted search and destroy operations west of Tuy Hoa and helped mop up the aftermath of the Tet Offensive. It also provided security for the 577th Eng C Bn and 173d Eng Co working on Routes 7B and 436. On 8 Feb, the 173d Abn Bde (-) departed Tuy Hoa to assumed Opcon of TF POWERHOUSE (1-503 and 2-503 Inf) in Kontum Province in the MACARTHUR AO. Operation BOLLING passed under control of I FFORCEV which assumed opcon of TF 4-503 build around 4-503 Inf, Btys C and D, 3-319 Art and D/16 Arm. A major contact developed on 4 Mar when the 47th ARVN Rgt contacted the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt and 85th PLAF Bn in three hamlets along the coast just north of Tuy Hoa. D/16 Arm and elements of the 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked while the 47th ARVN Rgt provided blocking positions. D/16 was credited with 137 NVA killed during the action while suffering 10 KIA and 21 WIA. Contact during the rest of March was sporadic in the BOLLING AO. On 1 Apr, the brigade returned from the Highlands, relieving the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div at Bong Son64 and assumed control over TF 4-503 again. Contact was light during the month of April except on the 5th when D/16 Arm again supported the 47th ARVN Rgt in heavy contact with two enemy battalions at Ma Hoa village in Tuy Hoa Valley just off Route 7B north of the Song Da Rang. In May, 4-503 Inf conducted extensive bushmaster operations, on 2 May, Co B killed 8 enemy soldiers in the Suoi Cai Valley 18 km west of Tuy Hoa. In June, the enemy continued to avoid decisive contact with Allied force, relying on harassing tactics instead. During the period 16-27 Jul, 4-503 Inf conducted search and clear operations in AO BLACK located 25 km southwest of Cung Son on the Phu Bon and Darlac provincial boundary but there was no significant contact. On 30 July, 4-503 Inf joined the 3/47 ARVN Bn and elements of the 26th ROK Rgt to conduct a combined operation in the Song Ky Lo Valley but contact was again limited. Prisoners confirmed that the bulk of the 18B and 95th PAVN Rgts had departed Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa Province to refit in Cambodia. Contact remained light for the rest of Operation BOLLING, limited to engagements with squad-size enemy forces and booby traps incidents. On 1 Feb 69 the BOLLING/DAN HOA AO became a permanent TAOR called LY DO/WAINWRIGHT. Results: 715 enemy killed, 72 US KIA, 307 US WIA (no info on ARVN casualties).

24 Sep.-9 Oct.
Operation: ARKANSAS CITY II
Location: Phuoc Tuy Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 11th ACR. Execution: (no info)

26 Sep.-21 Oct.
Operation: AKRON III
Location: Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone), Phuoc Tuy and Bien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-39 Inf, B/2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, 2/48 ARVN Bn, 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 274th PLAF Rgt. Execution: AKRON III was a continuation of land clearing and search and destroy operations in Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone). Contact with the enemy was light and sporadic throughout the operation but the largest known weapons cache in the III CTZ to date was discovered, contacting over 200,000 rounds of small arms, 1,022 small arms and 125 crew served weapons. Results: (no info).

29 Sep.-11 Nov.
Operation: KENMORE
Location: Xuyen Moc, AO WARATAH, AO BANKSIA, Phuoc Tuy Province. Controlling headquarters: 1ATF. Task organization: 7RAR, A Sqn 3 Cav, 4 Fld Rgt, A/1-35 Art, A/1-83d Art. Execution: Operation took place in AOs WARATAH and BANKSIA, 6 km southeast of Xuyen Moc and bordering 24 km of coastline with infrequent contact. Results: 16 enemy killed, 1 captured, no friendly casualties.

29 Sep.-19 Nov.
Operation: SHENANDOAH II
Location: Lai Khe, Loc Ninh, Chon Thanh, Suoi Ong Thanh, Michelin Plantation, Long Nguyen Secret Zone, Route 13, LZ APPLE, FSB CAISSON II, FSB CAISSON III, FSB CAISSON IV, FSB CAISSON V, FSB CAISSON VI, FSB CAISSON VII, FSB LORRAINE II, Binh Duong and Binh Long Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Inf Div; 1st Bde, 1st Inf Div (29 Sep-19 Nov); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (30 Sep-30 Oct). Task organization: 1-2 Inf (29 Sep-18 Oct; 21-28 Oct), 2-2 Inf (M)(29 Sep-23 Oct), 1-16 Inf (29 Sep; 18-29 Oct; 8-19 Nov), 1-18 Inf (4-13 Oct; 29 Oct-19 Nov), 1-26 Inf (31 Oct-8 Nov), 1-28 Inf (29 Sep-10 Oct; 13 Oct-11 Nov), 2-28 Inf (7-18 Oct; 30 Oct-19 Nov), 2-12 Inf (2-7 Nov), 1-4 Cav (29 Sep-30 Oct), 1-5 Art (29 Sep-19 Nov), 6-15 Art (30 Oct-19 Nov), 2-33 Art (30 Sep-30 Oct). Intelligence: 9th PLAF Div (271st, 272nd, 273rd PLAF Rgts). Execution: Operation SHENANDOAH II initially covered an area from slightly south of Lai Khe, north approximately 18 miles and west to the edge of the Michelin Plantation, a region known as the Long Nguyen Secret Zone where the 271st PLAF Rgt was reported. The AO was expanded later to include the area between Lai Khe and Loc Ninh and between Route 13 west to the 25th Inf Div AO. On 29 Sep, 1-2 Inf began search and destroy operation in AO MIKE 12 miles north of Lai Khe while 1-28 Inf displaced via motor convoy from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh. Simultaneously, 1-4 Cav with A/2-2 Inf (M) opcon began clearing Route 13 From Lai Khe to Chon Thanh and secured FSBs CAISSON II & III. The first engagement with the VC took place on 4 Oct when 1-2 Inf made contact with an unknown size enemy force 10 km southwest of Chon Thanh. 12 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 26 US WIA. In reaction, 1-18 Inf moved by helicopter from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh and was air-assaulted into an LZ 1 km west of the 1-2 Inf contact. The LZ was cold but 29 enemy bodies KBA were found in the immediate vicinity. On 6 Oct, 1-18 Inf received mortar fire followed by a heavy ground assault. Result was 50 enemy killed, 3 US KIA and 4 US WIA. On 7 Oct, another battalion, 2-28 Inf, was added to the operation, moving via road convoy to Chon Thanh and then to field location. On 10 Oct, 1-28 Inf, having made little contact, was extracted from the field and returned to Phuoc Vinh. The next major engagement occurred on 11 Oct when B/1-18 Inf made contact with an estimated 100-150 enemy 31 km west of Highway 13, killing 21 while losing 1 KIA and 4 WIA. On 13 Oct, 1-28 Inf returned to the SHENANDOAH II AO, relieving 1-18 Inf in place. Contact during the next few days was limited but on 17 Oct, Cos A & D, 2-28 Inf were ambushed while following a trail south of the Suoi Ong Thanh. Contact began at 1015 when Co A received sniper fire. Close fighting began to develop rapidly and the two companies were soon engulfed by a very heavy volume of fire. The battalion's CO65, S-2, SGM and both company commanders became casualties. Both companies pulled back under fire to allow for close air support and artillery fire as Co B and C were rushed in to reinforced, followed by Co D, 1/16 inf later in the afternoon when the enemy broke contact. Losses had been very heavy for the Americans with 52 KIA, 72 WIA and 2 MIA. 103 enemy bodies were counted in the battle area the next day. On 18 Oct, 2-28 Inf was relieved in place by the rest of 1-16 Inf and was extracted to Lai 65 LTC Terry de la Mesa Allen, Jr., KIA 17 Oct 67. Khe, followed by 1-2 Inf which returned to Phuoc Vinh. On 19 Oct, 1-16 Inf continued search and destroy operations in the vicinity of the 17 Oct battle while 1-28 Inf was extracted briefly to Chon Thanh to allow for a B-52 strike to take place before returning to the field. On 21 Oct, 1-2 Inf was inserted into the AO again after a road march from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh but contact remained low for the rest on the month. At 0115 on 29 Oct, two battalions of the 273rd PLAF Rgt launched a ground assault on the Loc Ninh District Headquarters and Loc Ninh CIDG Camp. Two reconnaissance companies from the 5th ARVN Div reacted immediately, being airlifted from Phu Loi to Loc Ninh and counterattacking along with two CIDG companies to regain the northern part of the sub sector compound, clearing it by 1300. At that point, Operation SHENANDOAH II was expanded to include the battle of Loc Ninh, with 1-18 Inf deploying to the battle area to occupy blocking positions 4 km west of the town. 2/9 ARVN Bn was also brought in and deployed in and around the sub sector compound. On 30 Oct, the 1st Bde CP arrived at Quan Loi to control US forces at Loc Ninh. That same day, A/1-18 Inf made contact with an enemy company, killing 85. At 0100 on 31 Oct, elements of the 272nd and 273rd PLAF Rgts renewed their attacks on the sub sector and SF compounds. Very heavy fighting took place all night with TACAIR and AC-47 gunships supporting the defenders until 0700 when the enemy broke contact. Later that day, 1-28 Inf conducted an air-assault 4 km southeast of Loc Ninh while 1-26 joined the operation, securing FSB CAISSON VII near An Loc where the 5th ARVN TAC CP was also established. 126 enemy had been killed during the night attack at the cost of 9 KIA and 56 WIA for the Allied forces. 1 Nov was relatively quite but starting at 0045 on 2 Nov, a third attack was launched, this time on the sub sector compound, CIDG camp, 1-18 Inf NDP and the 6-15 Art FSB near the Loc Ninh Airfield. All were repulsed with a combination of heavy, accurate fire by the defenders, artillery and effective close air support. At 0820, 1-26 Inf conducted an airmobile assault 6 km northwest of Loc Ninh, followed later in the afternoon by 2-12 Inf detached from the 25th Inf Div. 296 more enemies had been killed during the attack at the cost of 7 killed and 36 wounded to friendly forces. On 3 Nov, the 36th ARVN Rgr Bn arrived to participate in reconnaissance-in-force operations with the four US infantry battalions. On 7 Nov, 1-26 Inf engaged an unknown size enemy force 6 km northeast of Loc Ninh, killing 66 but losing 17 KIA and 21 WIA. This was the last major engagement of SHENANDOAH II, the 272nd and 273rd avoiding any further contact with Allied forces. Results: 956 enemy killed, 63 detained, 107 US KIA, 322 US WIA.

New Operations

4-6 Oct.
Operation: CUU LONG/215/DT
Location: Dinh Tuong Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 7th ARVN Division. Results: 70 enemy killed, 3 detained, 3 ARVN KIA, 10 ARVN WIA.

4 Oct.-11 Nov.
Operation: WALLOWA
Location: Tam Ky, Van Dong, Dong Tri, Ha Tay, Barrier Island, Que Son Basin, Truong Giang, Route 1, LZ BALDY, LZ COLT, Quang Tin and Quang Nam Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div. Task organization: 1-7 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-12 Cav, B/1-9 Cav, 1-1 Cav (-), A/2-17 Cav, 1-21 Art (-), C/1-77 Art, C/2-20 Art, C/8th Eng, 227th AHB (-), A/228th ASHB, C/8th Eng. Intelligence: 3rd PAVN Rgt. Execution: On 28 Sep, IFFORCEV notified the 1st Cav Div that a rapidly deteriorating situation in I CTZ required that III MAF be reinforced. On 30 Sep, an advance party moved north, followed on 1 Oct by the 2-12 Cav and the 3d Bde CP departing for Chu Lai. By that evening, 3d Bde CP, 2-12 Cav, B/1-9 Cav and C/1-77 Art were closed and the 3d Bde became opcon to the AMERICAL Div. 1-7 Cav moved the following day and by 3 Oct, 5-7 Cav and all combat support elements had closed Chu Lai. On 4 Oct, Operation WALLOWA began with the brigade setting up its command post on LZ BALDY (Hill 63), replacing the departing 5th Marines. 1-7 Cav displaced to BALDY also while 2-12 Cav occupied a former Marine outpost near the village of Que Son and 5-7 Cav established LZ COLT on Hill 23, 10 km south of BALDY. The first contact occurred on 9 Oct when B/1-9 Cav engaged an estimated enemy platoon, killing 15. On 10 Oct, elements of the 3rd PAVN Rgt probed LZ COLT before the Americans had completed even basic defense. Infiltrating enemy soldiers with US uniforms headed straight for the battalion's TOC, killing or wounding everyone inside it. 7 US were KIA and 17 WIA but only a few enemy bodies were found in the morning. On 20 Oct. 1-7 Cav made contact with an unknown size enemy force in a cluster of hamlets a few kilometers east of BALDY on the west bank of the Truong Giang, killing 44. During 22-23 Oct, 5-7 Cav engaged the 3rd Bn, 3rd PAVN Rgt near the hamlet of Van Dong on Barrier Island, killing 98 enemy soldiers. On 27 Oct, 1-7 Cav and two troops from 1-1 Cav again made contact with elements of the 3rd PAVN Rgt fortified in the village of Ha Tay along the coast 5 km north of Van Dong, killing an additional 48. Contact tapered-off after that as the 3rd PAVN Rgt retreated toward the Que Son Valley and Operation WALLOWA was combined with Operation WHEELER on 11 Nov70. Results71: 675 enemy killed, 17 captured, 46 US KIA, 480 US WIA.

Other

4 Oct.
Sydney, Australia becomes R&R Center

[Jason Petho]

Ongoing Operations today in 1967

26 Aug.66-20 Jan.68
Operation: BYRD
Location: Phan Thiet, LZ BETTY, Binh Thuan Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: I FFORCEV. Task organization: TF 2-7: 2-7 Cav, C/1-9 Cav, A/1-21 Art, C/2-20 Art (-), C/8th Eng Bn (-), C/229th Avn Bn, Det 228th Avn Bn. Execution: Planned as a short-term, economy-of-force measure, BYRD became a continuous offensive that would last into 1968. Upon I FFORCEV request, the 1st Cav Div detached at battalion-size task force to help pacify isolated Binh Thuan Province in southern II Corps. Results (at year's end): 351 enemy killed, 151 detained, 8 US KIA, 85 US WIA.

1 Oct.66-17 Jan 68
Operation: DAZZLEM
Location: Camp Radcliff, An Khe, Binh Dinh Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization: Base Defense Task Force. Execution: Operation DAZZLEM was the contingency plan for the defense of Camp Radcliff provided by one infantry battalion with supporting artillery and
reinforcing personnel from residence units. On 17 Jan 68, the 173d Abn Bde relieved the 1st Cav Div from the mission of defending An Khe. Results: 80 enemy killed, 9 detained.

11 Oct.66-17 Nov.67
Operation: UNIONTOWN II
Location: Long Binh, Bien Hoa Province Type: security. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV. Execution: Operation UNIONTOWN was a security operation designed to protect the Long Binh logistical complex, RMK Rock Quarry and II FFORCEV Headquarters. Units were assigned on a rotation basis from each major command under II FFORCEV.

30 Nov. 66-15 Dec.67
Operation: FAIRFAX/RANG DONG
Location: Nha Be, Thu Duc and Binh Chanh Districts, Gia Dinh Province. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV, CMD. Task organization: 1st Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 2-16 Inf; 4th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3-22 Inf; 25th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 4-9 Inf; CMD (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3rd and 5th ARVN Abn Bns, 30th Ranger Bn; 199th LIB (31 Jan-15 Dec.): 2-3 Inf, 3-7 Inf, 4-12 Inf, 2-40 Art; 5th ARVN Ranger Group (31 Jan.-15 Dec): 30th, 33rd and 38th ARVN Ranger Bns. Intelligence: Military Region 4, 165A PLAF Regiment. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE... Results (end of 1966): 149 enemy killed, 40 detained, 11 US KIA, 67 US WIA, 23 ARVN KIA, 58 ARVN WIA, 1 ARVN MIA.

8 Feb.67-31 Jan.68
Operation: LAM SON 67
Location: Phu Loi, An My, Ong Dong Jungle, Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, security, jungle clearing. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 1st Inf Div (8 Feb-17 Mar, 17 Apr 67-31 Jan 68); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (17 Mar-17 Apr). Task organization: 1st Inf Div Revolutionary Development Task Force (various infantry, cavalry and support units were assigned on a rotation basis during the period). Execution: The operation supported the GVN's Revolutionary Development Program in conjunction with ARVN units in Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. LAM SON 67 consisted of cordon and search, reconnaissance in force, harassment, jungle clearing, population control, civic action and psychological warfare operations directed against priority targets. Contact in the AO was characterized by light sporadic incidents with local VC elements. On 6 Jan 68, the Phu Loi base camp received 123 rounds of mixed mortar fire, 46 aircraft were damaged and 6 US WIA. Reacting to the attack, A/2-18 Inf and B/2-2 Inf (M) swept the area to the north of the base and contacted two enemy companies of the Phu Loi PLAF Bn. 92 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 14 US WIA. Operation LAM SON 67 was terminated on 31 Jan 68 with the beginning of the enemy's Tet Offensive. Results: 527 enemy killed, 263 captured, 2,327 detained, 346 defectors, 56 US KIA, 572 US WIA.

12 Feb. 67-18 Jan. 68
Operation: PERSHING
Location: Bong Son, Tuy An, Tam Quan, Hoa Tan, Sa Huynh, Truong Son, An Qui, Trung Xuan, An Lac, An Lao Valley, Kim Son Valley, Suoi Ca Valley, 506 Valley, Nuoc Dinh Valley, Phu My Valley, Song Re Valley, the Crescent, Nui Mieu, Nui Sang, Cay Giep, Dam Tra-O Lake, Route 1, LZ BRONCO BEACH, LZ CRYSTAL, LZ ENGLISH, LZ GARNET, LZ GERONIMO, LZ GLENN, LZ HAMMOND, LZ IRON, LZ MEADE, LZ PAT, LZ SANDRA, LZ STEEL, LZ TOM, LZ TWO BITS, LZ UPLIFT, Binh Dinh and Quang Ngai Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization (As of 12 Feb): 1 s t Bde: 1-8 Cav, 1-12 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-19 Art (-), D/2-17 Art, C/1-21 Art, A/3-18 Art; 2d Bde: 2-5 Cav, 1-5 Cav (-), 1-7 Cav (-), 2-12 Cav, 1-77 Art (-), B/1-8 Art, A/1-21 Art, C/1-30 Art, B/8th Eng; 3d Bde: 2-8 Cav, C/1-5 Cav, 1-21 Art (-), 2-17 Art (-), C/6-16 Art, C/2-19 Art, C/8th Eng; 3d Bde, 25 t h Inf Div (12 Feb-19 Apr): 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf (4-19 Apr), 2-9 Art, A/1-77 Art, 5-16 Art, C/3-4 Cav, D/65th Eng; Div Arty: 2-20 Art (-), 7-13 Art (-), B/29 Art, E/82 Art, 3-18 Art (-); Div Troops: 1-9 Cav, 8th Eng Bn (-). Intelligence: 3rd PAVN Div: 18th and 22nd PAVN Rgts, 2nd PLAF Rgt. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE ... Results: 5,
388 enemy killed, 2,356 captured, 10,609 detained, 221 returnees, 852 US KIA, 4,119 US WIA, 22 US MIA.

13 Feb. 67-10 Mar. 68
Operation: ENTERPRISE
Location: Tan An, Rach Kien, Ben Luc, Binh Phuoc, Tan Tru, Doi Ma Creek, Plain of Reeds9, Base Area 371, Route 14, Long An Province. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, eagle flights. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 3-39 Inf, 2-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-4 Art, C/15th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PLAF MF Bn, 506th PLAF LF Bn. Execution: ENTERPRISE was the continuation of the pacification effort of Long An Province initiated the previous year by the 25th Inf Div with Operation LANIKAI. On 13 Feb, 3-39 Inf relieved 2-14 Inf at Rach Kien. Strength of division elements in the province were subsequently increased to brigade size with movement of 2-60 Inf into Tan Tru, 5-60 Inf into Binh Phuoc and Headquarters, 3d Bde into Tan An. The first major engagement occurred on 9 Apr when 3-39 Inf made contact with the 506th PLAF Bn on the bank of Doi Ma Creek. Additional companies were brought in, killing 247 of the enemy. On 2 May, the 506th Bn exacted vengeance on the 3-39 Inf, attacking one of its companies in night defensive position near Route 4. 17 US were KIA and 48 WIA but no enemy bodies were found. The operation was temporarily extended north to the Plain of Reeds area on 8-14 May with sub-operation NIRVANA II directed against the enemy's Base Area 371. Elements of the 3d Bde joined forces with the 4/50 ARVN Bn of the 25th ARVN Div but found nothing, killing only 14 of the enemy. On 14 May, the 2nd PLAF Bn struck the compound of the 2/50 ARVN Bn in Rach Kien, killing 31 South Vietnamese soldiers and wounding 34. 3d Bde units were committed but couldn't regain contact with the attacking force. After that, contact with the enemy dropped sharply for the remainder of 1967, indicating an apparent enemy desire to avoid friendly forces. On 31 Jan 68, the brigade responded to the Tet Offensive, 5-60 Inf engaged in heavy fighting southwest of Saigon in Gia Dinh Province, killing 128 enemy soldiers. From 1-5 Feb, 3-39 Inf and 2-60 Inf were sent to Kien Hoa Province to help recapture Ben Tre, the provincial capital. On 10 Feb, the brigade HQ at Tan An came under attack from an unknown size enemy force. 33 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 53 US WIA. During March, brigade elements conducted "Aquabush" operations along the numerous canals south of Saigon in conjunction with the 199th Inf Bde (Lt). Pacification activities decreased sharply during the Tet Offensive and the operation was terminated on 10 March. Results: 2,107 enemy killed, 74 US KIA, 380 US WIA.

14 Feb.67-21 Mar.68
Operation: KITTYHAWK
Location: Long Binh, Xuan Loc, Long Giao, Gia Ray, Suoi Cat, Blackhorse, Route 1, Route 2, Long Khanh and Bien Hoa Province. Type: reconnaissance-in-force, cordon and search, security, road clearing. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div (14 Feb 67-15 Feb 68); 11th ACR (15 Feb-21 Mar 68). Task organization: 3-5 Cav, 1/11 ACR, 2/11 ACR, 3/11 ACR. Intelligence: 275th PLAF Rgt. Execution: The purpose of KITTYHAWK was to secure LOCs and selected installations within Long Khanh Province, conduct reconnaissance-in-force operations and cordon and search of selected hamlets within the AO, secure Blackhorse base camp and the Gia Ray rock quarry and provide ready reaction forces along Route 1. On 21 May, K Troop, 3/11 ACR was ambushed by an estimated reinforced enemy battalion near Suoi Cat on Route 1. 30 enemy are killed, 12 US KIA and 13 US WIA. On 27 Jun 1/11 ACR moved to reinforce the 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn which was in heavy contact with elements of the 3rd Bn, 275th PLAF Rgt, killing 49 of the enemy11. On 30 Dec two enemy companies ambushed Troop C, 3-5 Cav on Route 2. Friendly losses are 10 KIA, 29 WIA and 3 MIA. On 31 Jan 68, in reaction to the VC Tet Offensive, the 3-5 Cav was alerted to respond to enemy activity in the Long Binh-Bien Hoa area. A/3-5 Cav bypassed several roadblocks, breaking through enemy forces and reached the Bien Hoa airfield, sweeping nearby wood lines and killing 40. During the period 2-3 Feb, C/3-5 Cav was sent to defend Xuan Loc against an intense ground attack, killing nearly 50 enemy soldiers. On 15 Feb the KITTYHAWK mission was assumed by the 11th ACR as the 3-5 Cav (-) was directed by HQ USARV to deploy to Da Nang, I CTZ. On 21 Mar, the operation was phased into Operation ALCORN COVE. Results: 201 enemy killed, 7 captured, 1 returnee, 62 US KIA, 224 US WIA.

5 Apr.-11 Oct.
Operation: FRANCIS MARION
Location: Plei Me, Duc Co, Plei Djereng, Plei Mrong, Plei Do Lim, Buon Blech, Se San, Ia Drang, Ia Tchar, Dak Ayun, Dak Payou, Chu Pong, Chu Prong, Chu Goungot, Chu Groh, Route 14, Route 14B, Route 19E, Route 509, Hill 521, LZ OASIS, LZ JACKSON HOLE, Pleiku and Darlac Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: (effective 7 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, B/4-42 Art, C/3-4 Cav (-), A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (-), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, Plt B/1-69 Arm, 4-42 Art (-), B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), Plt C/2-8 Inf (-), Cav Plt 1-10 Cav, B/3-6 Art, A/5-16 Art; TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 26 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), C/4-42 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h In f Div: 2-8 Inf, 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), A/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), A/3-6 Art; TF 3-8 Inf: 3-8 Inf, C/6-29 Art, A/5-16 Art; Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 30 May): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (M), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art, B/4th Eng (-); 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, D/16 Arm, E/17 Cav, 173d Eng Co; TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 5-16 Art (-); Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 24 Sep): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 2-8 Inf (M), 3-8 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), A/4-42 Art,, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div: 1-12 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), B/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: 2-1 Cav, D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Intelligence: B3 Front, 1st NVA Div (32nd, 66th and 88th Rgts), 10th NVA Div (95B and 101C Rgts), 200th NVA Art Bn, 407th PLAF MF Sapper Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn.. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE.... Results: 1,204 enemy killed, 122 detained, 11 returnees, 198 US KIA, 982 US WIA, 8 US MIA.

22 Apr.67-2 Jan 68.
Operation: BAKER
Location: Duc Pho, Mo Duc, Vinh Hien, Tan Phong, Dien Truong, An Ba, An Tach, Song Tra Cau, Song Ve, LZ MONTEZUMA (later renamed LZ BRONCO), LZ GUADALCANAL, LZ OLIVE DRAB, LZ LIZ, LZ DRAGON, RAZORBACK Beach, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde TF, 25th Inf Div (redesignated 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div on 1 Aug). Task organization: 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf, 2-9 Art, C/3-4 Cav, B/1-9 Cav, C/2-34 Arm. Intelligence: 1st PLAF Rgt, 2nd PLAF Rgt, 22nd PAVN Rgt. Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: (no info).

14 May.-7 Dec.
Operation: KOLE KOLE
Location: Duc Hoa, Bao Trai, Hiep Hoa, Loc Giang, Trang Bang, Song Vam Co Dong, Rach Tra, Xinh An Ha, Route 10, Hau Nghia and Tay Ninh Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 1-5 Inf (M), 1-27 Inf, 2-27 Inf, 1-8 Art. Intelligence: 2nd Go Mon and 269th PLAF LF Bns. Execution: Operation KOLE KOLE was initiated by the 2d Bde in Hau Nghia Province using EAGLE FLIGHTS and airmobile operations based on current intelligence. Cordon and search, outposting and country fair operations were also conducted in conjunction with the 25th ARVN Div, CIDG and RF/PF. On 17 May, elements of 1/27 Inf and 2/27 Inf fought an eight-hour engagement west of the Vam Co Dong with a VC company. Results were 27 enemy killed, 2 US KIA and 9 US WIA. There was intermittent contact during June and July, particularly along the An Ha canal and near Loc Giang. The brigade also secured engineer operations along Route 10 to improve the GVN's authority and control west of Trang Bang. In early August, the reconnaissance platoon of 1/27 Inf with helicopter support intercepted VC recon elements from Long An Province, killing 26. During September, KOLE KOLE shifted to northern Hau Nghai and southwestern Tay Ninh Province. 1-5 Inf (M) conducted extensive dismounted ambush patrols around Loc Giang along the Vam Co while 2-27 Inf engaged scattered elements of the 269th PLAF Bn. On 21 Oct, an EAGLE FLIGHT from 1-27 Inf engaged an estimated enemy platoon south of Tay Ninh, killing 18. On 31 Oct, 2-27 Inf made contact with elements of the 2nd Go Mon Bn north of the Rach Tra, killing 28 and capturing 2. Enemy activity decreased for the rest of KOLE KOLE and the brigade concentrated on pacification and land clearing operations. Results: 797 enemy killed, 150 detained, 34 returnees, 144 US KIA, 876 US WIA

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: BARKING SANDS
Location: Cu Chi, Trang Bang, Phu Hoa, Iron Triangle, Ho Bo Woods, Song Saigon, Hau Nghia and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: The 1st Bde employed counter guerrilla warfaretechniques including saturation patrolling, checkmate, bushmaster and cordon and search operations to pacify Cu Chi and Trang Bang Districts in Hau Nghia Province and Phu Hoa District in Binh Duong Province. Buddy operations were also conducted with local PF platoons and RF companies. On 30 Aug, 4-9 Inf conducted an airmobile assault against an entrenched VC battalion in the Iron Triangle resulting in 4 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 43 US WIA. During September, primary emphasis was placed on denying VC access to populated areas during the National Elections. Land clearing operations were also initiated along the Song Saigon to eliminate VC concealment. In October, 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods were cleared by Rome Plows following Operation KUNIA. Contact during BARKING SANDS was limited to squad and platoon size elements and no major engagement occurred. Four sub-operations were conducted in the BARKING SANDS AO during the period: KAWELA, AKUMU,WAIMEA and KUNIA (see individual operations below). Results (inclusive of the four sub-operations): 370 enemy killed, 85 detained, 10 returnees, 110 US KIA, 1114 US WIA.

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: DIAMOND HEAD
Location: Tay Ninh West, Dau Tieng, Suoi Da, Prek Klok, Ben Cui, Michelin Plantation, Boi Loi Woods, The Crescent, The Trapezoid, Tay Ninh and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div33. Task organization: 2-12 Inf, 2-22 Inf (M), 3-22 Inf, 2-77 Art, 2-34 Arm (-) (from 22 Sep), C/1-10 Cav, C/4th Eng. Execution: The mission was to conduct search and destroy operations in Tay Ninh Province, cordon and search operations in the Michelin Plantation, and security and reinforcement missions in the Tay Ninh and Prek Klok areas. With one battalion detached to Operation UNIONTOWN and another providing security for the Dau Tieng and Tay Ninh West base camps, contact in the AO were very limited during the months of May, June and July. On 1 Aug, the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div was redesignated the 3d Bde, 25th Inf Div. No movement of troops or units were involved in this redesignation. On 15 Aug, an airmobile cordon and search of Thanh An was conducted by 3-22 Inf in conjunction with VN National Police. 6 enemy were killed and 42 detained. In September, the brigade provided security during the National elections. In October, continued battalion size search and destroy operations were conducted in the Michelin Plantation to prevent its use as an enemy haven, in and south of Ben Cui, and in the northern portion of the Trapezoid, which extends 15 km to the southeast of Dau Tieng. Bushmaster operations were conducted in an area known as the Crescent, 8 km northwest of Dau Tieng. All operations were marked by extremely light contact. In November, operations were conducted in the upper Boi Loi Woods and in the Ben Cui Plantation, again with light contact. During this period operations were curtailed due to two battalions being opcon to the other brigades. On 25-25 Now, 2-22 Inf (M) made contact with a VC company near the Mushroom bend on the Saigon River, killing 20. This was the last contact during DIAMOND HEAD before the operation came to an end on 7 Dec. Results: 237 enemy killed, 496 detained, 4 returnees. (US losses unknown).

1 Jun.67-7 Feb.68
Operation: HOPTAC
Location: Dong Tam, Dinh Tuong Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: Task Force FUNSTON39. Execution: Operation HOPTAC was an internal defense and development operation in Dinh Tuong Province which included security of the Dong Tam base. Task Force FUNSTON provided land and waterborne security for engineer dredging equipment and maintained a ready reaction force to assist local GVN units and installations if needed. In most cases contact with the VC was characterized by light fire fights and sniper fire. On 1 Feb 68 the enemy fired more than 170 82 mm mortar and 75 mm RR rounds into the base resulting in minor damage and 11 US WIA. In the early morning hours of 3, 4, 5 and 7 Feb, the enemy continued to attack the base with mortar and RR fire. The heaviest attack came on 7 Feb with an estimated 200 rounds fired at the base. Elements of 5-60 Inf and 2-39 Inf conducted reaction airmobile assaults and RIF operations 8 km east of Dong tam, making contact with two VC companies, killing 23 while losing 5 KIA and 11 WIA. Results: 296 enemy killed, 11 captured, 3 returnees, 37 US KIA, 364 US WIA.

18 Jun.-12 Oct.
Operation: GREELEY
Location: Kontum, Dak To, Tan Canh, Dak Seang, Dak Pek, Toumorong, Dak Poko, Dak Akoi, Hill 830, Hill 1338, FSB 4, Kontum Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (24 Jun-25 Jul): 1-7 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-12 Cav, 1-21 Art; 1st ARVN Abn TF (24 Jun-25 Jul): 3d, 5th and 8th ARVN Abn Bns; 24th STZ: 1/42 Inf. Intelligence: 24th and 174th PAVN Rgts, K101D PAVN Bn, 304th PLAF MF Bn, 200th PLAF Art Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn . Execution: From 1-18 Jun, the 173d Abn Bde continued participation in Operation FRANCIS MARION, searching further south and east in the Ia Drang Valley. The brigade deployed the 1-503 Inf and 2-503 Inf into the AO, holding 4-503 Inf in reserve at Catecka. No significant contact was made. On 17 Jun, TF MC QUARRIE (2-503 Inf, E/17 Cav, A/3-319 Art) moved by air and motor convoy to the New Dak To Airfield, joined the following day by 1-503 Inf. The mission, named GREELEY, was to assume opcon of the CIDG Camp at Dak To under threat from the 24th PAVN Rgt and assist in its defense. On 18 Jun, 2-503 Inf began searching south of Dak To toward the huge mass of Hill 1338 (Ngok Bor Beang). C/1-503 Inf was also inserted into the area to search for a missing SF and CIDG team which had been destroyed by the NVA on 15-16 Jun, 1400 meters southwest of their camp. On 22 Jun, after a fruitless search of Hill 1338, 2-503 Inf was instructed to return to Dak To on foot. Shortly after leaving its NDP, A/2-503 bumped into an enemy battalion from the 24th PAVN Rgt42 while descending the slopes of Hill 1338. Two platoons were cut off and annihilated while the rest of the company formed a small perimeter and called supporting fires. Cos B and C were rushed to the rescue but arrived too late. 76 Americans had been killed, some executed point blank by the enemy, and 23 wounded. 106 enemy bodies were counted in the battle area. This action became known as 'The Battle of the Slopes' and as one of the costliest engagement for US forces in Vietnam. Concerned by the size of the battle and the US losses, General Larsen at I FFORCEV decided to reinforce GREELEY. On 23 Jun, 2-12 Cav arrived from the PERSHING AO while the rest of the 173d Abn Bde (CP (-) and 4-503 Inf) closed Dak To from Catecka. The next day, 24 Jun, the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (-) and 1st ARVN Abn TF arrived at Kontum. The Allied forces went after the 24th PAVN Rgt, seeking to destroy it. In the next two weeks, the 173d Abn Bde and 2-12 Cav searched west and south of Dak To while the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div and the ARVN Abn TF entered the Dak Akoi Valley northeast of Kontum and 35 km east of Dak To. The sweep found little evidence of the enemy's presence and on 25 Jul the cavalry brigade returned to the coast, while the Vietnamese task force stood down at Kontum to serve as a mobile reaction force. Southwest of Dak To on 10 Jul, 4-503 Inf, while searching for a regimental headquarters, found an occupied enemy bunker complex on Hill 830. Battle raged until 12 Jul with 22 US KIA and 62 US WIA but only 9 enemy bodies found. This was the last significant contact on the month. On 19 Jul, 2 NVA soldiers rallied at Dak Pek CIDG Camp, stating that they were 42 Later identified as the 6th Bn, 24th PAVN Rgt. from the newly infiltrated 174th PAVN Rgt. They were proved correct on 6 Aug when the 1/42 ARVN Bn made heavy contact with that unit 8 km west of the Dak Seang CIDG Camp. The ARVN Abn TF was rushed into the area and fought a bitter twoday battle to capture a hill believed to have been the location of the regimental CP, killing 189 of the enemy. On 9 Aug, 4-503 Inf moved to Dak Pek, joining the 1-503 Inf already there since 4 Aug, but the two battalions found little. Contacts were so low in August that the 173d Abn Bde was credited with only 4 enemy killed. During the period 1-18 Sep, the brigade continued GREELEY in the Dak To – Dak Seang area, supporting CIDG Operation DARBY, but contact was minimal. On 17 Sep, the brigade (-) began moving by air to Tuy Hoa to begin Operation BOLLING. Only 4-503 Inf and A/3-319 stayed at Dak To, forming Task Force 77 with the 3rd ARVN Abn Bn, 1/42 ARVN Bn and 27th MIKE Force Co for an expedition in the Toumorong Valley that lasted nearly three weeks but found nothing. On 11 Oct, TF 77 was disbanded and that same day, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art departed for Tuy Hoa, terminating Operation GREELEY. Results: 191 enemy killed, 17 captured, 129 US KIA, 210 US WIA. (no info on ARVN losses).

3 Jul.67-7 Apr.68
Operation: RILEY
Location: Bearcat, Camp Martin Cox, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div; TF FORSYTH (from 10 Feb). Task organization: 2-39 Inf, 4-39 Inf, 2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, TF FORSYTH. Execution: Operation RILEY was an internal defense and development operation in Bien Hoa Province and included defense of Camp Martin Cox. When not engaged in strike operations, Headquarters, 1st Bde assumed opcon of all elements engaged in RILEY, including TF FORSYTH (a provisional Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment located at Camp Martin Cox). In the absence of the 1st Bde, TF FORSYTH was allocated sufficient forces to secure the camp and to conduct limited consolidation operations in the area. On 31 Jan 68 in response to the VC Tet Offensive, elements of the 2-47 Inf (M) and 4-39 Inf moved to Long Binh Post for perimeter security. Working in coordination with 2-3 Inf from the 199th Inf Bde (Lt), the two battalions had multiple contacts with the enemy during the day near Ho Nai, killing 213 by bodycount and capturing 32. US losses were 4 KIA and 23 WIA. On 10 Feb 68, the 1st Bde moved to Dong Tam and TF FORSYTH assumed responsibility until termination. Results: 472 enemy killed, 41 detained, 2 returnees, 64 US KIA, 315 US WIA.

8 Jul.-30 Oct.
Operation: MARCH I
Location: Plei Trap Valley, Kontum Province. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: B-50 Det Project OMEGA. Execution: Long range reconnaissance and intelligence gathering conducted in the Plei Trap Valley. Results: (no info).

10 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: FREMONT
Location: Camp Evans, Hill 51, Hill 67, Phong Dien District, Thua Thien Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 4th Marines. Task organization: 2/4 Marines (10 Jul-14 Sep), 3/26 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct). Execution: The 4th Marines initiated Operation FREMONT with its own 2/4 to provide security for Camp Evans, Hill 51, the Phong Dien District Headquarters and a radio transmission site on Hill 67. On 20 Jul, 2/4 provided blocking forces near My Chanh for SLF BRAVO in Operation BEAR CHAIN. BLT 2/3 became opcon to 4th Marines on 22 Jul and joined FREMONT, until back loading on 21 Aug. Contact was sporadic in Aug with only 13 US KIA for the month. During Sep, 2/4 in conjunction with ARVN forces helped secure nearby villages and hamlets during the National Elections. On 14 Sep, 2/4 joined Operation KINGFISHER and was replaced by 3/26 Marines. Contacts remained low until termination, being limited to harassing tactics, mines incidents and sniper fire. Results: 123 enemy killed, 8 captured, 17 US KIA, 196 US WIA.

16 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: KINGFISHER
Location: Dong Ha, Con Thien, Gio Linh, Cua Viet, Ca Lu, Route 9, Route 561, Route 606, Hill 216, C-2, Demilitarized Zone, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d and 9th Marines. Task organization: 3/3 Marines, 2/4 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct), 3/4 Marines, 1/9 Marines, 2/9 Marines, 3/9 Marines, 3/26 Marines (15 Aug-11 Sep), 1st Amtrac Bn. Intelligence: 90th and 812th PAVN Rgts. Execution: KINGFISHER was a continuation of Marine operations south of the DMZ follwing BUFFALO and HICKORY II. Contact was light during the first week. On 21 Jul, 3/3 Marines securing a portion of Route 9 for a 'Rough Rider' convoy bound for Khe Sanh found a NVA battalion dug in on Hill 216 overlooking the road. Tanks, 40mm dusters and artillery pounded the hill and forced the enemy to withdraw. On 28 Jul, 2/9 Marines reinforced with tanks, LVTEs and Ontos was pushing into the DMZ north on Route 606 when it was attacked by an estimated NVA battalion. The column was split in company-size segments and fought desperately all day until reinforcements from 3/4 Marines forced the enemy to break contact. 23 Americans were killed and 251 wounded with only 32 NVA confirmed killed. Ground action was light in early Aug with the largest part of the activity involving artillery attacks on Gio Linh, Con Thien, Cua Viet and Dong Ha. On 21 Aug, an NVA battalion ambushed a small Marine convoy moving from the Rockpile to Ca Lu. Elements form 3/3 were brought in, fighting a six-hour engagement until night fell and the enemy fled to the west. 6 US were killed and 35 wounded, Enemy loses were unknown. The NVA tried again on 7 Sep at almost the same location. This time the battle lasted more than 8 hours. The Marines killed 92 of the enemy while losing 5 KIA and 56 WIA. The Communists tried to disrupt the National Elections on 3 Sep, firing more than 41 rounds of artillery into Dong Ha, damaging 17 helicopters. This attack ended the use of Dong Ha as a permanent helicopter base facility. Con Thien however, remained the primary artillery target for the NVA. On 25 Sep alone, 1,200 rounds slammed into the combat base. On 10 Sep, 3/26 Marines made heavy contact with what seemed to be the entire 812th PAVN Rgt 4 miles southwest of Con Thien. The action lasted for four hours until the enemy broke contact, leaving 140 dead on the battle field. Marine losses had been high also with 34 KIA and 192 WIA, forcing 3/26 to return to Phu Bai the next day to refit. On 21 Sep, 2/9 Marines started a search and destroy operation 1,800 meters east of Con Thien when it ran into heavy resistance from an element of the 90th PAVN Rgt. The battle turned into a stalemate after rain had made the area impassable and both sides withdrew. US casualties were 31 KIA and 118 WIA. Enemy killed were reported at 39. The enemy intensified its attack-by-fire against Con Thien in late Sep, hitting the base with over 3,000 rounds during the period 19-27 Sep. The Americans retaliated by massing one of the greatest concentrations of firepower in support of a single division in the history of the Vietnam War. Marine artillery, ships of the 7th Fleet, Marine and Air Force jets and B-52 bombers poured tons of ordnance into know enemy positions in and north of the DMZ. By the end of Sep, NVA pressure of the outpost had subsided. On 14 Oct, 2/4 Marines was guarding a bridge north of Strong point C-2 when it received a ground attack from an unknown size enemy force. AC-47 gunships helped repel the assault during the night. 21 Americans were killed and 23 wounded. Only 24 NVA bodies were found in the area. The last major action of KINGSIFHER took place during a 9th Marines operation on 25-28 Oct. 2/4 Marines was sweeping north of Con Thien on Route 561 when it was hit by an enemy battalion, beating back several attacks and losing 8 KIA and 45 WIA. Results: 1,117 enemy killed, 5 captured, 340 US KIA, 1,461 US WIA.

17 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: ARDMORE
Location: Khe Sanh, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destro, security. Controlling headquarters: 26th Marines (Forward). Task organization: 1/26 Marines, 3/26 Marines, 1/13 Marines. Execution: Operation ARDMORE was a continuation of Operation CROCKETT and involved the same mission and the same forces. On 21 Jul, B/1/26 and M/3/26 fought a NVA battalion dug on Hill 216 along Route 9 in conjunction with 3/3 Marines from Operation KINGFISHER. Contacts in August were minimal and 3/26 was moved to the KINGFISHER AO on 15 Aug. 1/26 Marines continued patrols and company-size search and destroy operations around Khe Sanh, but with limited contact with the enemy. Results: 113 enemy killed, 6 detained, 10 US KIA, 39 US WIA

27 Jul.-8 Nov.
Operation: SONG THAN 14
Location: Bong Son, Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF BRAVO. Task organization: 1st VNMC BN, 2nd VNMC Bn (27 Jul-4 Oct), 3rd VNMC Bn (4 Oct-6 Nov), C/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: On 27 Jul, TF BRAVO relieved TF ALPHA at Bong Son AF and continued search and destroy operations south of Bong Son in conjunction with Operation PERSHING. Results: (no info)

31 Jul.-3 Nov.
Operation: DAN QUYEN 822
Location: Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 22nd ARVN Division. Results: 141 enemy killed, 181 detained, 44 ARVN KIA, 74 ARVN WIA 3 ARVN MIA.

11 Aug.-21 Oct.
Operation: SONG THAN/701/67
Location: Tan Uyen, Bien Hoa Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF ALPHA. Task organization: 2nd VNMC Bn (10-21 Oct), 4th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-10 Oct), 5th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-15 Sep), 6th VNMC Bn (15 Sep-21 Oct), B/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: Operation conducted in the Tan Uyen area in coordination with the US 1st Inf Div. Results: (no info)

16 Aug-31 Oct.
Operation: 8-67/SAMURAI II & III
Location: A Shau Valley, Happy Valley, Thuat Thien and Quang Nam Provinces. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: Det B-52 Project DELTA,81st ARVN Abn Rgr Bn. Execution: Operation searched areas from the northern stretches of the A Shau Valley into Happy Valley, west of Da Nang. Results: (no info).

1 Sep.-17 Nov.
Operation: STRIKE I
Location: Bien Hoa, Long Binh, AO STRIKE, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 2-47 Inf (M). Execution: Operation STRIKE I was conducted to provide security for the Bien Hoa-Long Binh complex and to prevent rocket attacks. On 17 Nov, STRIKE I was combined with Operation UNIONTOWN. Results: (no info).

5 Sep.-30 Oct.
Operation: DRAGON FIRE
Location: Batangan Peninsula, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d ROKMC Bde. Task organization: 1st, 2d and 5th ROKMC Bns. Execution: The 2d ROKMC Bde conducted this operation to clear insurgent elements from the Batagan Peninsula. Results: 541 enemy killed, 17 captured, 121 detained, 45 ROKMC KIA, 200 ROKMC WIA, 3 USMC WIA.

11 Sep-25 Nov.
Operation: WHEELER
Location: Tien Phuoc, Hiep Duc, Song Tranh, Song Chang, Base Area 116, Base Area 117, UDEN AO, Quang Tin Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 101st Abn Div. Task organization: 1-327 Inf, 2-327 Inf, 2-502 Inf, 1-14 Inf (11-24 Sep), 1-35 Inf (4 Oct-4 Nov), 2-320 Art, A/2-9 Art (4 Oct-4 Nov), B/2-9 Art (11-24 Sep), C/3-16 Art, B/1-9 Cav (2-4 Oct), A/2-17 Cav (17-25 Nov), A/326th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PAVN Div (1st PLAF Rgt, 3rd and 21st PAVN Rgts). Execution: ... SEE PREVIOUS DAY FOR INFORMATION... Results were 9 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 18 US WIA. With the 2nd PAVN Div elements avoiding contact during the period 28 Oct-4 Nov, increased emphasis was placed on attempting to locate the division. On 5 Nov, 1-35 Inf was released from operational control of the brigade and placed under opcon of the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div conducting Operation WALLOWA in the Que Son Basin. The last phase of WHEELER (6-25 Nov) saw 2-327 Inf being air-assaulted into the western portion of BA 116 while 1-327 Inf and 2-502 Inf established blocking positions. On 11 Nov, C/2-327 Inf engaged an NVA company in the Song Chang Valley 4 km east of Hiep Duc. 14 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 5 US WIA. This marked the last significant contact of WHEELER, after that, the badly hurt 2nd PAVN Div avoided any further contact. From 23-25 Nov, brigade elements were relieved in place by elements of the 196th Inf Bde (Lt)61 and displaced to Tam Ky Airfield to move by air to the brigade main base camp at Phan Rang for a four-day stand down and preparation for future operations. Results: 1,105 enemy killed, 50 captured, 445 detained, 11 returnees, 124 US KIA, 465 US WIA.

12 Sep-10 Oct.
Operation: CORONADO V
Location: Dong Tam, Cai Lay, Cam Son Secret Zone, Ban Long Base Area, Loi Quan Island, Song My Tho, Rach Ba Rai, Rach Ben Tre, Route 20, Ding Tuong and Kien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div (MRF); 7th ARVN Div. Task organization: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div: 3-47 Inf (12-17 Sep), 4-47 Inf (17 Sep-10 Oct), 3-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-60 Inf (-)(15-17 Sep), 3-34 Art, D/15th Eng, USN TF 117; 7th ARVN Div: 10th ARVN Rgt, 41st ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 263rd and 506th PLAF Bns. Execution: On 11 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Vung Tau to Dong Tam again and began Operation CORONADO V aimed at the 263rd PLAF Bn which had returned to the Cam Son Secret Zone. On 12 Sep, 3-47 Inf swept north from landing sites on the My Tho but turned up almost nothing. The next day, 3-60 Inf and 5-60 Inf (M) with help from the 7th ARVN Div62 began a sweep of the Ban Long area to the east and made contact with what appeared to be a VC covering force near the site of the VNMC heavy contact in July. The enemy withdrew under cover of darkness, leaving 63 bodies behind. As US and ARVN forces left the Ban Long on 14 Sep, the 7th ARVN Div reported that a large force, presumably the 263rd PLAF Bn, remained in the Cam Son, only a few kilometers north from areas previously swept. On 15 Sep, as 5-60 Inf (M) moved overland via Route 20, 3-60 Inf and 3-47 Inf sailed via the Song My Tho up the Rach Ba Rai between the My Tho and the town of Cai Lay. While 3-47 Inf landed unopposed over WHITE Beach, 3-60 Inf ran into two companies of the 263rd lined up in ambush positions along the east bank of the Ba Rai. Some of the boats managed to run the gauntlet but were forced to turn back as most of the column failed to follow. Two companies from 2-60 Inf were helicoptered from Long An Province to encircle the enemy. The battle lasted until nightfall but when the Americans entered the deserted ambush site the next day they found only 24 enemy killed. On 17 Sep the MRF returned to Dong Tam where 4-47 Inf rotated aboard the ships of the MRF replacing 3-47 Inf. On 20 Sep, the MRF displaced to Kien Hoa Province and began widely separated operations in Ham Long, Giong Trom and Huong My Districts, looking for the 516th PLAF Bn but no major contact took place. On 27 Sep, ATCs performing mine sweeping duties along the Rach Ben Tre received heavy RPG, recoilless and automatic weapons fire. 3 sailors were killed and 6 wounded. On 28 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Dong Tam to the northern end of Loi Quan Island between the Cua Dai and Cua Tieu to reduce logistic distances. Operations in Kien Hoa were in close cooperation with the 10th ARVN Rgt and a composite RF battalions but only sporadic contact was made. On 5-7 Oct the MRF returned to the Ban Long but had only limited contact with elements of the 263rd PLAF Bn and on 10 Sep it displaced to Vung Tau to prepare for CORONADO VI. Results: 330 enemy killed, 235 detained, 2 returnees, 35 US KIA, 175 US WIA.

16 Sep.-29 Oct.
Operation: KUNIA
Location: Ho Bo Woods, Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 3-22 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: Operation KUNIA was conducted as part of BARKING SANDS with the 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div initiating search and destroy operations in the Ho Bo Woods in preparation for the arrival of a land clearing team of thirty Rome Plows. By the end of October 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods had been cleared. Results: (included in BARKING SANDS).

19 Sep. 67-31 Jan. 69
Operation: BOLLING/DAN HOA
Location: Tuy Hoa, Phu Hiep, Binh Tinh, Ma Hoa, AO BLACK, Song Ky Lo, Song Da Rang, Suoi Cai, Phu Yen and Phu Bon Provinces. Type: search and destroy, reconnaissance-in-force, pacification, rice protection. Controlling headquarters: 173d Abn Bde (19 Sep 67-8 Feb 68, 1 Apr 68-31 Jan 69); I FFORCEV (8 Feb-1 Apr 68); 22nd ARVN Div. Task organization: 1-503 Inf (19 Sep-6 Nov 67), 2-503 Inf (12 Oct-6 Nov 67), 3-503 Inf (5 Nov 67-16 Jan 68), 4-503 Inf (19 Sep-1 Nov 67, 16 Dec 67-31 Jan 69), TF 2-8 Cav (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), 3-319 Art, C/2-19 Art (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 47th ARVN Rgt. Intelligence: 5th PAVN Div (18B and 95th PAVN Rgts), 30th and 95th PLAF LF Bns, K65 and K76 Sapper Cos. Execution: During the period 14-19 Sep, the bulk of the brigade (minus 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art) was relocated by air from Dak To to Tuy Hoa to commence long-term Operation BOLLING in cooperation with the 47th ARVN Rgt. The 2-8 Cav was opconed to the brigade until 14 Oct to compensate for 2-503 Inf remaining at Dak To, and was air-assaulted into the BOLLING AO on 19 Sep. The operation was designed to provide security for the local rice harvest. Daily contact was maintained with enemy forces in September and October but seldom larger than squad size. During October, the brigade relocated its rear base camp facility from Bien Hoa to An Khe, moving by sea via Saigon and Qui Nhon. On 12 Oct, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 returned from the Highlands, relieving TF 2-8 Cav and on 22 Oct, the new 3-503 Inf arrived in-country from Fort Bragg, undergoing jungle training in An Khe prior to deployment to the BOLLING AO. On 1 Nov, 4-503 Inf was alerted for immediate departure for Dak To, followed five days later by the brigade minus (headquarters, 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 3-319 Art). On 5 Nov, 3-503 Inf arrived at Tuy Hoa from An Khe and assumed responsibility for Operation BOLLING. Contact continued to be light in November; on 16 Dec, the brigade headquarters, 4-503 Inf and C and D/3-319 Art were redeployed from Operation MACARTHUR, closing into the BOLLING AO that same day. On 27 Dec, 3-503 Inf conducted a series of combat assaults into the Song Ky Lo Valley 15 km northwest of Dong Tre and engaged two enemy companies. Elements of 4-503 Inf reinforced the battle area until contact was lost on 29 Dec. Results were 62 enemy killed, 12 US KIA and 34 US WIA. Contact was infrequent in January and a battalion task force built around 3-503 Inf moved to An Khe on 16 Jan 68 to assume responsibility of the Operation DAZZLEM AO63 from the departing 1st Cav Div. On 30 Jan, the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt attacked several targets in the Tuy Hoa area as part of the enemy's Tet Offensive, including a FSB held by C/6-32 Art, the Binh Tin hamlet, Tuy Hoa North AF and the provincial prison. D/4-503 Inf and two companies from the 2nd Bn, 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked toward the airfield and by 0730 on 31 Jan, the enemy force was surrounded and destroyed in Binh Tin hamlet. On 5-6 Feb, two battalions of the 47th ARVN Rgt and RF elements reduced an enemy strong point in the center of Tuy Hoa. During the fighting in and around Tuy Hoa, 316 enemy had been killed and 104 captured. During February, 4-503 Inf in conjunction with Strike Force elements from Cung Son and Dong Tre CIDG Camps, and Task Force MITCHELL (E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm) conducted search and destroy operations west of Tuy Hoa and helped mop up the aftermath of the Tet Offensive. It also provided security for the 577th Eng C Bn and 173d Eng Co working on Routes 7B and 436. On 8 Feb, the 173d Abn Bde (-) departed Tuy Hoa to assumed Opcon of TF POWERHOUSE (1-503 and 2-503 Inf) in Kontum Province in the MACARTHUR AO. Operation BOLLING passed under control of I FFORCEV which assumed opcon of TF 4-503 build around 4-503 Inf, Btys C and D, 3-319 Art and D/16 Arm. A major contact developed on 4 Mar when the 47th ARVN Rgt contacted the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt and 85th PLAF Bn in three hamlets along the coast just north of Tuy Hoa. D/16 Arm and elements of the 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked while the 47th ARVN Rgt provided blocking positions. D/16 was credited with 137 NVA killed during the action while suffering 10 KIA and 21 WIA. Contact during the rest of March was sporadic in the BOLLING AO. On 1 Apr, the brigade returned from the Highlands, relieving the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div at Bong Son64 and assumed control over TF 4-503 again. Contact was light during the month of April except on the 5th when D/16 Arm again supported the 47th ARVN Rgt in heavy contact with two enemy battalions at Ma Hoa village in Tuy Hoa Valley just off Route 7B north of the Song Da Rang. In May, 4-503 Inf conducted extensive bushmaster operations, on 2 May, Co B killed 8 enemy soldiers in the Suoi Cai Valley 18 km west of Tuy Hoa. In June, the enemy continued to avoid decisive contact with Allied force, relying on harassing tactics instead. During the period 16-27 Jul, 4-503 Inf conducted search and clear operations in AO BLACK located 25 km southwest of Cung Son on the Phu Bon and Darlac provincial boundary but there was no significant contact. On 30 July, 4-503 Inf joined the 3/47 ARVN Bn and elements of the 26th ROK Rgt to conduct a combined operation in the Song Ky Lo Valley but contact was again limited. Prisoners confirmed that the bulk of the 18B and 95th PAVN Rgts had departed Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa Province to refit in Cambodia. Contact remained light for the rest of Operation BOLLING, limited to engagements with squad-size enemy forces and booby traps incidents. On 1 Feb 69 the BOLLING/DAN HOA AO became a permanent TAOR called LY DO/WAINWRIGHT. Results: 715 enemy killed, 72 US KIA, 307 US WIA (no info on ARVN casualties).

24 Sep.-9 Oct.
Operation: ARKANSAS CITY II
Location: Phuoc Tuy Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 11th ACR. Execution: (no info)

26 Sep.-21 Oct.
Operation: AKRON III
Location: Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone), Phuoc Tuy and Bien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-39 Inf, B/2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, 2/48 ARVN Bn, 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 274th PLAF Rgt. Execution: AKRON III was a continuation of land clearing and search and destroy operations in Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone). Contact with the enemy was light and sporadic throughout the operation but the largest known weapons cache in the III CTZ to date was discovered, contacting over 200,000 rounds of small arms, 1,022 small arms and 125 crew served weapons. Results: (no info).

29 Sep.-11 Nov.
Operation: KENMORE
Location: Xuyen Moc, AO WARATAH, AO BANKSIA, Phuoc Tuy Province. Controlling headquarters: 1ATF. Task organization: 7RAR, A Sqn 3 Cav, 4 Fld Rgt, A/1-35 Art, A/1-83d Art. Execution: Operation took place in AOs WARATAH and BANKSIA, 6 km southeast of Xuyen Moc and bordering 24 km of coastline with infrequent contact. Results: 16 enemy killed, 1 captured, no friendly casualties.

29 Sep.-19 Nov.
Operation: SHENANDOAH II
Location: Lai Khe, Loc Ninh, Chon Thanh, Suoi Ong Thanh, Michelin Plantation, Long Nguyen Secret Zone, Route 13, LZ APPLE, FSB CAISSON II, FSB CAISSON III, FSB CAISSON IV, FSB CAISSON V, FSB CAISSON VI, FSB CAISSON VII, FSB LORRAINE II, Binh Duong and Binh Long Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Inf Div; 1st Bde, 1st Inf Div (29 Sep-19 Nov); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (30 Sep-30 Oct). Task organization: 1-2 Inf (29 Sep-18 Oct; 21-28 Oct), 2-2 Inf (M)(29 Sep-23 Oct), 1-16 Inf (29 Sep; 18-29 Oct; 8-19 Nov), 1-18 Inf (4-13 Oct; 29 Oct-19 Nov), 1-26 Inf (31 Oct-8 Nov), 1-28 Inf (29 Sep-10 Oct; 13 Oct-11 Nov), 2-28 Inf (7-18 Oct; 30 Oct-19 Nov), 2-12 Inf (2-7 Nov), 1-4 Cav (29 Sep-30 Oct), 1-5 Art (29 Sep-19 Nov), 6-15 Art (30 Oct-19 Nov), 2-33 Art (30 Sep-30 Oct). Intelligence: 9th PLAF Div (271st, 272nd, 273rd PLAF Rgts). Execution: Operation SHENANDOAH II initially covered an area from slightly south of Lai Khe, north approximately 18 miles and west to the edge of the Michelin Plantation, a region known as the Long Nguyen Secret Zone where the 271st PLAF Rgt was reported. The AO was expanded later to include the area between Lai Khe and Loc Ninh and between Route 13 west to the 25th Inf Div AO. On 29 Sep, 1-2 Inf began search and destroy operation in AO MIKE 12 miles north of Lai Khe while 1-28 Inf displaced via motor convoy from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh. Simultaneously, 1-4 Cav with A/2-2 Inf (M) opcon began clearing Route 13 From Lai Khe to Chon Thanh and secured FSBs CAISSON II & III. The first engagement with the VC took place on 4 Oct when 1-2 Inf made contact with an unknown size enemy force 10 km southwest of Chon Thanh. 12 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 26 US WIA. In reaction, 1-18 Inf moved by helicopter from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh and was air-assaulted into an LZ 1 km west of the 1-2 Inf contact. The LZ was cold but 29 enemy bodies KBA were found in the immediate vicinity. On 6 Oct, 1-18 Inf received mortar fire followed by a heavy ground assault. Result was 50 enemy killed, 3 US KIA and 4 US WIA. On 7 Oct, another battalion, 2-28 Inf, was added to the operation, moving via road convoy to Chon Thanh and then to field location. On 10 Oct, 1-28 Inf, having made little contact, was extracted from the field and returned to Phuoc Vinh. The next major engagement occurred on 11 Oct when B/1-18 Inf made contact with an estimated 100-150 enemy 31 km west of Highway 13, killing 21 while losing 1 KIA and 4 WIA. On 13 Oct, 1-28 Inf returned to the SHENANDOAH II AO, relieving 1-18 Inf in place. Contact during the next few days was limited but on 17 Oct, Cos A & D, 2-28 Inf were ambushed while following a trail south of the Suoi Ong Thanh. Contact began at 1015 when Co A received sniper fire. Close fighting began to develop rapidly and the two companies were soon engulfed by a very heavy volume of fire. The battalion's CO65, S-2, SGM and both company commanders became casualties. Both companies pulled back under fire to allow for close air support and artillery fire as Co B and C were rushed in to reinforced, followed by Co D, 1/16 inf later in the afternoon when the enemy broke contact. Losses had been very heavy for the Americans with 52 KIA, 72 WIA and 2 MIA. 103 enemy bodies were counted in the battle area the next day. On 18 Oct, 2-28 Inf was relieved in place by the rest of 1-16 Inf and was extracted to Lai 65 LTC Terry de la Mesa Allen, Jr., KIA 17 Oct 67. Khe, followed by 1-2 Inf which returned to Phuoc Vinh. On 19 Oct, 1-16 Inf continued search and destroy operations in the vicinity of the 17 Oct battle while 1-28 Inf was extracted briefly to Chon Thanh to allow for a B-52 strike to take place before returning to the field. On 21 Oct, 1-2 Inf was inserted into the AO again after a road march from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh but contact remained low for the rest on the month. At 0115 on 29 Oct, two battalions of the 273rd PLAF Rgt launched a ground assault on the Loc Ninh District Headquarters and Loc Ninh CIDG Camp. Two reconnaissance companies from the 5th ARVN Div reacted immediately, being airlifted from Phu Loi to Loc Ninh and counterattacking along with two CIDG companies to regain the northern part of the sub sector compound, clearing it by 1300. At that point, Operation SHENANDOAH II was expanded to include the battle of Loc Ninh, with 1-18 Inf deploying to the battle area to occupy blocking positions 4 km west of the town. 2/9 ARVN Bn was also brought in and deployed in and around the sub sector compound. On 30 Oct, the 1st Bde CP arrived at Quan Loi to control US forces at Loc Ninh. That same day, A/1-18 Inf made contact with an enemy company, killing 85. At 0100 on 31 Oct, elements of the 272nd and 273rd PLAF Rgts renewed their attacks on the sub sector and SF compounds. Very heavy fighting took place all night with TACAIR and AC-47 gunships supporting the defenders until 0700 when the enemy broke contact. Later that day, 1-28 Inf conducted an air-assault 4 km southeast of Loc Ninh while 1-26 joined the operation, securing FSB CAISSON VII near An Loc where the 5th ARVN TAC CP was also established. 126 enemy had been killed during the night attack at the cost of 9 KIA and 56 WIA for the Allied forces. 1 Nov was relatively quite but starting at 0045 on 2 Nov, a third attack was launched, this time on the sub sector compound, CIDG camp, 1-18 Inf NDP and the 6-15 Art FSB near the Loc Ninh Airfield. All were repulsed with a combination of heavy, accurate fire by the defenders, artillery and effective close air support. At 0820, 1-26 Inf conducted an airmobile assault 6 km northwest of Loc Ninh, followed later in the afternoon by 2-12 Inf detached from the 25th Inf Div. 296 more enemies had been killed during the attack at the cost of 7 killed and 36 wounded to friendly forces. On 3 Nov, the 36th ARVN Rgr Bn arrived to participate in reconnaissance-in-force operations with the four US infantry battalions. On 7 Nov, 1-26 Inf engaged an unknown size enemy force 6 km northeast of Loc Ninh, killing 66 but losing 17 KIA and 21 WIA. This was the last major engagement of SHENANDOAH II, the 272nd and 273rd avoiding any further contact with Allied forces. Results: 956 enemy killed, 63 detained, 107 US KIA, 322 US WIA.

4-6 Oct.
Operation: CUU LONG/215/DT
Location: Dinh Tuong Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 7th ARVN Division. Results: 70 enemy killed, 3 detained, 3 ARVN KIA, 10 ARVN WIA.

4 Oct.-11 Nov.
Operation: WALLOWA
Location: Tam Ky, Van Dong, Dong Tri, Ha Tay, Barrier Island, Que Son Basin, Truong Giang, Route 1, LZ BALDY, LZ COLT, Quang Tin and Quang Nam Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div. Task organization: 1-7 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-12 Cav, B/1-9 Cav, 1-1 Cav (-), A/2-17 Cav, 1-21 Art (-), C/1-77 Art, C/2-20 Art, C/8th Eng, 227th AHB (-), A/228th ASHB, C/8th Eng. Intelligence: 3rd PAVN Rgt. Execution: On 28 Sep, IFFORCEV notified the 1st Cav Div that a rapidly deteriorating situation in I CTZ required that III MAF be reinforced. On 30 Sep, an advance party moved north, followed on 1 Oct by the 2-12 Cav and the 3d Bde CP departing for Chu Lai. By that evening, 3d Bde CP, 2-12 Cav, B/1-9 Cav and C/1-77 Art were closed and the 3d Bde became opcon to the AMERICAL Div. 1-7 Cav moved the following day and by 3 Oct, 5-7 Cav and all combat support elements had closed Chu Lai. On 4 Oct, Operation WALLOWA began with the brigade setting up its command post on LZ BALDY (Hill 63), replacing the departing 5th Marines. 1-7 Cav displaced to BALDY also while 2-12 Cav occupied a former Marine outpost near the village of Que Son and 5-7 Cav established LZ COLT on Hill 23, 10 km south of BALDY. The first contact occurred on 9 Oct when B/1-9 Cav engaged an estimated enemy platoon, killing 15. On 10 Oct, elements of the 3rd PAVN Rgt probed LZ COLT before the Americans had completed even basic defense. Infiltrating enemy soldiers with US uniforms headed straight for the battalion's TOC, killing or wounding everyone inside it. 7 US were KIA and 17 WIA but only a few enemy bodies were found in the morning. On 20 Oct. 1-7 Cav made contact with an unknown size enemy force in a cluster of hamlets a few kilometers east of BALDY on the west bank of the Truong Giang, killing 44. During 22-23 Oct, 5-7 Cav engaged the 3rd Bn, 3rd PAVN Rgt near the hamlet of Van Dong on Barrier Island, killing 98 enemy soldiers. On 27 Oct, 1-7 Cav and two troops from 1-1 Cav again made contact with elements of the 3rd PAVN Rgt fortified in the village of Ha Tay along the coast 5 km north of Van Dong, killing an additional 48. Contact tapered-off after that as the 3rd PAVN Rgt retreated toward the Que Son Valley and Operation WALLOWA was combined with Operation WHEELER on 11 Nov70. Results71: 675 enemy killed, 17 captured, 46 US KIA, 480 US WIA.

New Operations

5 Oct.
Operation: INTOSH JOYCE 23
Location: Long Khanh Province. Execution: (no other info).

5 Oct.
Operation: BLUE MAX
Location: Bu Prang, Quang Duc Province. Type: search & destroy. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: TF ALPHA: A217, C-2 C&C elts, 24th and 25th Cos, II CTZ MSF; TF BRAVO: A-326, two CIDG Cos from Lac Thien. Execution: On 1 Oct, Camp Lac Thien in II CTZ was converted to Regional Forces and its A-Team was assigned to open a new camp at Bu Prang, 45 miles southwest of Ban Me Thuot near the Cambodian Border. To secure the construction site the II CTZ MIKE Force jumped two companies from six C-130s on 5 Oct. There was no enemy resistance and the site was secured. A-326 and two companies from the former Lac Thien Camp were then helicoptered in, took over site security and commenced camp construction. Results: (no info).

Other

None

[Jason Petho]

Ongoing Operations today in 1967

26 Aug.66-20 Jan.68
Operation: BYRD
Location: Phan Thiet, LZ BETTY, Binh Thuan Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: I FFORCEV. Task organization: TF 2-7: 2-7 Cav, C/1-9 Cav, A/1-21 Art, C/2-20 Art (-), C/8th Eng Bn (-), C/229th Avn Bn, Det 228th Avn Bn. Execution: Planned as a short-term, economy-of-force measure, BYRD became a continuous offensive that would last into 1968. Upon I FFORCEV request, the 1st Cav Div detached at battalion-size task force to help pacify isolated Binh Thuan Province in southern II Corps. Results (at year's end): 351 enemy killed, 151 detained, 8 US KIA, 85 US WIA.

1 Oct.66-17 Jan 68
Operation: DAZZLEM
Location: Camp Radcliff, An Khe, Binh Dinh Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization: Base Defense Task Force. Execution: Operation DAZZLEM was the contingency plan for the defense of Camp Radcliff provided by one infantry battalion with supporting artillery and
reinforcing personnel from residence units. On 17 Jan 68, the 173d Abn Bde relieved the 1st Cav Div from the mission of defending An Khe. Results: 80 enemy killed, 9 detained.

11 Oct.66-17 Nov.67
Operation: UNIONTOWN II
Location: Long Binh, Bien Hoa Province Type: security. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV. Execution: Operation UNIONTOWN was a security operation designed to protect the Long Binh logistical complex, RMK Rock Quarry and II FFORCEV Headquarters. Units were assigned on a rotation basis from each major command under II FFORCEV.

30 Nov. 66-15 Dec.67
Operation: FAIRFAX/RANG DONG
Location: Nha Be, Thu Duc and Binh Chanh Districts, Gia Dinh Province. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV, CMD. Task organization: 1st Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 2-16 Inf; 4th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3-22 Inf; 25th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 4-9 Inf; CMD (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3rd and 5th ARVN Abn Bns, 30th Ranger Bn; 199th LIB (31 Jan-15 Dec.): 2-3 Inf, 3-7 Inf, 4-12 Inf, 2-40 Art; 5th ARVN Ranger Group (31 Jan.-15 Dec): 30th, 33rd and 38th ARVN Ranger Bns. Intelligence: Military Region 4, 165A PLAF Regiment. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE... Results (end of 1966): 149 enemy killed, 40 detained, 11 US KIA, 67 US WIA, 23 ARVN KIA, 58 ARVN WIA, 1 ARVN MIA.

8 Feb.67-31 Jan.68
Operation: LAM SON 67
Location: Phu Loi, An My, Ong Dong Jungle, Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, security, jungle clearing. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 1st Inf Div (8 Feb-17 Mar, 17 Apr 67-31 Jan 68); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (17 Mar-17 Apr). Task organization: 1st Inf Div Revolutionary Development Task Force (various infantry, cavalry and support units were assigned on a rotation basis during the period). Execution: The operation supported the GVN's Revolutionary Development Program in conjunction with ARVN units in Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. LAM SON 67 consisted of cordon and search, reconnaissance in force, harassment, jungle clearing, population control, civic action and psychological warfare operations directed against priority targets. Contact in the AO was characterized by light sporadic incidents with local VC elements. On 6 Jan 68, the Phu Loi base camp received 123 rounds of mixed mortar fire, 46 aircraft were damaged and 6 US WIA. Reacting to the attack, A/2-18 Inf and B/2-2 Inf (M) swept the area to the north of the base and contacted two enemy companies of the Phu Loi PLAF Bn. 92 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 14 US WIA. Operation LAM SON 67 was terminated on 31 Jan 68 with the beginning of the enemy's Tet Offensive. Results: 527 enemy killed, 263 captured, 2,327 detained, 346 defectors, 56 US KIA, 572 US WIA.

12 Feb. 67-18 Jan. 68
Operation: PERSHING
Location: Bong Son, Tuy An, Tam Quan, Hoa Tan, Sa Huynh, Truong Son, An Qui, Trung Xuan, An Lac, An Lao Valley, Kim Son Valley, Suoi Ca Valley, 506 Valley, Nuoc Dinh Valley, Phu My Valley, Song Re Valley, the Crescent, Nui Mieu, Nui Sang, Cay Giep, Dam Tra-O Lake, Route 1, LZ BRONCO BEACH, LZ CRYSTAL, LZ ENGLISH, LZ GARNET, LZ GERONIMO, LZ GLENN, LZ HAMMOND, LZ IRON, LZ MEADE, LZ PAT, LZ SANDRA, LZ STEEL, LZ TOM, LZ TWO BITS, LZ UPLIFT, Binh Dinh and Quang Ngai Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization (As of 12 Feb): 1 s t Bde: 1-8 Cav, 1-12 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-19 Art (-), D/2-17 Art, C/1-21 Art, A/3-18 Art; 2d Bde: 2-5 Cav, 1-5 Cav (-), 1-7 Cav (-), 2-12 Cav, 1-77 Art (-), B/1-8 Art, A/1-21 Art, C/1-30 Art, B/8th Eng; 3d Bde: 2-8 Cav, C/1-5 Cav, 1-21 Art (-), 2-17 Art (-), C/6-16 Art, C/2-19 Art, C/8th Eng; 3d Bde, 25 t h Inf Div (12 Feb-19 Apr): 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf (4-19 Apr), 2-9 Art, A/1-77 Art, 5-16 Art, C/3-4 Cav, D/65th Eng; Div Arty: 2-20 Art (-), 7-13 Art (-), B/29 Art, E/82 Art, 3-18 Art (-); Div Troops: 1-9 Cav, 8th Eng Bn (-). Intelligence: 3rd PAVN Div: 18th and 22nd PAVN Rgts, 2nd PLAF Rgt. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE ... Results: 5,
388 enemy killed, 2,356 captured, 10,609 detained, 221 returnees, 852 US KIA, 4,119 US WIA, 22 US MIA.

13 Feb. 67-10 Mar. 68
Operation: ENTERPRISE
Location: Tan An, Rach Kien, Ben Luc, Binh Phuoc, Tan Tru, Doi Ma Creek, Plain of Reeds9, Base Area 371, Route 14, Long An Province. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, eagle flights. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 3-39 Inf, 2-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-4 Art, C/15th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PLAF MF Bn, 506th PLAF LF Bn. Execution: ENTERPRISE was the continuation of the pacification effort of Long An Province initiated the previous year by the 25th Inf Div with Operation LANIKAI. On 13 Feb, 3-39 Inf relieved 2-14 Inf at Rach Kien. Strength of division elements in the province were subsequently increased to brigade size with movement of 2-60 Inf into Tan Tru, 5-60 Inf into Binh Phuoc and Headquarters, 3d Bde into Tan An. The first major engagement occurred on 9 Apr when 3-39 Inf made contact with the 506th PLAF Bn on the bank of Doi Ma Creek. Additional companies were brought in, killing 247 of the enemy. On 2 May, the 506th Bn exacted vengeance on the 3-39 Inf, attacking one of its companies in night defensive position near Route 4. 17 US were KIA and 48 WIA but no enemy bodies were found. The operation was temporarily extended north to the Plain of Reeds area on 8-14 May with sub-operation NIRVANA II directed against the enemy's Base Area 371. Elements of the 3d Bde joined forces with the 4/50 ARVN Bn of the 25th ARVN Div but found nothing, killing only 14 of the enemy. On 14 May, the 2nd PLAF Bn struck the compound of the 2/50 ARVN Bn in Rach Kien, killing 31 South Vietnamese soldiers and wounding 34. 3d Bde units were committed but couldn't regain contact with the attacking force. After that, contact with the enemy dropped sharply for the remainder of 1967, indicating an apparent enemy desire to avoid friendly forces. On 31 Jan 68, the brigade responded to the Tet Offensive, 5-60 Inf engaged in heavy fighting southwest of Saigon in Gia Dinh Province, killing 128 enemy soldiers. From 1-5 Feb, 3-39 Inf and 2-60 Inf were sent to Kien Hoa Province to help recapture Ben Tre, the provincial capital. On 10 Feb, the brigade HQ at Tan An came under attack from an unknown size enemy force. 33 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 53 US WIA. During March, brigade elements conducted "Aquabush" operations along the numerous canals south of Saigon in conjunction with the 199th Inf Bde (Lt). Pacification activities decreased sharply during the Tet Offensive and the operation was terminated on 10 March. Results: 2,107 enemy killed, 74 US KIA, 380 US WIA.

14 Feb.67-21 Mar.68
Operation: KITTYHAWK
Location: Long Binh, Xuan Loc, Long Giao, Gia Ray, Suoi Cat, Blackhorse, Route 1, Route 2, Long Khanh and Bien Hoa Province. Type: reconnaissance-in-force, cordon and search, security, road clearing. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div (14 Feb 67-15 Feb 68); 11th ACR (15 Feb-21 Mar 68). Task organization: 3-5 Cav, 1/11 ACR, 2/11 ACR, 3/11 ACR. Intelligence: 275th PLAF Rgt. Execution: The purpose of KITTYHAWK was to secure LOCs and selected installations within Long Khanh Province, conduct reconnaissance-in-force operations and cordon and search of selected hamlets within the AO, secure Blackhorse base camp and the Gia Ray rock quarry and provide ready reaction forces along Route 1. On 21 May, K Troop, 3/11 ACR was ambushed by an estimated reinforced enemy battalion near Suoi Cat on Route 1. 30 enemy are killed, 12 US KIA and 13 US WIA. On 27 Jun 1/11 ACR moved to reinforce the 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn which was in heavy contact with elements of the 3rd Bn, 275th PLAF Rgt, killing 49 of the enemy11. On 30 Dec two enemy companies ambushed Troop C, 3-5 Cav on Route 2. Friendly losses are 10 KIA, 29 WIA and 3 MIA. On 31 Jan 68, in reaction to the VC Tet Offensive, the 3-5 Cav was alerted to respond to enemy activity in the Long Binh-Bien Hoa area. A/3-5 Cav bypassed several roadblocks, breaking through enemy forces and reached the Bien Hoa airfield, sweeping nearby wood lines and killing 40. During the period 2-3 Feb, C/3-5 Cav was sent to defend Xuan Loc against an intense ground attack, killing nearly 50 enemy soldiers. On 15 Feb the KITTYHAWK mission was assumed by the 11th ACR as the 3-5 Cav (-) was directed by HQ USARV to deploy to Da Nang, I CTZ. On 21 Mar, the operation was phased into Operation ALCORN COVE. Results: 201 enemy killed, 7 captured, 1 returnee, 62 US KIA, 224 US WIA.

5 Apr.-11 Oct.
Operation: FRANCIS MARION
Location: Plei Me, Duc Co, Plei Djereng, Plei Mrong, Plei Do Lim, Buon Blech, Se San, Ia Drang, Ia Tchar, Dak Ayun, Dak Payou, Chu Pong, Chu Prong, Chu Goungot, Chu Groh, Route 14, Route 14B, Route 19E, Route 509, Hill 521, LZ OASIS, LZ JACKSON HOLE, Pleiku and Darlac Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: (effective 7 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, B/4-42 Art, C/3-4 Cav (-), A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (-), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, Plt B/1-69 Arm, 4-42 Art (-), B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), Plt C/2-8 Inf (-), Cav Plt 1-10 Cav, B/3-6 Art, A/5-16 Art; TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 26 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), C/4-42 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h In f Div: 2-8 Inf, 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), A/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), A/3-6 Art; TF 3-8 Inf: 3-8 Inf, C/6-29 Art, A/5-16 Art; Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 30 May): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (M), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art, B/4th Eng (-); 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, D/16 Arm, E/17 Cav, 173d Eng Co; TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 5-16 Art (-); Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 24 Sep): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 2-8 Inf (M), 3-8 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), A/4-42 Art,, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div: 1-12 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), B/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: 2-1 Cav, D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Intelligence: B3 Front, 1st NVA Div (32nd, 66th and 88th Rgts), 10th NVA Div (95B and 101C Rgts), 200th NVA Art Bn, 407th PLAF MF Sapper Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn.. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE.... Results: 1,204 enemy killed, 122 detained, 11 returnees, 198 US KIA, 982 US WIA, 8 US MIA.

22 Apr.67-2 Jan 68.
Operation: BAKER
Location: Duc Pho, Mo Duc, Vinh Hien, Tan Phong, Dien Truong, An Ba, An Tach, Song Tra Cau, Song Ve, LZ MONTEZUMA (later renamed LZ BRONCO), LZ GUADALCANAL, LZ OLIVE DRAB, LZ LIZ, LZ DRAGON, RAZORBACK Beach, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde TF, 25th Inf Div (redesignated 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div on 1 Aug). Task organization: 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf, 2-9 Art, C/3-4 Cav, B/1-9 Cav, C/2-34 Arm. Intelligence: 1st PLAF Rgt, 2nd PLAF Rgt, 22nd PAVN Rgt. Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: (no info).

14 May.-7 Dec.
Operation: KOLE KOLE
Location: Duc Hoa, Bao Trai, Hiep Hoa, Loc Giang, Trang Bang, Song Vam Co Dong, Rach Tra, Xinh An Ha, Route 10, Hau Nghia and Tay Ninh Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 1-5 Inf (M), 1-27 Inf, 2-27 Inf, 1-8 Art. Intelligence: 2nd Go Mon and 269th PLAF LF Bns. Execution: Operation KOLE KOLE was initiated by the 2d Bde in Hau Nghia Province using EAGLE FLIGHTS and airmobile operations based on current intelligence. Cordon and search, outposting and country fair operations were also conducted in conjunction with the 25th ARVN Div, CIDG and RF/PF. On 17 May, elements of 1/27 Inf and 2/27 Inf fought an eight-hour engagement west of the Vam Co Dong with a VC company. Results were 27 enemy killed, 2 US KIA and 9 US WIA. There was intermittent contact during June and July, particularly along the An Ha canal and near Loc Giang. The brigade also secured engineer operations along Route 10 to improve the GVN's authority and control west of Trang Bang. In early August, the reconnaissance platoon of 1/27 Inf with helicopter support intercepted VC recon elements from Long An Province, killing 26. During September, KOLE KOLE shifted to northern Hau Nghai and southwestern Tay Ninh Province. 1-5 Inf (M) conducted extensive dismounted ambush patrols around Loc Giang along the Vam Co while 2-27 Inf engaged scattered elements of the 269th PLAF Bn. On 21 Oct, an EAGLE FLIGHT from 1-27 Inf engaged an estimated enemy platoon south of Tay Ninh, killing 18. On 31 Oct, 2-27 Inf made contact with elements of the 2nd Go Mon Bn north of the Rach Tra, killing 28 and capturing 2. Enemy activity decreased for the rest of KOLE KOLE and the brigade concentrated on pacification and land clearing operations. Results: 797 enemy killed, 150 detained, 34 returnees, 144 US KIA, 876 US WIA

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: BARKING SANDS
Location: Cu Chi, Trang Bang, Phu Hoa, Iron Triangle, Ho Bo Woods, Song Saigon, Hau Nghia and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: The 1st Bde employed counter guerrilla warfaretechniques including saturation patrolling, checkmate, bushmaster and cordon and search operations to pacify Cu Chi and Trang Bang Districts in Hau Nghia Province and Phu Hoa District in Binh Duong Province. Buddy operations were also conducted with local PF platoons and RF companies. On 30 Aug, 4-9 Inf conducted an airmobile assault against an entrenched VC battalion in the Iron Triangle resulting in 4 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 43 US WIA. During September, primary emphasis was placed on denying VC access to populated areas during the National Elections. Land clearing operations were also initiated along the Song Saigon to eliminate VC concealment. In October, 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods were cleared by Rome Plows following Operation KUNIA. Contact during BARKING SANDS was limited to squad and platoon size elements and no major engagement occurred. Four sub-operations were conducted in the BARKING SANDS AO during the period: KAWELA, AKUMU,WAIMEA and KUNIA (see individual operations below). Results (inclusive of the four sub-operations): 370 enemy killed, 85 detained, 10 returnees, 110 US KIA, 1114 US WIA.

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: DIAMOND HEAD
Location: Tay Ninh West, Dau Tieng, Suoi Da, Prek Klok, Ben Cui, Michelin Plantation, Boi Loi Woods, The Crescent, The Trapezoid, Tay Ninh and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div33. Task organization: 2-12 Inf, 2-22 Inf (M), 3-22 Inf, 2-77 Art, 2-34 Arm (-) (from 22 Sep), C/1-10 Cav, C/4th Eng. Execution: The mission was to conduct search and destroy operations in Tay Ninh Province, cordon and search operations in the Michelin Plantation, and security and reinforcement missions in the Tay Ninh and Prek Klok areas. With one battalion detached to Operation UNIONTOWN and another providing security for the Dau Tieng and Tay Ninh West base camps, contact in the AO were very limited during the months of May, June and July. On 1 Aug, the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div was redesignated the 3d Bde, 25th Inf Div. No movement of troops or units were involved in this redesignation. On 15 Aug, an airmobile cordon and search of Thanh An was conducted by 3-22 Inf in conjunction with VN National Police. 6 enemy were killed and 42 detained. In September, the brigade provided security during the National elections. In October, continued battalion size search and destroy operations were conducted in the Michelin Plantation to prevent its use as an enemy haven, in and south of Ben Cui, and in the northern portion of the Trapezoid, which extends 15 km to the southeast of Dau Tieng. Bushmaster operations were conducted in an area known as the Crescent, 8 km northwest of Dau Tieng. All operations were marked by extremely light contact. In November, operations were conducted in the upper Boi Loi Woods and in the Ben Cui Plantation, again with light contact. During this period operations were curtailed due to two battalions being opcon to the other brigades. On 25-25 Now, 2-22 Inf (M) made contact with a VC company near the Mushroom bend on the Saigon River, killing 20. This was the last contact during DIAMOND HEAD before the operation came to an end on 7 Dec. Results: 237 enemy killed, 496 detained, 4 returnees. (US losses unknown).

1 Jun.67-7 Feb.68
Operation: HOPTAC
Location: Dong Tam, Dinh Tuong Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: Task Force FUNSTON39. Execution: Operation HOPTAC was an internal defense and development operation in Dinh Tuong Province which included security of the Dong Tam base. Task Force FUNSTON provided land and waterborne security for engineer dredging equipment and maintained a ready reaction force to assist local GVN units and installations if needed. In most cases contact with the VC was characterized by light fire fights and sniper fire. On 1 Feb 68 the enemy fired more than 170 82 mm mortar and 75 mm RR rounds into the base resulting in minor damage and 11 US WIA. In the early morning hours of 3, 4, 5 and 7 Feb, the enemy continued to attack the base with mortar and RR fire. The heaviest attack came on 7 Feb with an estimated 200 rounds fired at the base. Elements of 5-60 Inf and 2-39 Inf conducted reaction airmobile assaults and RIF operations 8 km east of Dong tam, making contact with two VC companies, killing 23 while losing 5 KIA and 11 WIA. Results: 296 enemy killed, 11 captured, 3 returnees, 37 US KIA, 364 US WIA.

18 Jun.-12 Oct.
Operation: GREELEY
Location: Kontum, Dak To, Tan Canh, Dak Seang, Dak Pek, Toumorong, Dak Poko, Dak Akoi, Hill 830, Hill 1338, FSB 4, Kontum Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (24 Jun-25 Jul): 1-7 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-12 Cav, 1-21 Art; 1st ARVN Abn TF (24 Jun-25 Jul): 3d, 5th and 8th ARVN Abn Bns; 24th STZ: 1/42 Inf. Intelligence: 24th and 174th PAVN Rgts, K101D PAVN Bn, 304th PLAF MF Bn, 200th PLAF Art Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn . Execution: From 1-18 Jun, the 173d Abn Bde continued participation in Operation FRANCIS MARION, searching further south and east in the Ia Drang Valley. The brigade deployed the 1-503 Inf and 2-503 Inf into the AO, holding 4-503 Inf in reserve at Catecka. No significant contact was made. On 17 Jun, TF MC QUARRIE (2-503 Inf, E/17 Cav, A/3-319 Art) moved by air and motor convoy to the New Dak To Airfield, joined the following day by 1-503 Inf. The mission, named GREELEY, was to assume opcon of the CIDG Camp at Dak To under threat from the 24th PAVN Rgt and assist in its defense. On 18 Jun, 2-503 Inf began searching south of Dak To toward the huge mass of Hill 1338 (Ngok Bor Beang). C/1-503 Inf was also inserted into the area to search for a missing SF and CIDG team which had been destroyed by the NVA on 15-16 Jun, 1400 meters southwest of their camp. On 22 Jun, after a fruitless search of Hill 1338, 2-503 Inf was instructed to return to Dak To on foot. Shortly after leaving its NDP, A/2-503 bumped into an enemy battalion from the 24th PAVN Rgt42 while descending the slopes of Hill 1338. Two platoons were cut off and annihilated while the rest of the company formed a small perimeter and called supporting fires. Cos B and C were rushed to the rescue but arrived too late. 76 Americans had been killed, some executed point blank by the enemy, and 23 wounded. 106 enemy bodies were counted in the battle area. This action became known as 'The Battle of the Slopes' and as one of the costliest engagement for US forces in Vietnam. Concerned by the size of the battle and the US losses, General Larsen at I FFORCEV decided to reinforce GREELEY. On 23 Jun, 2-12 Cav arrived from the PERSHING AO while the rest of the 173d Abn Bde (CP (-) and 4-503 Inf) closed Dak To from Catecka. The next day, 24 Jun, the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (-) and 1st ARVN Abn TF arrived at Kontum. The Allied forces went after the 24th PAVN Rgt, seeking to destroy it. In the next two weeks, the 173d Abn Bde and 2-12 Cav searched west and south of Dak To while the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div and the ARVN Abn TF entered the Dak Akoi Valley northeast of Kontum and 35 km east of Dak To. The sweep found little evidence of the enemy's presence and on 25 Jul the cavalry brigade returned to the coast, while the Vietnamese task force stood down at Kontum to serve as a mobile reaction force. Southwest of Dak To on 10 Jul, 4-503 Inf, while searching for a regimental headquarters, found an occupied enemy bunker complex on Hill 830. Battle raged until 12 Jul with 22 US KIA and 62 US WIA but only 9 enemy bodies found. This was the last significant contact on the month. On 19 Jul, 2 NVA soldiers rallied at Dak Pek CIDG Camp, stating that they were 42 Later identified as the 6th Bn, 24th PAVN Rgt. from the newly infiltrated 174th PAVN Rgt. They were proved correct on 6 Aug when the 1/42 ARVN Bn made heavy contact with that unit 8 km west of the Dak Seang CIDG Camp. The ARVN Abn TF was rushed into the area and fought a bitter twoday battle to capture a hill believed to have been the location of the regimental CP, killing 189 of the enemy. On 9 Aug, 4-503 Inf moved to Dak Pek, joining the 1-503 Inf already there since 4 Aug, but the two battalions found little. Contacts were so low in August that the 173d Abn Bde was credited with only 4 enemy killed. During the period 1-18 Sep, the brigade continued GREELEY in the Dak To – Dak Seang area, supporting CIDG Operation DARBY, but contact was minimal. On 17 Sep, the brigade (-) began moving by air to Tuy Hoa to begin Operation BOLLING. Only 4-503 Inf and A/3-319 stayed at Dak To, forming Task Force 77 with the 3rd ARVN Abn Bn, 1/42 ARVN Bn and 27th MIKE Force Co for an expedition in the Toumorong Valley that lasted nearly three weeks but found nothing. On 11 Oct, TF 77 was disbanded and that same day, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art departed for Tuy Hoa, terminating Operation GREELEY. Results: 191 enemy killed, 17 captured, 129 US KIA, 210 US WIA. (no info on ARVN losses).

3 Jul.67-7 Apr.68
Operation: RILEY
Location: Bearcat, Camp Martin Cox, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div; TF FORSYTH (from 10 Feb). Task organization: 2-39 Inf, 4-39 Inf, 2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, TF FORSYTH. Execution: Operation RILEY was an internal defense and development operation in Bien Hoa Province and included defense of Camp Martin Cox. When not engaged in strike operations, Headquarters, 1st Bde assumed opcon of all elements engaged in RILEY, including TF FORSYTH (a provisional Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment located at Camp Martin Cox). In the absence of the 1st Bde, TF FORSYTH was allocated sufficient forces to secure the camp and to conduct limited consolidation operations in the area. On 31 Jan 68 in response to the VC Tet Offensive, elements of the 2-47 Inf (M) and 4-39 Inf moved to Long Binh Post for perimeter security. Working in coordination with 2-3 Inf from the 199th Inf Bde (Lt), the two battalions had multiple contacts with the enemy during the day near Ho Nai, killing 213 by bodycount and capturing 32. US losses were 4 KIA and 23 WIA. On 10 Feb 68, the 1st Bde moved to Dong Tam and TF FORSYTH assumed responsibility until termination. Results: 472 enemy killed, 41 detained, 2 returnees, 64 US KIA, 315 US WIA.

8 Jul.-30 Oct.
Operation: MARCH I
Location: Plei Trap Valley, Kontum Province. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: B-50 Det Project OMEGA. Execution: Long range reconnaissance and intelligence gathering conducted in the Plei Trap Valley. Results: (no info).

10 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: FREMONT
Location: Camp Evans, Hill 51, Hill 67, Phong Dien District, Thua Thien Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 4th Marines. Task organization: 2/4 Marines (10 Jul-14 Sep), 3/26 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct). Execution: The 4th Marines initiated Operation FREMONT with its own 2/4 to provide security for Camp Evans, Hill 51, the Phong Dien District Headquarters and a radio transmission site on Hill 67. On 20 Jul, 2/4 provided blocking forces near My Chanh for SLF BRAVO in Operation BEAR CHAIN. BLT 2/3 became opcon to 4th Marines on 22 Jul and joined FREMONT, until back loading on 21 Aug. Contact was sporadic in Aug with only 13 US KIA for the month. During Sep, 2/4 in conjunction with ARVN forces helped secure nearby villages and hamlets during the National Elections. On 14 Sep, 2/4 joined Operation KINGFISHER and was replaced by 3/26 Marines. Contacts remained low until termination, being limited to harassing tactics, mines incidents and sniper fire. Results: 123 enemy killed, 8 captured, 17 US KIA, 196 US WIA.

16 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: KINGFISHER
Location: Dong Ha, Con Thien, Gio Linh, Cua Viet, Ca Lu, Route 9, Route 561, Route 606, Hill 216, C-2, Demilitarized Zone, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d and 9th Marines. Task organization: 3/3 Marines, 2/4 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct), 3/4 Marines, 1/9 Marines, 2/9 Marines, 3/9 Marines, 3/26 Marines (15 Aug-11 Sep), 1st Amtrac Bn. Intelligence: 90th and 812th PAVN Rgts. Execution: KINGFISHER was a continuation of Marine operations south of the DMZ follwing BUFFALO and HICKORY II. Contact was light during the first week. On 21 Jul, 3/3 Marines securing a portion of Route 9 for a 'Rough Rider' convoy bound for Khe Sanh found a NVA battalion dug in on Hill 216 overlooking the road. Tanks, 40mm dusters and artillery pounded the hill and forced the enemy to withdraw. On 28 Jul, 2/9 Marines reinforced with tanks, LVTEs and Ontos was pushing into the DMZ north on Route 606 when it was attacked by an estimated NVA battalion. The column was split in company-size segments and fought desperately all day until reinforcements from 3/4 Marines forced the enemy to break contact. 23 Americans were killed and 251 wounded with only 32 NVA confirmed killed. Ground action was light in early Aug with the largest part of the activity involving artillery attacks on Gio Linh, Con Thien, Cua Viet and Dong Ha. On 21 Aug, an NVA battalion ambushed a small Marine convoy moving from the Rockpile to Ca Lu. Elements form 3/3 were brought in, fighting a six-hour engagement until night fell and the enemy fled to the west. 6 US were killed and 35 wounded, Enemy loses were unknown. The NVA tried again on 7 Sep at almost the same location. This time the battle lasted more than 8 hours. The Marines killed 92 of the enemy while losing 5 KIA and 56 WIA. The Communists tried to disrupt the National Elections on 3 Sep, firing more than 41 rounds of artillery into Dong Ha, damaging 17 helicopters. This attack ended the use of Dong Ha as a permanent helicopter base facility. Con Thien however, remained the primary artillery target for the NVA. On 25 Sep alone, 1,200 rounds slammed into the combat base. On 10 Sep, 3/26 Marines made heavy contact with what seemed to be the entire 812th PAVN Rgt 4 miles southwest of Con Thien. The action lasted for four hours until the enemy broke contact, leaving 140 dead on the battle field. Marine losses had been high also with 34 KIA and 192 WIA, forcing 3/26 to return to Phu Bai the next day to refit. On 21 Sep, 2/9 Marines started a search and destroy operation 1,800 meters east of Con Thien when it ran into heavy resistance from an element of the 90th PAVN Rgt. The battle turned into a stalemate after rain had made the area impassable and both sides withdrew. US casualties were 31 KIA and 118 WIA. Enemy killed were reported at 39. The enemy intensified its attack-by-fire against Con Thien in late Sep, hitting the base with over 3,000 rounds during the period 19-27 Sep. The Americans retaliated by massing one of the greatest concentrations of firepower in support of a single division in the history of the Vietnam War. Marine artillery, ships of the 7th Fleet, Marine and Air Force jets and B-52 bombers poured tons of ordnance into know enemy positions in and north of the DMZ. By the end of Sep, NVA pressure of the outpost had subsided. On 14 Oct, 2/4 Marines was guarding a bridge north of Strong point C-2 when it received a ground attack from an unknown size enemy force. AC-47 gunships helped repel the assault during the night. 21 Americans were killed and 23 wounded. Only 24 NVA bodies were found in the area. The last major action of KINGSIFHER took place during a 9th Marines operation on 25-28 Oct. 2/4 Marines was sweeping north of Con Thien on Route 561 when it was hit by an enemy battalion, beating back several attacks and losing 8 KIA and 45 WIA. Results: 1,117 enemy killed, 5 captured, 340 US KIA, 1,461 US WIA.

17 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: ARDMORE
Location: Khe Sanh, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destro, security. Controlling headquarters: 26th Marines (Forward). Task organization: 1/26 Marines, 3/26 Marines, 1/13 Marines. Execution: Operation ARDMORE was a continuation of Operation CROCKETT and involved the same mission and the same forces. On 21 Jul, B/1/26 and M/3/26 fought a NVA battalion dug on Hill 216 along Route 9 in conjunction with 3/3 Marines from Operation KINGFISHER. Contacts in August were minimal and 3/26 was moved to the KINGFISHER AO on 15 Aug. 1/26 Marines continued patrols and company-size search and destroy operations around Khe Sanh, but with limited contact with the enemy. Results: 113 enemy killed, 6 detained, 10 US KIA, 39 US WIA

27 Jul.-8 Nov.
Operation: SONG THAN 14
Location: Bong Son, Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF BRAVO. Task organization: 1st VNMC BN, 2nd VNMC Bn (27 Jul-4 Oct), 3rd VNMC Bn (4 Oct-6 Nov), C/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: On 27 Jul, TF BRAVO relieved TF ALPHA at Bong Son AF and continued search and destroy operations south of Bong Son in conjunction with Operation PERSHING. Results: (no info)

31 Jul.-3 Nov.
Operation: DAN QUYEN 822
Location: Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 22nd ARVN Division. Results: 141 enemy killed, 181 detained, 44 ARVN KIA, 74 ARVN WIA 3 ARVN MIA.

11 Aug.-21 Oct.
Operation: SONG THAN/701/67
Location: Tan Uyen, Bien Hoa Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF ALPHA. Task organization: 2nd VNMC Bn (10-21 Oct), 4th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-10 Oct), 5th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-15 Sep), 6th VNMC Bn (15 Sep-21 Oct), B/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: Operation conducted in the Tan Uyen area in coordination with the US 1st Inf Div. Results: (no info)

16 Aug-31 Oct.
Operation: 8-67/SAMURAI II & III
Location: A Shau Valley, Happy Valley, Thuat Thien and Quang Nam Provinces. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: Det B-52 Project DELTA,81st ARVN Abn Rgr Bn. Execution: Operation searched areas from the northern stretches of the A Shau Valley into Happy Valley, west of Da Nang. Results: (no info).

1 Sep.-17 Nov.
Operation: STRIKE I
Location: Bien Hoa, Long Binh, AO STRIKE, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 2-47 Inf (M). Execution: Operation STRIKE I was conducted to provide security for the Bien Hoa-Long Binh complex and to prevent rocket attacks. On 17 Nov, STRIKE I was combined with Operation UNIONTOWN. Results: (no info).

5 Sep.-30 Oct.
Operation: DRAGON FIRE
Location: Batangan Peninsula, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d ROKMC Bde. Task organization: 1st, 2d and 5th ROKMC Bns. Execution: The 2d ROKMC Bde conducted this operation to clear insurgent elements from the Batagan Peninsula. Results: 541 enemy killed, 17 captured, 121 detained, 45 ROKMC KIA, 200 ROKMC WIA, 3 USMC WIA.

11 Sep-25 Nov.
Operation: WHEELER
Location: Tien Phuoc, Hiep Duc, Song Tranh, Song Chang, Base Area 116, Base Area 117, UDEN AO, Quang Tin Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 101st Abn Div. Task organization: 1-327 Inf, 2-327 Inf, 2-502 Inf, 1-14 Inf (11-24 Sep), 1-35 Inf (4 Oct-4 Nov), 2-320 Art, A/2-9 Art (4 Oct-4 Nov), B/2-9 Art (11-24 Sep), C/3-16 Art, B/1-9 Cav (2-4 Oct), A/2-17 Cav (17-25 Nov), A/326th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PAVN Div (1st PLAF Rgt, 3rd and 21st PAVN Rgts). Execution: ... SEE PREVIOUS DAY FOR INFORMATION... Results were 9 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 18 US WIA. With the 2nd PAVN Div elements avoiding contact during the period 28 Oct-4 Nov, increased emphasis was placed on attempting to locate the division. On 5 Nov, 1-35 Inf was released from operational control of the brigade and placed under opcon of the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div conducting Operation WALLOWA in the Que Son Basin. The last phase of WHEELER (6-25 Nov) saw 2-327 Inf being air-assaulted into the western portion of BA 116 while 1-327 Inf and 2-502 Inf established blocking positions. On 11 Nov, C/2-327 Inf engaged an NVA company in the Song Chang Valley 4 km east of Hiep Duc. 14 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 5 US WIA. This marked the last significant contact of WHEELER, after that, the badly hurt 2nd PAVN Div avoided any further contact. From 23-25 Nov, brigade elements were relieved in place by elements of the 196th Inf Bde (Lt)61 and displaced to Tam Ky Airfield to move by air to the brigade main base camp at Phan Rang for a four-day stand down and preparation for future operations. Results: 1,105 enemy killed, 50 captured, 445 detained, 11 returnees, 124 US KIA, 465 US WIA.

12 Sep-10 Oct.
Operation: CORONADO V
Location: Dong Tam, Cai Lay, Cam Son Secret Zone, Ban Long Base Area, Loi Quan Island, Song My Tho, Rach Ba Rai, Rach Ben Tre, Route 20, Ding Tuong and Kien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div (MRF); 7th ARVN Div. Task organization: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div: 3-47 Inf (12-17 Sep), 4-47 Inf (17 Sep-10 Oct), 3-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-60 Inf (-)(15-17 Sep), 3-34 Art, D/15th Eng, USN TF 117; 7th ARVN Div: 10th ARVN Rgt, 41st ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 263rd and 506th PLAF Bns. Execution: On 11 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Vung Tau to Dong Tam again and began Operation CORONADO V aimed at the 263rd PLAF Bn which had returned to the Cam Son Secret Zone. On 12 Sep, 3-47 Inf swept north from landing sites on the My Tho but turned up almost nothing. The next day, 3-60 Inf and 5-60 Inf (M) with help from the 7th ARVN Div62 began a sweep of the Ban Long area to the east and made contact with what appeared to be a VC covering force near the site of the VNMC heavy contact in July. The enemy withdrew under cover of darkness, leaving 63 bodies behind. As US and ARVN forces left the Ban Long on 14 Sep, the 7th ARVN Div reported that a large force, presumably the 263rd PLAF Bn, remained in the Cam Son, only a few kilometers north from areas previously swept. On 15 Sep, as 5-60 Inf (M) moved overland via Route 20, 3-60 Inf and 3-47 Inf sailed via the Song My Tho up the Rach Ba Rai between the My Tho and the town of Cai Lay. While 3-47 Inf landed unopposed over WHITE Beach, 3-60 Inf ran into two companies of the 263rd lined up in ambush positions along the east bank of the Ba Rai. Some of the boats managed to run the gauntlet but were forced to turn back as most of the column failed to follow. Two companies from 2-60 Inf were helicoptered from Long An Province to encircle the enemy. The battle lasted until nightfall but when the Americans entered the deserted ambush site the next day they found only 24 enemy killed. On 17 Sep the MRF returned to Dong Tam where 4-47 Inf rotated aboard the ships of the MRF replacing 3-47 Inf. On 20 Sep, the MRF displaced to Kien Hoa Province and began widely separated operations in Ham Long, Giong Trom and Huong My Districts, looking for the 516th PLAF Bn but no major contact took place. On 27 Sep, ATCs performing mine sweeping duties along the Rach Ben Tre received heavy RPG, recoilless and automatic weapons fire. 3 sailors were killed and 6 wounded. On 28 Sep, the MRF shifted its anchorage from Dong Tam to the northern end of Loi Quan Island between the Cua Dai and Cua Tieu to reduce logistic distances. Operations in Kien Hoa were in close cooperation with the 10th ARVN Rgt and a composite RF battalions but only sporadic contact was made. On 5-7 Oct the MRF returned to the Ban Long but had only limited contact with elements of the 263rd PLAF Bn and on 10 Sep it displaced to Vung Tau to prepare for CORONADO VI. Results: 330 enemy killed, 235 detained, 2 returnees, 35 US KIA, 175 US WIA.

16 Sep.-29 Oct.
Operation: KUNIA
Location: Ho Bo Woods, Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 3-22 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: Operation KUNIA was conducted as part of BARKING SANDS with the 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div initiating search and destroy operations in the Ho Bo Woods in preparation for the arrival of a land clearing team of thirty Rome Plows. By the end of October 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods had been cleared. Results: (included in BARKING SANDS).

19 Sep. 67-31 Jan. 69
Operation: BOLLING/DAN HOA
Location: Tuy Hoa, Phu Hiep, Binh Tinh, Ma Hoa, AO BLACK, Song Ky Lo, Song Da Rang, Suoi Cai, Phu Yen and Phu Bon Provinces. Type: search and destroy, reconnaissance-in-force, pacification, rice protection. Controlling headquarters: 173d Abn Bde (19 Sep 67-8 Feb 68, 1 Apr 68-31 Jan 69); I FFORCEV (8 Feb-1 Apr 68); 22nd ARVN Div. Task organization: 1-503 Inf (19 Sep-6 Nov 67), 2-503 Inf (12 Oct-6 Nov 67), 3-503 Inf (5 Nov 67-16 Jan 68), 4-503 Inf (19 Sep-1 Nov 67, 16 Dec 67-31 Jan 69), TF 2-8 Cav (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), 3-319 Art, C/2-19 Art (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 47th ARVN Rgt. Intelligence: 5th PAVN Div (18B and 95th PAVN Rgts), 30th and 95th PLAF LF Bns, K65 and K76 Sapper Cos. Execution: During the period 14-19 Sep, the bulk of the brigade (minus 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 Art) was relocated by air from Dak To to Tuy Hoa to commence long-term Operation BOLLING in cooperation with the 47th ARVN Rgt. The 2-8 Cav was opconed to the brigade until 14 Oct to compensate for 2-503 Inf remaining at Dak To, and was air-assaulted into the BOLLING AO on 19 Sep. The operation was designed to provide security for the local rice harvest. Daily contact was maintained with enemy forces in September and October but seldom larger than squad size. During October, the brigade relocated its rear base camp facility from Bien Hoa to An Khe, moving by sea via Saigon and Qui Nhon. On 12 Oct, 2-503 Inf and A/3-319 returned from the Highlands, relieving TF 2-8 Cav and on 22 Oct, the new 3-503 Inf arrived in-country from Fort Bragg, undergoing jungle training in An Khe prior to deployment to the BOLLING AO. On 1 Nov, 4-503 Inf was alerted for immediate departure for Dak To, followed five days later by the brigade minus (headquarters, 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 3-319 Art). On 5 Nov, 3-503 Inf arrived at Tuy Hoa from An Khe and assumed responsibility for Operation BOLLING. Contact continued to be light in November; on 16 Dec, the brigade headquarters, 4-503 Inf and C and D/3-319 Art were redeployed from Operation MACARTHUR, closing into the BOLLING AO that same day. On 27 Dec, 3-503 Inf conducted a series of combat assaults into the Song Ky Lo Valley 15 km northwest of Dong Tre and engaged two enemy companies. Elements of 4-503 Inf reinforced the battle area until contact was lost on 29 Dec. Results were 62 enemy killed, 12 US KIA and 34 US WIA. Contact was infrequent in January and a battalion task force built around 3-503 Inf moved to An Khe on 16 Jan 68 to assume responsibility of the Operation DAZZLEM AO63 from the departing 1st Cav Div. On 30 Jan, the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt attacked several targets in the Tuy Hoa area as part of the enemy's Tet Offensive, including a FSB held by C/6-32 Art, the Binh Tin hamlet, Tuy Hoa North AF and the provincial prison. D/4-503 Inf and two companies from the 2nd Bn, 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked toward the airfield and by 0730 on 31 Jan, the enemy force was surrounded and destroyed in Binh Tin hamlet. On 5-6 Feb, two battalions of the 47th ARVN Rgt and RF elements reduced an enemy strong point in the center of Tuy Hoa. During the fighting in and around Tuy Hoa, 316 enemy had been killed and 104 captured. During February, 4-503 Inf in conjunction with Strike Force elements from Cung Son and Dong Tre CIDG Camps, and Task Force MITCHELL (E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm) conducted search and destroy operations west of Tuy Hoa and helped mop up the aftermath of the Tet Offensive. It also provided security for the 577th Eng C Bn and 173d Eng Co working on Routes 7B and 436. On 8 Feb, the 173d Abn Bde (-) departed Tuy Hoa to assumed Opcon of TF POWERHOUSE (1-503 and 2-503 Inf) in Kontum Province in the MACARTHUR AO. Operation BOLLING passed under control of I FFORCEV which assumed opcon of TF 4-503 build around 4-503 Inf, Btys C and D, 3-319 Art and D/16 Arm. A major contact developed on 4 Mar when the 47th ARVN Rgt contacted the 5th Bn, 95th PAVN Rgt and 85th PLAF Bn in three hamlets along the coast just north of Tuy Hoa. D/16 Arm and elements of the 28th ROK Rgt counterattacked while the 47th ARVN Rgt provided blocking positions. D/16 was credited with 137 NVA killed during the action while suffering 10 KIA and 21 WIA. Contact during the rest of March was sporadic in the BOLLING AO. On 1 Apr, the brigade returned from the Highlands, relieving the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div at Bong Son64 and assumed control over TF 4-503 again. Contact was light during the month of April except on the 5th when D/16 Arm again supported the 47th ARVN Rgt in heavy contact with two enemy battalions at Ma Hoa village in Tuy Hoa Valley just off Route 7B north of the Song Da Rang. In May, 4-503 Inf conducted extensive bushmaster operations, on 2 May, Co B killed 8 enemy soldiers in the Suoi Cai Valley 18 km west of Tuy Hoa. In June, the enemy continued to avoid decisive contact with Allied force, relying on harassing tactics instead. During the period 16-27 Jul, 4-503 Inf conducted search and clear operations in AO BLACK located 25 km southwest of Cung Son on the Phu Bon and Darlac provincial boundary but there was no significant contact. On 30 July, 4-503 Inf joined the 3/47 ARVN Bn and elements of the 26th ROK Rgt to conduct a combined operation in the Song Ky Lo Valley but contact was again limited. Prisoners confirmed that the bulk of the 18B and 95th PAVN Rgts had departed Phu Yen and Khanh Hoa Province to refit in Cambodia. Contact remained light for the rest of Operation BOLLING, limited to engagements with squad-size enemy forces and booby traps incidents. On 1 Feb 69 the BOLLING/DAN HOA AO became a permanent TAOR called LY DO/WAINWRIGHT. Results: 715 enemy killed, 72 US KIA, 307 US WIA (no info on ARVN casualties).

24 Sep.-9 Oct.
Operation: ARKANSAS CITY II
Location: Phuoc Tuy Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 11th ACR. Execution: (no info)

26 Sep.-21 Oct.
Operation: AKRON III
Location: Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone), Phuoc Tuy and Bien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-39 Inf, B/2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, 2/48 ARVN Bn, 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 274th PLAF Rgt. Execution: AKRON III was a continuation of land clearing and search and destroy operations in Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone). Contact with the enemy was light and sporadic throughout the operation but the largest known weapons cache in the III CTZ to date was discovered, contacting over 200,000 rounds of small arms, 1,022 small arms and 125 crew served weapons. Results: (no info).

29 Sep.-11 Nov.
Operation: KENMORE
Location: Xuyen Moc, AO WARATAH, AO BANKSIA, Phuoc Tuy Province. Controlling headquarters: 1ATF. Task organization: 7RAR, A Sqn 3 Cav, 4 Fld Rgt, A/1-35 Art, A/1-83d Art. Execution: Operation took place in AOs WARATAH and BANKSIA, 6 km southeast of Xuyen Moc and bordering 24 km of coastline with infrequent contact. Results: 16 enemy killed, 1 captured, no friendly casualties.

29 Sep.-19 Nov.
Operation: SHENANDOAH II
Location: Lai Khe, Loc Ninh, Chon Thanh, Suoi Ong Thanh, Michelin Plantation, Long Nguyen Secret Zone, Route 13, LZ APPLE, FSB CAISSON II, FSB CAISSON III, FSB CAISSON IV, FSB CAISSON V, FSB CAISSON VI, FSB CAISSON VII, FSB LORRAINE II, Binh Duong and Binh Long Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Inf Div; 1st Bde, 1st Inf Div (29 Sep-19 Nov); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (30 Sep-30 Oct). Task organization: 1-2 Inf (29 Sep-18 Oct; 21-28 Oct), 2-2 Inf (M)(29 Sep-23 Oct), 1-16 Inf (29 Sep; 18-29 Oct; 8-19 Nov), 1-18 Inf (4-13 Oct; 29 Oct-19 Nov), 1-26 Inf (31 Oct-8 Nov), 1-28 Inf (29 Sep-10 Oct; 13 Oct-11 Nov), 2-28 Inf (7-18 Oct; 30 Oct-19 Nov), 2-12 Inf (2-7 Nov), 1-4 Cav (29 Sep-30 Oct), 1-5 Art (29 Sep-19 Nov), 6-15 Art (30 Oct-19 Nov), 2-33 Art (30 Sep-30 Oct). Intelligence: 9th PLAF Div (271st, 272nd, 273rd PLAF Rgts). Execution: Operation SHENANDOAH II initially covered an area from slightly south of Lai Khe, north approximately 18 miles and west to the edge of the Michelin Plantation, a region known as the Long Nguyen Secret Zone where the 271st PLAF Rgt was reported. The AO was expanded later to include the area between Lai Khe and Loc Ninh and between Route 13 west to the 25th Inf Div AO. On 29 Sep, 1-2 Inf began search and destroy operation in AO MIKE 12 miles north of Lai Khe while 1-28 Inf displaced via motor convoy from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh. Simultaneously, 1-4 Cav with A/2-2 Inf (M) opcon began clearing Route 13 From Lai Khe to Chon Thanh and secured FSBs CAISSON II & III. The first engagement with the VC took place on 4 Oct when 1-2 Inf made contact with an unknown size enemy force 10 km southwest of Chon Thanh. 12 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 26 US WIA. In reaction, 1-18 Inf moved by helicopter from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh and was air-assaulted into an LZ 1 km west of the 1-2 Inf contact. The LZ was cold but 29 enemy bodies KBA were found in the immediate vicinity. On 6 Oct, 1-18 Inf received mortar fire followed by a heavy ground assault. Result was 50 enemy killed, 3 US KIA and 4 US WIA. On 7 Oct, another battalion, 2-28 Inf, was added to the operation, moving via road convoy to Chon Thanh and then to field location. On 10 Oct, 1-28 Inf, having made little contact, was extracted from the field and returned to Phuoc Vinh. The next major engagement occurred on 11 Oct when B/1-18 Inf made contact with an estimated 100-150 enemy 31 km west of Highway 13, killing 21 while losing 1 KIA and 4 WIA. On 13 Oct, 1-28 Inf returned to the SHENANDOAH II AO, relieving 1-18 Inf in place. Contact during the next few days was limited but on 17 Oct, Cos A & D, 2-28 Inf were ambushed while following a trail south of the Suoi Ong Thanh. Contact began at 1015 when Co A received sniper fire. Close fighting began to develop rapidly and the two companies were soon engulfed by a very heavy volume of fire. The battalion's CO65, S-2, SGM and both company commanders became casualties. Both companies pulled back under fire to allow for close air support and artillery fire as Co B and C were rushed in to reinforced, followed by Co D, 1/16 inf later in the afternoon when the enemy broke contact. Losses had been very heavy for the Americans with 52 KIA, 72 WIA and 2 MIA. 103 enemy bodies were counted in the battle area the next day. On 18 Oct, 2-28 Inf was relieved in place by the rest of 1-16 Inf and was extracted to Lai 65 LTC Terry de la Mesa Allen, Jr., KIA 17 Oct 67. Khe, followed by 1-2 Inf which returned to Phuoc Vinh. On 19 Oct, 1-16 Inf continued search and destroy operations in the vicinity of the 17 Oct battle while 1-28 Inf was extracted briefly to Chon Thanh to allow for a B-52 strike to take place before returning to the field. On 21 Oct, 1-2 Inf was inserted into the AO again after a road march from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh but contact remained low for the rest on the month. At 0115 on 29 Oct, two battalions of the 273rd PLAF Rgt launched a ground assault on the Loc Ninh District Headquarters and Loc Ninh CIDG Camp. Two reconnaissance companies from the 5th ARVN Div reacted immediately, being airlifted from Phu Loi to Loc Ninh and counterattacking along with two CIDG companies to regain the northern part of the sub sector compound, clearing it by 1300. At that point, Operation SHENANDOAH II was expanded to include the battle of Loc Ninh, with 1-18 Inf deploying to the battle area to occupy blocking positions 4 km west of the town. 2/9 ARVN Bn was also brought in and deployed in and around the sub sector compound. On 30 Oct, the 1st Bde CP arrived at Quan Loi to control US forces at Loc Ninh. That same day, A/1-18 Inf made contact with an enemy company, killing 85. At 0100 on 31 Oct, elements of the 272nd and 273rd PLAF Rgts renewed their attacks on the sub sector and SF compounds. Very heavy fighting took place all night with TACAIR and AC-47 gunships supporting the defenders until 0700 when the enemy broke contact. Later that day, 1-28 Inf conducted an air-assault 4 km southeast of Loc Ninh while 1-26 joined the operation, securing FSB CAISSON VII near An Loc where the 5th ARVN TAC CP was also established. 126 enemy had been killed during the night attack at the cost of 9 KIA and 56 WIA for the Allied forces. 1 Nov was relatively quite but starting at 0045 on 2 Nov, a third attack was launched, this time on the sub sector compound, CIDG camp, 1-18 Inf NDP and the 6-15 Art FSB near the Loc Ninh Airfield. All were repulsed with a combination of heavy, accurate fire by the defenders, artillery and effective close air support. At 0820, 1-26 Inf conducted an airmobile assault 6 km northwest of Loc Ninh, followed later in the afternoon by 2-12 Inf detached from the 25th Inf Div. 296 more enemies had been killed during the attack at the cost of 7 killed and 36 wounded to friendly forces. On 3 Nov, the 36th ARVN Rgr Bn arrived to participate in reconnaissance-in-force operations with the four US infantry battalions. On 7 Nov, 1-26 Inf engaged an unknown size enemy force 6 km northeast of Loc Ninh, killing 66 but losing 17 KIA and 21 WIA. This was the last major engagement of SHENANDOAH II, the 272nd and 273rd avoiding any further contact with Allied forces. Results: 956 enemy killed, 63 detained, 107 US KIA, 322 US WIA.

4-6 Oct.
Operation: CUU LONG/215/DT
Location: Dinh Tuong Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 7th ARVN Division. Results: 70 enemy killed, 3 detained, 3 ARVN KIA, 10 ARVN WIA.

4 Oct.-11 Nov.
Operation: WALLOWA
Location: Tam Ky, Van Dong, Dong Tri, Ha Tay, Barrier Island, Que Son Basin, Truong Giang, Route 1, LZ BALDY, LZ COLT, Quang Tin and Quang Nam Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div. Task organization: 1-7 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-12 Cav, B/1-9 Cav, 1-1 Cav (-), A/2-17 Cav, 1-21 Art (-), C/1-77 Art, C/2-20 Art, C/8th Eng, 227th AHB (-), A/228th ASHB, C/8th Eng. Intelligence: 3rd PAVN Rgt. Execution: On 28 Sep, IFFORCEV notified the 1st Cav Div that a rapidly deteriorating situation in I CTZ required that III MAF be reinforced. On 30 Sep, an advance party moved north, followed on 1 Oct by the 2-12 Cav and the 3d Bde CP departing for Chu Lai. By that evening, 3d Bde CP, 2-12 Cav, B/1-9 Cav and C/1-77 Art were closed and the 3d Bde became opcon to the AMERICAL Div. 1-7 Cav moved the following day and by 3 Oct, 5-7 Cav and all combat support elements had closed Chu Lai. On 4 Oct, Operation WALLOWA began with the brigade setting up its command post on LZ BALDY (Hill 63), replacing the departing 5th Marines. 1-7 Cav displaced to BALDY also while 2-12 Cav occupied a former Marine outpost near the village of Que Son and 5-7 Cav established LZ COLT on Hill 23, 10 km south of BALDY. The first contact occurred on 9 Oct when B/1-9 Cav engaged an estimated enemy platoon, killing 15. On 10 Oct, elements of the 3rd PAVN Rgt probed LZ COLT before the Americans had completed even basic defense. Infiltrating enemy soldiers with US uniforms headed straight for the battalion's TOC, killing or wounding everyone inside it. 7 US were KIA and 17 WIA but only a few enemy bodies were found in the morning. On 20 Oct. 1-7 Cav made contact with an unknown size enemy force in a cluster of hamlets a few kilometers east of BALDY on the west bank of the Truong Giang, killing 44. During 22-23 Oct, 5-7 Cav engaged the 3rd Bn, 3rd PAVN Rgt near the hamlet of Van Dong on Barrier Island, killing 98 enemy soldiers. On 27 Oct, 1-7 Cav and two troops from 1-1 Cav again made contact with elements of the 3rd PAVN Rgt fortified in the village of Ha Tay along the coast 5 km north of Van Dong, killing an additional 48. Contact tapered-off after that as the 3rd PAVN Rgt retreated toward the Que Son Valley and Operation WALLOWA was combined with Operation WHEELER on 11 Nov70. Results71: 675 enemy killed, 17 captured, 46 US KIA, 480 US WIA.

New Operations

None

Other

6 Oct.
RVN Lower House election campaign begins

[Jason Petho]

Ongoing Operations today in 1967

26 Aug.66-20 Jan.68
Operation: BYRD
Location: Phan Thiet, LZ BETTY, Binh Thuan Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: I FFORCEV. Task organization: TF 2-7: 2-7 Cav, C/1-9 Cav, A/1-21 Art, C/2-20 Art (-), C/8th Eng Bn (-), C/229th Avn Bn, Det 228th Avn Bn. Execution: Planned as a short-term, economy-of-force measure, BYRD became a continuous offensive that would last into 1968. Upon I FFORCEV request, the 1st Cav Div detached at battalion-size task force to help pacify isolated Binh Thuan Province in southern II Corps. Results (at year's end): 351 enemy killed, 151 detained, 8 US KIA, 85 US WIA.

1 Oct.66-17 Jan 68
Operation: DAZZLEM
Location: Camp Radcliff, An Khe, Binh Dinh Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization: Base Defense Task Force. Execution: Operation DAZZLEM was the contingency plan for the defense of Camp Radcliff provided by one infantry battalion with supporting artillery and
reinforcing personnel from residence units. On 17 Jan 68, the 173d Abn Bde relieved the 1st Cav Div from the mission of defending An Khe. Results: 80 enemy killed, 9 detained.

11 Oct.66-17 Nov.67
Operation: UNIONTOWN II
Location: Long Binh, Bien Hoa Province Type: security. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV. Execution: Operation UNIONTOWN was a security operation designed to protect the Long Binh logistical complex, RMK Rock Quarry and II FFORCEV Headquarters. Units were assigned on a rotation basis from each major command under II FFORCEV.

30 Nov. 66-15 Dec.67
Operation: FAIRFAX/RANG DONG
Location: Nha Be, Thu Duc and Binh Chanh Districts, Gia Dinh Province. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV, CMD. Task organization: 1st Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 2-16 Inf; 4th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3-22 Inf; 25th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 4-9 Inf; CMD (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3rd and 5th ARVN Abn Bns, 30th Ranger Bn; 199th LIB (31 Jan-15 Dec.): 2-3 Inf, 3-7 Inf, 4-12 Inf, 2-40 Art; 5th ARVN Ranger Group (31 Jan.-15 Dec): 30th, 33rd and 38th ARVN Ranger Bns. Intelligence: Military Region 4, 165A PLAF Regiment. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE... Results (end of 1966): 149 enemy killed, 40 detained, 11 US KIA, 67 US WIA, 23 ARVN KIA, 58 ARVN WIA, 1 ARVN MIA.

8 Feb.67-31 Jan.68
Operation: LAM SON 67
Location: Phu Loi, An My, Ong Dong Jungle, Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, security, jungle clearing. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 1st Inf Div (8 Feb-17 Mar, 17 Apr 67-31 Jan 68); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (17 Mar-17 Apr). Task organization: 1st Inf Div Revolutionary Development Task Force (various infantry, cavalry and support units were assigned on a rotation basis during the period). Execution: The operation supported the GVN's Revolutionary Development Program in conjunction with ARVN units in Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. LAM SON 67 consisted of cordon and search, reconnaissance in force, harassment, jungle clearing, population control, civic action and psychological warfare operations directed against priority targets. Contact in the AO was characterized by light sporadic incidents with local VC elements. On 6 Jan 68, the Phu Loi base camp received 123 rounds of mixed mortar fire, 46 aircraft were damaged and 6 US WIA. Reacting to the attack, A/2-18 Inf and B/2-2 Inf (M) swept the area to the north of the base and contacted two enemy companies of the Phu Loi PLAF Bn. 92 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 14 US WIA. Operation LAM SON 67 was terminated on 31 Jan 68 with the beginning of the enemy's Tet Offensive. Results: 527 enemy killed, 263 captured, 2,327 detained, 346 defectors, 56 US KIA, 572 US WIA.

12 Feb. 67-18 Jan. 68
Operation: PERSHING
Location: Bong Son, Tuy An, Tam Quan, Hoa Tan, Sa Huynh, Truong Son, An Qui, Trung Xuan, An Lac, An Lao Valley, Kim Son Valley, Suoi Ca Valley, 506 Valley, Nuoc Dinh Valley, Phu My Valley, Song Re Valley, the Crescent, Nui Mieu, Nui Sang, Cay Giep, Dam Tra-O Lake, Route 1, LZ BRONCO BEACH, LZ CRYSTAL, LZ ENGLISH, LZ GARNET, LZ GERONIMO, LZ GLENN, LZ HAMMOND, LZ IRON, LZ MEADE, LZ PAT, LZ SANDRA, LZ STEEL, LZ TOM, LZ TWO BITS, LZ UPLIFT, Binh Dinh and Quang Ngai Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization (As of 12 Feb): 1 s t Bde: 1-8 Cav, 1-12 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-19 Art (-), D/2-17 Art, C/1-21 Art, A/3-18 Art; 2d Bde: 2-5 Cav, 1-5 Cav (-), 1-7 Cav (-), 2-12 Cav, 1-77 Art (-), B/1-8 Art, A/1-21 Art, C/1-30 Art, B/8th Eng; 3d Bde: 2-8 Cav, C/1-5 Cav, 1-21 Art (-), 2-17 Art (-), C/6-16 Art, C/2-19 Art, C/8th Eng; 3d Bde, 25 t h Inf Div (12 Feb-19 Apr): 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf (4-19 Apr), 2-9 Art, A/1-77 Art, 5-16 Art, C/3-4 Cav, D/65th Eng; Div Arty: 2-20 Art (-), 7-13 Art (-), B/29 Art, E/82 Art, 3-18 Art (-); Div Troops: 1-9 Cav, 8th Eng Bn (-). Intelligence: 3rd PAVN Div: 18th and 22nd PAVN Rgts, 2nd PLAF Rgt. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE ... Results: 5,
388 enemy killed, 2,356 captured, 10,609 detained, 221 returnees, 852 US KIA, 4,119 US WIA, 22 US MIA.

13 Feb. 67-10 Mar. 68
Operation: ENTERPRISE
Location: Tan An, Rach Kien, Ben Luc, Binh Phuoc, Tan Tru, Doi Ma Creek, Plain of Reeds9, Base Area 371, Route 14, Long An Province. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, eagle flights. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 3-39 Inf, 2-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-4 Art, C/15th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PLAF MF Bn, 506th PLAF LF Bn. Execution: ENTERPRISE was the continuation of the pacification effort of Long An Province initiated the previous year by the 25th Inf Div with Operation LANIKAI. On 13 Feb, 3-39 Inf relieved 2-14 Inf at Rach Kien. Strength of division elements in the province were subsequently increased to brigade size with movement of 2-60 Inf into Tan Tru, 5-60 Inf into Binh Phuoc and Headquarters, 3d Bde into Tan An. The first major engagement occurred on 9 Apr when 3-39 Inf made contact with the 506th PLAF Bn on the bank of Doi Ma Creek. Additional companies were brought in, killing 247 of the enemy. On 2 May, the 506th Bn exacted vengeance on the 3-39 Inf, attacking one of its companies in night defensive position near Route 4. 17 US were KIA and 48 WIA but no enemy bodies were found. The operation was temporarily extended north to the Plain of Reeds area on 8-14 May with sub-operation NIRVANA II directed against the enemy's Base Area 371. Elements of the 3d Bde joined forces with the 4/50 ARVN Bn of the 25th ARVN Div but found nothing, killing only 14 of the enemy. On 14 May, the 2nd PLAF Bn struck the compound of the 2/50 ARVN Bn in Rach Kien, killing 31 South Vietnamese soldiers and wounding 34. 3d Bde units were committed but couldn't regain contact with the attacking force. After that, contact with the enemy dropped sharply for the remainder of 1967, indicating an apparent enemy desire to avoid friendly forces. On 31 Jan 68, the brigade responded to the Tet Offensive, 5-60 Inf engaged in heavy fighting southwest of Saigon in Gia Dinh Province, killing 128 enemy soldiers. From 1-5 Feb, 3-39 Inf and 2-60 Inf were sent to Kien Hoa Province to help recapture Ben Tre, the provincial capital. On 10 Feb, the brigade HQ at Tan An came under attack from an unknown size enemy force. 33 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 53 US WIA. During March, brigade elements conducted "Aquabush" operations along the numerous canals south of Saigon in conjunction with the 199th Inf Bde (Lt). Pacification activities decreased sharply during the Tet Offensive and the operation was terminated on 10 March. Results: 2,107 enemy killed, 74 US KIA, 380 US WIA.

14 Feb.67-21 Mar.68
Operation: KITTYHAWK
Location: Long Binh, Xuan Loc, Long Giao, Gia Ray, Suoi Cat, Blackhorse, Route 1, Route 2, Long Khanh and Bien Hoa Province. Type: reconnaissance-in-force, cordon and search, security, road clearing. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div (14 Feb 67-15 Feb 68); 11th ACR (15 Feb-21 Mar 68). Task organization: 3-5 Cav, 1/11 ACR, 2/11 ACR, 3/11 ACR. Intelligence: 275th PLAF Rgt. Execution: The purpose of KITTYHAWK was to secure LOCs and selected installations within Long Khanh Province, conduct reconnaissance-in-force operations and cordon and search of selected hamlets within the AO, secure Blackhorse base camp and the Gia Ray rock quarry and provide ready reaction forces along Route 1. On 21 May, K Troop, 3/11 ACR was ambushed by an estimated reinforced enemy battalion near Suoi Cat on Route 1. 30 enemy are killed, 12 US KIA and 13 US WIA. On 27 Jun 1/11 ACR moved to reinforce the 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn which was in heavy contact with elements of the 3rd Bn, 275th PLAF Rgt, killing 49 of the enemy11. On 30 Dec two enemy companies ambushed Troop C, 3-5 Cav on Route 2. Friendly losses are 10 KIA, 29 WIA and 3 MIA. On 31 Jan 68, in reaction to the VC Tet Offensive, the 3-5 Cav was alerted to respond to enemy activity in the Long Binh-Bien Hoa area. A/3-5 Cav bypassed several roadblocks, breaking through enemy forces and reached the Bien Hoa airfield, sweeping nearby wood lines and killing 40. During the period 2-3 Feb, C/3-5 Cav was sent to defend Xuan Loc against an intense ground attack, killing nearly 50 enemy soldiers. On 15 Feb the KITTYHAWK mission was assumed by the 11th ACR as the 3-5 Cav (-) was directed by HQ USARV to deploy to Da Nang, I CTZ. On 21 Mar, the operation was phased into Operation ALCORN COVE. Results: 201 enemy killed, 7 captured, 1 returnee, 62 US KIA, 224 US WIA.

5 Apr.-11 Oct.
Operation: FRANCIS MARION
Location: Plei Me, Duc Co, Plei Djereng, Plei Mrong, Plei Do Lim, Buon Blech, Se San, Ia Drang, Ia Tchar, Dak Ayun, Dak Payou, Chu Pong, Chu Prong, Chu Goungot, Chu Groh, Route 14, Route 14B, Route 19E, Route 509, Hill 521, LZ OASIS, LZ JACKSON HOLE, Pleiku and Darlac Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: (effective 7 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, B/4-42 Art, C/3-4 Cav (-), A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (-), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, Plt B/1-69 Arm, 4-42 Art (-), B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), Plt C/2-8 Inf (-), Cav Plt 1-10 Cav, B/3-6 Art, A/5-16 Art; TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 26 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), C/4-42 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h In f Div: 2-8 Inf, 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), A/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), A/3-6 Art; TF 3-8 Inf: 3-8 Inf, C/6-29 Art, A/5-16 Art; Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 30 May): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (M), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art, B/4th Eng (-); 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, D/16 Arm, E/17 Cav, 173d Eng Co; TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 5-16 Art (-); Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 24 Sep): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 2-8 Inf (M), 3-8 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), A/4-42 Art,, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div: 1-12 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), B/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: 2-1 Cav, D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Intelligence: B3 Front, 1st NVA Div (32nd, 66th and 88th Rgts), 10th NVA Div (95B and 101C Rgts), 200th NVA Art Bn, 407th PLAF MF Sapper Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn.. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE.... Results: 1,204 enemy killed, 122 detained, 11 returnees, 198 US KIA, 982 US WIA, 8 US MIA.

22 Apr.67-2 Jan 68.
Operation: BAKER
Location: Duc Pho, Mo Duc, Vinh Hien, Tan Phong, Dien Truong, An Ba, An Tach, Song Tra Cau, Song Ve, LZ MONTEZUMA (later renamed LZ BRONCO), LZ GUADALCANAL, LZ OLIVE DRAB, LZ LIZ, LZ DRAGON, RAZORBACK Beach, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde TF, 25th Inf Div (redesignated 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div on 1 Aug). Task organization: 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf, 2-9 Art, C/3-4 Cav, B/1-9 Cav, C/2-34 Arm. Intelligence: 1st PLAF Rgt, 2nd PLAF Rgt, 22nd PAVN Rgt. Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: (no info).

14 May.-7 Dec.
Operation: KOLE KOLE
Location: Duc Hoa, Bao Trai, Hiep Hoa, Loc Giang, Trang Bang, Song Vam Co Dong, Rach Tra, Xinh An Ha, Route 10, Hau Nghia and Tay Ninh Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 1-5 Inf (M), 1-27 Inf, 2-27 Inf, 1-8 Art. Intelligence: 2nd Go Mon and 269th PLAF LF Bns. Execution: Operation KOLE KOLE was initiated by the 2d Bde in Hau Nghia Province using EAGLE FLIGHTS and airmobile operations based on current intelligence. Cordon and search, outposting and country fair operations were also conducted in conjunction with the 25th ARVN Div, CIDG and RF/PF. On 17 May, elements of 1/27 Inf and 2/27 Inf fought an eight-hour engagement west of the Vam Co Dong with a VC company. Results were 27 enemy killed, 2 US KIA and 9 US WIA. There was intermittent contact during June and July, particularly along the An Ha canal and near Loc Giang. The brigade also secured engineer operations along Route 10 to improve the GVN's authority and control west of Trang Bang. In early August, the reconnaissance platoon of 1/27 Inf with helicopter support intercepted VC recon elements from Long An Province, killing 26. During September, KOLE KOLE shifted to northern Hau Nghai and southwestern Tay Ninh Province. 1-5 Inf (M) conducted extensive dismounted ambush patrols around Loc Giang along the Vam Co while 2-27 Inf engaged scattered elements of the 269th PLAF Bn. On 21 Oct, an EAGLE FLIGHT from 1-27 Inf engaged an estimated enemy platoon south of Tay Ninh, killing 18. On 31 Oct, 2-27 Inf made contact with elements of the 2nd Go Mon Bn north of the Rach Tra, killing 28 and capturing 2. Enemy activity decreased for the rest of KOLE KOLE and the brigade concentrated on pacification and land clearing operations. Results: 797 enemy killed, 150 detained, 34 returnees, 144 US KIA, 876 US WIA

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: BARKING SANDS
Location: Cu Chi, Trang Bang, Phu Hoa, Iron Triangle, Ho Bo Woods, Song Saigon, Hau Nghia and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: The 1st Bde employed counter guerrilla warfaretechniques including saturation patrolling, checkmate, bushmaster and cordon and search operations to pacify Cu Chi and Trang Bang Districts in Hau Nghia Province and Phu Hoa District in Binh Duong Province. Buddy operations were also conducted with local PF platoons and RF companies. On 30 Aug, 4-9 Inf conducted an airmobile assault against an entrenched VC battalion in the Iron Triangle resulting in 4 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 43 US WIA. During September, primary emphasis was placed on denying VC access to populated areas during the National Elections. Land clearing operations were also initiated along the Song Saigon to eliminate VC concealment. In October, 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods were cleared by Rome Plows following Operation KUNIA. Contact during BARKING SANDS was limited to squad and platoon size elements and no major engagement occurred. Four sub-operations were conducted in the BARKING SANDS AO during the period: KAWELA, AKUMU,WAIMEA and KUNIA (see individual operations below). Results (inclusive of the four sub-operations): 370 enemy killed, 85 detained, 10 returnees, 110 US KIA, 1114 US WIA.

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: DIAMOND HEAD
Location: Tay Ninh West, Dau Tieng, Suoi Da, Prek Klok, Ben Cui, Michelin Plantation, Boi Loi Woods, The Crescent, The Trapezoid, Tay Ninh and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div33. Task organization: 2-12 Inf, 2-22 Inf (M), 3-22 Inf, 2-77 Art, 2-34 Arm (-) (from 22 Sep), C/1-10 Cav, C/4th Eng. Execution: The mission was to conduct search and destroy operations in Tay Ninh Province, cordon and search operations in the Michelin Plantation, and security and reinforcement missions in the Tay Ninh and Prek Klok areas. With one battalion detached to Operation UNIONTOWN and another providing security for the Dau Tieng and Tay Ninh West base camps, contact in the AO were very limited during the months of May, June and July. On 1 Aug, the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div was redesignated the 3d Bde, 25th Inf Div. No movement of troops or units were involved in this redesignation. On 15 Aug, an airmobile cordon and search of Thanh An was conducted by 3-22 Inf in conjunction with VN National Police. 6 enemy were killed and 42 detained. In September, the brigade provided security during the National elections. In October, continued battalion size search and destroy operations were conducted in the Michelin Plantation to prevent its use as an enemy haven, in and south of Ben Cui, and in the northern portion of the Trapezoid, which extends 15 km to the southeast of Dau Tieng. Bushmaster operations were conducted in an area known as the Crescent, 8 km northwest of Dau Tieng. All operations were marked by extremely light contact. In November, operations were conducted in the upper Boi Loi Woods and in the Ben Cui Plantation, again with light contact. During this period operations were curtailed due to two battalions being opcon to the other brigades. On 25-25 Now, 2-22 Inf (M) made contact with a VC company near the Mushroom bend on the Saigon River, killing 20. This was the last contact during DIAMOND HEAD before the operation came to an end on 7 Dec. Results: 237 enemy killed, 496 detained, 4 returnees. (US losses unknown).

1 Jun.67-7 Feb.68
Operation: HOPTAC
Location: Dong Tam, Dinh Tuong Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: Task Force FUNSTON39. Execution: Operation HOPTAC was an internal defense and development operation in Dinh Tuong Province which included security of the Dong Tam base. Task Force FUNSTON provided land and waterborne security for engineer dredging equipment and maintained a ready reaction force to assist local GVN units and installations if needed. In most cases contact with the VC was characterized by light fire fights and sniper fire. On 1 Feb 68 the enemy fired more than 170 82 mm mortar and 75 mm RR rounds into the base resulting in minor damage and 11 US WIA. In the early morning hours of 3, 4, 5 and 7 Feb, the enemy continued to attack the base with mortar and RR fire. The heaviest attack came on 7 Feb with an estimated 200 rounds fired at the base. Elements of 5-60 Inf and 2-39 Inf conducted reaction airmobile assaults and RIF operations 8 km east of Dong tam, making contact with two VC companies, killing 23 while losing 5 KIA and 11 WIA. Results: 296 enemy killed, 11 captured, 3 returnees, 37 US KIA, 364 US WIA.

18 Jun.-12 Oct.
Operation: GREELEY
Location: Kontum, Dak To, Tan Canh, Dak Seang, Dak Pek, Toumorong, Dak Poko, Dak Akoi, Hill 830, Hill 1338, FSB 4, Kontum Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (24 Jun-25 Jul): 1-7 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-12 Cav, 1-21 Art; 1st ARVN Abn TF (24 Jun-25 Jul): 3d, 5th and 8th ARVN Abn Bns; 24th STZ: 1/42 Inf. Intelligence: 24th and 174th PAVN Rgts, K101D PAVN Bn, 304th PLAF MF Bn, 200th PLAF Art Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn . Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: 191 enemy killed, 17 captured, 129 US KIA, 210 US WIA. (no info on ARVN losses).

3 Jul.67-7 Apr.68
Operation: RILEY
Location: Bearcat, Camp Martin Cox, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div; TF FORSYTH (from 10 Feb). Task organization: 2-39 Inf, 4-39 Inf, 2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, TF FORSYTH. Execution: Operation RILEY was an internal defense and development operation in Bien Hoa Province and included defense of Camp Martin Cox. When not engaged in strike operations, Headquarters, 1st Bde assumed opcon of all elements engaged in RILEY, including TF FORSYTH (a provisional Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment located at Camp Martin Cox). In the absence of the 1st Bde, TF FORSYTH was allocated sufficient forces to secure the camp and to conduct limited consolidation operations in the area. On 31 Jan 68 in response to the VC Tet Offensive, elements of the 2-47 Inf (M) and 4-39 Inf moved to Long Binh Post for perimeter security. Working in coordination with 2-3 Inf from the 199th Inf Bde (Lt), the two battalions had multiple contacts with the enemy during the day near Ho Nai, killing 213 by bodycount and capturing 32. US losses were 4 KIA and 23 WIA. On 10 Feb 68, the 1st Bde moved to Dong Tam and TF FORSYTH assumed responsibility until termination. Results: 472 enemy killed, 41 detained, 2 returnees, 64 US KIA, 315 US WIA.

8 Jul.-30 Oct.
Operation: MARCH I
Location: Plei Trap Valley, Kontum Province. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: B-50 Det Project OMEGA. Execution: Long range reconnaissance and intelligence gathering conducted in the Plei Trap Valley. Results: (no info).

10 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: FREMONT
Location: Camp Evans, Hill 51, Hill 67, Phong Dien District, Thua Thien Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 4th Marines. Task organization: 2/4 Marines (10 Jul-14 Sep), 3/26 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct). Execution: The 4th Marines initiated Operation FREMONT with its own 2/4 to provide security for Camp Evans, Hill 51, the Phong Dien District Headquarters and a radio transmission site on Hill 67. On 20 Jul, 2/4 provided blocking forces near My Chanh for SLF BRAVO in Operation BEAR CHAIN. BLT 2/3 became opcon to 4th Marines on 22 Jul and joined FREMONT, until back loading on 21 Aug. Contact was sporadic in Aug with only 13 US KIA for the month. During Sep, 2/4 in conjunction with ARVN forces helped secure nearby villages and hamlets during the National Elections. On 14 Sep, 2/4 joined Operation KINGFISHER and was replaced by 3/26 Marines. Contacts remained low until termination, being limited to harassing tactics, mines incidents and sniper fire. Results: 123 enemy killed, 8 captured, 17 US KIA, 196 US WIA.

16 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: KINGFISHER
Location: Dong Ha, Con Thien, Gio Linh, Cua Viet, Ca Lu, Route 9, Route 561, Route 606, Hill 216, C-2, Demilitarized Zone, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d and 9th Marines. Task organization: 3/3 Marines, 2/4 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct), 3/4 Marines, 1/9 Marines, 2/9 Marines, 3/9 Marines, 3/26 Marines (15 Aug-11 Sep), 1st Amtrac Bn. Intelligence: 90th and 812th PAVN Rgts. Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: 1,117 enemy killed, 5 captured, 340 US KIA, 1,461 US WIA.

17 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: ARDMORE
Location: Khe Sanh, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destro, security. Controlling headquarters: 26th Marines (Forward). Task organization: 1/26 Marines, 3/26 Marines, 1/13 Marines. Execution: Operation ARDMORE was a continuation of Operation CROCKETT and involved the same mission and the same forces. On 21 Jul, B/1/26 and M/3/26 fought a NVA battalion dug on Hill 216 along Route 9 in conjunction with 3/3 Marines from Operation KINGFISHER. Contacts in August were minimal and 3/26 was moved to the KINGFISHER AO on 15 Aug. 1/26 Marines continued patrols and company-size search and destroy operations around Khe Sanh, but with limited contact with the enemy. Results: 113 enemy killed, 6 detained, 10 US KIA, 39 US WIA

27 Jul.-8 Nov.
Operation: SONG THAN 14
Location: Bong Son, Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF BRAVO. Task organization: 1st VNMC BN, 2nd VNMC Bn (27 Jul-4 Oct), 3rd VNMC Bn (4 Oct-6 Nov), C/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: On 27 Jul, TF BRAVO relieved TF ALPHA at Bong Son AF and continued search and destroy operations south of Bong Son in conjunction with Operation PERSHING. Results: (no info)

31 Jul.-3 Nov.
Operation: DAN QUYEN 822
Location: Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 22nd ARVN Division. Results: 141 enemy killed, 181 detained, 44 ARVN KIA, 74 ARVN WIA 3 ARVN MIA.

11 Aug.-21 Oct.
Operation: SONG THAN/701/67
Location: Tan Uyen, Bien Hoa Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF ALPHA. Task organization: 2nd VNMC Bn (10-21 Oct), 4th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-10 Oct), 5th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-15 Sep), 6th VNMC Bn (15 Sep-21 Oct), B/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: Operation conducted in the Tan Uyen area in coordination with the US 1st Inf Div. Results: (no info)

16 Aug-31 Oct.
Operation: 8-67/SAMURAI II & III
Location: A Shau Valley, Happy Valley, Thuat Thien and Quang Nam Provinces. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: Det B-52 Project DELTA,81st ARVN Abn Rgr Bn. Execution: Operation searched areas from the northern stretches of the A Shau Valley into Happy Valley, west of Da Nang. Results: (no info).

1 Sep.-17 Nov.
Operation: STRIKE I
Location: Bien Hoa, Long Binh, AO STRIKE, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 2-47 Inf (M). Execution: Operation STRIKE I was conducted to provide security for the Bien Hoa-Long Binh complex and to prevent rocket attacks. On 17 Nov, STRIKE I was combined with Operation UNIONTOWN. Results: (no info).

5 Sep.-30 Oct.
Operation: DRAGON FIRE
Location: Batangan Peninsula, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d ROKMC Bde. Task organization: 1st, 2d and 5th ROKMC Bns. Execution: The 2d ROKMC Bde conducted this operation to clear insurgent elements from the Batagan Peninsula. Results: 541 enemy killed, 17 captured, 121 detained, 45 ROKMC KIA, 200 ROKMC WIA, 3 USMC WIA.

11 Sep-25 Nov.
Operation: WHEELER
Location: Tien Phuoc, Hiep Duc, Song Tranh, Song Chang, Base Area 116, Base Area 117, UDEN AO, Quang Tin Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 101st Abn Div. Task organization: 1-327 Inf, 2-327 Inf, 2-502 Inf, 1-14 Inf (11-24 Sep), 1-35 Inf (4 Oct-4 Nov), 2-320 Art, A/2-9 Art (4 Oct-4 Nov), B/2-9 Art (11-24 Sep), C/3-16 Art, B/1-9 Cav (2-4 Oct), A/2-17 Cav (17-25 Nov), A/326th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PAVN Div (1st PLAF Rgt, 3rd and 21st PAVN Rgts). Execution: ... SEE PREVIOUS DAY FOR INFORMATION... Results were 9 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 18 US WIA. With the 2nd PAVN Div elements avoiding contact during the period 28 Oct-4 Nov, increased emphasis was placed on attempting to locate the division. On 5 Nov, 1-35 Inf was released from operational control of the brigade and placed under opcon of the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div conducting Operation WALLOWA in the Que Son Basin. The last phase of WHEELER (6-25 Nov) saw 2-327 Inf being air-assaulted into the western portion of BA 116 while 1-327 Inf and 2-502 Inf established blocking positions. On 11 Nov, C/2-327 Inf engaged an NVA company in the Song Chang Valley 4 km east of Hiep Duc. 14 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 5 US WIA. This marked the last significant contact of WHEELER, after that, the badly hurt 2nd PAVN Div avoided any further contact. From 23-25 Nov, brigade elements were relieved in place by elements of the 196th Inf Bde (Lt)61 and displaced to Tam Ky Airfield to move by air to the brigade main base camp at Phan Rang for a four-day stand down and preparation for future operations. Results: 1,105 enemy killed, 50 captured, 445 detained, 11 returnees, 124 US KIA, 465 US WIA.

12 Sep-10 Oct.
Operation: CORONADO V
Location: Dong Tam, Cai Lay, Cam Son Secret Zone, Ban Long Base Area, Loi Quan Island, Song My Tho, Rach Ba Rai, Rach Ben Tre, Route 20, Ding Tuong and Kien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div (MRF); 7th ARVN Div. Task organization: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div: 3-47 Inf (12-17 Sep), 4-47 Inf (17 Sep-10 Oct), 3-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-60 Inf (-)(15-17 Sep), 3-34 Art, D/15th Eng, USN TF 117; 7th ARVN Div: 10th ARVN Rgt, 41st ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 263rd and 506th PLAF Bns. Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: 330 enemy killed, 235 detained, 2 returnees, 35 US KIA, 175 US WIA.

16 Sep.-29 Oct.
Operation: KUNIA
Location: Ho Bo Woods, Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 3-22 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: Operation KUNIA was conducted as part of BARKING SANDS with the 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div initiating search and destroy operations in the Ho Bo Woods in preparation for the arrival of a land clearing team of thirty Rome Plows. By the end of October 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods had been cleared. Results: (included in BARKING SANDS).

19 Sep. 67-31 Jan. 69
Operation: BOLLING/DAN HOA
Location: Tuy Hoa, Phu Hiep, Binh Tinh, Ma Hoa, AO BLACK, Song Ky Lo, Song Da Rang, Suoi Cai, Phu Yen and Phu Bon Provinces. Type: search and destroy, reconnaissance-in-force, pacification, rice protection. Controlling headquarters: 173d Abn Bde (19 Sep 67-8 Feb 68, 1 Apr 68-31 Jan 69); I FFORCEV (8 Feb-1 Apr 68); 22nd ARVN Div. Task organization: 1-503 Inf (19 Sep-6 Nov 67), 2-503 Inf (12 Oct-6 Nov 67), 3-503 Inf (5 Nov 67-16 Jan 68), 4-503 Inf (19 Sep-1 Nov 67, 16 Dec 67-31 Jan 69), TF 2-8 Cav (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), 3-319 Art, C/2-19 Art (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 47th ARVN Rgt. Intelligence: 5th PAVN Div (18B and 95th PAVN Rgts), 30th and 95th PLAF LF Bns, K65 and K76 Sapper Cos. Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: 715 enemy killed, 72 US KIA, 307 US WIA (no info on ARVN casualties).

24 Sep.-9 Oct.
Operation: ARKANSAS CITY II
Location: Phuoc Tuy Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 11th ACR. Execution: (no info)

26 Sep.-21 Oct.
Operation: AKRON III
Location: Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone), Phuoc Tuy and Bien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-39 Inf, B/2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, 2/48 ARVN Bn, 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 274th PLAF Rgt. Execution: AKRON III was a continuation of land clearing and search and destroy operations in Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone). Contact with the enemy was light and sporadic throughout the operation but the largest known weapons cache in the III CTZ to date was discovered, contacting over 200,000 rounds of small arms, 1,022 small arms and 125 crew served weapons. Results: (no info).

29 Sep.-11 Nov.
Operation: KENMORE
Location: Xuyen Moc, AO WARATAH, AO BANKSIA, Phuoc Tuy Province. Controlling headquarters: 1ATF. Task organization: 7RAR, A Sqn 3 Cav, 4 Fld Rgt, A/1-35 Art, A/1-83d Art. Execution: Operation took place in AOs WARATAH and BANKSIA, 6 km southeast of Xuyen Moc and bordering 24 km of coastline with infrequent contact. Results: 16 enemy killed, 1 captured, no friendly casualties.

29 Sep.-19 Nov.
Operation: SHENANDOAH II
Location: Lai Khe, Loc Ninh, Chon Thanh, Suoi Ong Thanh, Michelin Plantation, Long Nguyen Secret Zone, Route 13, LZ APPLE, FSB CAISSON II, FSB CAISSON III, FSB CAISSON IV, FSB CAISSON V, FSB CAISSON VI, FSB CAISSON VII, FSB LORRAINE II, Binh Duong and Binh Long Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Inf Div; 1st Bde, 1st Inf Div (29 Sep-19 Nov); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (30 Sep-30 Oct). Task organization: 1-2 Inf (29 Sep-18 Oct; 21-28 Oct), 2-2 Inf (M)(29 Sep-23 Oct), 1-16 Inf (29 Sep; 18-29 Oct; 8-19 Nov), 1-18 Inf (4-13 Oct; 29 Oct-19 Nov), 1-26 Inf (31 Oct-8 Nov), 1-28 Inf (29 Sep-10 Oct; 13 Oct-11 Nov), 2-28 Inf (7-18 Oct; 30 Oct-19 Nov), 2-12 Inf (2-7 Nov), 1-4 Cav (29 Sep-30 Oct), 1-5 Art (29 Sep-19 Nov), 6-15 Art (30 Oct-19 Nov), 2-33 Art (30 Sep-30 Oct). Intelligence: 9th PLAF Div (271st, 272nd, 273rd PLAF Rgts). Execution: Operation SHENANDOAH II initially covered an area from slightly south of Lai Khe, north approximately 18 miles and west to the edge of the Michelin Plantation, a region known as the Long Nguyen Secret Zone where the 271st PLAF Rgt was reported. The AO was expanded later to include the area between Lai Khe and Loc Ninh and between Route 13 west to the 25th Inf Div AO. On 29 Sep, 1-2 Inf began search and destroy operation in AO MIKE 12 miles north of Lai Khe while 1-28 Inf displaced via motor convoy from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh. Simultaneously, 1-4 Cav with A/2-2 Inf (M) opcon began clearing Route 13 From Lai Khe to Chon Thanh and secured FSBs CAISSON II & III. The first engagement with the VC took place on 4 Oct when 1-2 Inf made contact with an unknown size enemy force 10 km southwest of Chon Thanh. 12 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 26 US WIA. In reaction, 1-18 Inf moved by helicopter from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh and was air-assaulted into an LZ 1 km west of the 1-2 Inf contact. The LZ was cold but 29 enemy bodies KBA were found in the immediate vicinity. On 6 Oct, 1-18 Inf received mortar fire followed by a heavy ground assault. Result was 50 enemy killed, 3 US KIA and 4 US WIA. On 7 Oct, another battalion, 2-28 Inf, was added to the operation, moving via road convoy to Chon Thanh and then to field location. On 10 Oct, 1-28 Inf, having made little contact, was extracted from the field and returned to Phuoc Vinh. The next major engagement occurred on 11 Oct when B/1-18 Inf made contact with an estimated 100-150 enemy 31 km west of Highway 13, killing 21 while losing 1 KIA and 4 WIA. On 13 Oct, 1-28 Inf returned to the SHENANDOAH II AO, relieving 1-18 Inf in place. Contact during the next few days was limited but on 17 Oct, Cos A & D, 2-28 Inf were ambushed while following a trail south of the Suoi Ong Thanh. Contact began at 1015 when Co A received sniper fire. Close fighting began to develop rapidly and the two companies were soon engulfed by a very heavy volume of fire. The battalion's CO65, S-2, SGM and both company commanders became casualties. Both companies pulled back under fire to allow for close air support and artillery fire as Co B and C were rushed in to reinforced, followed by Co D, 1/16 inf later in the afternoon when the enemy broke contact. Losses had been very heavy for the Americans with 52 KIA, 72 WIA and 2 MIA. 103 enemy bodies were counted in the battle area the next day. On 18 Oct, 2-28 Inf was relieved in place by the rest of 1-16 Inf and was extracted to Lai 65 LTC Terry de la Mesa Allen, Jr., KIA 17 Oct 67. Khe, followed by 1-2 Inf which returned to Phuoc Vinh. On 19 Oct, 1-16 Inf continued search and destroy operations in the vicinity of the 17 Oct battle while 1-28 Inf was extracted briefly to Chon Thanh to allow for a B-52 strike to take place before returning to the field. On 21 Oct, 1-2 Inf was inserted into the AO again after a road march from Phuoc Vinh to Chon Thanh but contact remained low for the rest on the month. At 0115 on 29 Oct, two battalions of the 273rd PLAF Rgt launched a ground assault on the Loc Ninh District Headquarters and Loc Ninh CIDG Camp. Two reconnaissance companies from the 5th ARVN Div reacted immediately, being airlifted from Phu Loi to Loc Ninh and counterattacking along with two CIDG companies to regain the northern part of the sub sector compound, clearing it by 1300. At that point, Operation SHENANDOAH II was expanded to include the battle of Loc Ninh, with 1-18 Inf deploying to the battle area to occupy blocking positions 4 km west of the town. 2/9 ARVN Bn was also brought in and deployed in and around the sub sector compound. On 30 Oct, the 1st Bde CP arrived at Quan Loi to control US forces at Loc Ninh. That same day, A/1-18 Inf made contact with an enemy company, killing 85. At 0100 on 31 Oct, elements of the 272nd and 273rd PLAF Rgts renewed their attacks on the sub sector and SF compounds. Very heavy fighting took place all night with TACAIR and AC-47 gunships supporting the defenders until 0700 when the enemy broke contact. Later that day, 1-28 Inf conducted an air-assault 4 km southeast of Loc Ninh while 1-26 joined the operation, securing FSB CAISSON VII near An Loc where the 5th ARVN TAC CP was also established. 126 enemy had been killed during the night attack at the cost of 9 KIA and 56 WIA for the Allied forces. 1 Nov was relatively quite but starting at 0045 on 2 Nov, a third attack was launched, this time on the sub sector compound, CIDG camp, 1-18 Inf NDP and the 6-15 Art FSB near the Loc Ninh Airfield. All were repulsed with a combination of heavy, accurate fire by the defenders, artillery and effective close air support. At 0820, 1-26 Inf conducted an airmobile assault 6 km northwest of Loc Ninh, followed later in the afternoon by 2-12 Inf detached from the 25th Inf Div. 296 more enemies had been killed during the attack at the cost of 7 killed and 36 wounded to friendly forces. On 3 Nov, the 36th ARVN Rgr Bn arrived to participate in reconnaissance-in-force operations with the four US infantry battalions. On 7 Nov, 1-26 Inf engaged an unknown size enemy force 6 km northeast of Loc Ninh, killing 66 but losing 17 KIA and 21 WIA. This was the last major engagement of SHENANDOAH II, the 272nd and 273rd avoiding any further contact with Allied forces. Results: 956 enemy killed, 63 detained, 107 US KIA, 322 US WIA.

4 Oct.-11 Nov.
Operation: WALLOWA
Location: Tam Ky, Van Dong, Dong Tri, Ha Tay, Barrier Island, Que Son Basin, Truong Giang, Route 1, LZ BALDY, LZ COLT, Quang Tin and Quang Nam Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div. Task organization: 1-7 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-12 Cav, B/1-9 Cav, 1-1 Cav (-), A/2-17 Cav, 1-21 Art (-), C/1-77 Art, C/2-20 Art, C/8th Eng, 227th AHB (-), A/228th ASHB, C/8th Eng. Intelligence: 3rd PAVN Rgt. Execution: On 28 Sep, IFFORCEV notified the 1st Cav Div that a rapidly deteriorating situation in I CTZ required that III MAF be reinforced. On 30 Sep, an advance party moved north, followed on 1 Oct by the 2-12 Cav and the 3d Bde CP departing for Chu Lai. By that evening, 3d Bde CP, 2-12 Cav, B/1-9 Cav and C/1-77 Art were closed and the 3d Bde became opcon to the AMERICAL Div. 1-7 Cav moved the following day and by 3 Oct, 5-7 Cav and all combat support elements had closed Chu Lai. On 4 Oct, Operation WALLOWA began with the brigade setting up its command post on LZ BALDY (Hill 63), replacing the departing 5th Marines. 1-7 Cav displaced to BALDY also while 2-12 Cav occupied a former Marine outpost near the village of Que Son and 5-7 Cav established LZ COLT on Hill 23, 10 km south of BALDY. The first contact occurred on 9 Oct when B/1-9 Cav engaged an estimated enemy platoon, killing 15. On 10 Oct, elements of the 3rd PAVN Rgt probed LZ COLT before the Americans had completed even basic defense. Infiltrating enemy soldiers with US uniforms headed straight for the battalion's TOC, killing or wounding everyone inside it. 7 US were KIA and 17 WIA but only a few enemy bodies were found in the morning. On 20 Oct. 1-7 Cav made contact with an unknown size enemy force in a cluster of hamlets a few kilometers east of BALDY on the west bank of the Truong Giang, killing 44. During 22-23 Oct, 5-7 Cav engaged the 3rd Bn, 3rd PAVN Rgt near the hamlet of Van Dong on Barrier Island, killing 98 enemy soldiers. On 27 Oct, 1-7 Cav and two troops from 1-1 Cav again made contact with elements of the 3rd PAVN Rgt fortified in the village of Ha Tay along the coast 5 km north of Van Dong, killing an additional 48. Contact tapered-off after that as the 3rd PAVN Rgt retreated toward the Que Son Valley and Operation WALLOWA was combined with Operation WHEELER on 11 Nov70. Results71: 675 enemy killed, 17 captured, 46 US KIA, 480 US WIA.

New Operations

7-8 Oct.
Operation: XAY DUNG NONG THON 16
Location: Dam Cau Hai, Thua Thien Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: Thua Thien Sector. Execution: operation conducted on the north shore of Cau Hai Bay by Thua Thien Sector forces supported the First Naval Zone RAG Detachment. Results: 45 enemy killed, 3 ARVN KIA, 53 ARVN WIA.

Other

7 Oct.
US aircraft strike at Soviet-built helicopters on the ground 45 km west of Hanoi.

[Jason Petho]

Ongoing Operations today in 1967

26 Aug.66-20 Jan.68
Operation: BYRD
Location: Phan Thiet, LZ BETTY, Binh Thuan Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: I FFORCEV. Task organization: TF 2-7: 2-7 Cav, C/1-9 Cav, A/1-21 Art, C/2-20 Art (-), C/8th Eng Bn (-), C/229th Avn Bn, Det 228th Avn Bn. Execution: Planned as a short-term, economy-of-force measure, BYRD became a continuous offensive that would last into 1968. Upon I FFORCEV request, the 1st Cav Div detached at battalion-size task force to help pacify isolated Binh Thuan Province in southern II Corps. Results (at year's end): 351 enemy killed, 151 detained, 8 US KIA, 85 US WIA.

1 Oct.66-17 Jan 68
Operation: DAZZLEM
Location: Camp Radcliff, An Khe, Binh Dinh Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization: Base Defense Task Force. Execution: Operation DAZZLEM was the contingency plan for the defense of Camp Radcliff provided by one infantry battalion with supporting artillery and
reinforcing personnel from residence units. On 17 Jan 68, the 173d Abn Bde relieved the 1st Cav Div from the mission of defending An Khe. Results: 80 enemy killed, 9 detained.

11 Oct.66-17 Nov.67
Operation: UNIONTOWN II
Location: Long Binh, Bien Hoa Province Type: security. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV. Execution: Operation UNIONTOWN was a security operation designed to protect the Long Binh logistical complex, RMK Rock Quarry and II FFORCEV Headquarters. Units were assigned on a rotation basis from each major command under II FFORCEV.

30 Nov. 66-15 Dec.67
Operation: FAIRFAX/RANG DONG
Location: Nha Be, Thu Duc and Binh Chanh Districts, Gia Dinh Province. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV, CMD. Task organization: 1st Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 2-16 Inf; 4th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3-22 Inf; 25th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 4-9 Inf; CMD (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3rd and 5th ARVN Abn Bns, 30th Ranger Bn; 199th LIB (31 Jan-15 Dec.): 2-3 Inf, 3-7 Inf, 4-12 Inf, 2-40 Art; 5th ARVN Ranger Group (31 Jan.-15 Dec): 30th, 33rd and 38th ARVN Ranger Bns. Intelligence: Military Region 4, 165A PLAF Regiment. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE... Results (end of 1966): 149 enemy killed, 40 detained, 11 US KIA, 67 US WIA, 23 ARVN KIA, 58 ARVN WIA, 1 ARVN MIA.

8 Feb.67-31 Jan.68
Operation: LAM SON 67
Location: Phu Loi, An My, Ong Dong Jungle, Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, security, jungle clearing. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 1st Inf Div (8 Feb-17 Mar, 17 Apr 67-31 Jan 68); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (17 Mar-17 Apr). Task organization: 1st Inf Div Revolutionary Development Task Force (various infantry, cavalry and support units were assigned on a rotation basis during the period). Execution: The operation supported the GVN's Revolutionary Development Program in conjunction with ARVN units in Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. LAM SON 67 consisted of cordon and search, reconnaissance in force, harassment, jungle clearing, population control, civic action and psychological warfare operations directed against priority targets. Contact in the AO was characterized by light sporadic incidents with local VC elements. On 6 Jan 68, the Phu Loi base camp received 123 rounds of mixed mortar fire, 46 aircraft were damaged and 6 US WIA. Reacting to the attack, A/2-18 Inf and B/2-2 Inf (M) swept the area to the north of the base and contacted two enemy companies of the Phu Loi PLAF Bn. 92 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 14 US WIA. Operation LAM SON 67 was terminated on 31 Jan 68 with the beginning of the enemy's Tet Offensive. Results: 527 enemy killed, 263 captured, 2,327 detained, 346 defectors, 56 US KIA, 572 US WIA.

12 Feb. 67-18 Jan. 68
Operation: PERSHING
Location: Bong Son, Tuy An, Tam Quan, Hoa Tan, Sa Huynh, Truong Son, An Qui, Trung Xuan, An Lac, An Lao Valley, Kim Son Valley, Suoi Ca Valley, 506 Valley, Nuoc Dinh Valley, Phu My Valley, Song Re Valley, the Crescent, Nui Mieu, Nui Sang, Cay Giep, Dam Tra-O Lake, Route 1, LZ BRONCO BEACH, LZ CRYSTAL, LZ ENGLISH, LZ GARNET, LZ GERONIMO, LZ GLENN, LZ HAMMOND, LZ IRON, LZ MEADE, LZ PAT, LZ SANDRA, LZ STEEL, LZ TOM, LZ TWO BITS, LZ UPLIFT, Binh Dinh and Quang Ngai Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization (As of 12 Feb): 1 s t Bde: 1-8 Cav, 1-12 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-19 Art (-), D/2-17 Art, C/1-21 Art, A/3-18 Art; 2d Bde: 2-5 Cav, 1-5 Cav (-), 1-7 Cav (-), 2-12 Cav, 1-77 Art (-), B/1-8 Art, A/1-21 Art, C/1-30 Art, B/8th Eng; 3d Bde: 2-8 Cav, C/1-5 Cav, 1-21 Art (-), 2-17 Art (-), C/6-16 Art, C/2-19 Art, C/8th Eng; 3d Bde, 25 t h Inf Div (12 Feb-19 Apr): 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf (4-19 Apr), 2-9 Art, A/1-77 Art, 5-16 Art, C/3-4 Cav, D/65th Eng; Div Arty: 2-20 Art (-), 7-13 Art (-), B/29 Art, E/82 Art, 3-18 Art (-); Div Troops: 1-9 Cav, 8th Eng Bn (-). Intelligence: 3rd PAVN Div: 18th and 22nd PAVN Rgts, 2nd PLAF Rgt. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE ... Results: 5,
388 enemy killed, 2,356 captured, 10,609 detained, 221 returnees, 852 US KIA, 4,119 US WIA, 22 US MIA.

13 Feb. 67-10 Mar. 68
Operation: ENTERPRISE
Location: Tan An, Rach Kien, Ben Luc, Binh Phuoc, Tan Tru, Doi Ma Creek, Plain of Reeds9, Base Area 371, Route 14, Long An Province. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, eagle flights. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 3-39 Inf, 2-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-4 Art, C/15th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PLAF MF Bn, 506th PLAF LF Bn. Execution: ENTERPRISE was the continuation of the pacification effort of Long An Province initiated the previous year by the 25th Inf Div with Operation LANIKAI. On 13 Feb, 3-39 Inf relieved 2-14 Inf at Rach Kien. Strength of division elements in the province were subsequently increased to brigade size with movement of 2-60 Inf into Tan Tru, 5-60 Inf into Binh Phuoc and Headquarters, 3d Bde into Tan An. The first major engagement occurred on 9 Apr when 3-39 Inf made contact with the 506th PLAF Bn on the bank of Doi Ma Creek. Additional companies were brought in, killing 247 of the enemy. On 2 May, the 506th Bn exacted vengeance on the 3-39 Inf, attacking one of its companies in night defensive position near Route 4. 17 US were KIA and 48 WIA but no enemy bodies were found. The operation was temporarily extended north to the Plain of Reeds area on 8-14 May with sub-operation NIRVANA II directed against the enemy's Base Area 371. Elements of the 3d Bde joined forces with the 4/50 ARVN Bn of the 25th ARVN Div but found nothing, killing only 14 of the enemy. On 14 May, the 2nd PLAF Bn struck the compound of the 2/50 ARVN Bn in Rach Kien, killing 31 South Vietnamese soldiers and wounding 34. 3d Bde units were committed but couldn't regain contact with the attacking force. After that, contact with the enemy dropped sharply for the remainder of 1967, indicating an apparent enemy desire to avoid friendly forces. On 31 Jan 68, the brigade responded to the Tet Offensive, 5-60 Inf engaged in heavy fighting southwest of Saigon in Gia Dinh Province, killing 128 enemy soldiers. From 1-5 Feb, 3-39 Inf and 2-60 Inf were sent to Kien Hoa Province to help recapture Ben Tre, the provincial capital. On 10 Feb, the brigade HQ at Tan An came under attack from an unknown size enemy force. 33 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 53 US WIA. During March, brigade elements conducted "Aquabush" operations along the numerous canals south of Saigon in conjunction with the 199th Inf Bde (Lt). Pacification activities decreased sharply during the Tet Offensive and the operation was terminated on 10 March. Results: 2,107 enemy killed, 74 US KIA, 380 US WIA.

14 Feb.67-21 Mar.68
Operation: KITTYHAWK
Location: Long Binh, Xuan Loc, Long Giao, Gia Ray, Suoi Cat, Blackhorse, Route 1, Route 2, Long Khanh and Bien Hoa Province. Type: reconnaissance-in-force, cordon and search, security, road clearing. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div (14 Feb 67-15 Feb 68); 11th ACR (15 Feb-21 Mar 68). Task organization: 3-5 Cav, 1/11 ACR, 2/11 ACR, 3/11 ACR. Intelligence: 275th PLAF Rgt. Execution: The purpose of KITTYHAWK was to secure LOCs and selected installations within Long Khanh Province, conduct reconnaissance-in-force operations and cordon and search of selected hamlets within the AO, secure Blackhorse base camp and the Gia Ray rock quarry and provide ready reaction forces along Route 1. On 21 May, K Troop, 3/11 ACR was ambushed by an estimated reinforced enemy battalion near Suoi Cat on Route 1. 30 enemy are killed, 12 US KIA and 13 US WIA. On 27 Jun 1/11 ACR moved to reinforce the 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn which was in heavy contact with elements of the 3rd Bn, 275th PLAF Rgt, killing 49 of the enemy11. On 30 Dec two enemy companies ambushed Troop C, 3-5 Cav on Route 2. Friendly losses are 10 KIA, 29 WIA and 3 MIA. On 31 Jan 68, in reaction to the VC Tet Offensive, the 3-5 Cav was alerted to respond to enemy activity in the Long Binh-Bien Hoa area. A/3-5 Cav bypassed several roadblocks, breaking through enemy forces and reached the Bien Hoa airfield, sweeping nearby wood lines and killing 40. During the period 2-3 Feb, C/3-5 Cav was sent to defend Xuan Loc against an intense ground attack, killing nearly 50 enemy soldiers. On 15 Feb the KITTYHAWK mission was assumed by the 11th ACR as the 3-5 Cav (-) was directed by HQ USARV to deploy to Da Nang, I CTZ. On 21 Mar, the operation was phased into Operation ALCORN COVE. Results: 201 enemy killed, 7 captured, 1 returnee, 62 US KIA, 224 US WIA.

5 Apr.-11 Oct.
Operation: FRANCIS MARION
Location: Plei Me, Duc Co, Plei Djereng, Plei Mrong, Plei Do Lim, Buon Blech, Se San, Ia Drang, Ia Tchar, Dak Ayun, Dak Payou, Chu Pong, Chu Prong, Chu Goungot, Chu Groh, Route 14, Route 14B, Route 19E, Route 509, Hill 521, LZ OASIS, LZ JACKSON HOLE, Pleiku and Darlac Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: (effective 7 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, B/4-42 Art, C/3-4 Cav (-), A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (-), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, Plt B/1-69 Arm, 4-42 Art (-), B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), Plt C/2-8 Inf (-), Cav Plt 1-10 Cav, B/3-6 Art, A/5-16 Art; TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 26 April): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), C/4-42 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h In f Div: 2-8 Inf, 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), A/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); TF 1-10 Cav: 1-10 Cav (-), A/3-6 Art; TF 3-8 Inf: 3-8 Inf, C/6-29 Art, A/5-16 Art; Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 30 May): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 3-8 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 6-29 Art, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 2-8 Inf (M), 1-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art, B/4th Eng (-); 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, D/16 Arm, E/17 Cav, 173d Eng Co; TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 5-16 Art (-); Div Troops: D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Task organization: (effective 24 Sep): 1 s t Bde, 4 t h Inf Div : 1-8 Inf, 2-8 Inf (M), 3-8 Inf, 6-29 Art (-), A/4-42 Art,, A/4th Eng (-); 2d Bde, 4 t h Inf Div: 1-12 Inf, 3-12 Inf, 1-22 Inf, 4-42 Art (-), B/6-29 Art, B/4th Eng (-); TF 1-69 Arm: 1-69 Arm (-), 3-6 Art (-); Div Arty: 6-14 Art, 5-16 Art (-), 1-92 Art; Div Troops: 2-1 Cav, D/4-60 Art (-), 4th Avn Bn, 4th Eng Bn. Intelligence: B3 Front, 1st NVA Div (32nd, 66th and 88th Rgts), 10th NVA Div (95B and 101C Rgts), 200th NVA Art Bn, 407th PLAF MF Sapper Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn.. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE.... Results: 1,204 enemy killed, 122 detained, 11 returnees, 198 US KIA, 982 US WIA, 8 US MIA.

22 Apr.67-2 Jan 68.
Operation: BAKER
Location: Duc Pho, Mo Duc, Vinh Hien, Tan Phong, Dien Truong, An Ba, An Tach, Song Tra Cau, Song Ve, LZ MONTEZUMA (later renamed LZ BRONCO), LZ GUADALCANAL, LZ OLIVE DRAB, LZ LIZ, LZ DRAGON, RAZORBACK Beach, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde TF, 25th Inf Div (redesignated 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div on 1 Aug). Task organization: 1-14 Inf, 1-35 Inf, 2-35 Inf, 2-9 Art, C/3-4 Cav, B/1-9 Cav, C/2-34 Arm. Intelligence: 1st PLAF Rgt, 2nd PLAF Rgt, 22nd PAVN Rgt. Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: (no info).

14 May.-7 Dec.
Operation: KOLE KOLE
Location: Duc Hoa, Bao Trai, Hiep Hoa, Loc Giang, Trang Bang, Song Vam Co Dong, Rach Tra, Xinh An Ha, Route 10, Hau Nghia and Tay Ninh Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 1-5 Inf (M), 1-27 Inf, 2-27 Inf, 1-8 Art. Intelligence: 2nd Go Mon and 269th PLAF LF Bns. Execution: Operation KOLE KOLE was initiated by the 2d Bde in Hau Nghia Province using EAGLE FLIGHTS and airmobile operations based on current intelligence. Cordon and search, outposting and country fair operations were also conducted in conjunction with the 25th ARVN Div, CIDG and RF/PF. On 17 May, elements of 1/27 Inf and 2/27 Inf fought an eight-hour engagement west of the Vam Co Dong with a VC company. Results were 27 enemy killed, 2 US KIA and 9 US WIA. There was intermittent contact during June and July, particularly along the An Ha canal and near Loc Giang. The brigade also secured engineer operations along Route 10 to improve the GVN's authority and control west of Trang Bang. In early August, the reconnaissance platoon of 1/27 Inf with helicopter support intercepted VC recon elements from Long An Province, killing 26. During September, KOLE KOLE shifted to northern Hau Nghai and southwestern Tay Ninh Province. 1-5 Inf (M) conducted extensive dismounted ambush patrols around Loc Giang along the Vam Co while 2-27 Inf engaged scattered elements of the 269th PLAF Bn. On 21 Oct, an EAGLE FLIGHT from 1-27 Inf engaged an estimated enemy platoon south of Tay Ninh, killing 18. On 31 Oct, 2-27 Inf made contact with elements of the 2nd Go Mon Bn north of the Rach Tra, killing 28 and capturing 2. Enemy activity decreased for the rest of KOLE KOLE and the brigade concentrated on pacification and land clearing operations. Results: 797 enemy killed, 150 detained, 34 returnees, 144 US KIA, 876 US WIA

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: BARKING SANDS
Location: Cu Chi, Trang Bang, Phu Hoa, Iron Triangle, Ho Bo Woods, Song Saigon, Hau Nghia and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: The 1st Bde employed counter guerrilla warfaretechniques including saturation patrolling, checkmate, bushmaster and cordon and search operations to pacify Cu Chi and Trang Bang Districts in Hau Nghia Province and Phu Hoa District in Binh Duong Province. Buddy operations were also conducted with local PF platoons and RF companies. On 30 Aug, 4-9 Inf conducted an airmobile assault against an entrenched VC battalion in the Iron Triangle resulting in 4 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 43 US WIA. During September, primary emphasis was placed on denying VC access to populated areas during the National Elections. Land clearing operations were also initiated along the Song Saigon to eliminate VC concealment. In October, 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods were cleared by Rome Plows following Operation KUNIA. Contact during BARKING SANDS was limited to squad and platoon size elements and no major engagement occurred. Four sub-operations were conducted in the BARKING SANDS AO during the period: KAWELA, AKUMU,WAIMEA and KUNIA (see individual operations below). Results (inclusive of the four sub-operations): 370 enemy killed, 85 detained, 10 returnees, 110 US KIA, 1114 US WIA.

18 May-7 Dec.
Operation: DIAMOND HEAD
Location: Tay Ninh West, Dau Tieng, Suoi Da, Prek Klok, Ben Cui, Michelin Plantation, Boi Loi Woods, The Crescent, The Trapezoid, Tay Ninh and Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div33. Task organization: 2-12 Inf, 2-22 Inf (M), 3-22 Inf, 2-77 Art, 2-34 Arm (-) (from 22 Sep), C/1-10 Cav, C/4th Eng. Execution: The mission was to conduct search and destroy operations in Tay Ninh Province, cordon and search operations in the Michelin Plantation, and security and reinforcement missions in the Tay Ninh and Prek Klok areas. With one battalion detached to Operation UNIONTOWN and another providing security for the Dau Tieng and Tay Ninh West base camps, contact in the AO were very limited during the months of May, June and July. On 1 Aug, the 3d Bde, 4th Inf Div was redesignated the 3d Bde, 25th Inf Div. No movement of troops or units were involved in this redesignation. On 15 Aug, an airmobile cordon and search of Thanh An was conducted by 3-22 Inf in conjunction with VN National Police. 6 enemy were killed and 42 detained. In September, the brigade provided security during the National elections. In October, continued battalion size search and destroy operations were conducted in the Michelin Plantation to prevent its use as an enemy haven, in and south of Ben Cui, and in the northern portion of the Trapezoid, which extends 15 km to the southeast of Dau Tieng. Bushmaster operations were conducted in an area known as the Crescent, 8 km northwest of Dau Tieng. All operations were marked by extremely light contact. In November, operations were conducted in the upper Boi Loi Woods and in the Ben Cui Plantation, again with light contact. During this period operations were curtailed due to two battalions being opcon to the other brigades. On 25-25 Now, 2-22 Inf (M) made contact with a VC company near the Mushroom bend on the Saigon River, killing 20. This was the last contact during DIAMOND HEAD before the operation came to an end on 7 Dec. Results: 237 enemy killed, 496 detained, 4 returnees. (US losses unknown).

1 Jun.67-7 Feb.68
Operation: HOPTAC
Location: Dong Tam, Dinh Tuong Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: Task Force FUNSTON39. Execution: Operation HOPTAC was an internal defense and development operation in Dinh Tuong Province which included security of the Dong Tam base. Task Force FUNSTON provided land and waterborne security for engineer dredging equipment and maintained a ready reaction force to assist local GVN units and installations if needed. In most cases contact with the VC was characterized by light fire fights and sniper fire. On 1 Feb 68 the enemy fired more than 170 82 mm mortar and 75 mm RR rounds into the base resulting in minor damage and 11 US WIA. In the early morning hours of 3, 4, 5 and 7 Feb, the enemy continued to attack the base with mortar and RR fire. The heaviest attack came on 7 Feb with an estimated 200 rounds fired at the base. Elements of 5-60 Inf and 2-39 Inf conducted reaction airmobile assaults and RIF operations 8 km east of Dong tam, making contact with two VC companies, killing 23 while losing 5 KIA and 11 WIA. Results: 296 enemy killed, 11 captured, 3 returnees, 37 US KIA, 364 US WIA.

18 Jun.-12 Oct.
Operation: GREELEY
Location: Kontum, Dak To, Tan Canh, Dak Seang, Dak Pek, Toumorong, Dak Poko, Dak Akoi, Hill 830, Hill 1338, FSB 4, Kontum Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 4th Inf Div. Task organization: 173d Abn Bde: 1-503 Inf, 2-503 Inf, 4-503 Inf, 3-319 Art, E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div (24 Jun-25 Jul): 1-7 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-12 Cav, 1-21 Art; 1st ARVN Abn TF (24 Jun-25 Jul): 3d, 5th and 8th ARVN Abn Bns; 24th STZ: 1/42 Inf. Intelligence: 24th and 174th PAVN Rgts, K101D PAVN Bn, 304th PLAF MF Bn, 200th PLAF Art Bn, H-15 PLAF LF Bn . Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: 191 enemy killed, 17 captured, 129 US KIA, 210 US WIA. (no info on ARVN losses).

3 Jul.67-7 Apr.68
Operation: RILEY
Location: Bearcat, Camp Martin Cox, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div; TF FORSYTH (from 10 Feb). Task organization: 2-39 Inf, 4-39 Inf, 2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, TF FORSYTH. Execution: Operation RILEY was an internal defense and development operation in Bien Hoa Province and included defense of Camp Martin Cox. When not engaged in strike operations, Headquarters, 1st Bde assumed opcon of all elements engaged in RILEY, including TF FORSYTH (a provisional Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment located at Camp Martin Cox). In the absence of the 1st Bde, TF FORSYTH was allocated sufficient forces to secure the camp and to conduct limited consolidation operations in the area. On 31 Jan 68 in response to the VC Tet Offensive, elements of the 2-47 Inf (M) and 4-39 Inf moved to Long Binh Post for perimeter security. Working in coordination with 2-3 Inf from the 199th Inf Bde (Lt), the two battalions had multiple contacts with the enemy during the day near Ho Nai, killing 213 by bodycount and capturing 32. US losses were 4 KIA and 23 WIA. On 10 Feb 68, the 1st Bde moved to Dong Tam and TF FORSYTH assumed responsibility until termination. Results: 472 enemy killed, 41 detained, 2 returnees, 64 US KIA, 315 US WIA.

8 Jul.-30 Oct.
Operation: MARCH I
Location: Plei Trap Valley, Kontum Province. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: B-50 Det Project OMEGA. Execution: Long range reconnaissance and intelligence gathering conducted in the Plei Trap Valley. Results: (no info).

10 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: FREMONT
Location: Camp Evans, Hill 51, Hill 67, Phong Dien District, Thua Thien Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 4th Marines. Task organization: 2/4 Marines (10 Jul-14 Sep), 3/26 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct). Execution: The 4th Marines initiated Operation FREMONT with its own 2/4 to provide security for Camp Evans, Hill 51, the Phong Dien District Headquarters and a radio transmission site on Hill 67. On 20 Jul, 2/4 provided blocking forces near My Chanh for SLF BRAVO in Operation BEAR CHAIN. BLT 2/3 became opcon to 4th Marines on 22 Jul and joined FREMONT, until back loading on 21 Aug. Contact was sporadic in Aug with only 13 US KIA for the month. During Sep, 2/4 in conjunction with ARVN forces helped secure nearby villages and hamlets during the National Elections. On 14 Sep, 2/4 joined Operation KINGFISHER and was replaced by 3/26 Marines. Contacts remained low until termination, being limited to harassing tactics, mines incidents and sniper fire. Results: 123 enemy killed, 8 captured, 17 US KIA, 196 US WIA.

16 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: KINGFISHER
Location: Dong Ha, Con Thien, Gio Linh, Cua Viet, Ca Lu, Route 9, Route 561, Route 606, Hill 216, C-2, Demilitarized Zone, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d and 9th Marines. Task organization: 3/3 Marines, 2/4 Marines (14 Sep-31 Oct), 3/4 Marines, 1/9 Marines, 2/9 Marines, 3/9 Marines, 3/26 Marines (15 Aug-11 Sep), 1st Amtrac Bn. Intelligence: 90th and 812th PAVN Rgts. Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: 1,117 enemy killed, 5 captured, 340 US KIA, 1,461 US WIA.

17 Jul.-31 Oct.
Operation: ARDMORE
Location: Khe Sanh, Quang Tri Province. Type: search and destro, security. Controlling headquarters: 26th Marines (Forward). Task organization: 1/26 Marines, 3/26 Marines, 1/13 Marines. Execution: Operation ARDMORE was a continuation of Operation CROCKETT and involved the same mission and the same forces. On 21 Jul, B/1/26 and M/3/26 fought a NVA battalion dug on Hill 216 along Route 9 in conjunction with 3/3 Marines from Operation KINGFISHER. Contacts in August were minimal and 3/26 was moved to the KINGFISHER AO on 15 Aug. 1/26 Marines continued patrols and company-size search and destroy operations around Khe Sanh, but with limited contact with the enemy. Results: 113 enemy killed, 6 detained, 10 US KIA, 39 US WIA

27 Jul.-8 Nov.
Operation: SONG THAN 14
Location: Bong Son, Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF BRAVO. Task organization: 1st VNMC BN, 2nd VNMC Bn (27 Jul-4 Oct), 3rd VNMC Bn (4 Oct-6 Nov), C/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: On 27 Jul, TF BRAVO relieved TF ALPHA at Bong Son AF and continued search and destroy operations south of Bong Son in conjunction with Operation PERSHING. Results: (no info)

31 Jul.-3 Nov.
Operation: DAN QUYEN 822
Location: Binh Dinh Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 22nd ARVN Division. Results: 141 enemy killed, 181 detained, 44 ARVN KIA, 74 ARVN WIA 3 ARVN MIA.

11 Aug.-21 Oct.
Operation: SONG THAN/701/67
Location: Tan Uyen, Bien Hoa Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: VNMC TF ALPHA. Task organization: 2nd VNMC Bn (10-21 Oct), 4th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-10 Oct), 5th VNMC Bn (11 Aug-15 Sep), 6th VNMC Bn (15 Sep-21 Oct), B/VNMC Art Bn. Execution: Operation conducted in the Tan Uyen area in coordination with the US 1st Inf Div. Results: (no info)

16 Aug-31 Oct.
Operation: 8-67/SAMURAI II & III
Location: A Shau Valley, Happy Valley, Thuat Thien and Quang Nam Provinces. Type: reconnaissance. Controlling headquarters: 5th SFGA. Task organization: Det B-52 Project DELTA,81st ARVN Abn Rgr Bn. Execution: Operation searched areas from the northern stretches of the A Shau Valley into Happy Valley, west of Da Nang. Results: (no info).

1 Sep.-17 Nov.
Operation: STRIKE I
Location: Bien Hoa, Long Binh, AO STRIKE, Bien Hoa Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 2-47 Inf (M). Execution: Operation STRIKE I was conducted to provide security for the Bien Hoa-Long Binh complex and to prevent rocket attacks. On 17 Nov, STRIKE I was combined with Operation UNIONTOWN. Results: (no info).

5 Sep.-30 Oct.
Operation: DRAGON FIRE
Location: Batangan Peninsula, Quang Ngai Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d ROKMC Bde. Task organization: 1st, 2d and 5th ROKMC Bns. Execution: The 2d ROKMC Bde conducted this operation to clear insurgent elements from the Batagan Peninsula. Results: 541 enemy killed, 17 captured, 121 detained, 45 ROKMC KIA, 200 ROKMC WIA, 3 USMC WIA.

11 Sep-25 Nov.
Operation: WHEELER
Location: Tien Phuoc, Hiep Duc, Song Tranh, Song Chang, Base Area 116, Base Area 117, UDEN AO, Quang Tin Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 101st Abn Div. Task organization: 1-327 Inf, 2-327 Inf, 2-502 Inf, 1-14 Inf (11-24 Sep), 1-35 Inf (4 Oct-4 Nov), 2-320 Art, A/2-9 Art (4 Oct-4 Nov), B/2-9 Art (11-24 Sep), C/3-16 Art, B/1-9 Cav (2-4 Oct), A/2-17 Cav (17-25 Nov), A/326th Eng. Intelligence: 2nd PAVN Div (1st PLAF Rgt, 3rd and 21st PAVN Rgts). Execution: ... SEE PREVIOUS DAY FOR INFORMATION... Results were 9 enemy killed, 11 US KIA and 18 US WIA. With the 2nd PAVN Div elements avoiding contact during the period 28 Oct-4 Nov, increased emphasis was placed on attempting to locate the division. On 5 Nov, 1-35 Inf was released from operational control of the brigade and placed under opcon of the 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div conducting Operation WALLOWA in the Que Son Basin. The last phase of WHEELER (6-25 Nov) saw 2-327 Inf being air-assaulted into the western portion of BA 116 while 1-327 Inf and 2-502 Inf established blocking positions. On 11 Nov, C/2-327 Inf engaged an NVA company in the Song Chang Valley 4 km east of Hiep Duc. 14 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 5 US WIA. This marked the last significant contact of WHEELER, after that, the badly hurt 2nd PAVN Div avoided any further contact. From 23-25 Nov, brigade elements were relieved in place by elements of the 196th Inf Bde (Lt)61 and displaced to Tam Ky Airfield to move by air to the brigade main base camp at Phan Rang for a four-day stand down and preparation for future operations. Results: 1,105 enemy killed, 50 captured, 445 detained, 11 returnees, 124 US KIA, 465 US WIA.

12 Sep-10 Oct.
Operation: CORONADO V
Location: Dong Tam, Cai Lay, Cam Son Secret Zone, Ban Long Base Area, Loi Quan Island, Song My Tho, Rach Ba Rai, Rach Ben Tre, Route 20, Ding Tuong and Kien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div (MRF); 7th ARVN Div. Task organization: 2d Bde, 9th Inf Div: 3-47 Inf (12-17 Sep), 4-47 Inf (17 Sep-10 Oct), 3-60 Inf, 5-60 Inf (M), 2-60 Inf (-)(15-17 Sep), 3-34 Art, D/15th Eng, USN TF 117; 7th ARVN Div: 10th ARVN Rgt, 41st ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 263rd and 506th PLAF Bns. Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: 330 enemy killed, 235 detained, 2 returnees, 35 US KIA, 175 US WIA.

16 Sep.-29 Oct.
Operation: KUNIA
Location: Ho Bo Woods, Binh Duong Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-9 Inf, 2-14 Inf, 3-22 Inf, 4-23 Inf (M), 7-11 Art. Execution: Operation KUNIA was conducted as part of BARKING SANDS with the 1st Bde, 25th Inf Div initiating search and destroy operations in the Ho Bo Woods in preparation for the arrival of a land clearing team of thirty Rome Plows. By the end of October 9,645 acres of the Ho Bo Woods had been cleared. Results: (included in BARKING SANDS).

19 Sep. 67-31 Jan. 69
Operation: BOLLING/DAN HOA
Location: Tuy Hoa, Phu Hiep, Binh Tinh, Ma Hoa, AO BLACK, Song Ky Lo, Song Da Rang, Suoi Cai, Phu Yen and Phu Bon Provinces. Type: search and destroy, reconnaissance-in-force, pacification, rice protection. Controlling headquarters: 173d Abn Bde (19 Sep 67-8 Feb 68, 1 Apr 68-31 Jan 69); I FFORCEV (8 Feb-1 Apr 68); 22nd ARVN Div. Task organization: 1-503 Inf (19 Sep-6 Nov 67), 2-503 Inf (12 Oct-6 Nov 67), 3-503 Inf (5 Nov 67-16 Jan 68), 4-503 Inf (19 Sep-1 Nov 67, 16 Dec 67-31 Jan 69), TF 2-8 Cav (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), 3-319 Art, C/2-19 Art (17 Sep-14 Oct 67), E/17 Cav, D/16 Arm, 173d Eng Co; 47th ARVN Rgt. Intelligence: 5th PAVN Div (18B and 95th PAVN Rgts), 30th and 95th PLAF LF Bns, K65 and K76 Sapper Cos. Execution: ...SEE ABOVE... Results: 715 enemy killed, 72 US KIA, 307 US WIA (no info on ARVN casualties).

24 Sep.-9 Oct.
Operation: ARKANSAS CITY II
Location: Phuoc Tuy Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 11th ACR. Execution: (no info)

26 Sep.-21 Oct.
Operation: AKRON III
Location: Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone), Phuoc Tuy and Bien Hoa Provinces. Type: search and destroy, land clearing. Controlling headquarters: 1st Bde, 9th Inf Div. Task organization: 4-39 Inf, B/2-47 Inf (M), 3-5 Cav, 1-11 Art, 2/48 ARVN Bn, 52nd ARVN Rgr Bn. Intelligence: 274th PLAF Rgt. Execution: AKRON III was a continuation of land clearing and search and destroy operations in Base Area 303 (Hat Dich Secret Zone). Contact with the enemy was light and sporadic throughout the operation but the largest known weapons cache in the III CTZ to date was discovered, contacting over 200,000 rounds of small arms, 1,022 small arms and 125 crew served weapons. Results: (no info).

29 Sep.-11 Nov.
Operation: KENMORE
Location: Xuyen Moc, AO WARATAH, AO BANKSIA, Phuoc Tuy Province. Controlling headquarters: 1ATF. Task organization: 7RAR, A Sqn 3 Cav, 4 Fld Rgt, A/1-35 Art, A/1-83d Art. Execution: Operation took place in AOs WARATAH and BANKSIA, 6 km southeast of Xuyen Moc and bordering 24 km of coastline with infrequent contact. Results: 16 enemy killed, 1 captured, no friendly casualties.

29 Sep.-19 Nov.
Operation: SHENANDOAH II
Location: Lai Khe, Loc Ninh, Chon Thanh, Suoi Ong Thanh, Michelin Plantation, Long Nguyen Secret Zone, Route 13, LZ APPLE, FSB CAISSON II, FSB CAISSON III, FSB CAISSON IV, FSB CAISSON V, FSB CAISSON VI, FSB CAISSON VII, FSB LORRAINE II, Binh Duong and Binh Long Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Inf Div; 1st Bde, 1st Inf Div (29 Sep-19 Nov); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (30 Sep-30 Oct). Task organization: 1-2 Inf (29 Sep-18 Oct; 21-28 Oct), 2-2 Inf (M)(29 Sep-23 Oct), 1-16 Inf (29 Sep; 18-29 Oct; 8-19 Nov), 1-18 Inf (4-13 Oct; 29 Oct-19 Nov), 1-26 Inf (31 Oct-8 Nov), 1-28 Inf (29 Sep-10 Oct; 13 Oct-11 Nov), 2-28 Inf (7-18 Oct; 30 Oct-19 Nov), 2-12 Inf (2-7 Nov), 1-4 Cav (29 Sep-30 Oct), 1-5 Art (29 Sep-19 Nov), 6-15 Art (30 Oct-19 Nov), 2-33 Art (30 Sep-30 Oct). Intelligence: 9th PLAF Div (271st, 272nd, 273rd PLAF Rgts). Execution: ...SEEE ABOVE... Results: 956 enemy killed, 63 detained, 107 US KIA, 322 US WIA.

4 Oct.-11 Nov.
Operation: WALLOWA
Location: Tam Ky, Van Dong, Dong Tri, Ha Tay, Barrier Island, Que Son Basin, Truong Giang, Route 1, LZ BALDY, LZ COLT, Quang Tin and Quang Nam Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 3d Bde, 1st Cav Div. Task organization: 1-7 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-12 Cav, B/1-9 Cav, 1-1 Cav (-), A/2-17 Cav, 1-21 Art (-), C/1-77 Art, C/2-20 Art, C/8th Eng, 227th AHB (-), A/228th ASHB, C/8th Eng. Intelligence: 3rd PAVN Rgt. Execution: On 28 Sep, IFFORCEV notified the 1st Cav Div that a rapidly deteriorating situation in I CTZ required that III MAF be reinforced. On 30 Sep, an advance party moved north, followed on 1 Oct by the 2-12 Cav and the 3d Bde CP departing for Chu Lai. By that evening, 3d Bde CP, 2-12 Cav, B/1-9 Cav and C/1-77 Art were closed and the 3d Bde became opcon to the AMERICAL Div. 1-7 Cav moved the following day and by 3 Oct, 5-7 Cav and all combat support elements had closed Chu Lai. On 4 Oct, Operation WALLOWA began with the brigade setting up its command post on LZ BALDY (Hill 63), replacing the departing 5th Marines. 1-7 Cav displaced to BALDY also while 2-12 Cav occupied a former Marine outpost near the village of Que Son and 5-7 Cav established LZ COLT on Hill 23, 10 km south of BALDY. The first contact occurred on 9 Oct when B/1-9 Cav engaged an estimated enemy platoon, killing 15. On 10 Oct, elements of the 3rd PAVN Rgt probed LZ COLT before the Americans had completed even basic defense. Infiltrating enemy soldiers with US uniforms headed straight for the battalion's TOC, killing or wounding everyone inside it. 7 US were KIA and 17 WIA but only a few enemy bodies were found in the morning. On 20 Oct. 1-7 Cav made contact with an unknown size enemy force in a cluster of hamlets a few kilometers east of BALDY on the west bank of the Truong Giang, killing 44. During 22-23 Oct, 5-7 Cav engaged the 3rd Bn, 3rd PAVN Rgt near the hamlet of Van Dong on Barrier Island, killing 98 enemy soldiers. On 27 Oct, 1-7 Cav and two troops from 1-1 Cav again made contact with elements of the 3rd PAVN Rgt fortified in the village of Ha Tay along the coast 5 km north of Van Dong, killing an additional 48. Contact tapered-off after that as the 3rd PAVN Rgt retreated toward the Que Son Valley and Operation WALLOWA was combined with Operation WHEELER on 11 Nov70. Results71: 675 enemy killed, 17 captured, 46 US KIA, 480 US WIA.

7-8 Oct.
Operation: XAY DUNG NONG THON 16
Location: Dam Cau Hai, Thua Thien Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: Thua Thien Sector. Execution: operation conducted on the north shore of Cau Hai Bay by Thua Thien Sector forces supported the First Naval Zone RAG Detachment. Results: 45 enemy killed, 3 ARVN KIA, 53 ARVN WIA.

7-11 Sep. Operation: INTOSH JOYCE 15
Location: Bien Hoa Province. Execution: (no other info).

New Operations

None

Other

None

[Jason Petho]

Ongoing Operations today in 1967

26 Aug.66-20 Jan.68
Operation: BYRD
Location: Phan Thiet, LZ BETTY, Binh Thuan Province. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: I FFORCEV. Task organization: TF 2-7: 2-7 Cav, C/1-9 Cav, A/1-21 Art, C/2-20 Art (-), C/8th Eng Bn (-), C/229th Avn Bn, Det 228th Avn Bn. Execution: Planned as a short-term, economy-of-force measure, BYRD became a continuous offensive that would last into 1968. Upon I FFORCEV request, the 1st Cav Div detached at battalion-size task force to help pacify isolated Binh Thuan Province in southern II Corps. Results (at year's end): 351 enemy killed, 151 detained, 8 US KIA, 85 US WIA.

1 Oct.66-17 Jan 68
Operation: DAZZLEM
Location: Camp Radcliff, An Khe, Binh Dinh Province. Type: security. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization: Base Defense Task Force. Execution: Operation DAZZLEM was the contingency plan for the defense of Camp Radcliff provided by one infantry battalion with supporting artillery and
reinforcing personnel from residence units. On 17 Jan 68, the 173d Abn Bde relieved the 1st Cav Div from the mission of defending An Khe. Results: 80 enemy killed, 9 detained.

11 Oct.66-17 Nov.67
Operation: UNIONTOWN II
Location: Long Binh, Bien Hoa Province Type: security. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV. Execution: Operation UNIONTOWN was a security operation designed to protect the Long Binh logistical complex, RMK Rock Quarry and II FFORCEV Headquarters. Units were assigned on a rotation basis from each major command under II FFORCEV.

30 Nov. 66-15 Dec.67
Operation: FAIRFAX/RANG DONG
Location: Nha Be, Thu Duc and Binh Chanh Districts, Gia Dinh Province. Type: pacification. Controlling headquarters: II FFORCEV, CMD. Task organization: 1st Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 2-16 Inf; 4th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3-22 Inf; 25th Inf Div (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 4-9 Inf; CMD (30 Nov 66-31 Jan 67): 3rd and 5th ARVN Abn Bns, 30th Ranger Bn; 199th LIB (31 Jan-15 Dec.): 2-3 Inf, 3-7 Inf, 4-12 Inf, 2-40 Art; 5th ARVN Ranger Group (31 Jan.-15 Dec): 30th, 33rd and 38th ARVN Ranger Bns. Intelligence: Military Region 4, 165A PLAF Regiment. Execution: ... SEE ABOVE... Results (end of 1966): 149 enemy killed, 40 detained, 11 US KIA, 67 US WIA, 23 ARVN KIA, 58 ARVN WIA, 1 ARVN MIA.

8 Feb.67-31 Jan.68
Operation: LAM SON 67
Location: Phu Loi, An My, Ong Dong Jungle, Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. Type: search and destroy, cordon and search, saturation patrolling, security, jungle clearing. Controlling headquarters: 2d Bde, 1st Inf Div (8 Feb-17 Mar, 17 Apr 67-31 Jan 68); 3d Bde, 1st Inf Div (17 Mar-17 Apr). Task organization: 1st Inf Div Revolutionary Development Task Force (various infantry, cavalry and support units were assigned on a rotation basis during the period). Execution: The operation supported the GVN's Revolutionary Development Program in conjunction with ARVN units in Binh Duong, Bien Hoa and Gia Dinh Provinces. LAM SON 67 consisted of cordon and search, reconnaissance in force, harassment, jungle clearing, population control, civic action and psychological warfare operations directed against priority targets. Contact in the AO was characterized by light sporadic incidents with local VC elements. On 6 Jan 68, the Phu Loi base camp received 123 rounds of mixed mortar fire, 46 aircraft were damaged and 6 US WIA. Reacting to the attack, A/2-18 Inf and B/2-2 Inf (M) swept the area to the north of the base and contacted two enemy companies of the Phu Loi PLAF Bn. 92 enemy were killed, 4 US KIA and 14 US WIA. Operation LAM SON 67 was terminated on 31 Jan 68 with the beginning of the enemy's Tet Offensive. Results: 527 enemy killed, 263 captured, 2,327 detained, 346 defectors, 56 US KIA, 572 US WIA.

12 Feb. 67-18 Jan. 68
Operation: PERSHING
Location: Bong Son, Tuy An, Tam Quan, Hoa Tan, Sa Huynh, Truong Son, An Qui, Trung Xuan, An Lac, An Lao Valley, Kim Son Valley, Suoi Ca Valley, 506 Valley, Nuoc Dinh Valley, Phu My Valley, Song Re Valley, the Crescent, Nui Mieu, Nui Sang, Cay Giep, Dam Tra-O Lake, Route 1, LZ BRONCO BEACH, LZ CRYSTAL, LZ ENGLISH, LZ GARNET, LZ GERONIMO, LZ GLENN, LZ HAMMOND, LZ IRON, LZ MEADE, LZ PAT, LZ SANDRA, LZ STEEL, LZ TOM, LZ TWO BITS, LZ UPLIFT, Binh Dinh and Quang Ngai Provinces. Type: search and destroy. Controlling headquarters: 1st Cav Div. Task organization (As of 12 Feb): 1 s t Bde: 1-8 Cav, 1-12 Cav, 5-7 Cav, 2-19 Art (-), D/2-17 Art, C/1-21 Art, A/3-18 Art; 2d Bde: 2-5 Cav, 1-5 Cav (-), 1-7 Cav (-), 2-12 Cav, 1-77 Art (-), B/1-8 Art, A/1-21 Art, C/1-30 Art, B/8th Eng; 3d Bde: 2-8 Cav, C/1-5 Cav, 1-21 Ar