Headquarters 1 st Battalion 7 th Marines FMP Marine #13 1 st Marine Division (Rein) c/o FBO San Francisco, California January 1966

Transcription

1 Headquarters 1 st Battalion 7 th Marines FMP Marine #13 1 st Marine Division (Rein) c/o FBO San Francisco, California January 1966 From: Commanding Officer To: Commanding Officer, 7 th Marines Subject: 1 st Battalion 7 th Marines Command Chronology, January Designation. 1 st Battalion (Reni), 7 th Marines 2. Period Covered: H thru H January Commanding Officers, Executive and Special Staff Officers a) 1 st Battalion, 7 th Marines LtCol James P. Kelly b) H&S Company Capt J.D. Murray (1 Jan to 22 Jan) 1stLt G.A. Bartlett (23 Jan to 31 Jan) c) Company A Capt G. Marino d) Company B Capt P.J. Fehlen (1Jan to 11 Jan) Capt W.J. Cullen (12 Jan to 21 Jan) Capt R.C. Prewitt (22 Jan to 31 Jan) e) Company C 1stLt F. Goodwyn f) Company D Capt J.B. Airola (1 Jan to 22 Jan) 1stlt D.M. Jordan (23 Jan to 31 Jan) g) S-1 CWO P.F. Coleman h) S-2 Capt D.D. Brooks i) S-3 Capt R.D. King j) S-4 Capt W.J. Cullen (1 Jan to 11 Jan) Capt P.J. Fehlen (12 Jan to 31 Jan) 1

2 1. Average Monthly Strength USMC USN Officers Enlisted Officers Enlisted Maps Used Vict. Nam, 1: 50,000, Series L701, Sheets 6756 I, 6756 IV & 6757 II 3. Personnel In accordance with 3rdMarDiv Bul dtd. 12 November 1965, 1 st Battalion, 7 th Marines transferred 3 officers and 154 enlisted men of B Company and 36 enlisted men from H&S Company on 21 Jan 1966 to the 1 st Battalion, 3 rd Marines. On January the 1 st Battalion, 7 th Marines joined 3 officers and 154 enlisted men from A Company and 36 enlisted men from H&S Company, 1 st Battalion, 3 rd Marines. 4. Intelligence Significant intelligence was obtained by the Battalion s patrols. See Tab (11) for the daily intelligence information obtained and processed from the 401 patrols conducted by the Battalion. 5. Weather for the Reporting Period Maximum temperature: 88 Minimum temperature: 65 Mean temperature: 74 Average humidity: 80% Total rainfall: 4.34 Total days of rain: 14 Cloud cover: less than 3,000 ft. 19.2% of the month a) Surface wind Prevailing direction: North Prevailing speed: 9 knots Mean speed: 5 knots Maximum speed: 36 knots 2

3 6. Terrain 1) Relief: of the area is predominately characterized by flat/dry crop type of terrain interspersed with numerous brush covered wood knolls. The latter are the primary location for small, scattered buildup area. 2) Drainage: of the Song Tra Bong and its tributaries is in a northerly direction. 3) Vegetation: throughout the area is dry crop agriculture, canfields, and rice paddies. Brushwood is found on dispersed knolls, and hills. Rain forest type vegetation is lacking. Rainfall over the past two to three months has increased the growth and vegetation. 4) Surface materials: The area contains three basic types of surface materials. Sand extends along the bank of the Song Tra Bong River and beach area running from the South China Sea, a distance of from 2-4 miles. Marsh alluvial soil is found on the low ground throughout the area. Loose soil over laterite constitutes the remainder of the surface area. 7. Training a) The Battalion did not conduct or publish a formal training schedule. The Company Commanders determine the type of training deemed necessary primarily through combat observations and critiques. The time available for training was limited by the aggressive patrolling and the operational commitment of the Battalion. b) In addition to the on the Job training, the companies conducted classes in the following subjects. Scouting and Patrolling 708 Moral Guidance 1080 Leadership 2400 Civil Affairs 1500 Equipment and Personnel Inspection 240 M Prevention of Veneral Disease mm Mortars 1711 M-60 MG Range Card 54 Functioning of 106RR 32 Map and Compass 1960 M-60 Machine Gun 54 M-72 (Law) 140 3

4 c) Each company utilized firing range within their zones of action. Firing exercises were conducted with M-14, 3.5 RL, M-79, M-72, and.45 caliber pistol. The firing exercises stressed the importance of good marksmanship and familiarity with each weapon by the individual Marine. d) The 81mm Mortar Platoon conducted a total of 1030 man hours of gun drill, inspections, and FO procedures. On 4 January, the Mortar Platoon held a school for the Battalion s Patrol leaders to familiarize them with the correct procedures for calling and adjusting mortar fire. From 8 January to 15 January the Mortar Platoon held school on the 60mm mortar for personnel from the rifle companies. 8. Special Operations a) The Battalion conducted one Company size operation, Operation Deep Freeze. The Battalion conducted 401 patrols that varied in size from fire team to platoon (rein). Ambush, reconnaissance, security, search and destroy, clearing, and civic action type patrols were conducted by the Battalion. See (11) for patrol routs and reports. 9. Operation Taciturn (1) Operation Taciturn is a continuing company (rein) size operation on the NAM TRUNG (TRUNG PHAN) Peninsula. The company maintained a company size combat base at BS , and conducted patrols out of this base. (2) During the month, the company had (22) contacts with the VC. Six of these contacts took the form of probes on the combat base. The remaining contacts were the result of vigorous patrolling. These contacts resulted in (10) VC killed, (15) wounded, and (17) VC/VCS captured along with one M-1 rifle and assorted documents. The company sustained (1) KIA and (6) wounded during the month. (3) For additional information on Operation Taciturn, see Tab (12). Throughout the month there were (18) contacts with the VC within the Battalions TAR west of the Song Tra Bong. (12) of these contacts took the form of probes on the MLR. The remaining contacts resulted from vigorous patrolling by the Battalion. The results of these contacts were (2) VC wounded and (14) VC/VCS captured. The Marines sustained (1) WIA during the period. The following is a chronological listing of the Battalions contacts with the VC which resulted in casualties or captives on either side. 4 1) At H Marines from D Company observed unusual activity forward of their positions. A squad was dispatched and they found several civilians pulling on the wire to the company s SID s. As the Marines approached, the civilians began running away

5 from the patrol. Warning shots were fired in an attempt to halt the civilians. When they refused to stop, the Marines fired, wounding (2) of them. At this time the remainder of the fleeing civilians surrendered. There were (13) in all captured. 2) At H a platoon from D Company apprehended a VCS hiding behind a rock at BS The VCS was wearing a khaki uniform and had in his possession an altered I.D. card. 10. Nuclear, Biological, Chemical and Special Warfare a) The battalion has not used or encountered any nuclear or biological warfare agents. b) Chemical. The Battalion has made extensive use of colored smoke and white phosphorus grenades. These grenades have primarily been used to mark helicopter landing sites. A second use has been to signal for a particular type of action on the company level. c) The battalion now has four engine-powered portables Mighty Mite forced air blowers that are to be used for forcing smoke into VC tunnels and caves. 11. Command and Control a) See tab (3) for the command and control procedure utilized for Operation Deep Freeze. b) Command and control was normal with no significant events occurring within the month except as noted above. 12. Communications and Electronics a) During the period from 21 to 28 January, the battalion displaced forward approximately 4,000 meters. Given plenty of time for planning and execution, the move was made with a minimum of confusion. Communication by land line remained the primary means throughout the displacement. Lines were in place from an advance switching central, in the new CP, to the company positions one day prior to their arrival. Lines were laid and maintained between the old and new CP s. An echeloned displacement of Headquarters units was made with a corresponding shift of communication, culminating on 28 January with the Commanding Officer and all Staff sections moving forward. All internal wiring in the new CP had previously been completed and operational and command continued without a lapse. b) Metal bomb racks, bolted together to form 15 poles, were used exclusively for all communications and electrical wiring in the new CP with excellent functional and aesthetic results. 5

6 c) Of special note is a wire line presently in use to the company combat base across the Song Tra Bong. The wire laid under ½ mile of the river. This line was placed from a boat with metal stakes used at intervals for weights. d) Some difficulty was experienced initially with the local villagers mutilating sections of communications wire; however, recruiting and complete over heading of all lines seems to have eliminated this problem. e) Resupply of communications-electronics items continue to improve. f) There are no critical personnel shortages and none are imminent through EAS or RTD g) The battalion received six AN/PRC-25 s for permanent retention. They are being used extensively for long rang patrolling with outstanding results. 13. Close Combat a) Operation Taciturn. See Tab (5). b) See Tab (12) 14. Firing Support and Fire Support Coordination a) Battery G 3 rd Battalion, 11 th Marines remained in direct support of 1 st Battalion, 7 th Marines. The Battery provided on-call illumination and HE missions in addition to H&I fire employed within the TAOR. b) On 11 January, the Battalion Liaison Officer conducted a school on FO procedures for the Patrol Leaders of the Battalion. The patrol Leaders were taught the correct procedures for calling and adjusting artillery fire utilizing the Battalion Tactical Radio Net. c) During the latter part of the month Battery G displaced forward with the 1 st Battalion, 7 th Marines. New defensive concentrations and registration points were established and progress was made on firing them in. d) The 81mm Mortar Platoon continued their support by providing on-call illumination and HE missions. One section continued to support the company combat base across the Song Tra Bong River, operating within the combat base. e) After the displacement of the Battalion forward, one section of 81mm Mortars remained with the CP, one section went to B Company and one section to D Company. The four sections are now utilized for mutual support of the strong point MLR. f) 60mm mortars have been issued to the rifle companies. After a short period of instruction for the crews, the guns became operational. 15. Logistics 6 a) During the month, the Battalion displaced forward creating the necessity for a new road, water point, ammo bunkers, etc.

7 b) The nature of the terrain in the Battalion s area severely restricts the use of wheeled vehicles. Consequently, a large portion of the transportation support for the Battalion has come from A Company, 1 st Battalion. Engineers are at work on the problem and road surfacing of vital areas is programed for the near future enabling wheeled transport a wider sphere of operation. c) Support of routine activities of the line companies, including the C Company combat base, remained normal. Class I support was adequate with two hot meals and one MCI being furnished to the rifle companies each day. Class II support improved during the month; however, the resupply of motor transportation repair parts continues to be a problem. Class III support was adequate. Class IV support improved with the partial fulfillment of barbwire, concertina, and metal stake requirements. Sandbags remain in critical demand creating a serious shortage in the field fortifications. Class V support was adequate except for the unavailability of Target Practice 60mm cartridges which prevented mortar men from training with their weapon. Because of the unfamiliarity with 60mm mortar firing among line units, the prohibitions on training are particularly serious. 16. Air Defense a) Due to the displacement of the Battalion forward, new bunkers are being constructed throughout the Battalion area. b) A new vehicle dispersion plan is being drafted at this time. c) The Battalions anti-aircraft defense is entirely passive with the 2 nd LAAM Battalion providing active defense for the Battalion area. 17. Close Air Support a) During the month, the Battalion required (34) missions in support of daily operations. Of these, (10) missions were in support of logistic requirements for the combat base across the Song Tra Bong River. Six missions were troop lifts; (8) missions were Med-Evac; and (10) missions were miscellaneous in nature, e.g., civil affairs, reconnaissance. b) The Battalion continued to utilize AO s at every opportunity. The company operating on the Nam Tram Peninsula made excellent use of the AO s operating in their area. (See Tab (5) c) There was no CAS request. d) There were no problems encountered with Air Support during the month. 18. Medical a) The general health status of the Battalion continues to be excellent. 7

8 b) No significant communicable disease problems were encountered during the month. c) The incidence of superficial skin problems, especially tropical ulcers, continue to be high. These respond slowly to prolonged treatment. d) The displacement of the BAS was accomplished without difficulty. 19. Chaplain a) The Chaplain offered Mass (45) times with an attendance of 1,360 persons. In addition, the Chaplain heard confession, anointed the sick, and gave instruction and counselling as required. b) The Chaplain assisted in (15) Red Cross. c) The Chaplain offered Mass at the combat across the Son Tra Bong River as well as the forward companies of 2 nd Battalion, 7 th Marines and 3 rd Battalion, 7 th Marines. d) The Chaplain procured ten cartons of soap which was utilized by the Battalion s Civil Affairs Team. e) Seventy-five dollars from the Chapel Fund were used to purchase blankets for orphan children in Binh Son. f) The regimental Chaplain (Protestant) conducted weekly services in the Battalion area. 20. Civil Affairs a) During the month, the Civil Action effort of the Battalion increased substantially. The Med-Cap team operated in six different Hamlets making (32) visits. A Company pacified the Hai Ninh and Vinh AN area and established local governments therein. Daily medical aid was administered to the newly pacified areas. C Company began providing regular medical aid to the large Tan Hy complex near their combat base. The combined efforts of the Battalion brought the medical treatment to 8,212 Vietnamese, more than doubling last month s figure. b) The Battalion supports (40) orphans at the Catholic Refugee Center in Binh Son, providing funds for their food and shelter. Blankets have also been purchased for the children. Support for a similar number of orphans at the Buddhist Refugee Center will commence in February. c) In conjunction with medical civil action, the Battalion continues to provide emergency treatment for civilians at the BAS and to see that serious patients are hospitalized. Several Vietnamese have been referred to the USOM hospitals at Quang Ngai and Danang for surgery and other treatment. d) The Battalion continues to offer aid in the form of food and clothing to the poorer families in the TAOR. 8

9 e) Seven Vietnamese are training with the Battalion s Corpsman to become Hamlet Health Workers. f) 21 January marked the Vietnamese New Year, TET. Some Marines of the Battalion participated in the celebration and were impressed by the sincere appreciation of our presence manifested by the Vietnamese. The Vietnamese in the Battalion s TAOR were under VC control last TET. 21. Operational Summary for January 1966 Strengths: 1 January to 15 January 1966 Losses USMC USN Off Enl Off Enl Battalion Non-Battalion Administration Replacements. None 23. Discipline, Law and Order. (2) special courts, (4) Office Hours have occurred, General Court pending, (4) Special Courts Pending, and 0 Summary Court pending. 24. Prisoners of War 1 January to 15 January Event VC VCS Captured 1 23 Evacuated 1 23 On Hand Graves Registration. None 9

10 26. Morale and Personnel Services. a) State of Morale. Good, this organization received a shipment of Special Services equipment during this reporting period. b) Awards Made. 1 Bronze Star was awarded by the Commandant of the Marine Corps. 27. Civil Affairs. See my Civil Affairs SITREP 28. Personnel Procedures 1) The organization is still lacking records of the following personnel: LCpl J.G. Bethea SRB Sgt. J. Mourski, SRB Pay Record PFC W. Ryan, SRB LCpl L.M. Woods, SRB PFC T.C. Mitchell, SRB Orders This organization has previously submitted a request for above subject Recorders on 8 January Interior Management. Normal 30. Civilian Employees. None Unit Commander: By the command of LtCol. James P Kelly 1 st Battalion, 7 th Marines LtCol James P. Kelly H&S Company J.D. Murray Company A Capt G. Marino Company B Capt W.J. Cullen Company C 1stLt F. Goodwyn Company D Capt J.B. Airola 10

11 Strengths: 1 January to 15 January 1966 Losses USMC USN Off Enl Off Enl Battalion Non-Battalion Administration Replacements. 11 USMC Enlisted 32. Discipline, Law and Order. Two Special Courts, 0 Officers hours, have occurred. Four Special Courts and (1) Summary Courts pending 33. Prisoners of War. 16 January to 31 January 1966 Event VC VCS Captured 5 24 Evacuated 5 24 On Hand Graves Registration. One USMC KIA evacuated to B Med. 35. Morale and Personnel Services. a) State of Morale. Good, since this organization has moved to an excellent location the morale of the Battalion personnel has greatly improved. This organization has also received a shipment of beverages. b) Awards. None 36. Civil Affairs. See my Civil Affairs SITREP 37. Personnel Procedures. Transferred B Company this Battalion with attachments from H&S Company to 1 st Battalion, 3 rd Marines on 21 January Joined A Company, 1 st Battalion, 3 rd Marines with attachments. The organization is still lacking records of the following personnel: 11

12 LCpl J.G. Bethea SRB LCpl T. Fussell PFC W. Ryan, SRB LCpl L.M. Woods, SRB PFC T.C. Mitchell, SRB Orders LCpl D.G. Wilson, PFC T.A. Soderquist, Pvt A.S. Lapointe, Interior Management. This organization has moved to a new location. All Strongbacks have been repaired and re-erected. 39. Civilian Employees. None 40. Unit Commander: By the command of LtCol. James P Kelly 1 st Battalion, 7 th Marines LtCol James P. Kelly H&S Company Company A Company B Company C Company D 1 st Lt G.A. Barlett Capt G. Marino Capt. R.C. Prewitt 1stLt F. Goodwyn 1 st Lt D.M. Jordan 41. Maps: Vietnam, 1: 50,000, Son TRA 6757 II, Series L Enemy Forces. The strength and identities of the Viet Cong forces on both sides of the Song TRA Bong have been previously identified. The force is considered to be one Guerrilla Company consisting of 4 squads, one at Ten Hy, one operating between Ny Hue and Vinh AN, and one squad operating in the vicinity of Tuyst Diem. The fourth squad operates in the general vicinity of Phon Peninsula as a reinforcement and backup force whenever needed. Previous intelligence and VC contact on Bon Son Island in the past four months have indicated that the VC use Hon Son as a refuge and staging area. The possibility that the Island contains one or more caves is undeniable as on several occasions VC have been pursued to Hon Son and virtually disappeared indicating an underground hiding area. 43. Operation order ) Maps Vietnam 1:50,000 AMS Series L701, Sheet 6757 II & III, 6756 I & IV 12

13 2) Situation Enemy Forces a) VC forces in Chu Lai area are capable of attacking 1 st Bn, 7 th Marines positions in strengths varying from individual in filtration to seven Battalions. Each effort could be supported with recoilless rifles, 60mm and 81mm mortars, and 105mm howitzers. b) 3dr Bn (Rein), 7 th Marines on the right (west flank c) A Company, 3 rd AmTrac Bn, supported by one section of tanks, provides beach surveillance and defense in 1 st Bn, 7 th Marines TAOR from BT to BT ) Artillery a) 1 st Plt, B Company, 1 st TkBn Direct support 1 st Bn, 7 th Marines. One Sect (3 Tks) direct support for B Company One Sect (2Tks) direct support for C Company b) 1 st Plt, C Company, 1 st AT BN Direct support 1 st Bn, 7 th Marines. One sect (2 ontos) direct support B Company One sect )3 ontos) direct support for D Company. c) Plt (Rotated), A Company, 3dr AmTracBn Direct support, 1 st Bn, 7 th Marines Two LVT s in direct support of BN Reserves. These LVT s will be physically located with B Company during all hours of darkness. d) 1 st Plt, C Company, 1 st Engr Bn in direst support for 1 st Bn, 7 th Marines 4) Mission 1 st Bn (Rein), 7 th Marines occupies and defends portion of 7 th Marines MLR; maintains traffic control point on National Route 1; conducts offensive operations within assigned TAOR: maintains a reinforced rifle company on the Nam TRAM (Trung Phan) Peninsula; provides alert forces as directed; and prepares to conduct offensive operations anywhere outside the Bn TAOR on orders. 13

14 5) Execution Concept of Operations. 1 st BN (rein), 7 th Marines defends MLR with three companies occupying a series of strong points. At night, the areas between strong points are covered by listening post and patrols capable of destroying enemy attacking or infiltrating forces or of directing supporting forces against them. The fourth company occupies a combat/patrol base on the Nam Tram Peninsula. All companies conduct aggressive combat and security patrols throughout assigned zones. All companies conduct an active civil affairs program in their assigned zones. 1) A Company (Rein) Occupy and defend strong points in zone as shown in Annex B (Defense Overlay). Maintain contact with B Company at BT Conduct active civil affairs program in and provide security for Hai Ninh (1) and Ninh AN (1) and (2). 2) B Company (Rein) Occupy and defend strong points in zone as shown in Annex B (Defense Overlay). Maintain contact with A Company at BT-61004, and D Company at BS Conduct active civil affairs program in Vinh AN (4) and (5), MY Hue (1), (2) and (3) and Binh Yen Noi (2). Assist PF in providing security for Trung AN (1) and (2). Conduct a training program for PF in zone. 3) C Company (Rein) Occupy and defend combat/patrol base as shown in Annex B (Defense Overlay) Screen all river boat traffic passing island OP located at BS Conduct active civil affairs program in Tan Hy (1). 4) D Company (Rein) Occupy and defend strong points in zone as shown in Annex B (defense Overlay). Maintain contact with B Company at BS and with 3 rd Bn 7 th Marines at BS Maintain road check point on national Route 1 at BS Conduct active civil affairs program in and provide security for Dong Binh (1), Binh An Noi (1), Binh Yen Noi (1), (3) and (4), and Nuoc Man (BS ). Maintain MP patrol during daylight hours in Nucc Man. 14

15 5) 81mm Mortars Plt (-) General Support. Annex C (Fire Support) 6) Battalion Reserve: Plt B Company During daylight hours, be prepared on one half hour notice to move by LVT, truck, on foot, or by helicopter to any place in the Enclave for the purpose of reinforcing, rescue or exploitation operations. During hours of darkness, be prepared on 10 minutes notice to move by LVT or foot to any place in the Bn TAOR for the purpose of reinforcing another unit or occupying a blocking position so as to limit a perpetration by enemy forces. 6. Coordination Instructions. 15 a) B Company and C Company will periodically exchange missions on orders. b) All companies will conduct aggressive day and night combat and security patrols throughout assigned zones. 75% of all patrol activity, including listening post, will be conducted at night. c) Day and night patrols, OP s and LP s will be maintained in such a manner as to provide surveillance over the entire MLR, as shown in Annex B (Defense Overlay). Attacking or infiltrating enemy forces will be destroyed or repelled by infantry or by the supporting fires of mortars, tanks, recoilless rifles, and/or artillery. d) All unit positions will have all-around security. e) All units will maintain operational and logistical posture such as will permit rapid, short notice deployment into offensive operations outside the Bn TAOR. Specific alert notices will be published by this Hq when appropriate. f) Warring shots will not be employed on contact with VC or VCS. Loud verbal command to halt in the native language will be sufficient warning. Exception: warning shots may be employed for daytime warning of waterborne traffic. g) Rules of engagement: Reference (c). h) Destruction of Vietnamese dwellings or livestock as a means of denying their use to the enemy will be left to RVN forces. Requests for RVN author authorities for employment of Marines to perform such destruction will be referred to this Hq. i) All fighting positions will be of the one or two-man type. Above-ground bunker type fighting positions, and fighting positions containing more than two men will be avoided. Exceptions to be approved by this Hq. j) Vehicle traffic outside of established perimeters at night is limited to emergency runs approved by this Hq. Security troops must be provided for such movement. k) Personnel travelling between established perimeters will travel armed and in pairs.

16 l) Positive wire or radio communications will always be maintained with all small units operating away from company Hq. Such communications will always be backed up by pyrotechnic signals to signify distress. Whenever radio or wire communication are lost, positive measured will be taken by the company concerned to restore communications without delay. Loss of communications with small isolated units will be reported immediately to this Hq. m) Standard coordination instructions set forth in reference apply in the conduct of combat patrols and offensive operations in the TAOR. 7. Reports. Reference (d) a) Counterintelligence. All personnel will be continually made aware of their responsibility to prevent an opportunity for the VC to gain information, conduct sabotage, employ booby traps against us, or compromise our mission. a) Classified material, code words, information about operations, etc., must not be treated in a casual manner. b) Vendors will not be allowed to operate near or around working areas. Trespassers are to be apprehended and reported to the S-2. c) Working areas within and outside each perimeter are to be checked daily for booby traps. d) Photographing of friendly positions, equipment, and captives is prohibited. e) Safeguard supply areas, water points and operations center. f) All working areas must be capable of blacking out tents during the hours of darkness. Black out, if put into effect, will also apply to individual living areas. g) Control measures will be established to dispose of old batteries, communications wire, plastic bags, ammo boxes and other items that can be used by the VC as weapons against us. h) Camouflage of listening post, communication devices and individual positions is a must. It is the responsibility of all personnel to employ active and passive camouflage measures at all times. i) Telephone wires are vulnerable to wiretapping. The use of code words and cyphering of conversations is to be utilized. j) The VC use U.S. dollars to supplement their economy and to procure supplies. Marines are prohibited from dealing with Vietnamese in any currency other than the piaster. k) The VC are known to use women to entice Marines into traps. They have also used Negroid and Caucasian males dressed as Marines to infiltrate friendly positions. It is mandatory that all personnel be alert for such deceptive action. (The password is an effective counter-measure). 16

17 8. Confidential a) Complacency and set patterns are to be avoided as the VC are observing for each tendency in order to take advantage of them. b) Under no circumstances will indigenous personnel be allowed to enter the CP area without escort. c) If an attempt is made by a Vietnamese to sell/buy narcotics, weapons, ordnance or items of contraband, the person will be detained and reported to the S-2. d) Indigenous personnel working within the CP will be controlled by means of an approved list and a visually displayed pass issued by the S-2. e) Personnel should be alert to apparent ARVN or PF units moving into perimeters, insuring that they are not VC infiltrators. Authorized entry of ARVN or PF s will be restricted to leaders and official as cleared by the S-2 or Company Commander concerned. 9. Command and Communications-Electronics a) Command Post Hq, 1 st Bn, 7 th Marines BT A Company BT B Company BT C Company BT D Company BT Hq, 81mm Mortar Plt BT Btry G, 3 rd Bn. 11 th Marines BT b) Wire communications will continue to be the means. Personnel are cautioned that the wire lines cannot be considered secure due to their extreme length and close proximity to many villages. The telephone should be used with the same concern for transmission of classified matters as the radio. Critical coordinates, time, names, etc., should always be shackled or encrypted, using 7 th Marines SOI and current 1 st Bn code words. c) The Battalion Tac Net remains in operation 24 hours a day. In the event of land line failure, companies enter this net immediately. 17

18 10. Visual Signals a) Radio equipment will be protected from the effects of weather by waterproofing as necessary. 11. Task Organization 1 st Bn (Rein), 7 th Marines LCol. Kelly H&S Company Det, Btry G, 3 rd Bn, 11 th Marines (Arty Liaison Tm) Det, ARVN (Interpreter(s) and Liaison) A Company (Rein) A Company Det, H&S Company Det, Med Plt Det Mess Sect Det, Comm Plt 1 st Sect, 106mm RR Plt FO Tm, 1 st Sect, 81mm Mortar Plt FO Tm, Btry G, 3dr Bn 11 th Marines Det, ARVN (Interpreter) Capt Marino B Company (Rein) B Company A Company Det, H&S Company Det, Med Plt Det Mess Sect Det, Comm Plt 3rd Sect, 106mm RR Plt 3 rd Sect, 81mm Mortar Plt FO Tm, Btry G, 3dr Bn 11 th Marines Det, ARVN (Interpreter) Capt Pruitt 18

19 C Company (Rein) C Company Det, H&S Company Det, Med Plt Det Mess Sect Det, S-2 Sect 3rd Sect, 106mm RR Plt 3rd Sect, 81mm Mortar Plt FO Tm, Btry G, 3dr Bn 11 th Marines Sect, B Company 1 st Tk Bn Sqd, C Company, 1 st Engr Bn Det, ARVN (Interpreter) Lt Goodwyn D Company (Rein) D Company Det, Med Plt Det Mess Sect Det, Comm Plt 4st Sect, 106mm RR Plt 4rd Sect, 81mm Mortar Plt FO Tm, Btry G, 3dr Bn 11 th Marines Det, ARVN (Interpreter) Lt Jordan 81mm Mortar Plt (-) (Plt Hq and One Sect) Lt Lathen Battalion Reserve Plt (Rein), B Company Plt, B Company ATA Sqd, B Company MG Sqd, B Company Det, Med Plt, H&S Company 12. Maps a) Vietnam, 1: 50,000, Series L701, Sheets 6757 II & III, 6756 I & IV 19

20 13. Mission Provide fire support for defense of defensive positions and MLR in 1 st Bn, 7 th Marines sector of responsibility. 14. Execution a) 81mm Mortar Plt (-) General Support Occupy primary firing positions BT (Remaining sections are attached to B, C, and D Company respectively. b) Btry G, 3 rd Bn, 11 th Marines Direct support for 1 st Bn, 7 th Marines Provides one team to each company and one Liaison team to Bn Hq. Provides one barrage to 1 st Bn 7 th marines. c) 3 rd Bn, 11 th Marines General support 7 th Marines Provides supporting and reinforcing fire as required. d) 3 rd 155 Gun Btry General Support, Chu Lai Enclave e) 1 st Plt, 1 st 8 Howitzer Btry General Support, Chu Lai Enclave f) Coordinating Instructions. 81mm Mortar Platoon (including attached sections) and Btry G will provide preplanned concentrations for on call fires. Concentration numbers and coordinated will be coordinated, determined, and plotted by the 1 st Bn, 7 th Marines FSCC under supervision of the S-3. Concentration numbers and coordinates will be current and will be disseminated by the 1 st Bn, 7 th Marines FSCC to the 81mm Mortar Platoon (including attached sections), 3 rd BN 11 th Marines FDC, Artillery FO s, and 7 th Marines FSCC. Artillery and 81mm Mortar firing units check fire at the firing points when friendly aircraft are observed approaching danger areas. Artillery and 81mm Mortar forward observers will check fire when it appears that the trajectories of rounds will endanger friendly aircraft. 20

21 From: Commanding Officer To: Commanding Officer, 7 th Marines Subject: Special Report of patrol Employing Helicopterborne Reaction Force 1. As was suggested by the Regimental Commander during the Commanders meeting on 21 January, 1 st Battalion, 7 th Marines arranged for a helicopterborne reaction force to be employed in conjunction with a patrol for the purpose of exploiting any contacts with VC during the patrol. The mission was carried out with favorable results on 24 January. 2. At H, a reinforced squad from C Company was transported by two H-34 helicopters from the C Company Combat Base, at BT , to a landing zone at BT A gunship escort as well as a AO were provided for the landing. After the landing, the H-34 helicopters returned to the Combat base to park and wait for possible employment with a reinforced squad-size reaction force. The AO and gunship remained on station in the objective area as the patrol moved northward along the ridgeline towards Don Le (5), at BT At H, the AO spotted 10 to 12 VCS dressed in black Pj s moving north along a trail at cords BT The Company Commander of C Company decided to deploy the reaction force to stop, seize, and search this group of VCS. The reaction squad was airborne at 0825H, and by 0830H had the target in sight. The VCS were observed to be carrying packages, and one of the VCS appeared to be trying to hide his package. All ran from the helicopters as they approached. 4. The helicopter landed at cords BT , 50 meters from the fleeing VCS, who were loudly commanded to halt several times in Vietnamese. A number of warning shots were fired, and the gunship fired in front of the VCS to turn them back, but they continued to flee. The squad then pursued and fired for effect. In the ensuing action, three of the fugitives were killed, one captured uninjured, and three captured wounded. All were determined later by ITT to be confirmed VC. The H-34 helicopters were called in to retract the squad and the captives: this was completed by 1000H. 5. The squad patrol moving north along the ridgeline in grid square PT 6600 was aware of the reaction force being deployed, and moved into a blocking force position southeast of the reaction force, the patrol continued on its mission, searched Dong Le (5) without contact, and was retracted by the same helicopters at BT This mission could be described as an air-ground team in miniature. As such, it was a clear success. Moreover, it showed excellent potential for further development and use in a C Company zone east of the Song Tra Bong River. At all times, the troops, 21

22 22 transport helicopters, gunship, and AO were closely coordinated in a team effort. Because the reaction force helicopters parked in the C Company Combat Base, the reaction force was able to take off a mere 15 minutes after the target was sighted. Even after the reaction force was landed, close teamwork continued as the gunship acted in effect as a blocking force and helped locate several fleeing VC that were not visible to the Marines on the ground. In one case, the AO spotted a wounded VC, dropped a green smoke grenade on his position, thereby leading the Marines to the spot and resulting in his capture. 7. It is highly recommended that helicopters continue to be made available for employment as described above.

23 1. ISUM # H December 1965 through H January Summary of Enemy Activity Ground a) At H, D Company delivered to this CP, two VCS apprehended, at H at cords BS Because Binh Son intelligence agents with the patrol identified them as being VC. Forwarded to ITT at H. Personnel and Equipment 4 VCS to ITT 23

24 1. ISUM # H through H 01 January Summary of Enemy Activity Ground a) At H, D Company patrol reported at cords BS , apprehended one VCS in a house with (1) crossbow, (3) steel roads, (1) cartridge belt, (1) pair of boots and 39rds. of carbine ammo and a magazine. Equipment and VCS will be forwarded on first transportation. b) At h, D Company patrol, at cords BS , apprehending (1) VCS with a green wool uniform. The VCS upon observing the patrol tried to hide. Will be forwarded with uniform on first available transportation. c) At H, D Company patrol reported at cords BS , observed (2) men, one had a weapon. Patrol fired warning shots and the two ran. One of the two was found and apprehended. Will be forwarded on first transportation. d) At H, D Company patrol at cords BS , discovered (2) tunnels and approximately (3) pounds of medical supplies in the vicinity of the tunnels. A search of the tunnels disclosed a negative find. Did not destroy tunnels because they appeared to have been family shelters. e) At H, D Company s terrier reported at cords BS , received 40rds of SA carbine fire and approximately 10rds of 30cal fire from an unknown number of VC at cords BS , BS , and BS The patrol returned 300rds of 7.62, 4rds of 106 and threw 10 grenades. Search of the area had negative results. f) At H. D Company terrier OP reported observing a man approaching their lines at cords BS Lines challenged and threw a grenade. Fired 1rds of illumination observed the man running away. No further observations. Personnel and Equipment 1 VC KIA 2 VC WIA 24

25 1. ISUM # H through H 04 January Summary of Enemy Activity Ground a) At H, D Company at cords BS reported at H that (13) VCS were pulling up wire leading to the SID JUGS. A squad was sent to apprehend the VCS. Upon observing the patrol, they started to run. The patrol challenged but they continued to run. The patrol opened fire wounding two. The patrol then apprehended the thirteen. They were forwarded to ITT at H. 25

26 1. ISUM # H through H 05 January Summary of Enemy Activity Ground a) At H, D Company reported at cords BT , one of their SID s picked up a movement at cords BT Illumination was fired, observed two to three persons. Left flank of company lines fired 10rds of M-14 s and a combination of 10rds of M-79 and LAW rounds. A check of the area at H was made with nothing other than a foot print were found. Personnel and Equipment 1 VC KIA 1 VCS KIA 26

27 1. ISUM # H through H 06 January Summary of Enemy Activity Ground a) At H, D Company reported at H at cords BT , SID s picked up two to three VCS at cords BT The VCS were dressed in black and moving towards the lines. Illumination was fired. Upon observing the VCS, the lines fired 10rds of M-79 and 30rds of M-14 at them with unknown results. A check of the area at H was conducted with negative results. Personnel and Equipment 27

28 1. ISUM # H through H 08 January Summary of Enemy Activity Ground a) At H, D Company reported at cords BT observing a muzzle flash on the right and left flanks of their lines. At the same time received 150rds of SA fire from an unknown number of VC at cords BT Returned 40rds of M-14 and 1rds of M-79 and 30rds of.50cal. with unknown results. The SID s picked up movement prior to receiving fire. A search of the area was conducted at H with negative results. Personnel and Equipment 28

29 1. ISUM # H through H 09 January Summary of Enemy Activity Ground a) At H, D Company delivered to this CP three VCS apprehended at cords BT for transportation to ITT at H. Personnel and Equipment 29

30 1. ISUM # H through H 10 January Summary of Enemy Activity Ground a) At H, D Company reported at cords BS a trip wire at the base of OP#10 was activated revealing one VCS running south at cords BS The OP fired 4rds of M-14 at the VCS with negative results. Personnel and Equipment 30

31 1. ISUM # H through H 13 January Summary of Enemy Activity Ground a) At H, D: Company reported at H, at cords BT , hearing moaning approximately 300 meters to their front at cords BT Illumination was fired, when illumination was burned the lines received approximately 50rds of carbine fire and 15rds of.30 cal. Returned 75rds of 7.62 with unknown results. b) At H, D Company OP reported at H at cords BS , observing 2 VCS approximately ten feet in front of the concertina wire at cords BS OP fired 25rds of 7.62 and 2rds of M-79. Results of action taken unknown. A search of the area was conducted at H with negative results. Personnel and Equipment 31

32 1. ISUM # H through H 14 January Summary of Enemy Activity Ground a) At H, D Company apprehended one Vietnamese civilian at cords BT On orders of General Platte, for having MPC in his possession. Will forward to ITT on first available transportation. 32

33 Patrol Report Designation of Patrol: Horntoad Maps: Vietnam 1:50,000 AMS Series L701 Sheet 6757II 1. Size and Composition of Patrol: Reinforced Squad 2. Mission: Combat patrol to Tan Hy (1), set ambush along trail from Song Tra Hy (1) 3. Time of Departure: 51700H, 15 January Time of return: H, 15 January 5. Rout: See overlay filed with S-3 6. Observation: Enemy and Terrain: none 7. Other Information: Observation of people in Tan Hy indicated they are seemingly more friendly than they have been in the past. Civilians state that 20 VC who wear grey uniforms, Ho Minh scandals, and jungle hats and carrying rifles operate in Tan Hy, forcing villagers to do hard labor such as digging caves. When Marines come into Tan Hy the VC hide in caves. Mission of VC is unknown except to harass Marine positions and engage in sniper action. Civilians also discloses that a woman name Nguyen Thu is VC sympathizer used ID card partially burned (photograph) with name Nguyen Thi Loi and also lives in Tan Hy. 8. Results of Encounter with the Enemy: None 9. Condition of Patrol: Two Marine members of patrol were seriously wounded at H enroute to Tan Hy when M-72 Law activated. One man injured from back blast while second man s body sustained projectile. Both Med-Evac to B-Med. 10. Conclusions and Recommendations: None D. Meerdink, 1stLt. C-1-7 USMC 33

34 1. ISUM # H through H 20 January Summary of Enemy Activity Ground a) At H, D Company reported a group of civilians approach their CP, at cords BS , and informed them there were three VC in Binh Yen Noi (4). A reinforced squad went to check the information out. At H, the patrol returned with negative contact. The patrol reported that Mr. Phu stated the VC in fact had gone to Tri Bin (4) (located in 3/7 TAOR). Mr. Phu further stated that many VC are returning to their hamlets to celebrate Tet. 34

35 1. ISUM # H through H 20 January Summary of Enemy Activity Ground a) At H, D Company reported at H, the Executive Officer while listening to a privately-owned radio on band #1 at 120MC, heard Vietnamese music interposed with propaganda stating that Americans were being badly beaten in Vietnam. The announcer stated the program was sponsored by American Imperialist, concluding the program with a praise for Piping Polly at H. 35

36 1 st Battalion, 7 th Marines Action with Contact Confidential (Modified Handling Authorized) 2 January At H, a D Company patrol received approximately 50rds of SA fire, both automatic and semi-automatic from 6 weapons. Platoon returned fire with 300rds of SA, 4rds of 106RR and 10 hand grenades. A search of the area at down revealed blood patches and a blood train indicating one VC was killed or wounded. 2. At H, D Company at cords BT , observed a VCS approaching the lines at cords BT After challenging the Marines throw one hand grenade. VC was seen running away after illumination was fired. 3. At H, a D Company base was retracting, and the helicopters received 1rds of SA fire at BS from an unknown source. 1 st Battalion, 7 th Marines Action with Contact Confidential (Modified Handling Authorized) 4 January 1966 Miscellaneous a) D Company provided a security squad for Btry M, 12 th Marines at Nucc Hill, at cords BS , supporting L Company, 3 rd Battalion, 7 th Marines. 1 st Battalion, 7 th Marines Action with Contact Confidential (Modified Handling Authorized) 6 January 1966 a) At H, D Company SID s detected movement at BT , illumination of area provided observation of 3 VCS. The Marines fired 40rds of SA and 10rds of M- 79nat VCS. A search of the area at and only foot prints were found. 36

37 1 st Battalion, 7 th Marines Action with Contact Confidential (Modified Handling Authorized) 8 January 1966 a) At H, D Company platoon size patrol apprehended one VCS hiding behind some rocks at cords BS The VCS was wearing a khaki uninform and had in his possession an identification card that had been altered. 1 st Battalion, 7 th Marines Action with Contact Confidential (Modified Handling Authorized) 9 January 1966 a) At H, D Company reported observing two muzzles flashing at cords BS approximately 150 meters forward of their MLR position. Immediately thereafter D Company received SA fire. Approximately 10rds were received in the Company s positions. The Marines returned the fire with 40rds of M-14, 30rds of.50cal and 1rds of M-79rds. Results of the fire are unknown. b) At H, after exchanging SA fire with an unknown number of VC, D Company picked up movement on one of their SID s. The movement was detected for only a short time. 1 st Battalion, 7 th Marines Action with Contact Confidential (Modified Handling Authorized) 11 January 1966 a) At H, D Company OP# 10 reported that a trip flare had been ignited at the base of their position. Illumination was fired and one VCS was observed running at BS The Marines fired 4rds of SA. Miscellaneous a) 1 st Battalion, 7 th Marines is conducting a school on the 60mm mortar. b) 1 st Battalion, 7 th Marines is conducting a school on artillery procedures. c) 1 st Battalion, 7 th Marines has assumed the mission of Division Central reserves. 37

38 1 st Battalion, 7 th Marines Action with Contact Confidential (Modified Handling Authorized) 14 January 1966 a) D Company reported noises 300 meters forward of their MLR position, approximate location of the noise was at BT Illumination was fired nothing observed. As soon as the illumination expired, D Company received 50rds of carbine and 15rds of.30cal rifle fire into their positions at BT D Company returned 75rds of SA fire. b) D Company at OP at BS reported observing two men within 10 of the protective wire surrounding their position. Challenge was made by the Marines. When they received no replay, they fired 25rds of SA and 2rds of M-79 in the direction of the two suspects. 1 st Battalion, 7 th Marines Action with Contact Confidential (Modified Handling Authorized) 15 January 1966 a) 1 st Battalion, 7 th Marines is placed on 6-hour alert stating on 16 January 1966 to provide a Battalion Headquarters and two companies for the purpose of reinforcing or exploiting in Operation Arc Lite. A liaison visit to Quang Ngai was conducted today by the Battalion Commander, S-2 and S-3 for the purpose of being briefed on Operation Arc Lite. 1 st Battalion, 7 th Marines Action with Contact Confidential (Modified Handling Authorized) 19 January 1966 Miscellaneous a) Operation Round-Up originally scheduled for 20 January 1966 has been delayed to 25 January b) The platoon that has been operating in the Vinh An area is being returned to Binh Son District Hq today. 38

39 39 c) 1 st Battalion, 7 th Marines provided one platoon (rein) and one radio jeep security of a fuel truck convoy operating for Quang Ngai at H. d) At H, 1 st Battalion, 7 th Marines is relieved of the mission of providing reinforcement for recon units in the hills to the west of Chu Lai enclave. e) At H, 1 st Battalion, 7 th Marines is relieved of the mission of Division General Reserves (6-hour alert)