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Actions Report, 4th Battalion, 173d Airborne Brigade, 503rd Infantry, June - Dec 67

 

( Documentation Provided By Lt Robert Allen, D Co, 173rd Abn, 1967 )

 

DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
HEADQUARTERS, 4TH BATTALION (AIRBORNE), 503D INFANTRY
APO US Forces 96250

SUBJECT: Combat Operations After Action Report: Operation FRANCIS MARION

In accordance with Brigade Regulation Number 335-8, the following report is submitted.

1.    General: The 4/503d Inf will secure Base Camp at CATECKA as 173d Airborne Brigade Reaction Force. Assumes responsibility for OPLAN CHASE, including relief and reinforcement of PLEIKU POW Compound commencing 29 May 67 at 1800 hrs. Assumes responsibility for relief and reinforcement of DUC LAP USSF/CIDG Camp. Prepares to execute on order OPLANS DECATUR and AVENGER, prepares to assume Search and Destroy missions.

2.    Name of Operation: Operation FRANCIS MARION

3.    Type of Operation: Search and Destroy

4.    Date of Operation: 2 June 67 to 19 June 67

5.    Location: Northwest of PLEIKU, PLEIKU Province.

6.    Control or Command Headquarters: 173d Abn Bde (Sep)

7.    Reporting Officer: LTC L W. Jackley

8.    Task Organization:

A/4-503

B/4-503

C/4-503

Scout Dog Team

Engineer Team

Scout Dog Team

Engineer Team

 

Engineer Team

.

.

.

D/4-503

Battalion Control

 

Engineer Team

HHC(-)

 

9. Supporting Forces:
7th Tactical Air Force, 335th Avn Co, IFFV Arty (155mm, 175 and 8 in Guns), C/3/319th Arty.

10. Intelligence:
Annex B Intelligence to OPORD 16-67 (Operation Francis Marion). Viet Cong order of Battle, capabilities and expected courses of action prior to the operation. (see Appendix 1)
Enemy situation during the operation:
VC/NVA units do not control the area of interest, however extensive base camps and supply installations are located throughout the dense forest areas throughout the AO. The enemy has established intelligence networks and utilizes the indigenous personnel effectively. The Ia Drang Valley is one of the primary lines of communication.

Order of Battle findings:
As a result of insignificant contact, no order of battle could be confirmed.

Terrain Analysis:
The AO is characterized by rolling hills with wide valleys covered by dense forest. Light forests, cultivated fields and grassland comprised the secondary form.

11. Mission:
OPORD 12-67, Headquarters 4/503d Inf (Operation Francis Marion): 4/503d Inf secures Base Camp at CATECKA as 173rd Abn Bde (Sep) Reaction Force, assumes responsibility for Relief and Reinforcement of Pleiku POW Camp commencing 291800 May 67; assumes responsibility for Relief and Reinforcement of DUC LAP USSF/CIDG Camp commencing 010001 June 67; prepares to execute on order OPLANS DECATUR and AVENGER; prepares to assume Search and Destroy mission of 1/503d Inf or 2/503d Inf in assigned AOs.

12. Concept of Operation: 4/503d Inf conducted Operation Francis Marion in three phases.
Phase 1: 31 May-7 June, 4/503d moved from BIEN HOA Camp to secure FSB CATECKA and Bde CP.
Phase 2: 8 June-17 June, 4/503d conducted S&D missions and established FSB in AO Yellow
Phase 3: 18 June-19 June, 4/503d moved back to CATECKA Base Camp in order to prepare for Operation STILLWELL.

13. Execution:

·        2 June 67- At 1145 hrs Bde S3 (LTC O'MARY) informed TOC that 4/503d would assume additional responsibility for day patrolling and night ambushes in AOs surrounding Bde Base Camp, other Bde elements still retain responsibility for the defense of their sector of the Bde perimeter. At 1855 hrs, CO and S3 departed via UH-1D for DUC LAP and BAN ME THOUT SF Camp. 1440 hrs message from Sgt Ray, Bde S3 to 4/503d S3, informed TOC that one firing battery will return in 5 days and one 4.2 Plat will return in 3 days, HQ Battery will remain at FSB 1. At 1745 Bde CO desired a minimum 4 ambushes within 500 meters of Bde perimeter in addition to those ambushes over l000 meters out. Following ambushes were deployed at l825 hrs, Co A (2), Co B (2), Co C (2), Co D (2). At 1825 hrs CO + S3 returned to Bn CP. 2330 hrs message from Bde S3: 4th Div reports a VC Bn moving NW vic 890280 at 2030 hrs. No S2 rating on message. 4/503d Companies remain in same location as 1 Jun 67.

·        3 Jun 67- At 0005 hrs, 1 grenade detonated by Engineer personnel on perimeter, negative results. 0836 hrs notified by Bde that Air Observer spotted 50 foxholes and mortar positions at ZA198312. 0945 CO of 4/503d alerted C Co and D Co for possible movement. At 1200 a Plt of C Co moved by foot into AO CHARLIE conducting S&D operations enroute. At 1230 one Plt and Mortar section of C Co moved to LZ 1 at ZA195305 via 10 UH-1D lifts at 1700. C Co was extracted from LZ 1 to CATECKA Base Camp. One Plt ambush remained at ZA186300. At 1330 the CO (4/503d) departed for II Corps HQ and returned at 1720. At 1905 Co D reported 4-5 incoming mortar rounds on Azimuth 250 degrees with neg casualties. 1957 hrs Co A has ambushes set at ZA202507, ZAl8l599, ZA207492 with no contact.

·        4 June 67- 4/503d had no change in mission; continued S&D operations vic of Bde Base Camp CATECKA, provide security for Base Camp with 3 Companies and provided one Rifle Company, Co A, as immediate reaction force to reinforce or block areas vic of PLEIKU POW Camp and SF Camps in II Corps area. Co A, with attachment from National Police cordoned and searched PLEI KEP village vic ZA204500 at 0355 hrs. No enemy contact was made. Three VN civilians were turned over to the village chief for processing of identification cards. Co B sent out patrols, 1 ambush and conducted test firing of weapons for the Bn. Co C extracted 2nd Plt from LZ 1, vic 203297, remainder of Co C remained over night 3 Jun 67 to ambush suspected enemy movement, sent out 1 Squad patrol and 1 ambush patrol. Company D sent out 1 Squad patrol and 1 ambush patrol. Chaplain Smith & Chaplain Peters provided religious services for the Bn.

·        5 June 67- At 0905 hrs Co C began to test fire its weapons. Co B ambush at ZA214356, Co D has ambush at ZA198323 & ZA217330. At 2345 hrs 14 replacements arrived from BIEN HOA.

·        6 June 67- 4/503d Inf had no change in mission, continued S&D of Bde Base Camp CATECKA, provided security for base camp and conducted search of PLIE TEH village with Co A who also is the reaction force for the POW compound at PLEIKU and SF Camps in II Corps area. Results of village search resulted in locating 5 VC wives and information that a force of 50 VC were in the village 3 months ago. Co A sent out 3 squad ambushes. Co B conducted 2 patrols and a squad ambush. Co C conducted 1 patrol and 2 night ambush patrols. Co D conducted 1 Squad size patrol and 1 ambush patrol. The patrols were conducted vic of Bde Camp CATECKA.

·        7 June 67- There was no change in 4/503d mission, continued security of Bde Base Camp and provided Reaction Force for II Corps areas, II Corps POW Camp, and SF Camp. The Bn sent out 4 Squad size patrols vic of Bde Base Camp and vic Co A CP location at ZA209494. 4/503d also made preparation for movement into AO YELLOW commencing at 0830 on 8 Jun. There were no changes in CP locations.

·        8 June 67- 4/503d Inf received orders to move Bde Base Camp (CATECKA) to AO YELLOW by air utilizing CH47s. 1/503rd assumed mission at CATECKA. At 0730 hrs 4/503d started air movement for LZ YELLOW. At 1220, C 1/503d relieved A 4/503d vic POW Compound. Co A airlifted into LZ YELLOW at 1400 hrs. 4/503d closed LZ YELLOW at 1500. 4/503d moved toward harbor site vic ZA059130, closing at 1700. CO harbored with Battalion.

·        9 June 67- 4/503d continued movement with all units toward proposed FSB 3 in AO YELLOW. Co D initiated movement at 0830 hrs, followed by Co A, HHC, Co B, and Co C. One VC was spotted outside of perimeter by Co B and was brought under fire with unknown results. Co A required one DustOff at 0820 for WIA in accidental discharge of weapon. Co A reported movement outside of perimeter, fired claymores and M16s in direction of movement with unknown results. 4/503d closed into harbor areas at 1745.

·        10 June 67- 4/503d initiated movement at 0825 hrs for FSB 3, reaching objective at 0945. Prepared LZ to receive B/3/319th Arty at 1045 hrs. First load for B/3/319th arrived at 1100. Local patrols were sent out from each Company upon arrival at FSB 3. Each Company sent out ambush and sent out OPs from the perimeter.

·        l1 June 67- 4/503d initiated S&D operations south into AO YELLOW with Co A, B, and D. Co C remained at FSB 3 to provide security for FSB. Co's A, B. and D will not be resupplied until evening of 13 June. DustOff was required for Co A for NBI, with CO's ship being utilized to evacuate. Co A, B and D harbored in different locations. Each Company sent out 1 Squad size patrol and ambush patrol.

·        12 June- 4/503d had no change in mission, continued S&D operations with 3 Companies in AO YELLOW and providing perimeter security for FSB 3 with HQ(-) and Co C. Co A started S&D operations at 0739 hrs from ZA07A058 and moved SW in AO YELLOW to new harbor site at ZA11064, reporting no enemy contact. Co B started moving on S&D operations at 0754 from ZA079068 and moved NE to new harbor site at ZA138080. Co C provided security for FSB 3 also sent out 2 reinforced Squads on patrols vic of FSB 3, no contact was made. During the early hours of darkness Co C reported movement around FSB 3. LTC Jackley called a 100% alert on the perimeter and brought in 81mm fire. At 0530 Co C had personnel on the perimeter fire M16s, M79s and grenades (Turkey Shoot). At 1400, 4/503d 4.2 Plt was airlifted from Bde Base Camp (CATECKA) to FSB 4, vic ZA163058. 4.2 Plt will support 4/503d elements operating in AO YELLOW.

·        13 June- There was no change in 4/503d mission during this period. Co A, B and D continued providing security for FSB 3. 4.2 Plt remained in direct support of 4/503d at FSB 4. Turkey Shoot was conducted around perimeter at FSB 3 at 0530. Two EM were evacuated from FSB 3, one was possible malaria case, the other had an unknown skin rash. CO harbored with Co's A and B where a TAC CP was set up. Co A, B and D harbored at ZA118034, Co C with HQ at FSB 3.

·        14 June 67- 4/503rd continued S&D operations in AO YELLOW and provided security for FSB 3. Co A, B and D continued moving south in AO YELLOW. Co C remained at FSB 3. Co A required 1 MedEvac due to heat. Co A, B and C were resupplied at 0830, also received new replacements at this time. TAC CP returned to FSB 3 at 1030 hrs, CO 4/503d harbored at FSB 3. The 4.2 Plat remained at FSB 4.

·        15 June 67- 4/503d continued FRANCIS MARION in AO YELLOW with Co A, B and D as maneuver elements. Co C continued as FSB 3 security force with B/3/319 providing direct support from this location. The 4.2 Mortar Plt provided indirect fire support vic PLEI ME SF/CIDG Camp. DustOff was required at 1135 to evacuate 1 EM from D Co bitten by poisonous snake. Co C located one cave vic ZA096098 with misc items. Co A harbor site at ZA115992, Co B at ZA119008, Co D at ZA101010. Co A, B and D each employed 1 ambush patrol.

·        16 June 67- The 4/503d continued S&D operations in AO YELLOW. At 0700 hrs, a hand grenade exploded in a sump at Bn CP, FSB 3 injuring 6 personnel. These personnel were evacuated to the 18th surgical hospital. Co A, B and D harbored vic ZA145044. Bn CP, HHC and Co C remained at FSB 3, ZA088095. The 4/503d conducted 3 Squad size ambush patrols.

·        17 June 67- 4/503d continued S&D mission in assigned sector of AO YELLOW, with HHC and Co C providing security for FSB 3. At 1245 hrs Bde notified 4/503d to assemble for air extraction. At 1530 received CH47 for extraction at FSB 3. At 1605, a lift of 5 UH-1D arrived for extraction of A, B and D Co's. At 1910 extraction of FSB 3 was completed. Upon arrival at CATECKA the 4/503d assumed responsibility from 1/503d for the security of Base Camp with D/16th Armor and 173d Engr under OPCON of 4/503d.

·        18 June 67- The 4/523d Inf continued mission of securing CATECKA Base Camp. The 4.2 Mortar Plt was extracted from PLEI ME to CATECKA Base Camp beginning at 0730 and was completed at 1050 hrs. Two Squad size patrols were conducted.

·        19 June 67- The 4/503d remained in Base Camp at CATECKA, ZA210344, preparing for Operation STILLWELL and maintenance of equipment. The 4/5 03d conducted 2 Squad size patrols and 1 night ambush patrol.

·        Results: US Losses: 0 KIA, 11 WIA (Non Battle Injury) - : Enemy Losses: KIA 0

14. Combat Service Logistics and Administration:
Logistics: No problems encountered.
Administration: The only administration difficulty experienced was the S1 Section remained at Bien Hoa Base Camp. This meant that routine administration took several days as opposed to one or two.

15. Special Equipment and Techniques: No special equipment or techniques were used.

16. Commanders Analysis and Lessons Learned: Analysis: During the period from late April to 15 June the 4/503d made almost a complete personnel turnover, including key personnel. The operation enabled the new personnel to work together and to obtain an idea of the difficulties they could expect to encounter.

FOR THE COMMANDER:

GEORGE T.BALDRIDGE

CPT,Infantry

Adjutant

 

 

 


 

DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
HEADQUARTERS, 4TH BATTALION (AIRBORNE), 503D INFANTRY
APO US Forces 96250

SUBJECT: Combat Operations After Action Report: Operation STILLWELL

In accordance with Brigade Regulation Number 335-8, the following report is submitted.

1.    General: The 4/503d Inf conducted OPERATION STILLWELL using 2 Company size Forces by making Heli Borne Assaults into 2 LZ's in AO ALPHA. 4/503d Inf conducted a 2 day Search and Destroy mission in the AO before commencing Operation GREELEY.

2.    Name of Operation: Operation STILLWELL

3.    Type of Operation: Search and Destroy

4.    Date of Operation: 20 June 67 to 22 June 67

5.    Location: Southwest of PLEIKU CITY, PLEIKU Province.(BR 060741)

6.    Control or Command Headquarters: HeadQuarters, 4th INFANTRY DIVISION

7.    Reporting Officer: LTC L W. Jackley

8.    Task Organization:

A/4-503

B/4-503

C/4-503

Scout Dog Team

Scout Dog Team

Scout Dog Team

Engineer Team

Engineer Team

Engineer Team

.

.

.

D/4-503

Battalion Control

4th Infantry Div

Scout Dog Team

HHC (-)

Exploitation Tm

Engineer Team

B 3/319th Arty

 

.

.

.

5th SFG (Abn)

210 Reg Force Co

 

MIKE FORCE Co

RF Platoon

 

9. Supporting Forces:
Units in support of TF 4/503d were, 1/92 Arty(GS), 316th Arty(GS), TF 1/69th Armor, 7th Air Force, 4th Inf Div Avn Bn(-).

10. Intelligence:
Viet Cong order of Battle, Capabilities and Expected courses of action:
Units within the Battalion area of operation and area of Interest:
(Estimated strength)

H-14 UMC Bn (Unk)

A-15 LF Bn (400)

407 Sapper Bn (500)

B-3 MC Bn (Unk)

U/I UMC Regiment (Unk)

U/I NVA Arty Bn (Unk)

U/I UME Co (Unk)

U/I UMC Co (Unk)

Enemy Capabilities:
Offensive; The VC/NVA forces are capable of establishing a strong defense in fortified areas for a limited period of time.
Withdrawal; The enemy forces in the area can avoid contact at their discretion if routes of withdrawal are available. The enemy will generally have the capability to withdraw after contact has been initiated.

Enemy indications and expected courses of action prior to operation.
The enemy can be expected to attack in up to Multi Battalion forces, but only when terrain and weather are favorable to him. The enemy plans that his opponent will send reaction forces and will engage these reaction forces by the employment of ambushes.
The enemy will not allow the majority of his forces to be engaged decisively upon initial contact.

Enemy situation during the operation:
At present the AO contains a relatively high degree of enemy activity. Nineteen sightings/contacts have occurred since 8 April. The CHU GOAH Mountains at AR 9563 is believed to have been a strategic area for recent attacks on the PLIEKU Complex.

Order of Battle Findings:
The AO had indications of recent enemy activity, however due to the short length of the operation a thorough investigation of the AO could not be completed.

Terrain Analysis:
The terrain in AO ALPHA consists of steep, high mountains to the east and gentle rolling plains to the west. The hills are densely wooded, with many ridges and gullies prohibiting rapid maneuver and fields of fire. The plains to the east in many areas are covered with thick underbrush, but generally clear with good fields of fire.

11. Mission:
OPORD 19-67 (Operation STILLWELL) Headquarters 173d Abn Bde (Sep). TF 4/503 OPCON to 4TH Inf Div to conduct Operation STILLWELL commencing 20 Jun 67.
OPORD 13-67 4/503d Inf. TF 4/503d(+) Assaults into AO ALPHA, conducts Search and Destroy operations to locate, engage and eliminate VC forces operating in the AO.

12. Concept of Operation:
TF 4/503 (OPCON to 4th Inf Div) will conduct Search and Destroy operations with Four Companies and in coordination and conduction with RF forces in AO ALPHA.

13. Execution:

·        20 Jun 67- Under OPCON of 4th Inf Div, TF 4/503d Inf began Operation STILLWELL. Units comprising the task force initiated movement to secure FSB THELMA at 0530 hrs. Companies A and D completed a Heliborne Assault on LZ HURBERT, vic BR077443 at 1150 hrs. Companies B and C completed Heliborne Assault on LZ HURBERT vic BR075408 at 1430 hrs. TF 4/503d(-) closed FSB THELMA at 1630. Companies B and D harbored together vic BR078424. ARVN Mike Force harbored vic BR015440. There were 6 ambushes placed out by the TF. All units reported negative enemy contact or sightings.

·        21 Jun 67- 4/503d Inf continued STILLWELL, conducting S&D operations in AO ALPHA. Co C found fresh trails and latrines vic BR083417. Co D found a tunnel at BR092491, Mighty Mite team from the 4th Div was called in to place CS crystals in the tunnel. ARVN Mike Force reported 1 VC KIA and 1 US carbine captured vic BR022441. Co's A and D harbored vic BR073433. Co's B and C harbored vic BR078424.

·        22 Jun 67- 4/503d Inf continued S&D operation in AO ALPHA. At 0645 ARVN Mike Force reported in contact with one VC Platoon and receiving mortar fire. Elements of 1/69th Armor and Co D were sent to block on west and south of river. At 0830 contact was broken, ARVN Mike Force has 2 WIA. At 1100 Co D found tunnel system BR092421. At 1220 the 4/503d was alerted for movement to DAK TO. Companies A, B and C to be airlifted to DAK TO, HHC(-) and Co D will be airlifted to 1/69th Armor Base Camp and road convoy to DAK TO. At 1400 hrs Company A extracted from AO ALPHA to DAK TO. At 1430 hours Company B extracted from AO ALPHA to DAK TO. At 1410 Co C extracted from AO ALPHA to DAK TO. At 1450 hrs Operation STILLWELL terminated for 4/503d Inf, the 1/69 Armor relieved 4/503d in AO ALPHA. HQ, Co A, 8lmm Mortar Plt and Battalion trains moved by CH47 to 1/69 Armor Base Camp and moved by convoy to Artillery Hill at PLEIKU where they harbored. Co A was given mission to secure FSB for 3/319 Arty at DAK TO, Co's B and C harbored at DAK TO Airstrip.

·        Results: US Losses: 0 KIA, 0 WIA, - Enemy Losses: 1 KIA, 1 POW

14. Combat Services Logistics and Administration:
Logistics: No difficulties were encountered due to the short operation.
Administration: No difficulties were encountered due to the short operation.
Communications: No difficulties were encountered due to the short operation.

15. Special Equipment and Techniques:
All organic weapons were used in their normal function. The Mighty Mite was employed successfully in saturating a VC tunnel complex with CS gas. C4 combined with CS crystals was employed successfully in exploding the crystals into walls of the complex.

16. Commanders Analysis and Lessons Learned: None

FOR THE COMMANDER:

GEORGE T.BALDRIDGE

CPT,Infantry

Adjutant

 

 

 


 

DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
HEADQUARTERS, 4TH BATTALION (AIRBORNE), 503D INFANTRY
APO US Forces 96250

SUBJECT: Combat Operations After Action Report: Operation GREELEY

In accordance with Brigade Regulation Number 335-8, the following report is submitted.

1.    General: 4/503d Inf conducted Operation Greeley in Five Phases, conducting extensive Search & Destroy missions, Heliborne Assaults, Local patrolling and Fire Support Base security.

2.    Name of Operation: Operation GREELEY

3.    Type of Operation: Search and Destroy

4.    Date of Operation: 20 June 67 to 17 September 67

5.    Location: DAK TO FSB 4 YB902185, DAK PEK YB954692, KIEN BINH FSB 7 ZB109162, FSB 12 YB865251.

6.    Control or Command Headquarters: HeadQuarters, 173D Abn Bde (Sep)

7.    Reporting Officer: LTC Johnson

8.    Task Organization:

Phase 1:

A/4-503

B/4-503

C/4-503

Scout Dog Team

Scout Dog Team

Scout Dog Team

Engineer Team

Engineer Team

Engineer Team

.

.

.

D/4-503

Battalion Control

 

Scout Dog Team

HHC(-)

 

Engineer Team

Heavy Mortar Plt

 

9. Supporting Forces:
Units in support of TF 4/503d were, C 6/14 Arty, ARVN Arty, 3/319th Arty, 39th Scout Dog Co, 7th Air Force, 173d Eng Co, 335th Avn Co(-).

10. Intelligence:
Viet Cong order of Battle, Capabilities and Expected courses of action.
Units within the Battalion area of operations of interest:

24th NVA Regiment            304th VOAF Bn           200th VC Arty Bn

H-15 LF Bn                   U/I NVA Engr Bn

Enemy Capabilities were:
Attack: The VC/NVA forces are capable of attacking in a Multi Battalion size force using the units listed above.
To defend base areas and facilities in force.
Withdraw from or avoid contact at his own choosing.

Expected enemy courses of action prior to the operation:
To initiate Multi Battalion attacking forces. The NVA can be expected to be better trained, equipped, and will attack with much more vigor than the VC.
The enemy was capable of establishing a strong defense. Due to the relative closeness of the Cambodian / Laotian border he chose not to defend in great strength, but delay and withdraw his main forces across the nearby border.
To harass units and attack isolated outposts under limited and restricted visibility.

Enemy situation during the operation:
Contained in Intelligence annex to OPORD 18-67, Operation Greeley, Headquarters 173Sd Airborne Brigade (Separate), 161200 June 67. This gave the most current enemy locations available to friendly forces.

Terrain Analysis:
The terrain encountered was dense forests, steep slopes and numerous water obstacles, multiple bamboo thickets made cross-country movement slow and difficult. Vehicle movement on road was limited due to traffic factors caused by rains. Fields of fire and ground observation was hindered by dense vegetation. Dense canopy caused some difficulty in air resupply and MedEvac due to lack of suitable LZ's.

11. Mission:
OPORD 14-67 (OPN GREELEY) 4/503d Inf moves by CH47 and road convoy from CATECKA, ZA207354 to DAK TO, ZB005216 and conducts Airmobile Assault into AO JANE. Conducts Search and Destroy operations throughout the AO.
Frag O1 OPORD 14-67 was not published but was executed in 2 Phases.
Phase 1: 4/503d Inf conducted airmobile move to FSB DAK PEK, YB954692 and conducts Search and Destroy operation to PZ GEORGE, YB908638.
FRAG O2 to OPORD 14-67 4/503d Inf extracts from PZ GEORGE,YB908638 and continues Greeley with Heliborne Assault in LZ MIKE, YB902698. Bn (-) continues to conduct Search and Destroy operations into AO GEORGE along AXIS RED.
FRAG O3 to OPORD 14-67 4/503d Inf as part of the 173rd Task Force, and in conjunction with ARVN Forces conducts Search and Destroy operations in AO LIMA to counter or prevent NVA/VC interference with the Vietnamese National Elections on 3 Sept 67.
FRAG O4 to OPORD 14-67 4/503d Inf(-) continues Greeley, and conducts Search and Destroy operations in AO 41, in conjunction with ARVN Forces. Co B (-) proposes to continue operations in AO 42 on order.
FRAG O5 to OPORD 14-67 No change in mission from FRAG O 4 to OPORD 14-67

12. Concept of Operation:
4/503d Inf conducted operation GREELEY in Five Phases.
Phase 1: 4/503d Inf moves by CH47 and road convoy from CATECKA, ZA207354 to DAK TO, ZB005216 and prepares for Airmobile Assault into Bn AO.
Phase 2:4/503d Inf conducted Airmobile Assault into AO JANE and secured FSB 4, YB902185. Maneuver elements, Co's A, B, C and D conducted Search and Destroy operations in AO JANE.
Phase 3: 4/503d Inf conducts Search and Destroy from FSB DAK PEK into AO GEORGE clearing high ground around DAK PEK SF Camp beginning 090900 Aug 67 to PZ GEORGE. On 14 Aug 4/503d (-) conducts Heliborne Assault on LZ MIKE at l000 hrs with Co D assaulting and B and C Co's following. 4/503d Inf continued Search and Destroy operation in AO GEORGE from PZ GEORGE and returns to DAK PEK on 19 Aug to terminate this phase.
Phase 4: 4/503d Inf(-) moves by motor convoy from FSB 1, DAK TO to establish FSB 7 at 220630 Aug 67. Bn conducts Heliborne Assault on LZ JACK at 221100. Maneuver elements A, B and C Co's conduct Search and Destroy operations in AO LIMA. Operation will terminate on 5 Sept at DAK TO.
Phase 5: 4/503d Inf(-) conducts Search and Destroy operations to clear high ground to North and South of Hwy 512 from YB918263 to YB868254. 4/503d also operates to block possible enemy escape during advance of l/503d Inf and 2/503d Inf. This phase of operation terminates on 15 Sept 67.

13. Execution:

·        22 Jun 67- The 4/503 Inf was alerted at 1230 hrs for movement to DAK TO. Co's A, B and C will be airlifted to DAK TO. HHC(-) and Co D will be airlifted to l/69th Armor and road convoy to DAK TO. At 1400 Co A extracted from LZ WOOD vic BR068440. At 1410 Co C extracted from AO ALPHA to DAK TO. At 1430 Co B extracted from AO ALPA to DAK TO. At 1450 hrs STILLWELL terminated for 4/503, the 1/69th Armor relieved 4/503 in AO ALPHA. HHC(-), Co A, 81mm and 4.2 Plt and Bn trains moved by CH47 to 1/69th Armor Base Camp and moved by convoy to Artillery Hill where they harbored. Co's C and B harbored at DAK TO Air Strip.

·        23 Jun 67- The 4/503 Inf continued movement to DAK TO by road convoy at 0620 from Artillery Hill. At 1115 4/503 road convoy closed in at DAK TO Air Strip. At 1200 the 4/503 was alerted for Air Assault on LZ KITTY vic YB903184. At 1530 first lift departed DAK TO for LZ KITTY. Co A location ZB112163, Co B at YB908174 and Co D and Bn CP at YB903184.

·        24 Jun 67- 4/503d Inf(-) remained in blocking positions in the northern portion Of AO JAKE. Co A detached at FSB 7 (to 3/319th Arty) continued its assigned mission of FSB Security. Co D went along the horseshoe ridge from harbor site to vic YB912172 and found 5 dead VC, captured misc items and documents and returned along ridge to high ground overlooking Co D position.

·        25 Jun 67-The 4/503 Inf continued GREELEY with elements in blocking positions around FSB 4. At 1200 LZ KITTY became FSB 4 with 1/77 Arty arriving at 1020 to support the 4/503d mission. Co A conducted Helilift from FSB 7 to FSB 4 closing at 1233. Co A, C, and D harbored at YB885177 and prepared for continuance of mission.

·        26 Jun 67- The 4/503d Inf commenced S&D Operations in AO JANE, with HHC(-), Co B, 4.2 Plt remaining at FSB 4. At 1112 Co B conducted 1 Plt size patrol vic FSB 4. There were 3 Non Combat WIA, one of which required DustOff. At 1340 B/319th Arty commenced airlift to FSB 4 and completed at 1415 hrs. Companies A, B and D harbored at YB870166 with HHC and B Co at FSB 4, YB903184.

·        27 Jun 67- The 4/503d Inf continued GREELEY with Co's C, D and A moving toward YB882135. Progress was slow due to bamboo and radio communications were interrupted by terrain mask. Navigation over the terrain was extremely difficult. All elements harbored at YB883156.

·        28 Jun 67- The 4/503d Inf continued operations. At 0555 FSB 4 received 15-20 rds of 81mm mortar fire during morning stand to, counter fire initiated by 4.2 to NE & SE, results one US WIA. XB873173 was designated by CO 4/503 as blocking position to be occupied by Co's A, C and D moving in that area. Co D was instructed to secure harbor site night of 27-28 June until extraction of 4 WIA (1 skin infection and 3 bamboo cuts). Co A and C departed harbor site YB884156 at 0700 and 0730. At 1040 LTC O'Mary sent msg directing that 4/503d Inf elements would take up defensive positions at their present locations as Cmd General expected that NVA units in contact with 2/12th Cav would move NW toward 4/503d. Co A and C closed back to Obj area at about l230. At 1330 Co D reported hearing noises from its position. At 1450 Co C reported hearing noises to North, 4.2 mortar were fired into the area and all noises stopped.

·        29 Jun 67- The 4/503d Inf continued S&D in AO JANE. At 0915 the advance CP of the 1/503d arrived at FSB 4. Co B conducted one Plt size patrol vic FSB 4. At 1830 Co C had two men WIA from accidental discharge and a DustOff was required (PSG Lester, Co C accidentally shot by M79 died). Company A harbored at YB868151, Co C and D harbor at YB888158. HHC(-) and B Co remained at FSB 4. Co A had 1 ambush vic YB887152.

·        30 Jun 67- 4/503d Inf Continued Op GREELEY with a combined S&D Opn and blocking force mission in AO JANE. Co A to seize Obj 40, Co B remaining as security force for FSB 4. Co's C and D to remain in a blocking and supporting position at YB883157. Maneuver units had all closed harbor sites by 1200 and lateral patrolling was conducted. Two Plt size ambushes were conducted. Reports of sporadic mortar firing were received from Co D, suspected location of the mortar sites at YB886157 & 895150 were engaged with heavy artillery. At 2210 from its CP locations and from its ambush location, Co A heard one mortar round fired and land in their vicinity. Counter mortar firing was conducted at YB894150 with unknown results. The only enemy contact was the mortar firing during this period.

·        1 Jul 67- 4/503d continued operations in AO Jane with no enemy contact reported. Plans for reconnaissance patrolling, establishment of Plt size ambushes, and improvement of LZ's and defenses of harbor sites were executed. At 1400 the North South boundary between 4/503d (AO JANE) and 2/12th Cav (AO JACK) was altered to run along the 90th grid line. At lll0 Co C discovered 2 freshly dug holes which revealed several foot prints of 4 to 5 personnel that had been in the area in the past 24 hours. FSB 4 remained at YB903185 with Co B securing the Base with active patrolling, maneuver, and mortar DC's.

·        2 Jul 67- All units of 4/503d continued to occupy and improve blocking positions and ambush positions. The trails between Companies forward were reinforced. All units conducted local patrols and reconnaissance. VC/NVA were reported in AOs JANE and BILL at YB868140 and YB912164. No action was taken by 4/503d in either case. D Co at 1330 heard voices and troop movement in vic YB887153, 81mm fires were called in and adjusted by CO 4/503. The fires were erratic and inaccurate, results unknown. Area was checked by 1430 and fresh trail markings of an unusual variety with smooth soled tracks observed, both only hours old. Co B reported movement on the FSB 4 perimeter at 2050, 81mm was fired with results unknown.

·        3 Jul 67- The 4/503d Inf continued S&D operations in AO JANE with A, C and D Companies sending patrols vic YB898152, YB902156, YB897165, YB883152 and YB 889152. Co B test fired weapons at FSB 4 and patrolled vic YB898139 to YB905199 to YB910190. At ll00, Co C at YB895161, found 1 hole 3 x 2 x 2 ft freshly dug and sandal prints, east of the hole were 2 spider holes. At 1115 at YB895l64 10-12 prone positions were found with fresh cut twigs and leaves used for mats. At 1300 vic YB896163 Co C found 2 bloody dressings at location of last nights 81mm contact. At 1415 extractions of A Co's 8lmm began from Co D location to Co C. At 1450 extraction was reported completed. At 2330, 2/503 heard heavy movement at YB907167, requested 4.2 and 81mm fires from 4/503. Co A and Co B fired 81mm into the area. At 2400 8 secondary explosions were reported. Harbor sites were; Co A, C and D at YB898164. CO, Co B, HHC, 4.2 and 81mm harbored at FSB 4.

·        4 Jul 67- The 4/503d continued S&D operations in AO JANE. At 0001 hrs FSB 4 received 4-6 82mms rds on east flank of perimeter with negative casualties. Location of mortars believed to be at YS897177. At 0830 Bn Command frequency was jammed but was able to work through it. At 1215, Co D requested DustOff for man with broken leg, DustOff completed at 1250. At 1227 elements of 1/503d arrived at FSB 4 and tied in on perimeter. At 1530, A and D Co had closed into Co C location at YB903185. Co C and D each conducted 1 ambush located at Co A YB892165 and Co D YB893164. CO 4/503d harbored at Co C location.

·        5 Jul 67- The 4/503 Inf continued GREELEY in AO JANE with no enemy contact reported. Co's A, C and D secured PZ ABLE YB892164 with local patrols being conducted. Three Plt size ambushes were conducted to add to security of PZ ABLE. Movement was heard at 2215 hrs to front of Co C ambush and 81mm was fired with unknown results. Co B remained as security force for FSB 4.

·        6 Jul 67- The 4/503d Inf continued operations in AO JANE. Three Plt size patrols and 1 Squad size patrol continued S&D operations all closing by 1700 hrs. Co C, D and A established ambush sites, Co C at YB882167, Co D at YB881163, Co A at YB892162. At 2125 Co D reported receiving 3 rds AW fire into their perimeter with no casualties.

·        7 Jul 67- The 4/503d Inf continued operations in AO JANE and provided security for FSB 4. Co C was airlifted from PZ ABLE to FSB 4. Co C took over responsibility of Perimeter security for FSB 4. Co B was airlifted from FSB 4 to PZ ABLE and conducted S&D Operations with Co A and D. Co A, 81mm section was airlifted from PZ ABLE to FSB 4 and will be in general support of FSB 4, and under control of Co C. The Special Forces Camp at DAK TO furnished 11 CIDG's as guards for tomorrows operations. CIDG will remain with 4/503 for estimated 5 days. C/319th Arty and 2/503 TAC CP moved into FSB 4 in support of Brigade Opns. CG of 173d discussed future operations with CO 4/503 at FSB 4. CO sent forward a TAC CP for tommorrows operation involving Co A, B and D. One MedEvac was requested for Co A, DustOff was denied due to time of day and priority of patient. Main CP remained at FSB 4.

·        8 Jul 67- 4/503 Inf continued operations within AO JANE with Co's A, B and D moving west from YB892164 with mission to locate NVA Regimental HQ operating vic YB840160. Co A and D initiated movement at 0640 with Co B staying at harbor site until 1 EM is evacuated. At 1000, man was evacuated (believed to be malaria) by DustOff and Co B initiated movement. At 1200, C&C ship was dispatched from FSB 4 to evacuate EM from Co A for medical reasons. Co A, B and D harbored at YB885147. A and B Co each had 1 ambush patrol, Co A at YB885150 and Co B at YB887147.

·        9 Jul 67- 4/503d Inf continued operations in AO JANE with Co A, B and D. Co C remained at FSB 4 and conducted local patrols around perimeter, no enemy contact was made. Co D required a MedEvac for 1 EM who injured his back. Heavy rains and low ceiling permitted very little flying for observation by CO.

·        10 Jul 67- The 4/503d mission was to move West toward Obj YB855116. Co B and D initiated movement toward this Obj at 0900 hrs with Co A securing harbor site for extraction. At 1237 hrs Co A moved forward and became the lead element for the task group. At 1545 hrs Co A made heavy contact vic YB859139 with estimated Company size force well dug in. At one time Co A was receiving fire from three machine guns at close range. Light fire teams were requested by CO and was over Co A's contact area at 1605 hrs, but was not used due to artillery being fired into contact area. CO, 4/503d directed Co B to move forward on Co A's right flank and Co D to move up on the left flank. When Co B initiated its movement it immediately came under heavy MG and AW fire from its flanks and also started receiving enemy mortar rounds. Initial contact caused Co B an estimated 15 casualties with the CO of Co B being WIA. Co D reported enemy mortar rounds also landing in their area. Enemy mortar rounds started coming in on forward CP group causing casualties to ground commander Maj Williams and his FO party, all were KIA. SFC Dixon immediately took command and furnished CO 4/503d accurate information of the situation. SFC Dixson continued radio contact with the main CP during the remaining time and reorganized the forward CP group. Bn CO appointed CO of Co A as the Task Force Commander. Co C was alerted for movement into the contact area to reinforce units in contact; but due to weather condition in both the contact area and FSB 4 area the move was never made. Contact was broken at 1800 hrs. Co A and B reported heavy casualties. MedEvac was requested and supported throughout the night to extract the wounded, though hampered by severe weather conditions. All units consolidated into two perimeters and harbored for the night. Co A, TAC CP element and 2nd Platoon of Co B at YB860137 and Co B and Co D at YB859141. MedEvac was to continue in the AM of 11 Jul 67. Unofficial count of US casualties reported for this period were; 25 KIA and 68 WIA, including attachments (Arty and CIDG). CO 4/503d was forced to remain at Base Camp, DAK TO, for evening of 10 Jul 67 and would return to both FSB 4 and the contact area at first light.

·        11 Jul 67- The 4/503d continued GREELEY in AO JANE. Bn harbored and reconsolidated onto Obj (Hill 830) and prepared for the extraction of the wounded and KIA of the previous day's encounter (10 Jul 67). Extraction of wounded was delayed during the early morning hours (0001-0700) due to severe weather conditions in contact area. First extraction was initiated at 0710 and completed at 1918. Battalion conducted Search and Recovery of Battlefield during daylight hrs of 11 Jul 67. Evidence of well disciplined, well armed and trained NVA was found. Material found during search operations included: 1 AK47 Rifle, 1 Pistol, Misc rucksacks and ammo and miscellaneous documents. Trenches and emplacements were found to be quite extensive, running NS and W along ridge in which contact was established. Units remained on Hill 830 for night of 11 Jul 67. No further contact was made during this period. CO 4/503d harbored with forward elements.

·        12 Jul 67- The 4/503d continued S&D operations in AO JANE. Msg from Bde S-3, Move forward elements in a southerly direction until reaching Southern AO and then start moving toward the east. Also requested search of Battle area, which resulted in Co A finding 9 82mm rds, 1 envelope w/address and a banner or flag with writing on it. At 1430 Co D found 1 wounded POW who had a leg wound, POW was evacuated to Bde. At 1630, Co A found 1 hooch and suspected movement at YN858135. Found 2 VC helmets on a trail near this vic and several poncho shelters still constructed. Further reported at 1640, 4 poncho huts and 8 dug in positions with overhead cover. At 1715, Co C departed FSB 4 to exchange positions with Co B. Lift was completed at 1820. Co A, C and D harbored at YB 859139. Co B and 4.2 Plt harbored at FSB 4.

·        13 Jul 67- The 4/503d continued GREELEY in AO JANE with Co A, C and D, conducting S&D operations. At 0845, Co A requested DustOff for 1 EM who had an epileptic fit, DustOff was completed at 0938. Co D found fresh dug holes, latrine, and muzzle harness for a dog at YB855137. Co C found tracks running West and permission was given to recon trail. At 1400, Co C spotted 1 VC who was fired upon with negative results. Co A, C and D harbored at vic YB855126. Co A conducted 1 ambush patrol vic YB895198 with negative results.

·        14 Jul 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY in A0 JANE, with Co A, C and D as maneuver elements. Co B continued to provide security for FSB 4, with B/3/319th, C/3/319th and the 4.2 Mortar Plt providing support from FSB 4. DustOff was required at 0630 to evacuate 2 men from B/3/319th who had been wounded the previous evening by a short round. At 0830, a boundary change between 4/503d and 2/503d was granted by Brigade. New boundary reached from YB834119, NE along river to YB847153. At 0900 Companies departed last nights harbor site for daily objective located in vic Hill 807, YB847122. At 0950 hrs, Bn CO directed ground commander to move units toward new Obj located vic YB859120 after 1/503d had reported enemy located at YB867112 and moving North. At 1240, Co C located grave with 1 NVA body at YB859120. At 1415, Co C reported finding a trail with blood on it at YB859120 running E to W and followed it for 200 meter with neg results. At 1430 hrs, all elements of Co A, C and D reached harbor site vic YB859120. Co A and C sent out Platoon size ambushes near the harbor site. At 2010 hrs message from Bde S-3 to CO 4/503d: Effective 150700 Jul 67, boundary change as follows: A straight line from YB857116 to YB850160. Also effective 0700 hrs Co C/1/503d becomes OPCON 4/503. Tomorrows plans outlined by message to Companies at 2330 hrs, at 150700 July, move to link up with C/1/503 at YB863116, with Co D leading. C/1/503d OPCON to 4/503d effective 0700 hrs. Coordinate with C/1/503d on large trail heading NE, move NE along the trail, C/1/503d to reinforce 4/503d when required, supporting fires will come from FSB 8.

·        15 Jul 67- 4/503d continued operations with maneuver elements Co A, C and D, sweeping through AO JANE and Co B as security for FSB 4. B/3/319th, C/3/319th and the 4.2 Mortar Plt continued to support from FSB 4. Maneuver Companies initiated movement at 0718 hrs to link up with C/1/503d. At 0824 hrs, Companies linked up with 1/503d and were guided to CP Location. At 0845 hrs, C/1/503d began movement to location to act as a reserve for the 4/503d. At this time fire support was provided from FSB 8. At 1050 C/1/503d returned to OPCON 1/503d. At 1115, patrolling was initiated by Co B from FSB 4. At 1118 hrs, 2/503d departed FSB 4. At 1215 message from Bde S-3; boundary change between 1/503d and 4/503d, YB850120 to YB875120. At 1241 DustOff was requested by Co D because of round fired A/3/319th from FSB 8, resulted in 5 US WIA vic YB871126. At 1516 DustOff was completed. At 1519, Co B patrols returned with negative results. At 1525, message from Bde S-3; Boundary change, area to the south of a line drawn between YB850130 and YB865130 is now A0 MAC, assigned to 1/503d. At 1545, 1st Plt of Co C reported extensive base camp vic YB877128. At 1930, Bde S-2 reports RRU has located activity at YB870152, H&I fires were placed in that area. At 2012 message from Bde S-3, boundary change effective 1600 hrs from (YS 865140) to (YB 865140) to (YB 845130). All areas to the west will be AO MAC, assigned to 1/503d.

·        16 Jul 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY with Co A, C and D as maneuver elements and Co B as security for FSB 4. B/3/319th, C/3/319tn, and 4.2 Mortar Plt provided support from FSB 4. At 0822 hrs, Companies initiated movement along a trail to the NE. At 1134, Co C reported hearing 2-3 rounds of SA fire vic of YB880135. Co C Dog team made strong alert to SE, and handler fired a shot in that direction with negative results. At 1400 hrs, Co C found trail junction vic YB883127, with primary trail running SE, secondary trail N for 75 meters and then on an Az of 100. On the main trail, Co C found a hooch and a grave containing 1 NVA body, killed by small arms fire and dead for 48 hrs. At 1430 Co A, C and D arrived at harbor site YB880130. Recon patrols were sent out to check trail. At 1450 trail junction with various marked trees found at YB 884126. Co C reported finding bridge vic YB884126, Bridge was new and 30-40 ft long, estimated that bridge could hold one Platoon at a time. At 1755 Co C reported that first bridge led to an island. At 2025 Bde S-2 reported possible base camp area vic YB881ll6. Final harbor sites as follows; Co A and D YB880130. Co C at YB883128 and Co C ambush at YB878128. HHC, Co B and Bn CO all harbored at FSB 4.

·        17 Jul 67- 4/503d continued operations with Co A, C and D as maneuver elements in AO JANE. Co D secured FSB 4, and support was provided by B/3/319th, C/3/319th and the 4.2 Mortar Plt. At 0701 hrs, Companies initiated movement in search for enemy base camp located vic YB884124, and began a search of that area. At 1012, Abn relay was established between TOC and forward units. At 1650 CG visited FSB 4 and discussed future Opns. At 1115 maneuver elements given PZ KAREN at YB904124 as the area to be used for extraction on 18 July. At 1315, Co B began patrolling from FSB 4. At 1410, Abn relay shut down. At 1500, Co B patrol returned with negative contact. At 1600, maneuver elements reached harbor site vic YB899125.

·        18 Jul 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY with Co A, C and D being extracted from PZ KAREN vic YB908121 to FSB 4. Co B continued to provide security at FSB 4. HQ 4/503d and the 4.2 Mortar Plt closed from FSB 4 to FSB 1. A forward CP element remained at FSB 4 with Co B. Movement for the Companies began at 1000 and was completed at 1230 hrs.

·        19 Jul 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY with Co A, C and D with the 4.2 Mortar Plt at FSB 1 and Co B providing security for FSB 4. Mission of 4/503d remains that of a Brigade Reaction Force. At 0730 hrs, Co A departed on recon mission. At 1310, heat casualty extracted from Co A. At 1650, Co A returned from mission.

·        20 Jul 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY with Co A, C and D and the 4.2 Mortar Plt at FSB 1, and Co B providing security at FSB 4. Mission of 4/503d remains that of a Brigade Reaction Force. At 0800 Co C became OPCON to E/17th Cav. At 1440 Co A reported drowning of SSG Sorrels while swimming in stream at ZB005214 (Body not recovered).

·        21 Jul 67- 4/503 continued GREELEY with Co A, C and D and the 4.2 Mortar Plt at FSB 1 as Bde reaction force. Co B remained at FSB 4 in a security role. At 1100, Co C, OPCON to E/17th Cav Helilifted to AO JEFF. At 1100, Co D was placed on a 2 hr standby for reinforcement of Co C and E/17th Cav. At 1230, 2 DustOffs from FSB 4 completed, both were non-battle injuries. At 1315, Co D placed on 1 hr standby and Co A on a 2 hr standby. Operation to drag river for body drowned on 20 July to commence at 0830 hrs.

·        22 Jul 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY with Co C OPCON to E/17th Cav, Co A and the 4.2 Mortar Plt at FSB 1. Co D at FSB 4 as security element. At 1640 hrs Battalion alerted to Bde briefing at 1000 hrs on the 23rd. At 1908, Co C harbored at YB844155, with an ambush at YB844144. At 2045, Co B reported receiving 1 incoming M1 round with no action taken. At 2120, Co B reported 2 men moving in front of perimeter with no action taken.

·        23 Jul 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY with no change in mission or disposition of elements. At 0940 hrs, Co D conducted patrols vic of FSB 4. At 0940, Co B reported 2 persons vic ZB002243. Individuals looked at base camp then disappeared back over hill. At 0945, forward TOC reported Cowboy (335th Avn) received AW fire vic YB938137, no hits. At 1650, Co A was put on a 30 minute alert. At 1655 chopper spotted body in river, believed to be man from this Bn who drowned 3 days ago. At 1702, Co A taken off alert. LNO supervising recovery from 0H-13. At 1707, LNO requested Squad from Co A to recover body. At 1757, body was recovered and taken to BMed for positive identification.

·        24 Jul 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY with no change in mission or disposition of elements. At 1525 hrs, Co D conducted patrols vic of FSB 4. At 1725, all patrols closed at FSB 4. At 1750, ambush patrols from FSB 4 were sent out vic YB907183 and YB897187.

·        25 Jul 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY with no change in mission or disposition of elements. Patrols were conducted by Co D vic FSB 4 and by Co C attached to E/17th Cav with negative findings. One DustOff required at 1210 hrs at Co C location for evacuation of 1 EM shot when M79 accidentally discharged. EM died shortly after arrival at BMed. A second 81mm mortar tube was requested and delivered to C Co location along with 1 basic load.

·        26 Jul 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY in AO JANE and within security AO around FSB 1. CIDG unit returned to DAK TO from FSB 4 and was replaced by one Rifle Platoon and 81mm section of Co A. Move was completed at 1645. Co C remained OPCON E/17th Cav and conducted patrol operations vic FSB 4 found 5 US, 81mm rds and a small amount of C4, which was destroyed. At 2235, Bde informed Bn of minefield location at YB957237.

·        27 Jul 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY with negative enemy contact or sighting. Range firing was conducted by Bn elements at DAK TO rifle range. Patrol operations and battle drill training was conducted by Co D vic FSB 4. Battalion(-) prepared for future operations at FSB 1.

·        28 Jul 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY in AO Jane and security at DAK TO. There was no redisposition of forces during this period, with the exception of a small advance forward CP element into FSB 9 (to prepare for planned entry of Battalion on 29 Jul 67). Enemy contact was not reported during this period. Co D conducted two S&D patrols vic FSB 4 with negative findings. Bn(-) remained at FSB 1, with Co C remaining OPCON to E/17th Cav.

·        29 Jul 67- 4/ 503d continued GREELEY. Preplanned Heliborne exercise to FSB 9 was canceled. Co B was alerted to move by motor convoy to reinforce FSB 3 upon notification of an unknown NVA size force operating in the area. Co B closed FSB 3 at 1530 hrs. Co D on security patrol vic FSB 4 heard human voices vic YB897193 and employed a Recon by Fire mission followed by saturation of area with 81mm fire. Bn(-) continued preparations for future operations at FSB 1.

·        30 Jul 67- 4/ 503d continued GREELEY with negative enemy contact reported. Co D and A conducted extensive saturation patrols around FSB 4 and were airlifted to FSB 1 at 1645 hrs. Co C returned from FSB 9 to F5B 1 closing at 1530 hrs. Bn prepared for future operations in AO JOHN, commencing 1 Aug 67.

·        31 Jul 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY with negative enemy contact reported. Co B closed FSB 1 at 1340 hrs. 4/503d units are all located at FSB 1 and prepared for continuance of GREELEY in AO JOHN. Col Johnson, new Bn CO visited Bn area and met key personnel.

·        1 Aug 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY with Co C conducting Airmobile Assault into LZ JO and establishing FSB. The 4.2 Mortar Plt initiated movement from FSB 1 to LZ JO at 1640 hrs and closed LZ JO at 1745. Due to weather conditions the assault on LZ QUEBEC was canceled until 2 Aug.

·        2 Aug 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY with Co C and TAC CP at LZ JO, YB011162. Co C conducted 1 S&D patrol vic LZ JO with negative results. The Assault of Co A, B and D on LZ QUEBEC was canceled after 3 one hr delays. At 2015 Co C reported movement around perimeter and blew 1 claymore and 2 hand grenades. Co C and TAC CP harbored at LZ JO. Co's A, B and D at FSB 1, ZB005216.

·        3 Aug 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY with Co C and TAC CP at LZ JO. Scheduled Heliborne Assault of Co's A, B and D into AO JOHN were canceled. Co C found two trails west of perimeter which was used in the last 24 hrs by 5-6 personnel. At 1445 Bn(-) was placed on 30 min stand by alert for move to reinforce DAK SEANG SF Camp. Stand down at 1515 hrs on this mission. Co A and B were alerted and moved by motor convoy to reinforce 42d ARVN compound and FSB 3 respectively. Co A closed at 2133, and Co B at 1735 hrs into FSB 3. Co C, 4.2 Plt and TAC CP returned to FSB 1, beginning movement at 1745 hrs and closing at 1900 hrs.

·        4 Aug 67- 4/503d continued operations with no redisposition of elements and no change of mission. LTC Johnson assumed command of the 4/503d Inf from LTC Jackley.

·        5 Aug 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY with no change in mission or disposition of elements. Bn(-) remained at FSB 1, DAK TO preparing for future operations. Co B remained at FSB 3 conducting 2 S&D patrols and 1 ambush patrol. Co A remained as security for 42d ARVN Compound, and conducted 2 daylight patrols. Co A found 1 small S-N trail.

·        6 Aug 67- 4/503d continued operations with local patrols being conducted by A and B Co from 42d ARVN Compound and from FSB 3, all patrols had negative results. At 1600 hrs, the Bn was alerted to move to DAK SEANG on reinforcing mission. Co B was returned to FSB 1 by land move. At 1435 hrs the Bn executed stand down on DAK SEANG less Co C which Helilifted to that location, closing at 1915.

·        7 Aug 67- 4/503d continued operations with one change in disposition of elements, Co A returned from 42d ARVN compound to FSB 1 closing at 1730 hrs. Co B was alerted to relieve and to reinforce LRRP element suspected of being surrounded at YB906282, but executed standdown at 1638. Bn was alerted for movement to DAK PEK on 8 Aug at 0630.

·        8 Aug 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY with Helilift of elements to DAK PEK. Lift commenced at 1220 hrs after several weather delays. At 1500 severe weather cancelled remainder of lift. The units at DAK PEK were Co D, B (less mortar section), Co A (less 1 Plt, and 81mm section) plus Bn CP element.

·        9 Aug 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY with airlift of Bn(-) to DAK PEK. At 1100 hrs, 1 UH-lD received AW fire from YF9464 and YB9464, no casualties. Gunships returned fire with unknown results.

·        10 Aug 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY in AO GRANDE. Companies A, B and C moved out to the SW on a 10 day S&D Op. Bn(-) remained at FSB DAK FEK. Co's A, B and C were joined by a 40 man CIDG Plt from the DAK PEK SF camp. Companies harbored vic YB951681.

·        11 Aug 67- 4/503d continued operations with Companies A, B and C conducting S&D Ops to the SW of DAK PEK. A Co found a NE to SW trail vic YB944654 used by 40-50 personnel in the last 3-5 days. A, B and C Co's harbored vic YB948647.

·        12 Aug 67- 4/503d continued operations with A, B and C Co's conducting S&D Ops to the SW of DAK PEK. Co C found 1 VC hut and fresh human waste vic YB934037, all elements harbored at YB934635.

·        13 Aug 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY with S&D missions in AO GRANDE, with Co's A, B and C as maneuver elements and Co D providing security for FSB DAK PEK. At 0730 hrs, all maneuver elements initiated movement for objective area YB906641. At 1010 hrs attached CIDG found a trail leading W-NE. At 1225 a DustOff was requested for 1 EM who fell and injured his back. DustOff was completed at 1747. At 1445 Co A reached objective. Co's A, B and C harbored at YB90664l, with Co B and C conducting 1 night ambush at YB907642 and YB908641.

·        16 Aug 67- 4/503d continued operations in AO GRANDE area surrounding DAK PEK. A Heliborne Assault was conducted commencing at 1125 hrs following preparatory fire from artillery and Gunships. Co D was initially inserted to secure LZ MIKE, YB900699 after being extracted from FSB. Companies B and C were extracted from PZ GEORGE, YB908638 which was secured by Co A and were inserted at LZ MIKE. The Assault mission was completed at 1353. No enemy contact was made by 4/503d units. There was sporadic ground fire which was suppressed by Gunships. Co C led order of march from LZ MIKE to continue S&D mission to the North and East. Co A was extracted from PZ GEORGE and returned to the FSB where it assumes mission of perimeter and area security. Companies B, C and D harbored vic YB909725.

·        15 Aug 67- 4/503d Continued operations with Co's B, C and D as maneuver elements conducting S&D in AO GRANDE moving North and East. Co A is providing security for FSB DAK PEK. At 1090 hrs CO in C&C ship spotted 1 VC vic YB912717 also spotted a cave or bunker vic YB906720. Maneuver elements reached harbor site at 1500, vic YB915716.

·        16 Aug 67- 4/503d continued operations with B, C and D Co's as maneuver elements in AO GRANDE. Co A is located at DAK PEK providing security for FSB. Co B found trails at following, YB 916718, YB917720 and YB926722. Co B also reports finding Company size rest area, squad bunkers and foxholes fighting positions at following, YB929731, YB929732, YB934733, YB936735 and YB936736. At 1540 hrs all maneuver elements closed into harbor site vic YB936736 with Co B conducting 1 night ambush at YB937739. At 1715 hrs a DustOff was requested for individual believed to have broken shoulder, but due to weather conditions EM could not be evacuated.

·        17 Aug 67- 4/503d continued operations with maneuver elements Co's B, C and D conducting S&D in AO GRANDE. Co A located at FSB DAK PEK providing security for the FSB. Co's B and C conducted S&D patrols from harbor site and Co D remained at harbor site preparing a LZ for resupply. At 0825 hrs Co C found overnight camp site large enough for 200 VC, but had not been used recently. Co A sent out two S&D patrols from FSB DAK PEK and at 1550 found 2 graves, which after opening proved to be graves of local populace. Individual with broken shoulder was evacuated by the C&C ship.

·        18 Aug 67- 4/503d continued operations with maneuver elements B, C and D Co's conducting S&D in AO GRANDE. Co A is located at FSB DAK PEK providing security. At 0910 hrs Co B requested DustOff for 1 EM who fell and cut his knee and is unable to walk. DustOff was later canceled and EM was picked up by C&C ship. All elements harbored at YB946718, with Co B and D conducting night ambush at YB947724 and YB948718.

·        19 Aug 67- 4/503d continued operations with maneuver elements B, C and D Co's conducting S&D and Co A providing security for FSB DAK PEK. At 1200 hrs Co C closed into FSB DAK PEK and released the 40 man CIDG Plt that was attached as guides. At 1215 and 1225 Co's B and C closed into FSB DAK PEK. All elements harbored vic FSB DAK PEK.

·        20 Aug 67- 4/503d continued operations with mission to return to FSB 1 (DAK TO). At 0915 the first CH47 arrived for extraction of 4.2 Plt. At 1056 hrs first lift of UH-1D arrived for extraction of personnel. All personnel were extracted and closed FSB 1 (DAK TO) at 1465 hrs.

·        21 Aug 67- 4/503d continued operations with all elements located at FSB 1 (DAK TO), providing security for FSB 1.

·        22 Aug 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY with Bn CP departing FSB 1 for FSB 7 at 0640 hrs and arriving at 0910 hrs. Companies A, B and C were Helilifted into AO JACK with first element on the LZ 1030 hrs. At 1100 hrs, all elements were on LZ JACK and had initiated movement for planned objectives. At 1200, Co C found well used trail that had been used recently. At 1252, Co B had l man with heart murmurs and he was evacuated by C&C ship. At 1320 hrs Co B reported incoming SA fire at ZB036115. Results 1 VC KIA and 1 US KIA. At 1115 contact was broken and DustOff was completed for KIA. At 1517 Co C requested DustOff for 2 EM, 1 was heat casualty and 1 with injured back. At 1519, Co B requested DustOff for EM suspected to have a rupture. Co A harbored at ZB042ll9, Co B ZB 036115, Co C ZB020127.

·        23 Aug 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY with Companies A, B and C as maneuver elements in AO LIMA. At 0950 hrs, Co C found a trail used by 5-10 Personnel in last 3-4 days. At 1000 Co A found trail 5ft wide which had not been used recently. At 1430 Co B found trail 2 1/2ft wide which had not been used recently. At 18l5, C&C ship received l SA rd and had to return to DAK TO.

·        24 Aug 67- 4/503d continued operations in AO LIMA with A, C and D Companies as maneuver elements. At 0835 hrs, Co A found trail running E-W estimated used in last two days. At 0950, Co A reported possible fortification south of village that enemy may have used during yesterdays shelling. D Co harbored ZB058125, Co B at ZB056116, Co C at YB045126.

·        25 Aug 67- 4/503d continued operations with maneuver elements of Co A, B and C conducting S&D operations in AO LIMA. Co's B and C were delayed on the days mission due to extraction of mess equipment. At 0930 hrs, all elements were notified as to disposition of captured food. Harbor sites; Co A at ZB052128, Co B at ZB060150, Co C at ZB062137. Ambush locations, Co A at ZB052128, Co C at ZB061137 and D at ZB062136.

·        30 Aug 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY with maneuver elements of Co A, B and C, conducting S&D in AO LIMA. At 1203 hrs, DustOff was completed for EM of Co B who had fractured leg. At 1206, Co C picked up 1 VC Suspect and he was extracted to Bde S2. Harbor sites; Co A at ZB058122, Co B at ZB065121, Co C at ZB065ll7.

·        31 Aug 67- 4/503d Continued GREELEY with Co A and B as maneuver elements. Co C was extracted to FSB 1 as Bde Reaction Force. At 1540 hrs, Co B found a way station. At 1320, Co A had 2 EM injured by accidental discharge of a claymore. EM were evacuated by LOC. Harbor sites; Co A at ZB006121, Co B ZBO56106. Ambush locations; Co A at ZB064116, Co B ZB057107. CO, 4/503d harbored at FSB 7.

·        1 Sep 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY (Election Security) in A0 LIMA with maneuvering elements Co A and B. At 0900 hrs, Co A, 2nd Plt, reported receiving 1 incoming grenade from estimated 2 VC while conducting patrol vic ZB055104. 81mm and 105mm supported with unknown results. At 1125, Co B initiated movement to conduct a thorough search of A Co contact area, Co B closed Harbor site ZB056106 and linked up with Co A at that location. Results of S&D mission proved negative. Both companies harbored at 1635 hrs. Negative casualties reported during day's operations Initially CO, 4/503d moved with Co B on the ground, returning to FSB 7 at 1500.

·        2 Sep 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY (Election Security) in AO LIMA, with no enemy contact or significant findings. At 0835 hrs, Co A secured village at ZB054118 where Catholic Chaplain Conducted services for villages at 1015. Co B conducted S&D ops with negative results. Co A conducted ambush vic ZB 056106. CO, 4/503d, harbored with forward elements at ZB056106.

·        3 Sep 67- 4/503 continued GREELEY in AO LIMA with no change in unit mission or disposition. Harbor site for both maneuver elements, Co A and B remained the same. Patrolling was conducted by Co B and Co A, the latter while returning from night operation. Negative findings or contact was reported during this period. DustOff was required at 2055 from Co B location for EM with possible appendicitis. Co C remained as Bde Reaction Force at DAK TO. D/4/503d remained attached to E/17th Cav conducting S&D operations in AO BUFFALO.

·        4 Sep 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY with S&D in AO LIMA, conducted by Co's A and B. Co C remained at FSB 1 as Bde Reaction Force. Co D attached to E/17th Cav and will secure FSB 13 for Co's A and C on the 5th.

·        5 Sep 67- 4/503 continued operations. 4/503d closed out ops in AO LIMA. Co A and B were extracted to FSB 1 (DAK TO), and CP located at FSB 7 was extracted to FSB 3 for commo purpose into new AO and responsibility for security of FSB 3 until 8 Sep.

·        6 Sep 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY. Bn(-) conducted Helilift to LZ l3, YB919261 with Co's A and C moving from FSB 1. D/4/503d secured LZ and was released from attachment E/17th Cav upon link up with parent unit at 0910 6 Sep and continued movement in AO 41. All units conducted S&D with negative enemy contact. Fwd CP element moved and harbored with Co C.

·        7 Sep 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY in AO 41 with negative contact. Two DustOffs were required by Co A during this period. LRRPs operating SW in AO LIMA were extracted in PM with negative sightings.

·        8 Sep 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY in AO 41 with negative enemy contact. Co D secured LZ 12, YB865251 at 1400 hrs, when airlift of elements was initiated to that location. From FSB 3 moved CIDG Co, 81mm section, Commo Plt and Bn Fwd CP element. 4.2 Mortar Plt and Plt of E/17th Cav, arrived from FSB 1. All units closed at 1815 hrs. One DustOff was required during this period. At 2054 , Co A reported 1 short 81mm rd fell into perimeter injuring 1 man slightly. Investigation will follow. CO, 4/503d harbored at FSB 12.

·        9 Sep 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY in AO 41 with negative enemy contact or significant findings. Co D patrolled extensively from its harbor site; Co A and C moved to vic FSB 12 in preparation for future operations in AO 42.

·        10 Sep 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY in AO 41 and 42, with negative enemy contact. Co A and B were switched, the former returning to DAK TO as Bde Reaction Force.

·        11 Sep 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY in AO 42 with S&D. No enemy contact reported and no significant findings.

·        12 Sep 67- 4/503d continued S&D in AO 42 with Co's B, C and D. Co A remained at DAK TO. The Bn was assigned responsibility for FSB 12. No enemy contact was made. Co C operating in AO 42, vic YB841288, tripped 2 booby traps which resulted in 6 WIA. Company has requested Air Support and Arty in booby trapped area.

·        13 Sep 67- 4/503d continued GREELEY conducting S&D in AO 42 with Co's B, C and D. There was no enemy contact during this period, but significant findings were reported by Co B.

·        14 Sep 67- 4/503d returned to FSB l at DAK TO, with all elements closing at 1425 hrs. One Platoon from Co A remained at FSB 5 as security force. Advance Party departed for TUY HOA (S-3, S-4, HQ Cmdt, S-3 NCO, S-3 driver).

·        15 Sep 67- 4/503d had no enemy contact during this period. Units remained at FSB 1 and prepared for air movement to TUY HOA and also provided perimeter security for FSB 1.

·        16 Sep 67- 4/503d remained at FSB 1 (DAK TO) preparing for move to TUY HOA and maintenance of equipment.

·        17 Sep 67- 4/503d closed out FSB 1 at DAK TO terminating Operation GREELEY. The Battalion as a whole moved by C-l3O from DAK TO to TUY HOA utilizing 16 aircraft. Included were elements from B/3/319 Arty. Bn closed out the base camp at 0700 hrs and 1st aircraft departed with 4/503d elements at 0745 hrs. At 1350 hrs the Bn closed at TUY HOA airstrip. At 1445 hrs, the Bn closed into base camp at CQ232372 and set up an operation area. Due to some vehicles being down, difficulty was encountered loading aircraft. No other problems were encountered.

·        US Losses: 24 KIA, 88 WIA - Enemy Losses: 26 VC KIA(BC), 1 POW/NVA

·        Enemy Equipment Captured:

2 Bridges                 10 Base Camps                   12 Chicom Grenades

1 US Body Bag             8 AK47 Magazines                2 Pistols

1 AK47                    1 LNG Chicom Type 7.62mm        11 82mm mortar rds

5 US 81mm mortar rds      2 60mm mortar rds               2 pkgs of dry rations

1 Hammock                 1 Bag rice                      40 Lbs rice

31 rds Cal 30 ammo        1 Canteen                       1 Drag rope w/hook

1 mortar cleaning rod     250 rds expended brass 30Cal    1 B-40 rocket rd

249 types fighting pos    1 Entrenching tool              1 Ammo case

2 Helmets                 1 Dog muzzle                    29 Hooches

6 Rest areas              1 Khaki uniform                 ¼ mi commo wire

1 Sniper platform         14 Caves                        8 Tunnels

1 VC Flashlight Battery   1 PRC25 Battery                 1 Block C4

1 l0"x 10" Bamboo prison  Misc documents                  Misc med.supplies

Misc rucksacks poncho and ammo    Misc mess gear and cooking utensils

14. Combat Service Logistics and Administration:
Logistics: Resupply to forward elements was accomplished with UH-1D helicopters. The weather often delayed complete resupply and caused late extractions in the mornings due to heavy ground fog and rain, resulting in lost operational time by the Line Companies. Water resupply was primarily accomplished with five gallon water cans. Control of sensitive items was a problem because there was seldom sufficient space to add a individual to the aircraft load to accompany such items.
Administration: Problems were encountered by the distance from the Battalion trains at DAK TO to the Base Camp at Bien Hoa. This was partially resolved by deploying an S1 team forward.
Initially communications between Bien Hoa and Dak To were unsatisfactory. After several weeks, telephone communications were possible and administration could be completed.
On 10 July 67, this Battalion suffered 22 KIAs and 48 WIA. We experienced delays in processing awards, letters of condolences and personal effects. In the event of future casualties in large number, we will deploy a competent team to expedite these actions.
Administrative matters required the Battalion personnel Staff NCO to make frequent visits to the Battalion training area. He spent about one third of his time there and the remainder in the Base Camp at Bien Hoa.

15. Special Equipment and Techniques:
Special Equipment: From 10 Aug to 19 Aug, the Bn maneuver element utilized a 40 man CIDG Platoon as the Bn point element. Different Platoon Leaders from the Line Companies would act as the CIDG Platoon Leader everyday. The US Platoon Leaders would actually guide and run the CIDG Platoon. However, it was necessary to have US security for the Platoon Leader, as the CIDG are generally not reliable in a heavy contact. The American Platoon Leader used his own RTO and a 3-4 man security team with 1-2 men in front of him and 1-2 men behind him.
Techniques: Upon harboring at night the US Platoon leader would use his Platoon and the CIDG Platoon as a combat outpost outside the Bn perimeter. The CIDG positions would be intermingled with the US positions for improving US and CIDG relationship and as a security precaution. The US CP and the CIDG CP were together for coordination purposes. For navigational purposes this arrangement was almost ideal. Although the CIDG Platoon Leader could not read a map he could be communicated with by hand signals mixed with a few simple US terms. Since the CIDG usually have lived and worked in the area before, they would move normally in the most direct route between Objectives. On several occasions they would disregard tactical safety in lieu of the most convenient route, but with a little persuasion they would alter their route to the desire of the US Commanders.

16. Commanders Analysis and Lessons Learned:
Weather conditions and periods of limited visibility restricted the conduct of Heliborne operations during the morning hours; tactical air support is frequently restricted by weather.
Companies must be deployed to insure a capability to reinforce one another if contact is made. Time to reinforce is the over riding factor rather than distance.
Bn Commanders can not effectively control and supervise Companies from the ground. Dense jungle canopy and nature of terrain is extremely restrictive. Under these conditions the most effective control is gained by use of Command and Control helicopters.
Companies should not be assigned march objectives. Often, to reach objectives requires the sacrifice of security for speed of movements. In the Central Highlands movement of troops with packs will not usually exceed 205-300 meters per hour.
Unless absolutely unavoidable, units should attempt immediately to break contact with a well-dug in enemy force of sufficient size. Supporting fires from all available sources (Artillery, TAC Air, Gunships) can adequately prep an objective area before the commitment of ground elements. Where it is not possible to break contact, units must be prepared to accept casualties from friendly artillery fire in order to bring fires close in on the enemy. (Extracted from 8 July AAR)
Units in direct contact must make an immediate and accurate an appraisal as possible of the existing situation. Units in contact must have priority of communications with commanders, so that sound decisions can be made regarding the commitment of other elements. Nets must remain clear, as the tactical situation demands this much. (Extracted from 8 July AAR).
A chain of command must not only be established prior to any engagement, but it must also be implemented immediately when required. This is necessitated by the fact that a continuous command structure must exist throughout any encounter with the enemy.
Anyone must be prepared, particularly Officers and Senior NCO's to adjust artillery fire quickly and with accuracy. This is of paramount importance when principal artillery attachments become Battle Casualties.
Units operating in combat areas should always have scout dog teams attached, so that early warning of proximity to enemy forces can be given.

FOR THE COMMANDER:

GEORGE T.BALDRIDGE

CPT,Infantry

Adjutant

 

 

 


 

DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
HEADQUARTERS, 4TH BATTALION (AIRBORNE), 503D INFANTRY
APO US Forces 96250

SUBJECT: Combat Operations After Action Report: Operation BOLLING I

In accordance with Brigade Regulation Number 335-8, the following report is submitted.

1.    General: TF 4/503d Inf conducted Operation BOLLING I in five phases utilizing multiple Heliborne Assaults, Search and Destroy operations, FSB Security and Local Patrolling.

2.    Name of Operation: Operation BOLLING I

3.    Type of Operation: Search and Destroy

4.    Date of Operation: 17 Sep 67 to 31 Oct 67

5.    Location: Tuy Hoa, Phu Yen Province.

6.    Control or Command Headquarters: HeadQuarters, 173D Abn Bde (Sep)

7.    Reporting Officer: LTC Johnson

8.    Task Organization:

A/4-503

B/4-503

C/4-503

Scout Dog Team

Scout Dog Team

Scout Dog Team

Engineer Team

Engineer Team

Engineer Team

.

.

.

D/4-503

Battalion Control

 

Scout Dog Team

HHC(-)

 

Engineer Team

 

 

.

.

.

*Note: Opn BOLLING I terminated 31 Oct 67 for the 4/503d, and Opn MACARTHUR commenced 1 Nov 67 Opn MACARTHUR continued until 16 Dec and Opn BOLLING again started on 17 Dec 67. The period from 17 Dec until 31 Dec was called Opn B0LLING II for administrative purposes: also Opn BOLLING II was not terminated on 31 Dec 67, but continued into the year 1968.

9. Supporting Forces:
Units in support of TF 4/503d were, 7th Air Force, 268th Avn Bn (19 Sep 67 only), B/3/319th Arty, C/6/16th Arty, C/6/32nd Arty (GS), 335th Avn Co.

10. Intelligence:
Viet Cong Order of Battle, Capabilities and Expected courses of action: Units within the Battalion area of operation and area of interest (Estimated strength)

HQ 5th NVA Div (3060)

95th NVA Regt (1200)

30th MF Bn (NVA) (Unk)

85th LF Bn (285)

K-65 Sapper Co (Unk)

K-76 Sapper Co (Unk)

91st NVA (Possible) (Unk)

313th NVA Bn (Possible) (Unk)

Enemy Capabilities:
Build up their units through infiltration, recruiting and conscription.
Attack installations and friendly forces in Northern and Central Phu Yen Province with up to one marginal combat effective Regiment.
Attack in the Central and Southern portions of the Province with a force of up to five Battalions (with the possible units added, the enemy could attack with a force as large as ten Battalions.)
Harassment, terrorism and unconventional warfare.

Enemy indications and expected courses of action prior to operations:
Continued harassing terrorist and unconventional activities.
NVA/VC Battalions and Company units will raid weakly defended installations and support facilities with the aid of local force VC units.
NVA/VC Multi Battalion attacks on friendly Battalions or smaller friendly forces.
Continued recruiting and conscription.

Enemy situation during the operation:
Appendix 1 (Intelligence Estimate) to ANNEX B (Intelligence) to OPORD 23-67. Daily Intelligence Summaries, Headquarters, 173d Abn Brigade (Sep), 17 Sep-31 Oct 67.

Order of Battle findings:
Daily Intelligence Summaries, Headquarters 173d Abn Bde Sep. 17 Sep-31 Oct 67.

Terrain Analysis:
The contour of the terrain is characterized by closely compartmented ridges and valleys. The highest terrain within the AO is in the vic of BQ 9754, which is 451 meters high, while local relief of valleys is generally around 150 meters. Within the AO large formations of fallen rock provide excellent cover and concealment. Hills are basically rock and timber while the lowlands are elephant grass and small trees.

11. Mission:
OPORD 23-67 (BOLLING I), Headquarters, 173d Abn Bde (Sep)
Frag O1 to OPORD 23-67, 22 Sep 67: TF 4/503d Conducts Heliborne Assault on LZ VALLEY, 0730 23 Sep 67. Attack to destroy enemy forces in AO VALLEY. Security of FSB BASIN and FSB CANAL.
Frag O2 to OPORD 23-67, 23 Sep 67: TF 4/503d(+) released from security responsibility of FSB BASIN.
Frag O3 to OPORD 23-67, 26 Sep 67: TF 4/503d conducts Cordon and Search Ops of villages in AO SAND. D/4/503d released from Bde control 1600 26 Sep. One Platoon E/17th Cav detached and returned to parent unit control, 261600 Sep 67.

OPORD 24-67 (BOLLING I), Headquarters, 173d Abn Bde (Sep.)
Frag O1 to OPORD 24-67, 30 Sep 67: TF 4/503d conducts cordon and search of village complex vic BQ9435. C/4/503d released to Bn control 0630 30 Oct 67. A/4/503d is Bde Reaction Force upon closure to PHU HIEP, 1 Oct 67.
Frag O2 to OPORD 24-67, 1 Oct 67: TF 4/503d continues Search and Destroy in AO NORTH.
Frag O3 to OPORD 24-67, 2 Oct 67: TF 4/503d continues Search and Destroy in AO NORTH.
Frag O4 to OPORD 24-67, 7 Oct 67: TF 4/503d conducts Search and Destroy in AO SONG. Recon Plt 1/503d attached to 4/503d effective 0630 6 Oct 67. Secure 2 bridges located HWY 7B vic CQ001391 and CQ035391.
Frag O5 to OPORD 24-67, 7 Oct 67: TF 4/503d conducts Heliborne Assault from AO SONG to seize and secure FSB SADDLE 071200 Oct 67. Search and destroy operations in AO SADDLE. Secure FSB SADDLE, CIDG Co supports FSB security. Helilift B/3/319th Arty and CIDG Plt from FSB GOOSE to FSB SADDLE. A/4/503d secures Engineer bridge sites located Hwy 7B vic CQ035394; joins Engr Arty convoy for return to PHU HIEP; Brigade Reaction Force upon closure PHU HIEP.
Frag O6 to OPORD 24-67, 12 Oct 67: TF 4/503d continues Search and Destroy in AO PEAK. Secures FSB PEAK and FSB BOWL.
Frag O7 to OPORD 24-67, 12 Oct 67: TF 4/503d continues Search and Destroy in AO PEAK and security FSB PEAK. A/4/503d Helilifted from FSB BOWL to secure FSB ARROW, 13 Oct 67. 130745 Oct 67 be prepared within 1 hour to reinforce 1/503d in AO CANOE, on order.
Frag O8 to OPORD 24-67, 14 0ct 67: TF 4/503d continues Search and Destroy in AO PEAK and Security of FSB PEAK. Helilift A/4/503d from FSB ARROW to LZ vic BQ975458. Extract B/4/503d from PZ vic CQ016475 to PHU HIEP. Provide 1 Company for Bde Reaction Force at PHU HIEP.
Frag O9 to OPORD 24-67, 18 Oct 67: TF 4/503d continues Search and Destroy in AO PEAK and security of FSB PEAK.
Frag O1O to OPORD 24-67, 19 0ct 67: TF 4/503d continues Search and Destroy in AO PEAK and security of FSB PEAK. B/4/503d released OPCON E/17th Cav 1200 20 Oct 67 and rejoins parent organization. Prepare to receive CIDG Company on 22 0ct 67.
Frag O13 to OPORD 24-67, 30 Oct 67: TF 4/503d be prepared to move Bn(-) (one Co Bde Reaction Force at PHU HIEP) within 2 hrs notice, by helicopter from AO PEAK to PHU HIEP. Be Prepared to move 1 Company (Bde Reaction Force) on 1 hour notice by C-130 aircraft from PHU HIEP to DAK TO for an indefinite period commencing 0700 30 Oct 67; OPCON to 4th Inf Div upon closure at DAK TO.
Frag O14 to OPORD 24-67, 31 Oct 67: TF 4/503d conducts Heliborne movement from AO PEAK to PHU HIEP, commencing 010730 Nov 67. Conduct motor movement from PHU HIEP to TUY HOA airbase, for movement to DAK TO by C-130 aircraft. Load time for first element 011000 Nov 67. OPCON to 4th Inf Div upon arrival at DAK TO.

12. Concept of Operation:
Phase 1: 17 Sep-18 Sep: TF 4/503d located at PHU HIEP and utilized this period of time for preparation for Opn BOLLING I.
Phase 2: 19 Sep-23 Sep: TF 4/503d to initiate Opn BOLLING I by Heliborne Assault into LZ BASIN. Co C FSB BASlN security. Co's A, B and D conduct Search and Destroy missions in AOs LOG, ECHO and ABLE respectively. 22 Sept 67, Co's A, B and C 4/503d to conduct Heliborne Assault into RICE BOWL. Co D is FSB BASIN security.
Phase 3: 23 Sep-28 Sep: TF 4/503d conducts Heliborne Assault on LZ VALLEY and initiates Search and Destroy in AO VALLEY. 24 Sep, D/4/503d is Bde Reaction Force. 25 Sep, TF 4/503d continues Search and Destroy in AO VALLEY. 26 Sep, D/4/503d reverts to Bn control. 27 Sep, TF 4/503d, using 4 Companies, conducts Heliborne Assault on 4 LZ's for Cordon and Search of village of PHU SEN. 28 Sep, TF 4/503d continues Search and Destroy of PHU SEN.
Phase 4: 29 Sep-7 Oct: TF 4/503d conducts Heliborne Assault on LZ CAT with 3 Companies 29 Sep 67. C/4/503d secures FSB. TF 4/503d conducts Search and Destroy mission after assault 1 Oct 67. TF 4/503d conducts a 2 Company Heliborne Assault of 2 LZs to Cordon and Search village. Co D moves by foot to village. Co B is Bde Reaction Force. 7 Oct, TF 4/503d conducts Heliborne Assault into LZ SADDLE/FSB SADDLE. Co A is Bde Reaction Force.
Phase 5: 8 Oct-31 Oct: TF 4/503d, 8 Oct continues Search and Destroy in AO SADDLE. TF 4/503d, 11 Oct continues Search and Destroy. Co A reverts to Bn control and was airlifted to FSB BOWL to provide security. 15 Oct, Co B is Bde Reaction Force. 17 Oct, B/4/503d OPCON E/17th Cav. TF 4/503d, 30 Oct prepares to move to DAK TO on order.

13. Execution:

·        18 Sep 67- 4/503d Inf remained at PHU HIEP and prepared for future operations. At 1330 hrs OPORD 15-67 for Opn BOLLING I was issued to the Staff. At 1400 hrs OPORD 15-67 was issued to the Company Commanders. All Companies and CO 4/503d were harbored in PHU HIEP.

·        19 Sep 67- 4/503d Inf initiated operation BOLLING I with a Heliborne Assault on LZ BASlN. At 0530 hrs radio silence was lifted and communications were established on all nets. Co C, the Assault Company became Heliborne at 0718. Co B, A, 4.2 Plt, HHC(-) and Co D followed on the assault. 0800 hrs Co C reported assembly on the LZ. 0820 hrs Co B reported assembly on the LZ and initiating movement into AO ECHO. 0843 hrs Co A reported assembly and initiated movement into AO LOG. 0850 hrs Co D reported assembly and initiated movement into AO ABLE. At 0930 hrs message to all Companies: Move two and one half hrs from time of landing on LZ and hold for further instructions. At 1200 Co D found an empty wooden box with, Explosive Mine, Drew Alabama, written on the side. At 1230, CO 4/503d, ordered all Companies to initiate movement. At 1235 Co D found a well used trail vic CQ963511. The trail ran SW to NE and did not appear to have been recently used. At 1300, CO 4/503d departed FSB BASIN to fly over AO. At 1520 Companies harbored as follows: Co A at BQ963485, Co B at BQ939512, Co C at FSB BASIN and Co D at BQ961525. Msg from Bde at 1957 hrs: Convoy laagered at 05391, be prepared to provide Company size Reaction Force for support of convoy element. Msg from Bde: at 2240 hrs, LRRP team at CQ019540 made contact and was extracted.

·        20 Sep 67- 4/503d continued S&D operations in AO BASIN with with Co's A, B and D. Co C remained at FSB as the security element and reserve Company.

·        21 Sep 67- 4/503d continued operations in AO BASIN with Co A, B and D. Co C remained in FSB. There was no enemy contact during this period, several DustOffs were required, none resulted from contact.

·        22 Sep 67- 4/503d Inf continued operations in AO BASIN with Co's A, B and D as maneuver elements and Co C as security for FSB BASIN. At 0700 hrs all Company ambushes closed with negative results. At 0800 Companies began patrols. At 0900, 4.2 Mortar Plt began airlift to PHU HIEP. 0920 hrs, Co D finished patrols and began moving to FSB BASIN. At 1010 Co B found tunnel complex vic BQ937546, inside tunnel were found 4 bodies, 2 weeks old, some Chinese grenades, utensils, and one document. At 1040 Co A patrol closed, negative results. 1301 hrs Msg from Bde: We will have 9 ROK attachments for next operation. At 1305 hrs Battalion CO conducted Recon of LZ for future operations. At 1615 4.2 Mortar Plt closed PHU HIEP. 1815 hrs A/S for tomorrow confirmed. At 1915 Co B sighted 2 VC vic BQ940544, 81mm and M79 fired into area. At 2325 hrs Msg from Bde: One NVA Bn on hilltop NE sector of AO VALLEY. Request portion of preplanned strikes in this area, also recommend sending element. CO 4/503d harbored FSB BASIN with Co D and C. Co A harbored BQ967453, Co B at BQ938542.

·        23 Sep 67- 4/503d Inf continued BOLLING I by conducting Assault on LZ VALLEY and initiating S&D operations in AO VALLEY. Co C was assault Company and touched down on LZ at 0745 with negative contact reported on LZ. Co A closed LZ at 0945 hrs, B at 1045 hrs. 4/503d departed LZ to conduct S&D operations in AO VALLEY. 1100 hrs Co B accidentally fired on 3rd Plt of E/17th Cav, 1 US WIA (not serious). EM was evacuated by DustOff. 1500 CP Group departed FSB BASIN and established at FSB CANAL. Harbor sites were as follows; CP and 4.2 Mortar at CQ116437, Co A at 076478, Co B at 072466, Co C at CQ060464, Co D at BQ953503. Approx 80 detainees were taken in todays operation.

·        24 Sep 67- 4/503d continued Opn BOLLING I. At 0400 hrs Co B initiated movement toward Obj Z, 084456. At 0720, Co A initiated movement. Co D remained at FSB BASIN. At 0730, Co B located 1 750lb bomb in village. At 0945, Co B spotted 6 VC and fired on them wounding one. Co B picked up 1 woman, vic 086447 who spoke English, she confirmed that she was VC. At 0915, Co D was extracted to PHU HIEP as Bde Reaction Force. At 1035, Co B found four 55gal drums of rice at vic CQ056456. Co D closed PHU HIEP at 1020 hrs. At 1220, 130 detainees arrived at FSB CANAL. Harbor sites; Co A at CQ086465, Co B at CQ073436, Co C at CQ059445. At 2205 hrs an informer told Co B that 3 Platoons were hiding underground in the village of PHY THAN, S3 will follow up.

·        25 Sep 67- 4/503d continued S&D operations in AO VALLEY. Co C made contact with VC in caves and tunnels and were routed out with CS operations. Co C netted 1 VC KIA and 5 POW. Co A continued to police up civilian personnel for screening which amounted to around 400 persons. Co B was led to a tunnel complex where 6 VC were hiding, CS was used and 3 VC gave up and 3 VC stayed in the tunnel, they were found dead. Five tons of rice was collected and turned over to ARVN troops to guard. Co C was probed during the night and received some incoming SA rds, 3 US casualties were reported from booby traps.

·        26 Sep 67- 4/503d continued S&D operations in AO VALLEY. All civilian personnel that were held, estimated (400) were screened and detainees sent to Bde for further questioning. Co C captured 2 more POW. Co D reverted back to Bn control and 3rd Plt E/17th Cav attached to 4/503d reverted back to E/17th Cav. Co D moved by truck convoy from PHU HIEP to PZ vic CQ063395. Co A, B and C harbored together. 4/503d operation in AO VALLEY will terminate 0700 27 Sep.

·        27 Sep 67- 4/503d conducted a Heliborne Assault with E/17th Cav on PHU SEN village. The village was Cordoned off and Searched. The operation started at 0630 hrs with Co B and ended at 1500. Co A found one tunnel with 6 VC in it, grenades were used in tunnel and 5 VC were KIA and 1 captured along with weapons and ammo. Co B captured 2 VC in a tunnel and killed one. No US casualties resulted from enemy contact. All 4 Companies were picked up from one PZ and four LZs were used for touch down. CO stayed on the ground during conduct of operation.

·        28 Sep 67- 4/503d conducted S&D operations vic PHU SEN and moved to new harbor site vic BQ982382 where they secured area for a FSB. Units harbored and will prepare for Heliborne Assault into AO CAT tomorrow. One PW escaped from Co B during movement. One EM from Co D believed drowned while making river crossing body has not been recovered. One child was killed at FSB CANAL by VN Regional Forces, VN soldier fired weapon into ground to keep civilians out of FSB area and one child was hit, affair was handled by District Advisor. FSB CANAL was closed out at 1800 hrs and CP Group with 4.2 Mortar Plt arrived at FSB SEN at 1900 by road convoy.

·        29 Sep 67- Co C conducted Heliborne Assault on LZ DIKE at 0720 hrs. Co's A, B and D conducted Heliborne Assault on LZ CAT at 0949 with no enemy contact. Co C was picked up and extracted to PHU HIEP as Brigade Reaction Force. Co's A, B and D conducted S&D missions after assault. All Companies harbored by 1645 hrs.

·        30 Sep 67- 4/503d continued limited S&D operations in AO, units were in blocking positions to the West, while E/17th Cav moved into AO 99. No enemy contact was made. Co C remained as Bde Reaction Force and conducted one Eagle flight with 1st Plt to CQ 002392, no enemy contact was made. Body of drowned EM from Co D was recovered from a sand bar. Co A had 5 EM wounded from grenade thrown by a friendly which hit a tree and bounced back toward positions. No serious casualties were reported. Co A and B reported incoming grenades at harbor site, no casualties from incoming grenades.

·        1 Oct 67- 4/503d conducted Heliborne Assault on two LZ's, with mission to Cordon and Search village. Co C was airlifted from PHU HIEP into LZ PIE. Co B made Heliborne Assault on LZ HORSE and moved by foot into blocking position south of village. Co A secured PZ for Co B and then was extracted to PHU HIEP as Bde Reaction Force. Sniper fire was received at harbor site which resulted in 1 US WIA, 1 VC was KIA and 2 POW were captured along with 2 weapons. Several small base camps were found and 1 VC underground hospital.

·        2 Oct 67- 4/503d continues S&D Operations in AO NORTH with Co's B, C and D in the AO. Co A remained at PHU HIEP as Bde Reaction Force. At 0745 hrs Co D found a bunker complex vic BQ925345 and 925344. At 1100, CO 4/503d, requested artillery, air strikes and gunships on possible enemy location vic BQ915367. Co D occupied blocking positions along routes of withdrawal as Co C cleared the high ground. Co D was in reserve as reinforcement element. Co C captured 1 VC and 1 weapon. At 1125 Co C found 3 male and 1 female VC vic BQ909366 in a cave who were extracted to Brigade. Co B, C and D remained in AO NORTH for further S&D operations. Bn CO remained with the TAC CP group with forward elements vic BQ925355 as Battalion laager site.

·        3 Oct 67- 4/503d continued Operation BOLLING I with maneuver elements in AO NORTH conducting S&D Operations. All elements had reached harbor site by 1800 hrs, B and D Co's vic BQ887376 and Co C vic BQ875386. The 4/503d conducted 2 night ambush patrols, Co B at BQ875376 and Co D at BQ884384. At 2250 hrs 3 VC were spotted from perimeter of FSB SEN when a trip flare was set off. At 2250 hrs, 81mm mortar section had a short round which landed inside the perimeter resulting in 1 US KIA and 1 WIA.

·        4 Oct 67- 4/503d continued BOLLING I in AO NORTH with Co's B, C and D as maneuver elements in AO. Co A remained at PHU HIEP as Bde Reaction Force. At 0005 hrs DustOff was requested for EM that was wounded by short round on 3 Oct 67. At 0015 DustOff ship crashed approx 250 meters to the east of FSB SEN resulting in all 5 crewmembers aboard being killed. DustOff was completed at 0520 hrs by LOC ships. At 0745 hrs Co B and C initiated S&D Operations moving to the NW at 1415. Co C spotted 1 VC who was taken under fire with negative results. At 1600 hrs all units closed harbor sites.

·        5 Oct 67- 4/503d Inf continued BOLLING I with maneuver elements B, C and D Co's conducting S&D Operations. Co A will provide security for 173d Eng at 2 bridge locations, CQ035395 and BQ001391. Companies B, C and D harbored BQ876381, Co's A harbored CQ035395. Night ambush patrols were conducted.

·        6 Oct 67- 4/503d continued Operations in AO NORTH with maneuver elements B, C and D conducting S&D Operations with Co A providing security for the 173d Engineers. All elements closed into harbor site vic BQ861375.

·        7 Oct 67- 4/503d continued BOLLING I with Companies B, C and D as maneuver elements. Co A will return to PHU HIEP as Bde Reaction Force. Co's B, C and D were extracted from AO NORTH and conducted Heliborne Assault into FSB SADDLE. At 1635 hrs all elements had closed FSB SADDLE. Co's B and C harbored at CQ026484, Co D at CQ027472.

·        8 Oct 67- 4/503d continued Operations with maneuver elements B, C and D Companies conducting S&D operations. At 1130 hrs Co D reached harbor site CQ041454 and conducted S&D operations in that vicinity. At 1520 hrs Co B made contact with estimated 5-10 VC resulting in 2 US WIA and 1 VC WIA who was taken as POW. Companies B and C harbored vic CQ014569.

·        9 Oct 67- 4/503d Inf continued BOLLING I in AO SADDLE with maneuver elements Co B, C and D conducting S&D Operations. At 1555 hrs DustOff was requested for 1 EM of C Co who fell and cannot move his legs. At 1623 Co C spotted 10 VC vic CQ050442. At 1704 Co D reported receiving sniper fire with negative casualties. Co B harbored at CQ015474, Co C harbored CQ040511, Co D harbored at CQ043448.

·        10 Oct 67- 4/503d continued S&D operations in assigned AO with Co's B, C and D. Co A remained at PHU HIEP as the Bde Reaction Force. The Battalion made no large enemy contact during this period. Light sniper fire was reported by Co D with negative results. Bn will continue operation west of the rice fields and keep the VC from taking the rice harvest. Co D made Heliborne Assault on LZ vic CQ033403, unit was moved into a blocking position.

·        11 Oct 67- 4/503d continued BOLLING I with no change in mission. The Bn continued operating north and south of FSB PEAK with 3 Companies. Co A reverted back to Bn control and was airlifted to FSB BOWL vic BQ987459, Co A will secure FSB and conduct local patrols vic of FSB. 4/503d has perimeter security responsibility for the FSB. Co B had two MedEvac requests for accidental injuries.

·        12 Oct 67- 4/503d Inf continued Operations in AO SADDLE with maneuver elements B, C and D Companies conducting Squad and Platoon size S&D patrols, Co A conducted live fire problems, test fired weapons. At 1045 hrs 8 personnel were extracted from maneuver elements for R&R and medical reasons.

·        13 Oct 67- 4/503d Inf had no change in mission, Co B, C and D continued S&D operations in AO. Co A moved to FSB ARROW and will secure FSB for 2/503d. Co B fired at 1 VC with unknown results, no other contact was made.

·        14 Oct 67- 4/503d Inf continued Operations with maneuver elements B, C and D Companies conducting S&D operations in AO. DustOff was required for 1 EM of Co D, this was accomplished by use of the C&C ship. At 1605 hrs B Co made contact with 3 NVA resulting in 1 NVA KIA.

·        15 Oct 67- 4/503d Inf continued Operations with maneuver elements conducting S&D operations in AO. At 1415 Co D made contact with estimated 6-8 VC resulting in 2 US WIA. At 1635 Co B returned to PHU HIEP as Bde Reaction Force. At 1930, Co C made contact with 5 VC, resulting in 1 VC KIA.

·        16 Oct 67- 4/503d Inf had no change in mission, Co A, C and D continued S&D in AO. Co B remained as Bde Reaction Force at PHU HIEP. Co D made light contact with estimated 3-4 VC/NVA. At 1630 hrs, lead element spotted enemy on trail and brought them under fire. The second plt continued to reestablish contact after the enemy fled. At 1815, 2nd plt was fired at by enemy and this resulted in 2 US WIA. Unit was pulled back into perimeter and Arty called in, results unknown, area will be searched at day break.

·        17 Oct 67- 4/503d Inf had no change in mission. Co A continued S&D operations south in AO PEAK, Co C operated north of FSB PEAK. Co D was extracted from BQ997443 to FSB PEAK. Co D was resupplied and conducted live fire training at FSB PEAK. Co D moved SE of FSB PEAK at 1700 hrs and will conduct S&D operations along canal. Co B remained as Bde Reaction Force.

·        18 Oct 67- 4/503d Inf Continued operations in AO PEAK with 3 Companies. Co C made Heliborne Assault on LZ vic BQ959526 and will conduct S&D operations to the south and southeast. Co A will conduct operations to the NE. Co D Operated along the canal east and northeast of FSB PEAK. Co D had 1 VC KIA and detained 1 female who was traveling with the VC. There were no other enemy contacts made. CO harbored with CP Group at FSB PEAK. Co B remains OPCON to E/17th Cav.

·        19 Oct 67- 4/503d Inf operations with maneuver elements conducting S&D operations in AO PEAK. Co B remains OPCON to E/17th Cav. At l240 hrs Co B made contact with 2 VC resulting in 1 VC KIA and 1 POW which required DustOff. At 1405 Co D reported receiving SA and AW fire with negative results. At 2115 Co B OPCON E/17th Cav received incoming grenade, resulting in 3 US WIA.

·        20 Oct 67- 4/503d Inf continued operations with maneuver elements conducting S&D operations in AO PEAK, with Co B being extracted from AO SEN into AO PEAK back under control of the 4/503d Inf. The 4/503d Inf Conducted 10 night ambushes with negative results.

·        21 Oct 67- 4/503d Inf continued S&D missions in A0. At 1405 hrs Co C made contact with 35-40 NVA resulting in 1 US KIA, 2 US WIA and 3 NVA KIA. Co D conducted Heliborne Assault at 1530 hrs and proceeded to blocking positions with negative contact. 4/503d had 12 ambush patrols. Co B ambush took 1 VC under fire with unknown results.

·        22 Oct 67- 4/503d Inf continued searching their AO today with Co D being Helilifted back to FSB for the night security. Co A made contact with 1 VC, resulting in 1 VC KIA. Co B captured 1 VC/NVA and another escaped. The 4/503d continued maneuvers with Squad and Platoon size elements.

·        23 Oct 67- 4/503d continued S&D in AO PEAK. At 1545 hrs Co B 2nd Plt sighted 3 VC and were taken under fire with negative results. At 1820, Co B took another VC under fire with negative results. 4/503d had 11 ambushes with negative results.

·        24 Oct 67- 4/503d Inf continued S&D of AO PEAK. At 1100 hrs Co C spotted 3 VC armed with AK47's and fired upon them with neg results. TF 4/503d had 8 ambush patrols with negative results.

·        25 Oct 67- 4/503d Inf continued S&D Operations in AO around FSB PEAK. At approx 0945 hrs, the CSF A-229 made close contact with an estimated Platoon size NVA force, results 3 NVA KIA and 2 weapons captured (AK47 & SKS) at vic CQ044420. The 1st Plt of D Co was airlifted into a blocking position and then returned to FSB PEAK by helilift at 1910 hrs. 4/503d and attachments harbored for the night and dispatched ambush and combat patrols.

·        26 Oct 67- 4/503d Inf continued S&D operations in assigned AO around FSB PEAK. All elements worked from a pre-set harbor site today. A frequency change in the Bn command net went into effect at 1800 hrs. All elements were heard loud and clear on the new freq 43.60. Elements harbored in present sites and dispatched ambush and combat patrols.

·        27 Oct 67- 4/503d Inf continued S&D missions in AO around FSB PEAK. At 0815 hrs Co C engaged 2 VC vic CQ991535 resulting in 1 VC KIA and 1 SKS rifle. Co B spotted 3 men moving at 1910 hrs and used grenades and small arms. Illumination fired by 4.2 Mortars. At 1930, Co B made contact in another location, threw grenades into bunkers and it collapsed. Enemy casualties unk, 1 US slightly wounded. Elements closed into harbor sites and dispatched combat and ambush patrols

·        28 Oct 67- 4/503d Inf continued S&D operations in assigned AO around FSB PEAK. At 1120 hrs, Co B captured 2 POW, 1 boy and 1 female, with no weapons, POW were extracted at 1537 hrs. Elements closed into harbor sites and dispatched ambush and combat patrols.

·        29 Oct 67- 4/503d Inf continued S&D operations in AO around FSB PEAK. The CSF Force engaged 8 VC with packs and weapons at 500 meters, vic CQ039425, results unknown. At 1230 hrs reported having 1 female detainee, who was extracted later in the day. Elements closed into harbor sites and dispatched ambush and combat patrols.

·        30 Oct 67- 4/503d Continued S&D operations in assigned AO around FSB PEAK. Received message from Brigade, to be ready to move to DAK TO on 6 hrs notice. CSF Force fired on Platoon of VC headed west and the VC fled to the east. Co A was extracted to PHU HIEP to act as Brigade Reaction Force. Elements closed into harbor sites and dispatched ambush and combat patrols.

·        31 Oct 67- 4/503d continued S&D operations in AO around FSB PEAK. At 1447 hrs General Rossen visited FSB PEAK and was briefed by the Bn CO. Co D departed FSB PEAK to conduct S&D operations in the AO. Elements closed into harbor sites and dispatched ambushes and combat patrols.

·        Results: US Losses, 4 KIA, 17 WIA, Enemy Losses: 37 KIA, 2 KIA (poss)

·        The following items were captured:

l US Carbine              3 US M-1                        2 US Springfields

2 Mausers                 1 BAR                           4 AK47

l Russian pistol,7.62     3 SKS Carbines                  7 Chicom grenades

1881 M1 rounds            208 M79 rounds                  78 Mortar rounds

1 Binocular               7 Civilian trans radio          3 Ruck Sacks

5 Tons rice               10 Documents

14. Combat Services, Logistics and Administration:
Logistics: No logistical difficulties were encountered. Supplies were drawn from TUY HOA Area command. Normal resupply was conducted by UH-1D.
Administration: Communications prohibited administrative processing initially due to the fact that this was a new area of operations for the 4/503d.

15. Special Equipment and Techniques:
The Mitey Mite was used in routing VC from a tunnel and proved effective.

16. Commanders Analysis and Lesson Learned:
Companies should carry as many daily rations as possible so that resupply can be conducted as little as possible. Resupply gives away the elements position which negates possibility of finding the enemy.
In the TUY HOA area, small unit patrols, numerous ambushes and Heliborne Assaults are necessary due to the enemy generally operating as smaller units.
Ample CS grenades should be carried because tunnel complexes are numerous subsequently protective masks should be readily available and tunnel rats should be designated.

FOR THE COMMANDER:

GEORGE T.BALDRIDGE

CPT,Infantry

Adjutant

 

 

 


 

DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
HEADQUARTERS, 4TH BATTALION (AIRBORNE), 503D INFANTRY
APO US Forces 96250

SUBJECT: Combat Operations After Action Report: Operation MAC ARTHUR

In accordance with Brigade Regulation Number 335-8, the following report is submitted.

1.    General: TF 4/503d Inf conducted Operation MACARTHUR by utilizing Troop ground movements mostly. However Heliborne Assaults and local patrolling were used toward the termination of the operation.

2.    Name of Operation: Operation MAC ARTHUR

3.    Type of Operation: Search and Destroy

4.    Date of Operation: 1 Nov 67 to 16 Dec 67

5.    Location: Dak To Airstrip, ZB010215, to FSB YB873257, to FSB 15 YB853187, to FSB 12 YB 873257 and FSB 13 YB916259, to FSB 16 YB8l5151, to Dak To airstrip and check point 114 YB953239.

6.    Control or Command Headquarters: Headquarters 1st Brigade, 4th Infantry Division; 4-8 November 1967, Headquarters 173d Abn Bde (Sep) 8 November to 16 December 1967.

7.    Reporting Officer: LTC Johnson, James H.

8.    Task Organization:

A/4-503

B/4-503

C/4-503

Scout Dog Team

Scout Dog Team

Scout Dog Team

Engineer Team

Engineer Team

Engineer Team

.

.

.

D/4-503

Battalion Control

23rd Mike Force

Scout Dog Team

D/4-60th Artillery

 

Engineer Team

B/3-319th Artillery

 

.

.

.

9. Supporting Forces:
Units in support of TF 4/503d were, C/6-14 Arty, A/5-16th Arty, D/5-16th Arty, A/3-l8th Arty, B/2-19th Arty, C/6-29th Arty, A/4-42nd Arty, B/1-92nd Arty, 3/319th Arty, 7th Air Force, 39th Scout Dog Co(-), 52 Avn Co, 335th Avn Co, 173d Engr Co(-), l73d Signal Co(-), 172nd Mil Intelligence Det.

10. Intelligence:
Viet Cong Order of Battle, Capabilities, and expected courses of action:
Units within the Battalion area of operations of interest:

(Estimated strength)

24th NVA Regt, Infantry (1620)

32nd NVA Regt, Infantry (1337)

66th NVA Regt, Infantry      (1335)

174th NVA Regt, Infantry (2000)

40th NVA Regt, Artillery (UNK)

200M LF Bn Artillery (400)

304 LF Bn Infantry (400)

Enemy capabilities:
To launch Multi-Battalion Assaults from one or more Regiments.
To withdraw and avoid contact at his choosing.
To defend in place from well constructed mutually supporting defensive complexes or hastily constructed fighting positions.
To launch damaging mortar and rocket attacks on targets of his choosing.

Enemy indications and expected courses of action prior to operations:
To attack and over run Dak To with 2-3 Regiments of Infantry.
To defend in place positions of his own choice, to inflict maximum casualties on US Forces conducting Search and Destroy operations.
To conduct ambushes of US convoys moving to and from Dak To and other Fire Support Bases and supply areas.
To withdraw to bases inside of or near Cambodia or Laotion border to avoid contact with US Forces under circumstances unfavorable to above.

Enemy situation during the operation:
4-6 Nov 67: Appendix 2 to Annex B to OPORD 25-67 Headquarters 173d Abn Bde (Sep).
6-30 Nov and 1 Dec 67: Daily Intelligence Summaries, Headquarters 173d Abn Bde (Sep).
Order of Battle findings: Daily IntSums, Headquarters 173d Abn Bde (Sep) 1 Nov 67 to 16 Dec 67.

Terrain Analysis:
The terrain consists of steep or rolling hills covered with dense forests and bamboo thickets, and seperated by numerous water obstacles. Some areas are flat with occasional open meadows, surrounded by tall thick forest and bamboo thickets. Cross-country movement is generally slow and difficult. Fields of fire and observation, including air observation are severely restricted by the dense vegetation and nearly continuous single to triple canopy.

11. Mission:
Frag Order C-14 to OPORD 24-67 (BOLLING) 31 Oct 67: TF 4/503 conducts helicopter movement from AO PEAK to PHU HIEP 1 Nov 67. Conduct a motor movement from PHU HIEP to TUY HOA Airbase for movement to DAK TO by C130 aircraft, load time 1000 hrs 1 Nov 67, OPCON to 4th Inf Div upon arrival at DAK TO.
Frag Order 4-9-67 (HQs 1st Bde, 4th Inf Division) 1 Nov 67: Established FSB at BIEN HET YB8725 on 2 Nov. Conducted S&D operations to SW to develop enemy situations. Provide security for BIEN HIET FSB and work project. Release OPCON 3 Co's located at DAK TO to 3/12th Inf on order. Receive OPCON Co's A/3/8 Inf and Co D/3/8 Inf on order.
Frag Order 5-9-67 (CQ's 1st Bde, 4th Inf Division) 05 Nov 67: Conduct Combat Assault and establish FSB 15 on 6 Nov 67, Revert to OPCON 173d Bde on order, Release section D/4-60 Arty (AA) to 3/12 Inf on 6 Nov 67.
OPORD 25-67, 6 Nov 67: Remain OPCON to 1st Bde, 4th Inf Div until 8 Nov 67. Confine security mission and preparation of FSB 15, Conduct S&D operation in zone on order.
Frag O1, 8 Nov 67: TF 4/503d Infantry moves one Company to vic FSB 13, move TF(-) to vic FSB 12 and relieve security element. Received OPCON of 1/D/1-69th Armor and 23rd Mike Force Co, Provide local security for FSB 12 and Engineer elements vic BIEN HIET. Conduct Search and Destroy Operations to NorthWest in AO FALCON. Responsible for road security between FSB 12 and FSB 13.
Frag O3, 17 Nov 67: TF 4/503d Infantry to continue Search and Destroy Operations in AO FALCON(Adjusted).
Frag O4, 19 Nov 67: TF 4 503d Infantry Helifted one Company from FSB 12 to FSB 16. Be prepared to Helilift two Companies from FSB 12 to FSB 16. Assume OPCON 26th Mike Force and two Companies of the 1/12th Infantry, upon arrival at FSB 12. Conduct tactical relief of 2/503d Infantry on order. Release 23rd Mike Force and 2 Companies of 1/12th Infantry to 2/503d Infantry on 21 Nov 67. Assume responsibilities for AO HAWK and conduct Search and Destroy operations to the SouthWest.
Frag O5, 21 Nov 67: TF 4/503d Infantry and 26th Mike Force to prepare and secure LZ for a operation against Hill 875.
Frag O6, 24 Nov 67: Move to DAK TO by Helilift on 24 Nov 67. Upon arrival OPCON to 1st Bde 4th Inf Div, from DAK TO Base Camp Security. Conduct S&D Operation in AO VULTURE.
Frag O7, 29 Nov 67: TF 4/503d Infantry, release 1 Reinforced Platoon to 1st Brigade 4th Infantry Division for Brigade security. Helilift 1 Company to vic 025249 by 1530 29 Nov 67. Conduct security operation in Northern portion of AO from 29 Nov 67 to 3 Dec 67.

l2. Concept of Operation:
4-8 Nov: 4/503d Inf will conduct Search and Destroy operations to the Southwest with 3 Companies and conduct an Air Assault to establish FSB 15 with 1 Company.
9-18 Nov: 4/503d Inf will conduct security operation to protect FSB 12, FSB 13 and the Engineer elements working in the area with 2 Companies and conduct Search and Destroy operations in AO CONDOR with 2 Companies.
19-24 Nov: 4/503d Inf will conduct Air Assault with 3 Companies to relieve 2/503d Infantry and conduct operations to seize Hill 875. One company will relieve 2/503(-) as security for FSB 16.
24 Nov-1 Dec 67: 4/503 Inf will conduct Helilift to close at DAK TO Airfield to conduct and assume responsibilities for security of sector 6.
1 Dec - 16 Dec 67: 4/503d Inf will continue as base security for DAK TO Fire Base. Conduct local Search and Destroy operations within AO VULTURE. Be prepared to be airlifted to PHU HIEP on order.

13. Execution:

·        1 Nov 67- 4/503d discontinued S&D operations in the assigned AO around FSB PEAK and prepared to move to PHU HIEP. At 1035 hrs the 4/503d closed into PHU HIEP and prepared for airlift to DAK TO. Bn CO and S3 were briefed at 1st Bde 4th Inf HQs. 4/503d Inf harbored at DAK TO airfield for the night.

·        2 Nov 67- B Co departed for FSB SAVAGE by convoy at 1420 hrs. B Co reached FSB SAVAGE at 1515, Companies A, C and D remained at DAK TO.

·        3 Nov 67- Companies A, C and D 4/503d Inf initiated movement abreast by 0845 hrs and continued Search and Destroy operation to the SouthWest. They had negative contact or sightings during the day and harbored at 1400 hrs. Intelligence and LRRP contact reports indicate that enemy was occupying the area to the SouthWest in strength. The unit was believed to be the 66th NVA Regiment.

·        4 Nov 67- Companies A, C and D initiated movement by 0845 hrs. Company B remains FSB 12 security. LRRPs report movement, talking, metal to metal sounds and a flashlight beam, believed to be a base camp under construction vic 841193. At 1115 hrs LRRP team spots 5 NVA with weapons. At 1610, 1st Bde, 4th Inf Intelligence Report: Regimental size element in vic YB894229. 1643 Co A initiates movement to check out Intelligence report. All companies harbored by 2130.

·        5 Nov 67- Companies C and D, 4/503d Inf initiated movement abreast by 0805 hrs and continued on S&D mission to the Southwest. Flashlights had been seen by LRRPs during the early morning. Co D reported hearing a high frequency huffing sound at 0925 hrs, vic YB855191. At 0930 Co C found 1 hut at YB842222. At 1130 Co C discovered a VC Base Camp at YB839223 about 1 mo old, Co A was ordered to follow Co D in reserve as contact seemed imminent. At 1220 Co C found another VC Base Camp at YB840219, containing about 60 holes and 100 meters to the south another 30 holes, all without overhead cover. At 1345 Co C discovered a 2-3 foot wide trail running at 150 degrees azimuth vic YB841215. By 1630 all units had closed into harbor sites. The Battalion was ordered to establish a new FSB (#15) at YB853187.

·        6 Nov 67- Co A, C and D initiated movement to the SouthWest by 0845 hrs. Air Strikes had been placed on Hill 823, YB853187, beginning at 0815 hrs. At 0925 Co D caught 2 NVA by surprise at YB859203, they fled SouthWest abandoning 2 AK47s. At 1045 Co A reported contact with 5 NVA who fled West (2) and Southeast (3). A search revealed 10-12 persons had been lying down in the area. At 1040 Co D found a commo wire at YB852202 and heard movement of 1-2 persons running away to the southwest. Co D patrols searched the area but found nothing. At 1140 hrs Co D found fresh foot prints on a trail, encountered while following the commo wire. At 1145 Co A's Scout Dog alerted strongly to the West at YB858208. Co D at 1205 hrs found a wooden reel attached to the wire they had been following and 1 NVA pith helmet at YB821145. At 1240 the 26th Mike Force Company became OPCON to the 4/503d Inf. They were scheduled to pass through 4/503d Inf area on the way to their projected AO, vic of grid 7314 at 1345. Co D received one burst of automatic weapon fire from YB849201. At 1430 Co B made a cold LZ Air Assault on Hill 823. At 1450 Co D began receiving sniper fire from the trees. Air Strikes, Artillery fire, and Gunships support were called in around their position. Co C and Co A were ordered to link up with Co D at 1510 hrs. Co D sustained 1 WIA. At 1515 Co B began receiving intense AW fire from the Western slopes of Hill 823. At 1540 Co A began receiving SA fire from the rear and Co C receiving sniper fire from the front. Co B has been pinned down by intense fire, at 1545 they received mortar fire. Co B's CO was hit and requested a relief. One Plt of Co B was pinched off by the NVA assault and the Platoon leader was killed. At 1615 Co C discovered fresh foxholes and received heavy fire which they returned. At 1654 Co C passed two rows of foxholes hidden in the bamboo. They estimated one Platoon of NVA on the hill top. Contact was broken at 1900 hrs and Co C harbored alone with A and D Companies harboring together. Co B harbored on Hill 823 near their initial LZ. The Battalion S3 assumed command of Co B at 1730 hrs. All Companies received sniper fire, grenades, mortar and rocket fire through out the night. Total casualties, 17 US KIA and 37 US WIA.

·        7 Nov 67- The Companies of the 4/503d Inf received incoming grenades, rockets and mortar fire sporadically throughout the night and into the day. Spooky and Artillery fires supported Co B all night. At 0712 Co B reported a small NVA assault was repelled. At 0940, Co B reported 1 NVA trapped in a tunnel. He was forced out and returned to Headquarters. At 1005, Co's C and D linked up with Co A. At 1330 hrs Co C of the 1/503d Inf was air lifted in to support Co B on Hill 823 and become OPCON to the 4th Battalion. At 1640 the 26th Mike Force Co made contact with 1 VC with negative results. During the day the Battlefield was policed, resulting in numerous NVA bodies (over 50) discovered along with large quantities of weapons, ammunition and equipment.

·        8 Nov 67- Co C 1/503d Inf moved out along the SouthWest finger of Hill 823 and discovered several NVA bodies and large amount of abandoned NVA equipment. Co B was extracted from Hill 823 to FSB 13 beginning at 144O, the extraction was delayed several times by incoming mortar and small arms fire but was completed at 1830 hrs. Companies A, C and D prepared for extraction to FSB 12.

·        9 Nov 67- Companies A, C and D, 4/503d Inf were extracted from PZ vic YB844192 beginning at 0910 hrs and completed at 1223. The lift was halted by contact with 1 NVA with no results and small arms fire on several occasions. Co B assumed road clearing mision from FSB 13 to FSB 12. Mike Force company released from OPCON at 1000 hrs. 23rd Mike Strike Force came under OPCON of 4th Battalion at 1000 hrs.

·        10 Nov 67- Co B on road clearing operations was fired on by an unknown number of VC or NVA at YB899274. They returned fire with small arms and tanks. Upon investigation one blood pool was found. Co C patrol discovered footprints at YB857254, but could not track them.

·        11 Nov 67- Co B conducted mine sweeping operation security after one 3/4 ton truck struck a mine at YB893271. At 1115 hrs, Co C was alerted to prepare for Air Assault to support 1st Battalion 503d Infantry. Co C was Air Assaulted into LZ vic YB830189 at 1150. Upon landing they became OPCON to 1st Battalion 503d Infantry. At 1920 hrs FSB 12 received 6-10 rounds of rocket or mortar fire from the West. During the night other rounds were received and movement of an estimated platoon was noted. Fire was returned with unknown results.

·        12 Nov 67- Co B 4/503d Inf conducted road clearing operations. Co D conducted local security, patrols and reported hearing movements but made no contact. The Battalion received road clearing responsibility East to the Brigade YB952248.

·        13 Nov 67- At 1530 hrs Companies A and D began an Air Assault into LZ vic YB903186, to conduct Search and Destroy operations to the North, Assault was completed at 1625. Co B continued security mission of FSB 13. Co C assumed security mission of FSB 12, after returning OPCON to Battalion at 1640 hrs.

·        14 Nov 67- Companies A and D continued S&D operations to the North with negative results or contact. Company B moved to FSB 13 and Company C to FSB 12 to assume security missions. CSF reported receiving fire at YB876274 at 1110 hrs. Companies A and D were extracted from PZ YB903187 to FSB 12.

·        15 Nov 67- Company D moved to FSB 13 at 0815 hrs. Companies A and B began Search and Destroy operations to the west at 0930 and harbored at 1600 hrs with negative contact.

·        16 Nov 67- Companies A and B continued S&D operations at 0820 hrs. Several old trails were found and the Companies harbored with negative contact on Hill 990 YB817246. Company C mine sweep found Chicom mine at YB894271.

·        17 Nov 67- Companies A and B continued Search and Destroy operations and found one bunker at 0850 hrs vic YB8l6247 and an old trail at YB814247. 26th Mike Strike Force destroyed 2 booby traps at YB853259. At 1525, 26th Mike Force made contact with an estimated Platoon of VC or NVA resulting in one US SF KIA and 4 CIDG WIA at YB850263. Artillery supported with unknown results.

·        18 Nov 67- Companies A and D continued S&D operations with negative results. Co D was dispatched to linkup with 23rd Mike Force Co at 1025. At 1310 hrs an artillery round fell in Co D's CP and 23rd Mike Force perimeter killing 6 US and 3 CIDG and wounding 14 US and 13 CIDG.

·        19 Nov 67- At 0930 hrs Co C was Helilifted from FSB 12 to LZ vic YB855279. One US was WIA by sniper fire on initial landing. At 1000, A Co followed into LZ. At 1540 hrs 4th Battalion was alerted to have a Company ready to immediately reinforce 2/503d Infantry in heavy enemy contact at Hill 875. Company B was airlifted to FSB 16 at 1640 hrs and closed at 1720 hrs. Companies A and C returned to their original LZ to await extraction. Company C and Mike Force were lifted to FSB 12 to assume security mission and closed at l850 hrs.

·        20 Nov 67- Company B initiated movements to FSB 16 to relieve the 2/503d Infantry at Hill 875. Companies A and C were airlifted to FSB 16 commencing 0825 hrs and closing at 1025. Companies A and C will follow Company B to assist relief of 2/503d Infantry. All Companies reported finding US and NVA weapons and equipment and 41 NVA in graves during movement to relieve. Companies A and D/1/12 Infantry arrived at FSB 12 to assume security mission at l820 hrs. Companies A, B and C linked up with 2nd Battalion at 1655, 2110 and 2225 hrs respectively. At 1800 hrs Co B was subjected to a mortar barrage. The mine sweep between FSB 12 and 13 discovered 3 Anti Tank mines at 1100 hrs.

·        21 Nov 67- From 0605 hrs and through the morning, all Companies of the 4/503d Inf(-) received heavy mortar, rocket and small arms fire. Medevac and resupply aircraft were unable to land to pick up wounded and dead or to resupply elements. Air Strikes and Artillery were called in on Hill 875 and the surrounding hills from 0700 hrs to 1050 hrs. At 1050 hrs the 4th Battalion prepared to began the Assault on Hill 875 with Co A on the left, Co B in the center and Co C on the right. The assault was delayed until 1400 hrs to call in more air strikes. Co C began preparing a new LZ out of the line of direct fire from Hill 875. The LZ was completed at 1425, but airlift was then halted by intense mortar and small arms fire. Companies A, B and C commenced the assault as planned at 1505 hrs. Advancing units of Company made light contact at 1530 hrs. At 1540, A and B Companies received heavy mortar and rocket fire. At 1550 hrs Co B was pinned down by intense automatic weapon fire from dug in positions on the slope above. The Battalion was unable to advance further after this time. At 1640 hrs MedEvac and resupply ships began using the new LZ again. At 1700 counter fire, mortar and air strikes reported large secondary explosions in the vic YB796132 where reported mortars had been spotted. All extractions of wounded and dead were completed at 1845 hrs. Artillery and mortar fire supported the position held during the night. Patrols were sent out to recover wounded and dead from 2100 to 2340 hrs. Enemy mortar and rocket fires continued throughout the night. Company D assigned security mission of FSB 16 at 1200 hrs.

·        22 Nov 67- During the early morning, mid-day and afternoon, continuous air strikes were brought in on Hill 875. Many secondary explosions were noted. At 1000 hrs proposed continuation of the assault was postponed. At 1035 A/1/12 Infantry and D/1/12 Infantry were air lifted into LZ vic YB303127. The lift was complete at 1330 hrs. Companies A and D, 1/12th Infantry began movement up the North slope of Hill 875, to vic YB797128 to await assault on 23 Nov 67. They incurred 9 WIA from US gunships in route. Company D sent out a patrol from FSB 16 to vic YB800148 and returned. They heard mortar tubes popping in vic YB799147, but made no contact. At 1825 FSB 16 received 4-6 rockets from vic YB810123. Artillery fired and secondary explosions were noted in area from which flashes were seen.

·        23 Nov 67- Continuous air strikes and artillery fires were called in from the first light until 1100 hrs. At 1100 the 4th Battalion began the westward assault of Hill 875 with Co C on the right and Co B on the left and Co A in reserve. At 1105 hrs Co C began receiving light contact. Simultaneously TF1 (A/1/12th Infantry and D/1/12th Infantry), began assaulting from the South at 1119. Co B reported reaching the crest of Hill 875. At 1125 mortar fire began falling on hill top, Bn XO reported automatic weapon fire and mortar fire from the west. At 1150 hrs B Co 4/503d Inf and D/1/12th Inf accomplished link up on top of Hill 875. C/1/12th Infantry remained in position vic YB795131. Other units consolidated on Hill 875 and began construction of a LZ. Air strikes and artillery fires were continued to the Southwest, West and Northwest of Hill 875 until dark. At 1540 hrs the LZ was completed and elements of 2/503d Infantry were evacuated from the battle area by helicopter to FSB 16 and then to FSB 12. Last elements departed Hill 875 at 1725 hrs. All elements harbored in place on Hill 875. Company D 4/503d Infantry reported movement in area of FSB 16.

·        24 Nov 67- At 0830 hrs the heavy mortar platoon of the 4/503d Infantry was air lifted to FSB 17 and simultaneously relieved in place by heavy mortar platoon of the 1/12th Infantry. At 0730 hrs Co A and Co C moved to top of Hill 875 to relieve elements of 4/503d Infantry. At 0935 hrs Co D 4/503d Infantry began airlift to DAK TO which was completed at 1025 hrs. CP elements departed at 1030 hrs upon relief by command elements of 1/12th Infantry. At 1130 hrs Co A and C began airlift to DAK TO. All elements 4/503d had closed in at DAK TO by 1800. 4/503d Infantry became OPCON to 1st Brigade, 4th Infantry Division upon arrival.

·        25 Nov 67- 4/503d Inf assumed responsibilities for sector 6 of DAK TO to airbase perimeter. Co D dispatched local patrols at 1320 hrs to return at 1620 hrs without incident. 4/503d continued security of DAK TO Airfield, conducting local patrols and training.

·        26 Nov 67- 4/503d Inf assumed duties of patrolling newly assigned AO around DAK TO Airfield, also providing security on portions of the perimeter at DAK TO. Field and training of newly assigned personnel. A Memorial service was held in the Battalion area for personnel killed from 20-24 November 67. D Co dispatched a Company(-) sized patrol at 0755 and closed in at 1150 hrs. The elements went into their defensive positions on the perimeter for the night. In the morning a 2 Company patrol will be dispatched from DAK TO to Field and return by 1500 hrs on the 28th Nov 67.

·        27 Nov 67- Co C and D 4/503d Inf initiated movement on a Search and Destroy operation. At 2300 hrs last night, the 4.2 Mortars fired into a village vic YB006231, killing 1 person and wounding others. 4/503d will send medical team and A Co will provide security. Companies C and D harbored by 1700 hrs. A Co returned to DAK TO Field with B Co.

·        28 Nov 67- 4/503d Inf continued duties of patrolling and securing portions of the perimeter at 1643 hrs, 4/503d Inf set up the firing range on north side of perimeter. All elements harbored at DAK TO Field for the night.

·        29 Nov 67- 4/503d Inf continued security, S&D patrols and training. Co A harbored vic 024253 at 1645 hrs.

·        30 Nov 67- 4/503d Inf remained DAK TO, providing perimeter security, bridge security, S&D operations, local patrols and training.

·        1 Dec 67: A Company remained in same harbor site with a two Platoon patrol to east. B Company remained on perimeter defense of DAK TO. C Company remained in same harbor site with two Platoon patrol to Southeast. Company D maintained bridge security and conducted local patrols. Bn assumed Mike Force sector of perimeter at 1200 hrs.

·        2 Dec 67- A and C Co remained in harbor sites and conducted local Platoon Patrols. D Company continued DAK TO perimeter defense and conducted range firing. Company D remained on bridge security and conducted local security patrols; was alerted several times throughout the night due to rocket attack on FSB 12.

·        3 Dec 67- Company A helilifted to bridge, Company B helilifted to bridge linked up with D Company and both moved north on S&D, elements harbored at YB961261. Co C helilifted to DAK TO to provide perimeter defense. Four Vietnamese two in Khaki, and two black PJs fired 1 shot and disappeared into jungles with negative results.

·        4 Dec 67- Company A provided bridge security with local patrols. Co B and D continued north on , harboring at YB950279. Company C continued DAK TO perimeter defense with local patrols to the North of the air strip.

·        5 Dec 67- Co A continued bridge security with local patrolling. B and D Co remained in last nights harbor site with two Platoons each patrolling East and West. C Co remained at DAK TO with 1 Plt helilifted to ZB012194, and conducting S&D back to DAK TO.

·        6 Dec 67- Co A was moved from bridge to DAK TO by helicopter, B and D Co moved Northeast to PZ. B Co found camp site of Company size unit at YB962294. D Co found one 60mm mortar position at YB965284. B Co was helilifted to bridge. D Co was helilifted to DAK TO. C Co remained on perimeter defense for DAK TO.

·        7 Dec 67- A and C Co's helilifted to ZB005286. A Co was the assault Company, A and C then moved south on S&D operations and harbored together at ZB010261. First time new technique of Arty fire was used. B Co continued bridge security with local patrols. D Co continued DAK TO perimeter defense with one Plt being helilifted to YB025249 to look for suspected enemy radio transmitter.

·        8 Dec 67- Co's A and C continued S&D the Southwest and harbored at YB995251. B Co remained on bridge with local security patrols. D Co continued DAK TO perimeter defense with one Plt to the North.

·        9 Dec 67- Co's A and C continued S&D enroute to DAK TO. A Co found 1 ton of rice in a hut at YB995243. A and C Co closed on DAK TO by foot march. D Co providing DAK TO perimeter security. B Co remained on bridges with local security.

·        10 Dec 67- A Co took responsibility of DAK TO perimeter. C Co was helilifted to bridge and conducted local patrols at bridge site. B Co was helilifted from bridge to YB977224 and started S&D mission to Southeast on south side of river and harbored at YB984202. B Co moved forth on a two day S&D operation and harbored at ZB022241.

·        11 Dec 67- A Co remained on DAK TO perimeter. C Co moved two Plts to FSB 13 and assumed security for both the bridge and FSB 13. D Co operation was extended and the Company harbored at ZB002243. B Co moved Southeast on S&D mission and harbored at ZB013183. The 4.2 Mortar Plt remained at DAK TO.

·        12 DEC 67- Co A remains on DAK TO security and conducted range firing. C Co continued at FSB 13 and bridge with local security patrols. D Co conducted S&D operations to the South closing back into DAK TO. B Co moved north to PZ at ZB022198 and were Helilifted to DAK TO. Advance party left for TUY HOA at 1320 hrs.

·        13 Dec 67- Battalion prepared for movement to TUY HOA, A Co conducted a Platoon size patrol for local security. C Co helilifted from bridge and FSB 13 to DAK TO. DAK TO received approximately 50 rounds of 60mm mortar fire, suspected location YB985195.

·        14 Dec 67- Truck convoy with Bn trains moved from DAK TO to AN KHE. The airlift of troops slowed due to non availability of aircraft. A Co, two Platoons of B Co and 4.2 Mortar Plt remained at DAK TO.

·        15 Dec 67- Remainder of the 4/503d Inf closed into PHU HIEP. Convoy received sniper fire with no casualties.

·        16 Dec 67- 4/503d Inf continued to set up trains area and prepared for Operation BOLLING 2. Companies conducted range firing of weapons.

·        Results: US Losses, 46 KIA, 219 WIA, Enemy Losses: 177 NVA KIA, 3 POW

·        The following items were captured:

58 AK47 Rifles                    7 SKS Carbines          1 Hvy Chicom Machine Gun

3 Light Chicom Machine Guns       6 Rocket Launchers      6 AK50 Rifles

2 B40 Rockets                     2 Pistols (9mm)         200 Grenades

16 Rifle Grenades                 15 60mm Mortar rounds   1 60mm Mortar

1 RP40 Rocket Launcher            12 Anti Tank Rockets    4 VC Pith Helmets

2 Hammocks                        18 Ruck Sacks (VC)      17 Canteens (VC)

500 lbs Rice                      7 Sets Black PJs        23 Gas Mask

7 Decontaminator Kits             800 AK47 Rds            4 Khaki Uniforms

3 US Blankets                     2 Binoculars (VC)       14 Anti Tank Mines

4 Booby Traps(Grenade)            1 US M-16A1 Rifle       Misc Medical Supplies

Misc Personal Clothing            Misc Cooking Utensils   Misc Web Gear/Ponchos

Misc Ammo (NVA)                   12 Base Camps           250 Fighting Position

600+ Bunkers w/Overhead cover

14. Combat Services, Logistics and Administration:
Logistics: Resupply to forward elements and FSB's was accomplished by UHlD and CH47 helicopters. While in FSB 12, vehicle convoys were used to the maximum extent possible. Problems resulted from lack of sufficient helicopters in forward areas caused partly by temporary losses of helicopters due to hits by ground fire and by several helicopter crashes. Ground fog occasionally caused late arrival of helicopters but were not a major problem area. Water was resupplied in FSB area by CH47 lift of water trailers and in forward areas by UH1Ds carrying 5 gallon cans.
Administration: The heavy intensity of operations during the reporting period and the fierceness of the fighting, greatly increased the administrative load in the Bn. At this time of writing, at least 4 DSC's, 22 Silver Stars, and more than 230 BSM and ACM for valor and meritorious achievement was pending. This is in addition to the load added by casualties reporting created by 51 KIA and 284 WIA during the period. Difficulties were experienced in obtaining replacements rapidly and in receiving accurate and timely casualty reports especially during periods of heavy contacts, for example the period 20-23 November on Hill 875.
Memorial services for persons killed in action were conducted with due ceremony as soon as possible after the termination of operations involved.
Communications: No great difficulties were encountered in this area during the reporting period. On two occasions units from other areas operated on the assigned command frequencies, requiring frequency switch to the Bn Alternate frequency. Frequent airlifts conducted also placed an overload on the administrative-logistics frequency. This will be alleviated in the future by the designation of an air lift frequency. K98 sets were not available in sufficient numbers at all times to maintain a cautious secure net capability.

15. Special Equipment and Techniques:
All organic weapons were used in their normal function. Flame throwers were used in the assault against fortified positions on Hill 875. Difficulties were encountered in maneuvering the flame throwers close enough to permit use, due to enemys excellent mutual support provided by bunker placement and heavy fire being received. Satchel charges were also used to demolish fortified positions after they had been bypassed. WP grenades were found to be especially effective in flushing enemy soldiers from underground positions.

16. Commanders Analysis and Lessons Learned:
Greater emphasis must be placed on defensive measures designed to locate and engage enemy snipers. Consideration should be given to designating riflemen in each squad to observe for snipers during a fire fight.
Frequent combined arms training is needed in the attack of bunkers and fortified positions to include the use of flame, CS, satchel charges and related special munitions.
There is a tendency in heavy contact for friendly elements to regard all indirect fire as friendly fire initially. This frequently results in elements requesting a check fire of mortars and artillery, when in actuality they are receiving enemy mortar or rocket attacks. The ensuing check fire deprives friendly units of their supporting fires during critical periods of a battle.
The use of smoke grenades to mark positions and assist in the identification of the helicopter landing zones must be restricted to an absolute minimum, when the enemy has a strong mortar and rocket capability. The NVA frequently mortared friendly positions where smoke marking rounds were used. Consequently mortar attacks were not received when smoke was not employed even though helicopters were landing and taking off.
When NVA commo wire lines are discovered along trails, friendly units should place heavy artillery fires on the terrain to their front, prior to deploying forward.
NVA units continually probed our friendly flanks and rear during attacks. However, once they were observed and fired upon by security elements they would immediately break contact.

FOR THE COMMANDER:

GEORGE T.BALDRIDGE

CPT,Infantry

Adjutant

 

 

 


 

DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
HEADQUARTERS, 4TH BATTALION (AIRBORNE), 503D INFANTRY
APO US Forces 96250

SUBJECT: Combat Operations After Action Report: Operation BOLLING II

In accordance with Brigade Regulation Number 335-8, the following report is submitted.

1.    General: The 4/503d Inf returned from DAK TO and Operation MAC ARTHUR on 16 Dec 67. Operation BOLLING II was initiated 17 Dec 67 in three phases utilizing multiple Heliborne Assaults, Search and Destroy operations, FSB Security and Local Patrolling.

2.    Name of Operation: Operation BOLLING II

3.    Type of Operation: Search and Destroy

4.    Date of Operation: 17 Dec 67 Continuing into 1968

5.    Location: Tuy Hoa District, Phu Yen Province.

6.    Control or Command Headquarters: HeadQuarters, 173D Abn Bde (Sep)

7.    Reporting Officer: LTC Johnson, James H

8.    Task Organization:

A/4-503

B/4-503

C/4-503

Scout Dog Team

Scout Dog Team

Scout Dog Team

Engineer Team

Engineer Team

Engineer Team

.

.

.

D/4-503

Battalion Control

 

Scout Dog Team

HHC(-)

 

Engineer Team

 

 

9. Supporting Forces:
Units in support of TF 4/503d were, 7th Air Force, D/3/319th Arty(105mm), 335th Avn Co, 51st Chemical Det.

10. Intelligence:
Viet Cong Order of Battle, Capabilities and Expected courses of action: Units within the Battalion area of operation and area of interest (Estimated strength)

HQ 5th NVA Div (3600)

95th NVA Regt (1756)

4th Bn 95th NVA Regt (314)

5th Bn 95th NVA Regt (309)

6th Bn 95th NVA Regt (395)

30th Main Force Bn (NVA) (250)

85th Local Force Bn (285)

K-65 Sapper Co (90)

K-76 Sapper Co (90)

95th Arty/60th Arty NVA (150)

Enemy situation during the operation:
VC/NVA units do not control the AO or area of interest due to the presence of friendly forces and an aggressive political program.

Order of Battle findings:
As a result of insignificant contact in a short period of time it could not be determined.

Terrain Analysis:
The 4/503d's AO is mostly mountainous and hilly. This area ranges from mostly dense forest with thick underbrush to open hilltops. There are however, rice paddies and flatlands with many populated areas.

11. Mission:
OPORD 29-67, Headquarters, 173d Abd Bde (Sep), TF 4/503d conducts Search and Destroy Missions in AO BOLLING to find, fix and destroy the 95th NVA Regiment. To reinforce US SF Camps at DONG TRE and CUNG SON, IFFORCEV preserve element.

12. Concept of Operations:
Phase 1: Companies A, B, C and D to conduct Heliborne Assault on LZ SALLY, A Co FSB 1 security. Companies B, C, and D to conduct Search and Destroy mission in AO SALLY, starting 17 Dec 67.
Phase 2: 4/503d to move out of AO SALLY into AO SAVAGE by Heliborne Assault. Co D assigned Bde Reaction Force. 4/503d(-) to conduct Search and Destroy mission in AO with C Co FSB security. 26 Dec, Co A to conduct Heliborne Assault 0900 in AO SAVAGE and conduct Search and Destroy mission.
Phase 3: Companies B and C to conduct Heliborne Assault and Co B to secure area for FSB 5, 28 Dec. Companies A and C to conduct Heliborne Assault and Search and Destroy mission in AO.

13. Execution:

·        17 Dec 67- 4/503d conducted Heliborne Assault into AO SALLY. Co A making the initial assault at 0846 hrs with negative contact on LZ. Companies B, C, D and HHC(-) closed on LZ at 1410 hrs. Co D remained at LZ as FSB security. Companies B, C and D moved from LZ on S&D operations. All Companies harbored by l700 hrs. At 2000 hrs Company A spotted 4 personnel outside of perimeter at the FSB and fired upon them with unknown results.

·        18 Dec 67- 4/503d continued Operation BOLLING II, conducting Search and Destroy operations in AO SALLY. Company A remained as FSB security. Companies B, C and D conducted S&D operations. At 1310 hrs, vic BQ978562, Co C took 4 VC under fire with negative results.

·        19 Dec 67- 4/503d continued Operations, conducting S&D operations within A0 SALLY. Company A remained at FSB 1 as security. Companies B, C and D conducted Search and Destroy operations. At lll0 hrs vic CQ027558, Co D took 4 VC under fire with negative results. At l245 hrs, vic CQ018583, Co D took 2 VC under fire with negative results. Two air strikes were placed in the area where Co D reported VC moving, results unknown.

·        20 Dec 67- 4/503d Continued Operations, conducting Search and Destroy operations within AO SALLY. Co A remained as security for FSB 1. Co B and C continued S&D Operations. At 1443 hrs, vic BQ955598, Co C spotted l VC with rucksack, VC fled before he could be taken under fire, leaving rucksack. Rucksack was extracted.

·        21 Dec 67- 4/503d continued Operation BOLLING II, conducting Search and Destroy operations within AO SALLY Co A remained as security for FSB 1. Companies B, C and D conducted S&D operations. At 1105 hrs, vic CQ018608, Company D made contact with an estimated 5 VC, resulting in 2 VC KIA. At 1155 hrs, vic BQ954600, Co C ambush made contact with 7 VC with negative results.

·        22 Dec 67- 4/503d continued Operation BOLLING II conducting a Heliborne Assault into AO SAVAGE. Company C making the initial assault at 0930 hrs with negative contact on LZ. Companies A, B and HHC(-) closing on LZ at 1310 hrs. Company D was airlifted from A0 SALLY to PHU HIEP as Brigade Reaction Force. Company C remained at LZ as security for FSB 3. Companies A and B moved from LZ on S&D operations. At 1800 hrs, E/17th Cav became OPCON to the Battalion.

·        23 Dec 67- 4/503d continued Operations conducting S&D missions within A0 SAVAGE. Company C remained as security for FSB 3. Companies A, B and E/17th Cav conducting Search and Destroy operations. At 1200 hrs, vic BQ998375, E/17th Cav captured 1 NVA. At 1335 hrs, vic BQ999385 E/17th Cav found a grave containing 1 Body.

·        24 Dec 67- 4/503d(-) continued Operations, conducting S&D operations within AO SAVAGE. Company C remained at FSB 3 as security. Company D remained at PHU HIEP as Brigade Reaction Force. Companies A, B and E/17th Cav conducted S&D operations. At 1800 hrs a 36 hr Christmas Truce went into effect. The Battalion conducted no offensive operations of the Harassment & Interdiction program during this period. At 1830 hrs 1 VC suspect surrendered to Company C at FSB 3. Suspect had an old wound and was medically evacuated.

·        25 Dec 67- 4/503d(-) continued Operations, observing the Christmas Truce. No change in Company locations. Only local security patrols were dispatched with negative contact.

·        26 Dec 67- 4/503d(-) continued Operations, observing the Christmas Truce until it terminated at 0600 hrs. Company C remained as security of FSB 3. Company D remained at PHU HIEP as Bde Reaction Force. Company A conducted a Heliborne Assault within AO SAVAGE, vic BQ923292, negative contact on LZ. At 1028 hrs, vic BQ960344, Co B spotted 1 VC and engaged under fire, negative results. At 1030 hrs, vic BQ974366, E/17th Cav killed 1 VC and captured a small amount of food and medical supplies. At 1310 hrs Co C conducted an eagle flight with 1 Platoon vic BQ 926425 and conducted S&D operations back into FSB 3. At 1525 hrs, vic BQ982338, Co B sighted 3 personnel. Artillery fire was called in with unknown results.

·        27 Dec 67- 4/503d(-) continued Operation BOLLING II, conducting S&D operations within AO SAVAGE. Co C remained as security of FSB 3. Companies A, B and E/17th Cav conducted Search and Destroy operations. At 1335, Company D was committed to reinforce Company A, 3rd Battalion, 503d Inf, which was in heavy contact, vicinity DONG TRE.

·        28 Dec 67- 4/503d(-) continued Operations, conducting Search and Destroy in AO SAVAGE. Co C remained as security for FSB 3, until 1330 hrs. Co B closed into FSB 3 and relieved Co C. Company C conducted a Heliborne Assault vicinity DONG TRE. The assault element received sniper fire from the East and West side of the LZ. Co C closed on LZ at 1530 hrs and remained as security for D/319th Arty. Co A was airlifted from A0 SAVAGE into LZ with Co C. Company B and HHC(-) remained at FSB 3.

·        29 Dec 67- 4/503d continued Operation BOLLING II. Co A and C conducted a Heliborne Assault into AO WESSON. Co A making the initial assault. Co B was airlifted from FSB 3 into AO WESSON to secure and establish FSB 5. Company C and HHC(-) closed into FSB 5 at 1200 hrs. Company D released as Bde Reaction Force and closed into FSB 5 at 1315 hrs. Co's A, C and D moved out of FSB 5 on Search and Destroy operations. At 1400 hrs, vic BQ835771, Co D received fire from a bunker and engaged bunker resulting in 1 VC KIA, 1 CIV KIA and 25 civilians detained.

·        30 Dec 67- 4/503d continued Operations, conducting Search and Destroy operations within AO WESSON. Co B remained as security of FSB 5. Co's A, C and D conducting S&D operations. At 0920 hrs, vic BQ846578, Co D received sniper fire and engaged with M-79 and 60mm Mortar fire, results unknown. At 1000 hrs, vic BQ896812, Co D captured 1 female. Negative further contact.

·        31 Dec 67- 4/503d continued Operations, conducting S&D operations in AO WESS0N. Co B remained as FSB security. Co's A, C and D conducted Search and Destroy. At 0915, vic BQ8266785, Co D detained 152 civilians. All were extracted to DONG TRE. At 1800 hrs a 36 hour New Years Truce went into effect. The Battalion conducted no offensive operations, H & I program during this period.

·        Results: US Losses, 0 KIA, 0 WIA, Enemy Losses: 3 KIA, 2 POW

14. Combat Services, Logistics and Administration:
None, due to the operation extending into 1968.

15. Special Equipment and Techniques: None

16. Commanders Analysis and Lessons Learned:
None, due to the operation extending into 1968.

FOR THE COMMANDER:

GEORGE T.BALDRIDGE

CPT,Infantry

Adjutant

 

 

 


 

4th Battalion, 173D Airborne Brigade

Killed in Action

Vietnam 1967

GSW- Gunshot Wounds

FW- Fragmentation Wounds

 

14 January 1967

Floyd, Lonnie Allen, E4 - Co C, FW

 

15 January 1967

Laskin, Frank Howard, E3 - Co D, FW

Prince, John R., E6 - Co D, GSW

 

16 January 1967

Ramirez, Mario, E5 - Co D, FW

Smith, Frank Lee, E3 - Co B, FW

Wilkie, Arthur Wayne, E4 - Co B, FW

 

22 January 1967

Pendergist, Ronald, E3 - Co A,

( Tunnel Rat Suffocation )

 

6 March 1967

Lyerly, Ronald Wayne, E3 - Co A, GSW

 

7 March 1967

Cross, Bennie Lee, E5 - Co D, GSW

Kennedy, Charles F., E5 - Co D, GSW

 

9 March 1967

Bartram, Gerald Edward, E3 - HHC, GSW

Friar, Freddie Lynn, E3 - Co B, GSW

Furney, Willis Lee, E5 - Co B, GSW

 

26 March 1967

Anderson, Ivy Thomas, E6 - Co A, GSW

James, John Henry Jr, E3 - Co A, CLYMR

Minick, Stephen Michael, E5 - Co A, GSW

 

27 March 1967

Drown, David Alan, E4 - Co C, FW

 

29 March 1967

Glasscock, David Lewis, E4 - Co C, GSW

 

7 April 1967

Gamble, Henry Hwey, E3 - Co B, GSW

Gaston, Ross Allen, E3 - Co B, FW

Miller, Jerry Robert, E3 - Co B, GSW

Patterson, Thomas, E4 - Co B, GSW

 

8 April 1967

Oviedo, Higinio Ovalle, E3 - Co C, GSW

 

17 May 1967

Alderman, Winfred, E4 - Co C, FW

Claeys, Edward Oran, E3 - Co C, FW

Haniotes, Steven Michael, E3 - HHC, FW

Turner, William Coy, E4 - Co C, FW

 

20 May 1967

Fennessey, David Lee, E5 - Co D, GSW

Hague, Gerald Charles, E3 - Co B, FW

Johnson, David Joseph, E3 - Co C, FW

 

22 May 1967

Proctor, Samuel Jr, E3 - Co B, FW

 

30 June 1967

Lester, James Robert, E7 - Co C, GSW

( Accidental M79 Fire )

 

10 July 1967

(Battle for Hill 830)

Beach, Myron Stanley Jr, E7 - Co A, GSW

Borowski, John C., E3 - Co A, GSW

Clark, Roger William, E4 - Co A, GSW

Crozier, David Paul, E5 - Co B, GSW

Darby, Jimmy Earl, E3 - Co B, GSW

Deuerling, William Joseph, E5 Co A, GSW

Doring, Larry Allen, E4 - Co B, FW

Erwin, Arthur Albert, E3 - Co A, GSW

Fabrizio, James, E3 - Co B, GSW

Huggins, Frazier Daniel, E3 - Co B, GSW

Johnson, David Harold, E3 - Co A, FW

Jordan, Daniel Walter, O1 - Co A, GSW

Kofler, Siegfried, E5 - Co D, GSW

Poole, Oris Lamal, E4 - Co A, GSW

Sabel, Joel Michael, E4 - HHC, FW

Samans, Walter A. Jr, E4 - Co A, GSW

Scott, William Alexander, E7 - Co B, GSW

Shepherd, Franklin Steve, E4 - Co A, GSW

Shores, Malton Gene, E3 - Co B, FW

Spier, Harry Diwain, E3 - Co B, FW

Torres, Jesus M., E5 - Co B, GSW

Williams, Walter Douglas, O4 - HHC, FW

 

15 July 1967

Davis, Gerald Edward, E3 - Co D, FW

Jones, Ronald Russell, E3 - Co D, FW

 

20 July 1967

Sorrells, Bobby Horace, E6 - Co C,

( Drowning )

 

28 September 1967

Bamvakais, John Robert Jr, E4 - Co D,

( Drowning )

 

3 October 1967

Meador, Daniel R., E4 - HHC, FW

( Short Artillery Rnd )

 

6 November 1967

(Battle for Hill 823)

Bowersmith, Charles George, E3 - Co A, GSW

Burney, David Frank, E3 - Co B, GSW

Cabrera, Joaquin Palacios, E6 - Co B, GSW

Corbett, Linwood Calvin, E4 - Co B, FW

Darling, Robert Harry, O2 - Co B, GSW

Dowdy, Rufus John, E3 - Co B, GSW

Dubb, Dewain V., E3 - Co C, GSW

Ellis, James Lee Jr, E4 - Co B, GSW

Jones, Sherman Lawrence, E3 - Co C, FW

Jorgensen, Emory Lee, E4 - Co D, GSW

Laird, Richard Francis, E3 - Co D, GSW

Miller, Clarence Alvie Jr, E3 - Co B, GSW

Miller, Louis Charles, E4 - Co B, FW

Shafer, James Dudley, E5 - Co D, GSW

Stevens, Edrick Kenneth, E3 - Co D, GSW

Stone, Richard Arlan, E4 - Co D, GSW

Wright, Willie Alfred, E5 - Co C, GSW

 

18 November 1967

Collins, William Anderson, E7 - Co D, FW

Crabtree, Michael Andrew, O3 - Co D, FW

McGhee, Richard Dale, E4 - Co D, FW

Robinson, Charles Harvey, E3 - Co D, FW

 

20 November 1967

Arnold, Louis George, E3 - Co A, FW

Corbett, Thomas Louis, E4 - Co B, FW

Flores-Jimenez, Angel R., E3 - Co B, FW

Gladden, Michael Jay, E4 - Co B, FW

Mabe, Roger Dale, E3 - Co B, FW

Murrey, Tracy Henry, O2 - Co C, GSW

Paciorek, Robert Edward, E4 - Co B, FW

Richards, Leonard Jeffrey, E3 - Co B, FW

Smith, John William, E3 - Co A, FW

Turner, Arthur Jr, E5 - Co A, FW

Wade, Thomas Joe, E3 - Co B, FW

Webb, Earl Kennon, E4 - HHC, FW

Whittington, Merrel P., E4 - HHC, FW

 

21 November 1967

Klossek, Gerald, E3 - Co C, FW

Lee, Roy Ronald, E4 - Co A, FW

Lindgren, Robert William, E4 - Co B, FW

Manuel, Roland Will, E6 - Co B, GSW

Michalopoulos, Raymond W., E4 - HHC, FW

Reynolds, David Richard, E3 - Co B, FW

Smith, Jesse E., E3 - Co C, GSW

 

22 November 1967

Cubit, Billy Ray, E3 - Co C, GSW

Owens, Kenneth Grant, E3 - Co B, FW

Ponting, John L., E7 - Co B, FW

Willbanks, Charles Edward, E3 - Co B, FW

 

23 November 1967

Bickel, Robert John, E3 - Co B, FW

Cates, William Lloyd, E7 - Co B, FW

Fladry, LeRoy Edward, E5 - Co C, FW

Mason, Richard Floyd, E3 - Co B, FW

Worrell, James R., E3 - Co B, FW

 

25 November 1967

Mays, Thomas Curtis, E5 - Co A, GSW

 

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