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Operation
Texas Star
(#2)
By Gen John J. Hennessey
Declassified Authority: 927623
Operations narrative
1-14 April 1970
Operation TEXAS STAR commenced with
renewed efforts in the Vietnamization of combat operations in
northern Military Region 1.
Significant Activities. On 011003
April at YD 343198, the battalion forward Command post and Co B,
2nd Bn (AMBL), 506th Inf received small
arms fire on their
landing zone at RIPCORD from an
enemy force at a range of 40 meters, followed by 82mm and 60mm
fire. The element returned organic weapons and artillery fires.
The
contact continued intermittingly
throughout the day, increasing in intensity when Medevac and
other aircraft attempted to enter landing zone.
At 1430 hours the recon platoon 2nd
Bn (AMBL), 506th Inf was inserted during a heavy
mortar attack to patrol north of the firebase. After extensive
deployment of
Artillery, air strikes and aerial
rocket artillery (ARA) contact was broken at 2230hrs. Sweeps
were conducted throughout the day. Seven US personnel were
KIA and 21 WIA; enemy casualties
were unknown.
On 3 April, the 4th Bn,
1st Regt (ARVN) discovered a cache containing eleven
Tons of rice in AO Pear, vic YD289198.
Troop A, 2d Sqdn (AMBL), 17th
Cav, employing pink teams (1 AH1G and 1 OH6A) throughout the
day killed a total of 16 NVA in five separate contacts on
4 April.
On 060033 April, at FS/OB ARSENAL
(YD 812080), Co C 1st Bn (AMBL), 502nd Inf
received RPG fire followed by the attack of approximately 50
enemy
Sappers from the south. A flare
ship and ARA were on station in ten minutes.
Artillery fires were employed on
suspected enemy escape routes while the defenders repulsed the
attack. A search revealed six NVA KIA and two POW’s. US
casualties were four WIA.
On 10 April a bulk CS-2 drop was
conducted in the A SHAU valley to interdict resupply operations
of the 6th NVA Regt along route 9222; a total of 58
drums of the agent were dropped by two CH47 aircraft.
On 11 April, FS/OB RIPCORD was
occupied and secured by Co C 2nd Bn (AMBL), 506th
Inf, with no enemy encountered.
On 12 April, ARC Light strikes were
conducted in the vicinity of ZULU (YD5216) and KATHRYN (YD4611)
to disrupt enemy activity in these areas. An immediate aerial
bomb damage assessment (BDA) was conducted of the strikes
dropped in the vic of KATHRYN, followed by ground BDA by an aero
rifle platoon of the 2nd Sqdn (AMBL), 17th
Cav.
On 13 April, enemy indirect fire
attacks increased in the AO. The command post and Co B 1st
Bn (AMBL), 327th Inf at FS/OB BASTONGE received three
separate 82mm mortar attacks resulting in 4 US personnel KIA and
16 WIA.
Significant Activities. At 160825,
the CP, 1st and 3rd Companies 2nd
Bn, 1st Regt. (ARVN), vic YD328198 received small
arms and RPG fire from an estimated enemy squad. Organic
weapons, artillery and ARA were employed. A search of the
contact area revealed nine NVA KIA and 250 RPG and 500, 82mm
rounds, captured. ARVN casualties were three KIA and four WIA.
On 17 April, heavy and accurate
ground fire from enemy small arms, RPG, 12.7mm, and reported
23mm weapons rendered eleven aircraft of the division
Non-flyable. Continued sporadic enemy indirect fire attacks
in AO Spear resulted in the decision to move, on 18 April, an
AN/MPQ-4A radar from FS/OB STRIKE to FS/OB GRANITE to increase
counter battery fire.
At 181355 ranger team “CICADA” was
inserted at YD105435 to conduct sensor readout activities.
This was the first employment of ranger teams to monitor
sensors.
In response to enemy activity
monitored by the rangers, the 2nd Squd (AMBL), 17th
Cav initiated combined US/ARVN recon operations on 21 April. Two
teams were inserted along the Quang Tu River in vic of FS/OB
HENDERSON. Each team consisted of five personnel from Co L
(Ranger), 75th Inf, one Kit Carson Scout and four
ARVN from 2nd Regt. (ARVN).
The 21st of April was
the first day of Operation Texas Star on which the enemy did not
employ indirect fire.
On 230345 at YD362165, Co A, 2nd
Bn (AMBL), 501st Inf received RPG fire and satchel
charges in their NDP. The attackers were quickly silenced, but
resumed the attack at 0610 hrs with RPG , small arms, and 60mm
mortar fire. Artillery was employed on suspected enemy locations
and escape routes. A first light search revealed seven NVA KIA,
two RPG launchers, one SKS and five AK-47’s. One US soldier was
killed in action and eleven wounded.
On 24 and 25 April, gunships of the
2nd Sqdn (AMBL), 17th Cav and ARA from the
4th Bn (ARA), 77th Arty responded to USAF
and Army recon aircraft sightings by destroying four 12.7mm
machine guns, four trucks and one bulldozer in the area bounded
by YD213137, YD303093, YD315069, northwest of the A SHAU valley.
On 280500, the 2nd
Platoon, Co B 2nd Bn (AMBL), 502nd Inf
which had been inserted on 27 April to conduct patrol and ambush
operations, engaged an estimated enemy platoon moving toward
their NDP at YD510072. The enemy returned RPG fire and satchel
charges resulting in one US KIA and 18 WIA. A search of the
contact area revealed 12 NVA KIA. At 0830 at YD5008, the 2nd
Plt. Co B 2nd Bn (AMBL), 502nd Inf.,
discovered three enemy bunker complex’s, all heavily damaged by
artillery, ARA, and air strikes which had been employed on 27
April. A thorough search of the area revealed 50 enemy KIA.
30 April
1970
Significant Activities. At 291400 at YD505077, the 2nd
Plt, Co B, 2nd Bn (AMBL), 502nd Inf
received mortar and intense small arms at a distance of 10
meters. Their platoon, employed organic weapons, cannon
artillery and ARA, and was reinforced by the remainder of the
company, and by Co C and the Recon Platoon. At 1515 hrs, as the
US elements maneuvered against the enemy force supported by air
strikes, ARA and cannon artillery, the enemy fled to a second
bunker complex. At 1549 hrs the enemy fled to a third bunker
complex. The contact terminated at dusk. A sweep revealed 15 NVA
KIA, two RPG launchers, one AK-47, one M-60 machine gun, one
M-79 grenade launcher and one AN/PRC-25 radio. Twenty-six US
personnel were wounded in the action.
On
282140, at YD438190 (FS/OB GRANITE) received five separate
mortar attacks which resulted in 34 US WIA. ARA, and cannon
artillery were employed on suspected enemy positions while air
cavalry elements and ground forces searched for enemy mortar
positions.
On 1 May,
enemy indirect fire attacks continued on FS/OB GRANITE and
GLADIATOR. A total of eleven enemy attacks were directed at the
fire bases.
On 2 May,
sixty-four 55 gallon drums of Napalm were dropped in the vic of
FS/OB HENDERSON to improve fields of fire. The 2nd Bn
54 Regt (ARVN) made heavy contact south of the fire base,
resulting in 18 NVA KIA.
On 031130
at YD511063, the 1st Plt, Co C 2nd Bn.,
502nd Inf., while conducting patrol activities
received RPG and small arms fire from an enemy force at 40
meters. The element returned organic weapons fire and employed
ARA, cannon artillery and air strikes on the enemy positions. A
sweep of the area revealed 27 NVA KIA. US casualties were one
KIA and 13 WIA.
On 5 May,
contacts by units of the 1st Bde, south of the THREE
FORKS area of the SONG BO (river) resulted in 18 NVA KIA. US
casualties were six KIA and 26 WIA.
At 051000 at YD044364 (4 KM NW of
FS/OB TUN TAVERN) the 1st Bn 54th Regt (ARVN)
engaged an estimated two enemy platoons in bunkers 50 meters
from their position. The enemy returned small arms and withdrew.
ARA was employed and a sweep revealed 29 NVA KIA. ARVN
casualties were five KIA and 26 WIA.
Significant Activities. At 060505,
FS/OB HENDERSON received RPG, small arms, satchel charges,
recoilless rifle fire and mortar fire, followed by a well
organized and coordinated ground assault by the 8th
Bn, 66th NVA Regt. Fires ignited by the flamethrowers
employed by the NVA caused approximately 1000 rounds of 155mm
artillery ammunition to explode. Defending forces supported by
ARA, cannon artillery and gunships, accounted for 29 NVA killed.
The enemy withdrew at 0720.
Total US casualties were 32 killed,
33 wounded, and two missing in action.
ARVN casualties were 19 KIA and 45
WIA.
On 7 May, FS/OB HENDERSON continued
to receive sporadic mortar and recoilless fire throughout the
day, resulting in four US and three ARVN WIA.
At 070450, at YD429122 (FS/OB
MAUREEN), the 2nd Plat, Co D 1st Bn (AMBL)
506th Inf received 60mm mortar fire, small arms fire,
and satchel charges from an estimated enemy company. The platoon
returned fire while a flare ship and ARA were employed. Elements
of the company, moving to reinforce the platoon, received small
arms fire from an enemy force at a range of 20 meters. The
element returned small arms fire and the enemy withdrew. ARA,
gunships, and air strikes were employed on suspected enemy
locations. 60mm mortar fire was received by the company at 0800
and again at 1500 hrs. Six US soldiers were killed in action and
12 were wounded. A search of the contact area revealed four NVA
KIA.
On 7 and 8 May, the 1st
Bn 54 Regt. (ARVN) continued to engage the enemy forces in the
FS/OB TUN TAVERN area, accounting for 36 NVA KIA. At 080900 at
YD043360, the battalion discovered 30 graves containing 97
bodies apparently killed by AF air strikes during the previous
week.
At 091030, at YD495054, Co A 2nd
Bn (AMBL) 502nd Inf received small arms, RPG fire and
fragmentation grenades from an estimated 12-15 enemy in bunkers.
The company returned fire and withdrew in order to employ
artillery, ARA, gunships, and air strikes. A search of the area
revealed 18 NVA KIA. US casualties were one KIA and 12 WIA.
20 May
Significant Activities. At 160428,
at YD487065, Co A 2nd Bn (AMBL), 502nd Inf
received RPG fire from an enemy location north of their NDP.
Seven minutes later the company received RPG, automatic weapons,
and small arms fire from the enemy east and west of their
position. The company returned organic weapons and cannon
artillery fire. A USAF flare ship was employed to provide
illumination. At 0521 hrs the Recon Plat. engaged enemy movement
at YD490068. A first light search of both contact areas by the
Recon Plt. revealed five NVA KIA, two AK-47’s and one RPG
launcher captured. US losses were four KIA and 22 wounded.
At 160650, vic YD918236, while
supporting the insertion of Recon Team 3, Det B-52, 5th
SFG (A), an AH1G from Btry C, 4th Bn (Aerial Arty),
77th Arty (AMBL), received 23mm anti-aircraft fire.
Directed by the UH1H command and control aircraft, the Cobra
engaged the area, killing 35 enemy and destroying two 2 ½ ton
trucks. The 1st Plat., 2nd Co, 81st
Abn Ranger Bn (ARVN) was inserted near target area to conduct
further assessment of the ARA fires. The element made contact
with an estimated 30 enemy, killing three and sustaining one US
and one ARVN WIA.
The Plt. was unable to reach target
area and was extracted under fire at 1820 hrs by Co B, 158th
Avn Bn (AMBL).
At 171035, at YD417398, a CH47 from
Co B, 159th Avn Bn (AH) (AMBL) was hit by enemy
ground fire, crashed and burned. The aircraft was a total loss
and five US soldiers were killed.
At 181845, a UH1H aircraft from Co
C, 158th Avn Bn (AH) (AMBL) was reported missing with
four crew members and two passengers aboard. The Aero Rifle
Platoon, Troop B, 2nd Sqdn (AMBL), 17th
Cav was inserted at YD355238 on 19 May to conduct a search for
the aircraft. The platoon was unsuccessful in locating the
aircraft and was extracted prior to darkness.
One member of the crew, who had
walked from the crash site to a landing zone, was extracted at
191400 hrs. by a UH1H from Co A, 101st Avn Bn (AH) (AMBL)
which was on a mission for the 501st Signal Bn (AMBL).
The injured crew member stated that the aircraft was hit by
enemy ground fire, attempted to make a forced landing on a
landing zone, crashed and rolled down a hill into a canopy
covered area. He had no knowledge of exact location of the
aircraft or the other crew members.
On 19 May, the 2nd Co,
81st Abn Ranger Bn (ARVN) was inserted at XD907234 to
conduct an assessment of the ARA attack conducted on 16 May. The
company photographed two destroyed 2 ½ Ton – 5 Ton type vehicles
and was extracted on 20 May. Sporadic contact with the enemy
resulted in 13 ARVN WIA during this operation.
At 201135, at YD496069, the Recon
Plt and Co A, 2nd Bn (AMBL) 502 Inf received intense
small arms and RPG fire from three sides at a range of 15
meters. The element returned fire, employed ARA and maneuvered
against the enemy. The contact terminated at 1230 hrs, when the
enemy fled, leaving one KIA. US casualties were three KIA and
nine WIA.
Throughout the period 13-20 May
elements of the 2nd and 3rd Bn 1st
Regt (ARVN) made contact with the enemy in the area of FS/OB
BARBARA, resulting in 63 NVA KIA and 11 ARVN WIA.
21 May
1- June 1970
Significant Activities. On 21 May,
two OH6A helicopters from the 2nd Sqdn (AMBL), 17th
Cav were hit by groundfire, crashed and burned, at 1353 and 1625
hrs, at YC493839 and at XD781248, respectively. Both aircraft
were total losses and three crew members were WIA.
At 230940, vic YD499069, Co A 2nd
Bn (AMBL), 502nd Inf discovered twenty 4’x3’x4’
bunkers containing the bodies of twelve NVA who had been KIA.
At 231655, at XD912271, a UH1H from
Co B, 158th Avn Bn (AMBL) while conducting visual
reconnaissance in support of Operation BARBER GLADE, received
ground fire crashed and burned. Six US personnel and two ARVN
were KIA, including the commanding officer, Det-52, 5th
SFG (A).
At 231800 and again at 2000 hrs, at
FS/OB KATHRYN, CO A 1st Bn (AMBL) 506th
Inf was attacked by fire with 60mm and 82mm mortar fire which
impacted inside the perimeter, two to three 82mm mortar rounds
which were received during the 2000 attack contained the agent
CS. ARA and cannon artillery were employed against suspected
enemy locations. Results of the two attacks were three US
personnel KIA and 25 WIA.
At 240600, vic YD075394 (two KM S
of FS/OB HENDERSON), the 4th Bn 54th Regt
(ARVN) received RPG and small arms from an estimated enemy
company surrounding their NDP. The element returned organic
weapons fire and employed ARA and cannon artillery. A sweep of
the contact area revealed 45 NVA KIA.
ARVN casualties were four KIA and
16 WIA.
At 261010, in support of a contact
which involved elements of Co C 2nd Bn (AMBL), 506th
Inf and resulted in two US WIA, a UH1H MEDEVAC helicopter from
Co C, 326th MED Bn (AMBL), while lowering the jungle
penetrator at YD328226, received one RPG round in the fuel cell,
crashed and burned. All four crew members were KIA.
At 271048, at YD436124, the Recon
Plt. 1st Bn (AMBL), 506 Inf , while
conducting patrol activities near FS/OB MAUREEN, received RPG
and small arms fire from an enemy force at 35 meters. The
element returned organic weapons fire and cannon artillery. The
enemy broke contact and fled. ARA arrived on station at 1105
hrs; a Pink Team arrived at 1145 hrs. One NVA was killed by ARA
fire. At 1808 hrs the platoon engaged two enemy with small arms
fire at a range of 75 meters. An enemy force of undetermined
size returned RPG, automatic weapons and small arms fire. ARA
and gunships engaged several enemy. The contact terminated at
1915 hrs. A sweep of the area revealed six NVA KIA by
helicopter, six by ARA fire, and seven by small arms fire. Two
US soldiers were WIA.
At 280130, FS/OB O’REILLY, the 1st
and 2nd Companies, 1st Bn, 1st
Regt (ARVN) received mortar fire followed by a ground attack.
Elements of the firebase returned organic weapons fire and
cannon artillery. A flareship and ARA were requested and were on
station at 0155 and 0205 hr, respectively. The enemy was
repulsed before daylight and a first light search revealed 77
NVA KIA, two PW, 29 AK-47’s, eight RPG launchers, three Soviet
LPO flame-throwers and two CHICOM radios. Three ARVN soldiers
were killed and 15 wounded in this action.
At 281930, vic YD581309, the PHONG
District Chief was killed while driving to his home when he was
attacked by Viet-Cong who employed B-40 rockets.
During the period of 29 May to 1
June, 15 enemy were killed in sporadic activity throughout the
division AO. Seven were killed by helicopter fire, four by small
arms fire, two by tactical air strikes and two by artillery
fire. An additional five NVA KIA were discovered in graves.
2-9 June 1970
This period was marked by increased
enemy contact with ARVN units and light contacts with the
division. ARVN and territorial force units accounted for 232 NVA
and 20 VC killed in action. Thirty-seven enemy were killed in
light contact with units of the division during this period.
On 9 June, Det B-52, 5th
SFG (A) extracted all teams from the AO and conducted stand down
at MAI LOC. During the period 16 May – 9 June the detachment
accounted for 50 enemy killed in action, while sustaining seven
US KIA, eight US WIA, four ARVN KIA and thirty-six ARVN wounded
in action.
Significant Activities. At 020430,
at TUN TAVERN, the 2nd Bn, 54Regt (ARVN)
received an attack from all sides of the firebase by the 9th
Bn, 66th NVARegt.
employing 82mm mortar, 75mm
recoilless rifle, RPG and small arms fire.
Elements of the base returned
organic weapons fire and employed flareships, ARA, cannon
artillery, and air strikes. The enemy penetrated the perimeter
and was able to occupy bunkers on the east side of the firebase.
The situation was static at 0645 hrs.
At 0930 hrs a renewed assault was
made on the firebase from the north and northwest, but was
immediately repulsed. The enemy was driven from the firebase at
1115 hrs, although 75mm recoilless rifle and 82mm mortar fire
continued sporadically throughout the day.
A sweep of the contact area
revealed 81 NVA KIA and one PW. Three US soldiers from the 501st
Sig Bn (AMBL), in support of the 1st Bn, 54th
Regt (ARVN) were casualties. Two were killed and one wounded in
action. ARVN casualties were 50 killed and 119 WIA. Two US and
one Australian advisor were wounded in action.
At 031453, at YD022354 (one KM W
of FS/OB LANGLEY), the 1st Bn, 54th Regt
(ARVN) discovered 20 NVA KIA by AF
and two overhead bunkers with overhead cover destroyed by air
strikes.
At 041500, ( in vic of TUN TAVERN
YD058328), the 3rd Bn, 1st Regt (ARVN),
while conducting search near the firebase, discovered 45 NVA KIA
by air strikes within the previous 72 hours. At 1640 hrs the
battalion engaged an enemy force with organic weapons fire,
killing 10 NVA while sustaining two KIA. On the following day
elements of the battalion killed four more NVA (that had
attacked them with 82mm and small arms fire) one kilometer
southeast of TUN TAVERN.
At 060550,, the 3rd Co,
3rd Bn, 1st Regt. (ARVN) engaged an
estimated force of two enemy companies with small arms fire at a
range of 150 meters at YD043331.
Cannon artillery and ARA were
employed and a search revealed 11 NVA KIA.
At 1410 hrs, at YD035343, elements
of the 1st Bn, 54th Regt (ARVN) discovered
the bodies of 12 NVA KIA.
10-16 June 1970
On 10 June, elements of the K4C Bn,
4th NVA Regt. Launched attacks by fire against units
of the 2nd Bde occupying FS/OB LOS BANOS, PHU LOC
District HQ and the NUOC NGOT Bridge. Simultaneous ground and
mortar attacks were directed at FS/OB TOMAHAWK. As part of the
reaction to this contact, the division provided aviation assets
to the HAC BAO Company and to territorial forces for movement
and assault into PHU LOC District to regain contact with the
enemy after his withdrawal.
The 2nd Bn (AMBL), 506th
Inf completed battalion refresher training and redeployed in the
AO moving by air from CAMP EVANS to FS/OB RIPCORD to assume
responsibility for AREA QUEBEC. The battalion provided security
for the firebase and for reconnaissance in force operations in
the area.
The 1st Bn, 3d Regt (ARVN),
operating in coordination with the 1st Bn (AMBL), 327th
Inf, conducted a combat assault on 15 June into the area
north-east of FS/OB GEORGIA, near YD4406, and began
reconnaissance in force operations to the south on two axes.
(b) Significant Activities. At
100140, the 4th NVA Regt. began four separate attacks
on US units located in PHU LOC District. Co D (-), 2nd
Bn (AMBL), 327th at FS/OB TOMAHAWK, received a ground
attack by 82mm mortar, RPG and small arms fire by the 71B Sapper
Company. Cannon artillery, ARA, 81mm mortars, foogasse, and
organic weapons fire were employed against the enemy. Contact
was broken at 0218 hrs, although sporadic mortar fire continued
until 0550 hrs. None of the enemy penetrated the perimeter.
Twenty-eight NVA were KIA and three POW’s captured. One US
soldier was killed and two were wounded in action.
At 100144, PHU LOC District
Headquarters and the command post, 2nd Bn (AMBL) 327th
Inf received two RPG’s, one 122mm rocket and 20-25 82mm rounds,
resulting in eight US personal WIA, including two MACV advisors
and one US Marine.
Between the hours of 0150 and 0445,
Co B 2nd Bn (AMBL), 327th Inf, at FS/OB
LOS BANOS, received 15 mortar rounds, which were followed by
three more rounds at 0540 hrs. The element employed 81mm mortar
fire on suspected enemy locations.
At 100158, Moble Training Team 10,
located near the NUOG NGOT Bridge (ZD152010), received 15 mortar
rounds, which were followed by three more rounds at 0540 hrs.
At 100520, the 1st Co 4th
Bn 54th ARVN Regt , at FS/OB ROY received 10-20 82mm
mortar rounds. Counter battery fires were employed; no
casualties were sustained.
The period 11 – 14 June was marked
by light activity in the division AO. Two US personnel were KIA
and the division accounted for 19 NVA KIA. The bodies of 12 NVA,
killed in earlier contacts were discovered. The bodies were
found in graves or hidden from view in heavily vegetated areas.
Gunships from the 2nd Sqdn (AMBL), 17th
Cav engaged an enemy force at XD869365. At 1034 hrs the Areo
Rifle Platoon, Trp A 2nd Sqdn (AMBL) 17th
Cav was inserted to sweep the contact area and confirmed that
twelve NVA had been killed by the helicopter. The Platoon
engaged and killed one enemy at a range of 50 meters at 1215
hrs.
On 16 June in Area Oscar in the vic
of GEORGIA, the 1st Bn 3rd Regt (ARVN)
made contact with an enemy forces which employed small arms, RPG
and 60mm mortar fire at 0945, 1030 and 1430 hrs. The 1st
and 2nd Companys employed small arms and artillery
fire, resulting in three NVA killed by artillery fire, and eight
killed by small arms fire. One ARVN was killed and 20 were
wounded in the contacts.
17-25 June 1970
On 17 June at YD898316, elements of
Trp A 2nd Sqdn (AMBL), 17th Cav, while
conducting visual reconnaissance in the LEATHERNECK area,
observed 10 NVA in the open, 150-200 log reinforced bunkers, 15
pup tents, two burning camp fires, numerous lean-tos, 10
latrines and a network of trails leading into the area.
Extensive visual reconnaissance of
the area by elements of the squadron throughout the day on 18
June revealed heavy enemy activity and a large number of
additional bunkers. The area was engaged by gunships, artillery
and air strikes throughout the afternoon. Two incidents of
ground to air fire were reported in the area.
On 19 June elements of the squadron
while conducting BDA of the tactical air strikes, located a
600-man hospital complex west of LETHERNECK. Trp D was inserted
and discovered medical supplies, rice, grenades, and
miscellaneous equipment.
On 21 June, Trp D and the
reconnaissance Company (HAC BAO), 1st ARVN div
conducted a combined assault into the LEATHERNECK-ROBIN area to
find and destroy enemy bunkers and cache sites. Continues air
cover was provided by the 2nd Sqdn (AMBL), 17th
Cav.
24 June Significant Activities. At
170340, at YD441066 (Area Oscar), the light CP, 2nd
and 3rd companies, 1st Bn, 3d Regt (ARVN),
operating in coordination with the 1st Bn (AMBL), 327th
Inf, engaged an estimated enemy platoon near their NDP. Organic
weapons, cannon artillery, ARA, and a flareship were employed
and resulted in 32 NVA KIA. ARVN casualties were four personnel
with minor wounds.
On 18 June
The 3de Bde combined task force,
inserted into the vic of LEATHERNECK on 22 June, located and
destroyed enemy installations and foodstuffs until they were
extracted on 25 June. Operational totals for the period 17-25
June in the area were 69 NVA KIA, two POW, 52 tons of rice,
three tons of salt, ten cases of misseleaous foodstuffs, one
crew served and three individual weapons, 19,500 AK-47 rounds,
4,600 12.7mm rounds, 310 RPG rounds, 40 75mm recoilless rifle
rounds, and 15 122mm rockets captured. A total of 283 bunkers
were destroyed.
At 221600, at vic YD84256, (1.5 KM
SW of JEROME), the 1st Bn, 1st Regt (ARVN)
discovered a training area consisting of a rifle range, 50 huts
with underground bunkers, and an ammunition bunker containing
10,000 AK-47 rounds. 200 RPG rounds and 40 NVA uniforms which
bore no markings.
At 231045, at YD184256, (2 KM SW of
JEROME), the 1st Bn, 1st Regt (ARVN)
engaged an estimated two enemy platoons with organic weapons,
gun ships and tube artillery. The enemy returned small arms fire
and fled. A search of the contact area revealed 47 NVA KIA, and
a large enemy base camp which contained 10 individual weapons,
11 crew served weapons, 158,450 AK-47 rounds, 30,000 12.7mm
machinegun rounds, 780 RPG rounds, 30 anti-tank mines, 160
bunkers, two animal cages and two POW cages. Four ARVN were
wounded in the action. This area South of FS/OB JEROME is a know
rear area which supports the 812th NVA Regt and the
7th Front.
On 25 June, Det B-52, 5th
SFG (A) resumed Operation Barber Glade with the insertion of the
2nd Plt, 44th Ranger Co. (ARVN) at XD8344
Significant Activities. At 170340,
at YD441066 (Area Oscar), the light CP, 2nd and 3rd
Regt (ARVN), operating in coordination with the 1st Bn (AMBL),
327th Inf. engaged an estimated enemy platoon near
their NDP. Organic weapons, cannon artillery, ARA and a
flareship were employed and resulted in 32 NVA KIA. ARVN
casualties were four personnel with minor wounds.
On 18 June, in the Vietnamese
salient area (XD8831), gunships, ARA, and air strikes were
employed, resulting in 26 NVA KIA. Weather precluded the
insertion of Trp D, 2nd Sqdn (AMBL), 17th
Cav into the area to conduct patrol and surveillance operations.
The weather cleared the following
day, permitting the insertion of Trp D, which resulted in the
discovery of a recently evacuated hospital complex. Nine enemy
were killed in the area by air cavalry elements. On 20 June
gunships and air strikes accounted for 19 additional NVA killed
in the area.
The insertion of Trp D and the ARP
of Trp B, 2nd Sqdn (AMBL), 17th Cav and
the HAC BAO into the vic. of ROBIN on 21 June to perform BDA and
to exploit B-52 strikes, resulted in the discovery of 62
bunkers, 50 tons of rice, miscellaneous medical supplies, six
NVA killed by air force, a shirt identifying elements of the 7th
Bn 66th Regt, and the capture of two POW’s. Three US
soldiers were wounded in action when the ARP of Trp B received
small arms fire and fragmentation grenades from three to five
enemy at a range of 15 meters. The element returned fire, but
the enemy withdrew and a search revealed no enemy casualties.
The 3rd Bde combined
task force, inserted into the vic., of LEATHERNECK on 22 June,
located and destroyed enemy installations and foodstuffs until
they were evacuated on 25 June. Operational totals for the
period 17-25 June in the area were 69 NVA KIA, two POW’s, 52
tons of rice, three tons of salt, 10 cases of miscellaneous food
stuffs, one crew served and three individual weapons, 19,500
AK-47 rounds, 4,600 12.7mm rounds, 310 RPG rounds, 40 75mm
recoilless rifle rounds and 15 122mm rockets captured. A total
of 283 bunkers were destroyed.
At 221600, at YD184256, (2 KM SW of
JEROME), the 1st Bn, 1st Regt (ARVN)
engaged two enemy platoons with organic weapons fire, gunships
and tube artillery.
The enemy returned small arms fire
and fled. A search of the contact area revealed 47 NVA KIA, and
a large basecamp which contained 10 individual weapons, 11 crew
served weapons, 158,000 AK-47 rounds, 30,000 12.7mm machinegun
rounds, 780 RPG rounds, 30 anti-tank mines, 160 bunkers, two
animal cages, and two POW cages. Four ARVN were wounded in the
action. This area, west and south of JEROME, is a known rear
service area, which supports the 812th NVA Regt and
the 7th Front.
26 June- 7 July 1970
The division continued to provide
aviation assets to the 1st Inf Div (ARVN) and the 1st
Bde, 5th Inf Div (Mech) throughout the period. Assets
were provided to Det B-52, 5th SFG (A) until
termination of BARBER GLEN on 30 June. There were a total of 117
incidents of aircraft receiving ground fire. One aircraft was
shot down by 12.7mm machinegun fire and crashed. Nineteen other
aircraft were deemed unflyable by enemy fire.
The division continued extensive
employment of ground sensor devices to locate and monitor enemy
movement and engage suspected enemy locations with artillery,
helicopters, and marine, navy and USAF aircraft. In response,
3003 rounds of mixed caliber artillery ammunition were fired.
The period 1-7 July saw a marked
increase in enemy activity in the 3rd Bde AO as
elements of the 803rd and 6th NVA
Regiments conducted daily attacks by fire on OB/FS RIPCORD. More
than 160 rounds of 60mm, 82mm mortar, and 75mm recoilless rifle
fire were directed at the firebase during the first seven days
of July, resulting in 21 US soldiers WIA. In the area of the
firebase, US units were involved in 23 contacts imitated by the
enemy and eight friendly initiated contacts, which resulted in
30 NVA KIA, nine IWC, and two CSWC. US casualties were 18 killed
and 104 wounded.
Significant Activities. On the
morning of 26 June, CAMP EAGLE was attacked twice by fire. At
0900 hrs, approximately ten 82mm mortar rounds impacted in the
area of the 2nd Bn (AMBL), 320th Arty abd
the 4th Bn (Aerial Arty), 77th Arty (AMBL).
One US soldier was killed and eight were wounded during the
attack. Two UH1H helicopters and one seahut were damaged and one
maintenance tent was destroyed. At 0247 hrs seven 122mm rockets
impacted in the area of Co B, 159th Avn Bn (ASH) (AMBL);
4th Bn (Aerial Arty), 77th Arty (AMBL);
256th RRC; 801st Maint Bn (AMBL); Div
Arty, and sector G of the CAMP EAGLE perimeter. Results were
four US personnel WIA; one UH1G helicopter and one ¾ ton M37
truck destroyed; and one CH47, one AH1G, two 2 ½ ton M35 trucks,
two ¾ ton trucks and two M151 jeeps damaged.
At 260235, vic., YD442118, the 1st
Plt Co B, 1st Bn (AMBL), 506th Inf
received RPG and small arms while in their NDP. The Platoon
returned small arms fire and employed ARA and a flareship. A
first light search of the contact area revealed six NVA KIA, two
AK-47’s, two RPG launchers, two RPG rounds, and twenty five ¼
pound satchel charges. US casualties were four KIA and eight WIA.
On 1 July at 0708 hrs on FS/OB
RIPCORD, the CP and Co D, 2nd Bn (AMBL), 506th
Inf received five 82mm mortar rounds and small arms fire from
the southeast. At 0850 hrs, the firebase received 15 rounds of
82mm mortar fire which impacted inside the perimeter. At 1345
hrs, the enemy employed 16, 75mm recoilless rounds, 6-8
impacting inside the perimeter. At 1912 hrs, four rounds of 82mm
mortar fire landed on the firebase. Artillery, air strikes, and
organic weapons fire were employed on suspected enemy positions
throughout the day. Fifteen US soldiers received minor wounds
during the day all of whom were from Btry B, 2nd Bn (AMBL),
319 Arty which was located at the highest point of the firebase.
Most of the casualties occurred as the battery was employing
counter-battery fire.
At 02346 July at YD337172 (Hill
902), the CP and 1st and 2nd Platoons, Co
C, 2nd Bn (AMBL), 506th Inf., received
RPG, and small arms fire and satchel charges in their NDP. An
estimated NVA sapper company, in a well-organized and executed
attack, was successful in penetrating the perimeter and
occupying positions within the NDP.
The NVA enemy sappers and elements
of C Co exchanged satchel charges and fragmentation grenades in
a fierce battle with the enemy until the enemy within the
perimeter were killed. The remainder of the enemy force withdrew
at 0420 hrs.
The company commander was killed in
the initial exchange of fire. The company medic immediately
organized the defense of the position until relived later by the
artillery forward observer. Sporadic contact and mortar fire
continued until approximately 0530hrs. Results of the action
were 15 NVA KIA, seven US soldiers KIA, six WIA and one MIA.
On 3 July between 1415 and 1520
hrs, in the vic., of XD7944, seven kilometers northwest of KHE
SANH airstip, aircraft from Trp A, 2nd Sqdn (AMBL),
17th Cav while conducting armed aerial
reconnaissance, engaged approximately 14 enemy, killing twelve.
The ARP of Trp A was inserted at XD790443 and engaged two enemy
in bunkers, resulting in two NVA KIA, one US soldier KIA, and
two US soldiers and one Kit Carson Scout wounded. The platoon
was extracted at 1820hrs.
On 4 July FS/OB RIPCORD was
attacked by fire for the fourth consecutive day. A total of nine
attacks were directed at the firebase, three consisting of 82mm
and 60mm mortar CS rounds. Three US soldiers were wounded.
At 050010, at YD377159, Co C, 2nd
Bn (AMBL), 501st while in a NDP southeast of FS/OB
RIPCORD, engaged three enemy with small arms fire and satchel
charges.
The enemy returned small arms and
satchel charges and appeared to flee. At 0500 hrs the company
was attacked by an enemy force which employed satchel charges.
The company returned organic weapons fire. The enemy again
withdrew and ARA and a flareship were employed. A first light
search failed to reveal any enemy casualties, three US soldiers
were wounded.
At 0605 hrs the company received
8-10 RPG rounds and small arms again from the west. The search
that followed this contact revealed five NVA KIA, five AK-47’s,
twenty eight 1 lb satchel charges and two NVA gas masks. One US
soldier was killed and 14 evacuated for wounds.
At 051240, vic. YD336161, three
kilometers south of FS/OB RIPCORD, Co A, 2nd Bn (AMBL),
501st Inf engaged 8-10 enemy with small arms fire and
artillery, killing five NVA. Two US soldiers were wounded by RPG
fire.
On 6 July, contacts in the FS/OB
MAUREEN area which involved elements of the 1st Bn (AMBL),
501st Inf resulted in three NVA KIA and 20 US
soldiers WIA.
At 1730 hrs, three kilometers
southwest of FS/OB RIPCORD, 15 US troops of Co A, 2nd
Bn (AMBL), 501st Inf were wounded by small arms fire
and fragmentation grenades delivered by an estimated enemy
company located on all sides of the friendly position.
At 061530, at XD745455, a ranger
team from Co L (Ranger), 75th Inf made contact with
an estimated enemy company located north and west of their
position. Organic weapons, ARA, and a pink team were employed
resulting in 13 NVA KIA. Six rangers were wounded.
At 070940, at vic. YD334194, west
of FS/OB RIPCORD, while assaulting on Hill 1000, Co D, 2nd
Bn (AMBL), 506th Inf. received small arms fire and
satchel charges
From an enemy force located in
bunkers 30 meters from their position.
The company employed organic
weapons fire, cannon artillery, ARA, and air strikes on the
enemy positions. Contact was broken at approximately 1500 hrs as
the company moved off the hill, having suffered three KIA and 19
WIA. Six NVA were killed in the action.
Other enemy contacts in the
vicinity of FS/OB RIPCORD on 7 July, involving elements of the 2nd
Bn (AMBL), 506th Inf and the 2nd Bn (AMBL),
501st Inf, resulted in one US KIA and 28 WIA.
8-16 July 1970
In reaction to intelligence
information which indicated that the 9Th Regiment,
304th NVA Division was infiltrating into South
Vietnam to reinforce or replace the weakened 66th NVA
Regiment, reconnaissance and surveillance efforts were focused
in the northwestern portion of the AO.
Efforts to locate the 9th
Regt. culminated at approximately 1130 hrs on 8 July, as a pink
team, from Trp A 2nd Sqdn (AMBL), 17th Cav
observed 150-200 enemy in the open, at XD8236. This area was
engaged by machine gun and rocket fire from the pink team and a
command and control aircraft, which was accompanying the team.
Additional gunship and ARA support
was on station within 30 minutes. At 1358 hrs, Trp D, 2nd
Sqdn (AMBL), 17th Cav was inserted into the contact
area to make a ground search and capture a prisoner. The trop
made contact with the enemy and was extracted at 1758 hrs having
captured three prisoners and a large number of enemy documents,
which identified the unit as the 9th NVA Regt. Pink
teams, and sections of ARA from the 4th Bn (Aerial
Arty), 77th Arty (AMBL) provided relief on station
and continued to engage the enemy throughout the day, resulting
in 139 enemy killed.
Significant Activities. At 081130
July, at XD826363, aircraft from Trp A 2nd Sqdn (AMBL),
17th Cav, observed 150-200 NVA in the open. The area
was engaged by gunships and ARA, resulting in 50 NVA KIA. Air to
ground contact continued throughout the day. At 1230hrs ten more
enemy were killed by gunships. Trp D, 2nd Sqdn (AMBL),
17th Cav was inserted at this location at 1358 hrs
and captured three prisoners. While collecting enemy equipment,
weapons and documents for extraction and searching the contact
area, the troop was engaged by an estimated battalion size enemy
force. During engagement, 24 NVA were killed and Trp D suffered
6 KIA and 5 WIA before being extracted at 1758 hrs. Aircraft
screening the ground troop continued to engage the enemy in the
area. At 1920 hrs, at XD825363, aircraft from Trp A, observed
and engaged an active 12.7mm machinegun position, destroying the
weapon, one RPG launcher, one, radio and four rucksacks. At 1745
hrs a command and control aircraft, flown by the CO, 2nd
Sqdn (AMBL), 17th Cav, landed and extracted one
wounded NVA POW. The final contact of the day occurred at 1919
hrs, when aircraft from HHT, 2nd Sqdn (AMBL), 17th
Cav observed 10-15 enemy near an active 12.7mm machinegun
position. The area was engaged with M-60 machine gun fire and
AH1G gunships, resulting in the destruction of the weapon and 10
NVA killed in action.
Also on 8 July, in the vic. of
FS/OB RIPCORD, the enemy again refused to be dislodged from Hill
1000. Companies C and D, 2nd Bn (AMBL), 506th
Inf were engaged with small arms and automatic weapons fire by
an enemy in well fortified bunkers at 1050 hrs. Intensive fire
from at least three mutually supporting bunkers pinned the
companies down. One bunker was neutralized with M72 LAW fire,
but the other two were not destroyed. The contact was terminated
at approximately 1300 hrs, as the companies again moved off the
hill. US casualties were two killed and four wounded.
At 091615 hrs, at XD826363,
aircraft from Trp A, 2nd Sqdn (AMBL), 17th
Cav observed ten NVA bodies killed during the previous night by
heavy artillery employed from CAMP CARROL by Btry B, 8th
Bn, 4th Arty. Cavalry aircraft killed two other enemy
in the KHE SANH Plateau area during the day.
On 10 July, beginning at 0735 hrs,
FS/OB RIPCORD was attacked by fire on eight separate occasions
during the day. The enemy employed 60mm, 82mm mortar and 75mm
recoilless rifle fire, resulting in two US soldiers KIA and 17
WIA.
Also on 10 July, aircraft from Trps,
A and B, 2nd Sqdn (AMBL), 17th Cav killed
26 NVA in scattered air to ground contact in support of
Operation CLINCH VALLEY.
On 11 July, Trps, A and B killed 14
NVA is support of ARVN ground forces in the CLINCH VALLEY AO,
and the 1st Bn, 3rd Regt (ARVN) killed
five enemy while searching in the area XD823361.
At 110900 hrs, at XD833362, the 1st
Bn, 3rd Regt (ARVN) discovered thirty enemy bodies
killed by helicopter, and, between the hours of 1845 and 1920,
discovered 100 enemy killed by airstrikes within the preceding
36 hrs.
At 122222 hrs, at YD362188 (Hill
805), Co D, 2nd Bn (AMBL), 501st Inf while
in their NDP, received 30 to 40 RPG rounds and small arms fire
from an enemy force located 250 meters to the northeast. The
company returned organic weapons fire, and ARA, air strikes and
a flareship were employed. Sixteen US troops were WIA.
At 121355 hours at XD840359 (one
kilometer north of SNAPPER), the 3rd Co, 1st
Bn, 3rd Regt (ARVN) engaged an estimated 40 enemy
with organic weapons fire. A search revealed 30 NVA KIA, one RPD
machine gun, four RPG launchers, six AK-47’s, one 60mm mortar
(complete), 100 rucksacks, 35 Chicom grenades, 60 RPG and 120
60mm mortar rounds, 60 Chicom gas masks, and 15 pounds of
documents.
Also on 12 July, at YD175240, 3 ½
kilometers southwest of JEROME, the 3rd Co, 1st
Bn, 1st Regt (ARVN) discovered the bodies of 65 NVA
killed by air strikes within the preceding 3-4 days.
At 140203 hrs, at YD362188, Co D, 2nd
Bn, (AMBL), 501st Inf., while in their NDP on hill
805, again received RPG and small arms fire from an enemy force
located 20 meters northwest of their position. The element
returned organic weapons fire and employed M55 .50 caliber fire
(Quad 50) from FS/OB RIPCORD, and 81mm mortar fire, air strikes
and ARA. The contact terminated at 0307 hrs and a first light
search of the area revealed five NVA KIA. The company suffered
six KIA and nine WIA. At 2253 hrs, the company received small
arms and RPG fire and satchel charges, and at 0159 hrs, received
thirty-seven 82mm mortar rounds which impacted inside the NDP.
Organic weapons, ARA, tube
artillery and mortar fire were employed against the enemy. One
US soldier was killed in the action. A first light revealed
numerous blood trails.
On 14 July, Companies A and B and
the Recon Plt, 2nd Bn (AMBL), 501st Inf.,
in yet another attempt to eject the enemy force from Hill 1000,
were engaged by RPG, small arms and mortar fire, resulting in on
US soldier KIA and 20 wounded. Organic weapons, ARA, cannon
artillery, and air strikes were employed against the enemy
positions in well fortified bunkers on the hill. Partial
searches of the area revealed five NVA KIA. Friendly elements
withdrew to YD325189, where at 1715 hrs, they received 82mm
mortar fire which resulted in no casualties. Artillery was
employed on the suspected enemy location.
Operation CLINCH VALLEY was
terminated at 151802 July.
17-23 July 1970
On 17 July, FS/OB RIPCORD received
sporadic mortar fire throughout the day with light damage and
casualties on the firebase. The enemy employed 120mm mortars in
the division AO for the first time in 18 months. The planned
extraction of the 2nd Bn, (AMBL), 501st
Inf was postponed by high winds in the RIPCORD area.
On 18 July, the 2nd Bn,
(AMBL), 501st moved by air from FS/OB RIPCORD to CAMP
EVANS and then by vehicle to PHU BAI to begin preparation for
refresher training. At 181330, a CH47 in logistic support of
FS/OB RIPCORD, was shot down by enemy ground fire and crashed in
the 105mm ammunition storage area, causing a major fire and
extensive damage to the firebase. All six 105mm howitzers of B
Btry, 2nd Bn, (AMBL), 319th Arty were
destroyed. In response, the 1st Bn (AMBL) (-) 501st
Inf passed operational control of the 3rd Bde, and
assaulted into FS/OB GLADIATOR to secure the firebase for the
insertion of Btry B, 2nd Bn, (AMBL), 320th
Arty.
This move was made to insure
adequate artillery coverage for the RIPCORD area.
On 19 July, FS/OB RIPCORD continued
to receive sporadic mortar fire, causing light casualties.
Damage repair and cleanup operations proceeded on the firebase.
Because of the buildup of enemy
forces and the increased tempo of attacks in the FS/OB RIPCORD
area, it became apparent that the cost and effort required for
the defense of RIPCORD placed the accomplishment of future
operations in the enemy’s rear supply and service areas, in the
BRADLEY and AIRBORNE areas in jeopardy.
On 23 July, the 3rd Bde
directed the extraction of the 2nd Bn, (AMBL), 506th
Inf from FS/OB RIPCORD, and vic. Extraction from the firebase
began at 0545 hrs and was completed, despite heavy indirect and
12.7mm machine gun fire, at 1214 hrs. Co B, 2nd Bn, (AMBL),
506th Inf was assaulted to a landing zone at YD363178
to assist the extraction of Co A, 2nd Bn (AMBL), 506th
Inf. Extraction of companies A and D began at 1305 hrs and was
completed without damage or casualties at 1401 hrs. Seventy-four
air force, marine, and navy tactical air sorties, and continuous
ARA and cannon artillery fires were employed in support of the
extraction.
Significant Activities. On 17 July,
beginning at 0704 hrs FS/OB RIPCORD received six attacks by fire
from enemy forces which employed 60mm, 82mm and 120mm mortars.
The last attack was at 1745 hrs. Artillery and tactical air
support were employed throughout the day. Friendly casualties
were 14 US soldiers WIA and one Kit Carson Scout WIA.
At 181330, a CH47 aircraft from Co
A, 159th Avn Bn (ASH) (AMBL), carrying a sling load
of 105mm howitzer ammunition to RIPCORD, was hit by 12.7mm
machine gun fire while approaching the firebase. The aircraft
crashed into the 105mm ammunition storage point, causing a major
fire. Extensive damage was caused in Btry B, 2nd Bn (AMBL)
319th Arty, and to the bunkers and TOC on the
southern portion of the firebase. One AN/MPQ4-A counter-mortar
radar, two 106mm recoilless rifles, and one AN/GRC-163 VHF radio
set were also destroyed.
The firebase continued to receive
sporadic enemy mortar fire throughout the day, resulting in one
US soldier KIA and four WIA. The crash of the helicopter
resulted in one crew member killed and five crew members
wounded. In spite of the fire, and exploding 105mm ammunition on
the firebase, the perimeter remained intact, and by late
afternoon the fires were under control and cleanup operations
were underway.
FS/OB RIPCORD continued to receive
sporadic mortar fire on the firebase throughout the period 19-22
July. A total of 34 stand-off attacks were conducted by the
enemy during those four days, resulting in seven US troops KIA
and 35 WIA. All but five of the wounded required evacuation. A
total of 51 tactical air strikes were directed into the RIPCORD
area between 19 and 22 July.
*Copied by Ted McCormick, B Co 1/327th Inf 101st
Abn Div 101st Abn Div. (AMBL) 1969-70.
Some
elements of Gen Hennessey’s After Action Battle Report have been
abridged from original report such as non-combat information,
routine troop movements, and division information that is not
pertinent to the combat operation history of Operation Texas
Star and the battle of FS/OB RIPCORD.
Ted
McCormick 5/17/05. |
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