cc7

DECLASSIFIED

CONFIDENTIAL 3

5750

One ONTOS section was located at (BT059647) in support of the 1st Platoon

"D" 1/1 and the other section at (BT104655) in support of the 3d Platoon

"D" 1/1. On 4 July one ONTOS was hit by VC small arms fire on the number

2 and 3 recoilless rifles. Both rifles were taken to FLSG for a service-

ability check. On 5 July the 1st Platoon "D" 1/1 displaced to (BT069639)

and the ONTOS displaced with it. The same day the ONTOS section with the

3d Platoon "D" 1/1 displaced to (BT109642). On 6 July the ONTOS section

with the 1st Platoon "D" 1/1, fired three major rounds (106MM recoilless

rifle HEP-T) and 800 rounds of Cal 30 machinegun ammunition at VC snipers,

with negative results. On 9 July the ONTOS section with 1st Platoon, "D"

1/1 fired six major rounds at snipers located at (BT054650) with negative

results. The same day the other ONTOS section located at (BT070650) fired

100 rounds of Cal 30 machinegun ammunition at VC snipers located at (BT070-

648) and (BT067649) with negative results. On 13 July one ONTOS supporting

2nd Platoon "D" 1/1 and one ONTOS from the 1/1 CP were dispatched to (BT050-

645) where a "D" 1/1 patrol was under fire from VC snipers. The ONTOS

fired 10 major rounds at hedgerows (BT048645) with negative results. On

15 July the entire platoon moved to (BT081642) in support of "D" 1/1. On

17 July one ONTOS returning from the 3d ATBn maintenance area to "D" 1/1

was being led by a M-422 Mighty Mite. Th M-422 was ambushed by an un-

known number of VC at (BT069690). The VC fired 30 rounds of small arms

at the Marines in the M-422. The Marines returned fire with 25 rounds of

7.62MM and 45 Cal ammunition. When the ONTOS arrived on the scene the VC

broke contact. Negative results were reported. On 17 July one ONTOS

section was assigned a direct support mission for "M" 3/1 (BT049692)

on a COUNTY FAIR mission.

(3) HUE-PHU BAI TAOR

(a) Company "B" continued in direct support of the 4th

Marine Regiment. The 1st Platoon commenced the month in direct support of

the 4th Marines, maintaining defensive positions from 1 to 11 July 66. On

12 July Company "B" received a Frag Order from the Commanding Officer, 4th

Marines to depoy one ONTOS platoon and the Company Command Group to DONG

HA (YD244599), in support of Operation HASTINGS. At this time the 1st

Platoon was assigned the mission of providing security in the 1/4 vital

area, relieving the 3d Plt, Company "B". The platoon remained in defensive

positions for the remainder of the mont with the exception of one ONTOS

section which provided a convoy escort mission. The ONTOS section departed

PHU BAI, escorting a convoy to DONG HA on 15 July and returned on 16 July.

The 2nd Platoon commenced the reporting period in direct support of the 4th

Marines. On 8 July the Company received a Frag Order to send on platoon

to DONG HA Airstrip (YD244599). The platoon departed PHU BAI at 100640H

July, providing convoy escort to DONG HA. Upon arrival it was placed in

direct support of 2/1. On 14 July when Company "B" (-) arrived at DONG

HA the platoon rejoined the Company for the deployment to CAM LO (YD132-

591) for Operation HASTINGS. Upon arrival at CAM LO, the platoon was

placed in defensive positions guarding the Task Force Delta CP and heli-

copter LZ. On 30 July the platoon was chopped from direct support of the

4th Marines and placed under OPCON of 3/4.

ENCLOSURE (1)

11

CONFIDENTIAL

DECLASSIFIED

DECLASSIFIED

HEADQUARTERS

3d Antitank Battalion (Rein)

3d Marine Division, (Rein) FMF

FPO San Francisco 96602

3

5750

Ser: 0117-66

10 Aug 1966

CONFIDENTIAL

From: Commanding Officer

To: Commanding General, 3d Marine Division (Rein), FMF (Attn: SC-3)

Subj: Command Chronology, July 1966; submission of

Ref: (a) NCO 5750.2

(b) DivO 5750.1

Encl: (1) Command Chronology

(2) Staff Journals

(3) SITREPS

1. In compliance with the reference, enclosure (1) through

(3) are submitted.

(Signature)

E. R. LARSON

DECLASSIFIED

DECLASSIFIED

CONFIDENTIAL 3

5750

PART I

1. Reporting unit - 3d Antitank Battalion, 3d Marine Division, FMF

2. Period covered - 1 - 31 July 1966

3. Date of submission - 10 Aug 1966

4. Commanding Officer - Lieutenant Colonel Bruce A. HEFLIN, USMC

(1 - 13 July 1966)

Major Eddis R. LARSON, USMC

(14 - 31 July 1966)

5. Command Post - Republic of South Vietnam (AT987711) Map AMS

Series L 701, Sheet No. 6659 III.

ENCLOSURE (1)

1

CONFIDENTIAL

DECLASSIFIED

DECLASSIFIED

CONFIDENTIAL

3

5750

PART II

1. Operation Data, including attachments:

a. Designation/Location

(1) Headquarter and Service Co. (DANANG TAOR)

(2) Co "A" (DANANG TAOR)

(3) Co "B" (PHU BAI TAOR)

(4) Co "C" (DANANG TAOR)

(5) Co "A" (-), 1st ATBn (DANANG TAOR)

b. Period covered by report: 1-31 July 1966

c. Name/Rank of Commanding Officer and Staff, and principle sub-

ordinates, including T/O billet assignment.

BATTALION HEADQUARTERS

Commanding Officer..................................................................LtCol B A. HEFLIN

(1-13 Jul 66)

Maj E. R. LARSON

(14-31 Jul 66)

Executive Officer.......................................................................Maj E. H. GRAHAM

(1-4 Jul 66)

Maj E. R. LARSON

(5-13 Jul 66)

Maj K. E. SHARFF

(14-31 Jul 66)

S-1/Adj........................................................................................2ndLt G. DOHSE

(1-10 Jul 66)

WO S. R. JACKSON

(11-31 Jul 66)

S-2...............................................................................................Maj E. R. LARSON

(1-13 Jul 66)

WO C. C. HARRIS

(14-31 Jul 66)

S-3...............................................................................................Maj E. R. LARSON

(1-13 Jul 66)

WO C. C. HARRIS

(14-31 Jul 66)

S-3A............................................................................................WO C. C. HARRIS

(2-13 Jul 66)

Unassigned

(1 and 14-31 Jul 66)

Liaison Officer...........................................................................Unassigned

S-4..............................................................................................Maj K. E. SHARFF

ENCLOSURE (1)

2

CONFIDENTIAL

DECLASSIFIED

DECLASSIFIED

CONFIDENTIAL 3

5750

Supply Officer.............................................................................2ndLt R. U. BOKELMAN

Motor Transport Officer............................................................Capt. H. R. MARWITZ

Ordnance Maitenance Officer...................................................GySgt C. P. Mc DONALD

Communications Officer.............................................................2ndLt M. C. SCHROEDER

Medical Officer...........................................................................HMC G. K. LAW, USN

Headquarters and Service Co.

Commanding Officer..................................................................Capt. B. M. MATHEWS

Company "A"

Commanding Officer..................................................................Capt S. R. STEWART

(1-10 Jul 66)

Capt A. A. COMPTON

(11-31 Jul 66)

Executive Officer.......................................................................1stLt S. T. FLYNN

(1-2 Jul 66)

Unassigned (3-31 Jul 66)

1st Plt Commander.....................................................................2ndLt E. A. ROBITAILLE

2nd Plt Commander....................................................................2ndLt R. W. BERNARD

3d Plt Commander......................................................................1stLt M. P. KINGSTON

Company "B"

Commanding Officer..................................................................Capt D. C. SATCHER

Executive Officer.......................................................................Unassigned

1st Plt Commander....................................................................2ndLt T. J. MEEHAN

2nd Plt Commander...................................................................SSgt A. MAMARIL

(1-23 Jul 66)

1stLt S. L. CAMBY

(24-31 Jul 66)

3d Plt Commander.....................................................................2ndLt M. H. PONDER

Company "C"

Commanding Officer.................................................................Capt F. FIRING

(1-2 Jul 66)

1stLt S. T. FLYNN

(3-31 Jul 66)

Executive Officer......................................................................Unassigned

1st Plt Commander....................................................................2ndLt H. J. RILEY

2nd Plt Commander...................................................................2ndLt A. W. HOOF

3d Plt Commander.....................................................................1stLt D. K. CASWELL

Company "A" (-), 1st ATBn (OPCON 3d ATBn)

Commanding Officer.................................................................Capt G. R. VAN HORN

Executive Officer......................................................................1stLt G. J. FORBES

ENCLOSURE (1)

3

CONFIDENTIAL

DECLASSIFIED

DECLASSIFIED

CONFIDENTIAL

3

5750

1st Plt Commander....................................................................Sgt J. W. ANDROLOWICZ

(1-19 Jul 66)

2ndLt B. H. BAILEY

(20-31 Jul 66)

3d Plt Commander....................................................................GySgt V. L. STREET

(1-19 Jul 66)

2ndLt G. W. SOOTER

(20-31 Jul 66)

d. Average monthly strength during the period:

Officers Enlisted USN-Enl

3d Antitank Battalion (Rein) 21 331 12

(a) H&S Company 9 96 7

(b) Company "A" 4 77 2

(c) Company "B" 4 77 2

(d) Company "C" 4 79 1

(e) Company "A", 1st ATBn

(ADCON 1st MarDiv)

2. Sequential Listing of Significant Events.

a. Personnel and Administration. During the month there was one

promotion to Major, two to Captain and one appointment to 2ndLt. Four

Sergeants were promoted to Staff Sergeant, 22 LCpls to Corporal, 68 PFC's

to Lance Corporal and 10 Pvts to Private First Class. The Battalion sent

39 men on R&R. There were four men medically evacuated our of country

for non-battle reasons. One man was granted an emergency leave to CONUS.

There were three men wounded and one man killed, non-battle casualities.

There were two aricle 15 punishments awarded by Company Commanders. Two

Summary Courts-Martial were awarded by the Battalion Commanding Officer.

Six officers, 43 USMC enlisted and one USN enlisted were transferred

during the same period. Two Purple Heart medals, five Good Conduct medals

and two Meritorious Masts were awarded during the month. All companies

continued on Company Administration and utilized the Addressograph PAS

system. The 3d Antitank Battalion received recognition from the Commanding

General, III MAF, for finishing first in the U. S. Savings Bond campaign,

with a 99.4% participation.

b. Battalion Command Post Activities

(1) On 13 July Maj Gen Wood B. KYLE, USMC, CG, 3d Marine Division

reviewed a Battalion formation and awarded the Purple Heart Medal to Sgt.

Charles N. WEBB, USMC and LCpl James W. PERRY, USMC.

The Battalion formation was the formal Change of Command of the 3d

Antitank Battalion. LtCol Bruce A. HEFLIN, USMC was relieved by Maj. E. R.

LARSON, USMC.

ENCLOSURE (1)

4

CONFIDENTIAL

DECLASSIFIED

DECLASSIFIED

CONFIDENTIAL 3

5750

(2) Other important visitors to the Battalion Command Post

during the month included:

12 July

Col. G. E. MARTIN, USMC, Inspector, 3d MarDiv.

21 July

Col. E. E. HAMMERBECK, USMC, Prospective Commanding Officer of the 3d

Marines.

The Honorable Mr. SELLIEZ, Beligian Ambassador to the Republic of Vietnam

BGen H. M. ELWOOD, USMC, III MAF

27 July

Col. D. W. SCHUMAKER, USMC, III MAF Supply Officer

30 July

Col. J. R. RHODES, USMC, Deputy Chief of Staff, 3d MarDiv.

Col. R. H. KERN, USMC, Communications and Electronics Officer, 3d MarDiv.

LtCol. L. G. ALEXANDER, USMC, Assistant G-3, 3d MarDiv.

(3) The battalion continued to provide one rifle squad from

the Battalion Reaction Platoon to OPCON of the 3d Tank Battalion for the

security of the LAMM Battery on Hill 327 (AT972738).

(4) The Battalion CP perimeter was partially expanded. New

wire fortifications have been constructed over half of the defensive

area. The Seismic Intrusion Devices have been relocated to provide

better coverage. Contruction on two new defensive bunkers has commenced.

Work on the expanded perimeter continues.

(5) The American Red Cross continued the program of scheduling

two ladies to visit the Battalion Enlisted Men's Club on entertainment

projects. The ladies visited the battalion on four occasions during July

and conducted audience participation games.

c. Intelligence. Information concerning the enemy and terrain was

received from USMACV, III MAF, 3d Marine Division, 9th Marines and HOA

VANG District Headquarters. On 23 July, NGUYEN NINH, a resident of the

hamlet of YEN BAC (AT985708) was taken into custody upon the advice of

the 3d Tank Battalion as a VC suspect. He was taken to HOA VANG District

Headquarters. Suspect was released on 25 July.

ENCLOSURE (1)

5

CONFIDENTIAL

DECLASSIFIED

DECLASSIFIED

CONFIDENTIAL

3

5750

d. Training: The month of July, 1966 followed the same "on-the-job"

training pattern that was established on arriving in Vietnam durin July

of 1965. The number of hours devoted to OJT and formal training is in

direct relation to operational committments. In keeping with our Troop

Orientation program the film "On Target" was shown twice in the Battalion

Theater. H&S Company conducted familiarization firing at HOA CAM Regional

Forces Training Center for both the M-14 as well as the .45 Cal pistol.

10 members of the Battalion attended the3d Engineer Battalions school on

VC mines, Booby Traps, and U. S. Mines. Two Marines were sent to Okinawa

for training in the Basic Ammunition Technicians Course held by the 3d

Force Service Regiment.

e. Operations: The 3d Antitank Battalion continued to provide gen-

eral support to the 3d Marine Division in the DANANG and PHU BAI TAORS.

On 1 July the disposition and support roles of units of the Battalion

were as follows:

(1) 3d Antitank Bn in general support of the 3d Marine Division.

(a) H&S Co (Bn CP) Located DANANG TAOR

(b) Company "A" in direct support of the 3d Marine Reg-

iment. (DANANG TAOR)

1st Plt. Co "A" in direct support of Company "I", 1/3,

and Companies "G" & "H" 2/3

2nd Plt. Co "A" in direct support of Companies "C"

1/3, and "D", 1/3

3d Plt. Co "A" in direct support of Companies "E" 2/3

and "G" 2/4

(c) Company "B" in direct support of the 4th Marine

Regiment. (PHU BAI TAOR)

1st Plt. Co "B" in direct support of the 4th Marines.

2nd Plt. Co "B" in direct support of the 4th Marines.

3d Plt. Co "B" in direct support of the 1st Bn., 4th

Marines.

(d) Company "C" in direct support of the 9th Marine Reg-

iment (DANANG TAOR)

1st Plt. Co "C" in direct support of the 2nd Bn., 9th

Marines.

2nd Plt. Co "C" in direct support of the 9th Marine

Regiment.

3d Plt. Co "C" in direct support of the 1st Bn., 9th

Marines.

(e) Company "A" (-) 1st ATBn (OPCON 3d ATBn in direct

support of the 1st Marine Regiment (DANANG TAOR)

1st Plt. Co "A" in direct support of the 1st Battalion,

1st Marines.

3d Plt. Co "A" in direct support of the 1st Battalion,

1st Marines.

ENCLOSURE (1)

6

CONFIDENTIAL

DECLASSIFIED

DECLASSIFIED

CONFIDENTIAL 3

5750

(2) DANANG TAOR

(a) H&S Company. The company continued it's role of provi-

ding administrative and logistical support of the ONTOS companies during

the month. The Ballation portion of sub-sector I, Southern Sector, Divi

sion Rear Area was effectively covered by night patrols as well as am-

bushes. The Battalion reaction platoon dispatched a squad on three occas-

ions to the village of YEN BAC (AT985708) to investigate disturbances; no

contact was reported. The commitment laid on the Company to provide one

squad OPCON of the 3d Tank Battalion to assist in defense of the LAMM

Battery on Hill 327 continued throughout the month.

(b) Company "A" continued in direct support of the 3d

Marine Regiment. The 1st Platoon continued to support the 2nd Battalion,

3d Marines. The month commenced with one ONTOS section in support of "F"

2/3 on Hill 65 (AT878577) and the other ONTOS section in support of "G"

2/3 at (AT913598). One ONTOS was in support of "I" 3/3 at (AT929691).

On 1 July the ONTOS section with "F" 2/3 supported a two platoon sweep

adjacent to Hill 65. No contact was reported. On 9 July the ONTOS sup-

porting "I" 3/3 displaced to (AT944782) where it became OPCON of the 2nd

Plt, "A" Company. From 1-15 July the platoon expended 72 major (106mm

recoilless rifle HEP-T) rounds on Harrassing and Interdiction (H&I) fire

missions. On 10 July the ONTOS section in support of "F" 2/3 supported a

platoon sized patrol. Negative results were reported. On 11 July the same

ONTOS section, supporting a platoon from "F" 2/3, fired 22 major rounds

and 2000 Cal 30 machinegun rounds at VC located by and in houses and hay-

stacks. Results were four secondary explosions sighted. From 11-20 July

the platoon expended 162 major rounds in H&I fire missions from Hill 65.

On 27 July the ONTOS section with "G" 2/3 displaced to (AT916592), where

it had the mission of providing counter mortar fires for 2/3. The ONTOS

section on Hill 65 expended 163 major rounds on H&I missions from 21-31

July. The 2nd Platoon continued in direct support of Companies "C" and

"D" 1/3, One ONTOS section with "D" 1/3 at LE MY (AT899820), one ONTOS

section with "C" 1/3 on Hill 358 (AT931885) and one ONTOS at AI VAN pass

in support of a platoon from "C" 1/3. On 1 July one ONTOS provided cover

for an infantry sweep of (AT922792), with negative results. On 7 July

the ONTOS at AI VAN pass was used to set up a road block. On 9 July one

ONTOS was placed OPCON of 2nd platoon from the 1st Plt and was positioned

as part of the company reaction force at the CP (AT944782). From 7-10

July the Platoon expended 467 major (106MM recoilless rifle) rounds on

H&I missions. On 16 July the ONTOS at the platoon CP was used as a "show

of force" at KIM LIEN (AT924857) during the night. The platoon provided

a road block at AI VAN pass on 16 & 17 July for a "Rough Rider" convoy.

From 11 - 20 July the platoon expended 750 major rounds on H&I missions.

On 24 July one ONTOS supported the infantry security element during a

rice harvest in GS (AT8485), remaining on that mission until 26 July.

From 21 - 31 July, 619 major rounds were expended on H&I missions.

ENCLOSURE (1)

7

CONFIDENTIAL

DECLASSIFIED

DECLASSIFIED

CONFIDENTIAL

3

5750

The 3d Platoon Co "A" remained OPCON "C" Company until 3 July 66. At

021825H Jul 66 as recovery operation on ONTOS submerged in rice paddy 30

June 1966 were being completed at (BT045656) units of the 3d Platoon re-

ceived approximately 200 rounds of small arms fire from an estimated 10-

12 VC with two automatic weapons located in a tree line (BT04657).

Approximately 1000 rounds Cal 30 and Cal 50 machinegun fire was returned

by four ONTOS, 1 lvtr-1, and two OTTERS that were assisting in recovery

operation. Six rounds 106MM were directed into suspected positions in

TU CAU (3) resulting in three secondary explosions, one of which was very

large, with debris blown approximately 100 meters into the air. A squad

from "D" 1/1 which had provided security for the recovery operation proc-

eeded to search enemy positions, received four rounds small arms fire.

Tracked vehicles providing cover fired three rounds 106MM and additional

500 rounds machinegun fire into the area. Contact was lost. The squad

completed search of area resulting in one VC KIA (CONF). An LVTR-1 pull-

ing the disabled ONTOS, plus one escort ONTOS proceeded for 1/1 CP at

1900. Two VC were observed withdrawing east across rice paddy vicinity

(BT057662) and were taken under fire with Cal 30 machinegun at range of

approximately 1,000 meters with unknown results. Remaining two ONTOS and

two OTTERS plus the infantry squad departed for 1/1 CP at 1920, arriving

at CP at 1950. Both serials of vehicles received 2-5 rounds of harassing

sniper fire on way back to CP. No friendly casualties or damage to

vehicles was sustained. The 3d Platoon returned to OPCON Company "A" on

3 July from Co "C", 3d AT Bn an remained at the Company CP (AT950722)

until 8 July. On 8 July one ONTOS section was placed in direct support

of "G" 2.4 at (AT923691), one ONTOS was sent to Hill 41 (AT935664). On

9 July the ONTOS section with "G" 2/4 expended 12 major rounds on an H&I

fire mission. On 10 July 66 "I" 3/3 relieved "G" 2/4; Support was switched

to "I" 3/3. On 11 July "M" 3/3 relieved "E" 2/3; Support was switched to

"M" 3/3. The platoon expended 28 major rounds in practice firing from

positions on Hill's 41 & 22 from 11 - 20 July. From 21 - 31 July the

platoon remained in defensive positions, one ONTOS in direct support of

"M" 3/3 on Hill 22, one ONTOS on Hill 41, and one ONTOS section at

(AT923691) in direct support of "I" 3/3.

(c) Company "C" continued in direct support of the 9th

Marine Regiment. The 1st Platoon continued in direct support of the 1st

Battalion, 9th Marines. On 1 July one ONTOS section was in direct support

of "G" 2/7 at (BT024577), one ONTOS section was at the 2/9 CP (BT015627).

On 3 July one ONTOS in support of "G" 2/9 fire three major rounds at a

building (BT025577), destroying it, with no report of enemy casualities.

On 4 July the ONTOS section with "G" 2/9 supported them on a search and

destroy mission, with no contact reported. On 5 July the ONTOS switched

locations; the section with 2/9 CP exchanged missions with the section

with "G" 2/9. During the relief on ONTOS section received 25 VC SA

rounds at (BT048607). No casualities were reported.

ENCLOSURE (1)

8

CONFIDENTIAL

DECLASSIFIED

DECLASSIFIED

CONFIDENTIAL 3

5750

On 7 July the ONTOS section with "G" 2/9 provided convoy escort to

(AT992577) and return (BT024577). No contact was reported. From 11-18

July the ONTOS sections remained in support of "G" 2/9 and the 2/9 CP.

On 19 July one ONTOS in support of "G" 2/9 patrol located three mine-

fields in vicinity of a bridge at (BT012568). On 20 July "F" 2/9 switched

positions at (BT024577) with "G" 2/9, the ONTOS section at that position

remained, now in support of "F" 2/9. On 20 July this ONTOS section supp-

orted an "F" 2/9 convoy to (AT964606). On the return one AmTrac detonated

a mine at (AT989580), at which time the VC fired 15 rounds of SA at the

convoy. The ONTOS returned fire with 1500 Cal 30 machinegun rounds. The

VC broke contact. No damage to ONTOS or crew casualities was reported. On

22 July the ONTOS section at 2/9 CP escorted two OTTERS to (AT996618) and

and return, with no contact reported. The remainder of the month was

without incident. The month ended with one ONTOS section at the 2/9 CP

(BT015627) and the other section at the "F" 2/9 CP (BT024577). The 2nd

Platoon started the month at the Company "C" CP (Rear) (BT998723). On

5 July the rear CP was closed and all activities move to Hill 55 (AT960-

620). The 2nd Platoon moved to Hill 55 at that time. On 8 July on ONTOS

section was placed in direct support of "D" 1/9 (AT947547). On 10 July

this ONTOS section fired fire major rounds and 600 Cal 30 machinegun

rounds in support of "D" 1/9 (AT953544). Three houses were destroyed, with

three VC KIA (PROB) credited to the fire mission. On 11 July this same

section supported "D" 1/9 on a Search and Clear operation from (AT941546)

to (AT937554). Two major rounds were fired, destroying two houses. A

group of VC (AT937552) were fired on resulting in four VC KIA (PROB).

Fire was later received from (AT937554). Return fire with 200 Cal 30

machinegun rounds and four Cal 50 spotter rounds was directed at the VC

with no determined results. On 16 July this ONTOS section supported "D"

1/9 in a Search and Clear operation from (AT947547) to (AT949583). The

ONTOS fired three major rounds and 350 Cal 30 machinegun rounds at the VC

located at (AT946574), resulting in four VC KIA (PROB). On 18 July the

ONTOS section at the platoon CP displaced to support "B" 1/9 (AT923543).

This ONTOS section, while with "B" 1/9 at (AT929533), observed VC boats

along the river bank (AT904526). Twenty Cal 30 machinegun rounds were

fired at the boats, however the range was too great for accurate damage

assessment. On 20 July the same section sighted 25 - 30 VC unloading

sampans at (AT904526). Six major rounds were fired into a treeline

located at the junction of the SONG THU BON and SONG VU GIA rivers

(AT914534) to (AT917535). Two rounds fell short and landed in the SONG

THU BON river, without detonating. The other four rounds resulted in the

destruction of two houses, one secondary explosion, one secondary fire

and three VC KIA (PROB). Later that day the ONTOS section sighted 25 VC

in khaki uniforms in boats at (AT904526). Five major rounds were fired,

resulting in the destruction of one boat and five VC KIA (PROB). Six

additional major rounds were fired resulting in the destruction of four

more boats and the collapsing of two caves. A total of 17 106MM recoil-

less rifle rounds HEP-T, 20 Cal 30 Machinegun and 10 50 spotter rounds

were fired during this action. On 27 July the ONTOS section with "D" 1/9

fired 300 Cal 30 machinegun rounds at two VC with no confirmed results.

ENCLOSURE (1)

9

CONFIDENTIAL

DECLASSIFIED

DECLASSIFIED

CONFIDENTIAL

3

5750

On 28 July this same section sank two VC sampans with 500 Cal 30 machinegun

rounds. No VC KIA or WIA were confirmed. On 39 July one ONTOS from the

section supporting "B" 1/9 fire ten Cal 30 machinegun rounds at a VC boat

located at (AT914532), with no confirmed results. Later that day the ONTOS

fired 12 Cal 30 machinegun rounds at a VC boat located at (AT912535), and

an additional 20 machinegun rounds were fired at a boat with 5 VC observed

at (AT914535), with results unknown. All of the action noted above was on

the SONG THU BON river. The 3d Platoon started the month in direct support

of the 1st Battalion, 9th Marines. One ONTOS section was on Hill 55 (AT960-

620) at the 1/9 CP, the other ONTOS section at (AT911939) with "B" 1/9.

On 2 July the ONTOS section with "B" 1/9 fired 12 major rounds resulting

in the distruction of nine boats and three houses at (AT904538). On 4

July the same section supported sweep of Company "B" to )AT920540). No

contact was reported. That evening the ONTOS fired seven major rounds from

the Company "B" night position (AT912539) to (AT902531) - (AT914-

534) with undetemined results. On 5 July this same ONTOS section was

positioned at a river block (SONG VU GIA River) with "D" 1/9. On 6 July

VC sniper fire was received. Nine major rounds were fired at the source

(AT927530) - (AT925534), and sniper fire ceased. On 7 July the ONTOS sec-

tion fired 14 major , 500 Cal 30 machinegun and 100 Cal 50 spotting rifle

rounds into (AT906539) - (At905538) when a USMC helicopter was hit by an

estimated 20 VC. Results were undetermined. On 9 July the same ONTOS

section with "D" 1/9 fired 10 major and 25 Cal 50 spotting rifle rounds

from (AST903542) to (AT900539), resulting in the destruction of two houses

and one newly constructed VC bunker. On 10 July the same ONTOS section

received VC sniper fire from (AT895544), apparently from a high powered

rifle with a scope. One ONTOS returned fire with 15 major rounds, 250 Cal

30 machinegun, and 25 Cal 50 spotting rifle rounds. The VC sniper fire

ceased. On 12 July the ONTOS section with "B" 1/9 fire five major rounds

from (AT903543) to (AT904548). In addition to eight Cal 50 spotting

rounds and 250 Cal 30 machinegun rounds were fired at VC sniper. Results

were on VC KIA (CONF). From 14-20 July the platoon displaced to the

Company CP located on Hill 55 (AT963612). On arriving at the Company CP

one ONTOS was sent to reinforce the 2nd Plt, and shared in action noted

in connection with support of "D" 1/9 above. One ONTOS was positioned as

part of the Company CP defensive. The remainder of the platoon was

located at the 3rd ATBn CP for maintenance.

(d) Company "A" (-), 1st ATBn remained in direct support of

the 1st Marine Regiment. The 1st Platoon started the month at the 1st Bn,

1st Marines CP (BT073659). On 2 July the platoon was placed in direct

support of "D" 1/1 at (BT083644). On 5 July the "D" 1/1 CP displaced to

(BT080641). The platoon supported a "K" 3/1 sweep from (BT073708) to

(BT065705). No contact was reported. The 3rd Platoon started the month

at the 1st Bn, !st Marines CP (BT073659). On 2 July the platoon was placed

in direct support of "D" 1/1. One ONTOS remained at the 1/1 CP (BT073659).

ENCLOSURE (1)

10

CONFIDENTIAL

DECLASSIFIED

DECLASSIFIED

CONFIDENTIAL

3

5750

The platoon remained at CAM LO with 3/4 while the remainder of the company

displaced to DONG HA, enroute to the PHU BAI TAOR. The 3d Platoon started

the month in direct support of the 1st Ballalion, 4th Marines. Three

positions were manned with the 1/4 TAOR from dusk to dawn nightly. On

12 July the platoon was relieved by the 1st Platoon for deployment on

Operation HASTINGS. The platoon departed PHU BAI for CAM LO, with the

Company "B" Command Group at 130555H July. It was assigned convoy escort

duties for the movement. When the convoy reached THON MY CHANH (YD404-

475) it was held up because of a blown bridge. The ONTOS as well as all

wheeled vehciles in the convoy were ferried across the SONG CO LAU river

by an ARVN bridge platoon. During the crossing one ARVN truck sank in the

river and was retrieved by the Company "B" wrecker and crew. A defensive

perimeter was established for the night at (YD412475), the ONTOS providing

security for the night. On 14 July the convoy arrived in DONG HA (YD244-

599). At this time the 2nd Platoon joined the Company and continued to

the Task Force Delta CP at CAM LO (YD132591). The platoon was assigned

defensive positions within the TFD CP perimeter. One ONTOS section

practised indirect fire procedure, firing 36 106MM recoilless rifle rounds

under control of the 3/12 FSCC. The evaluation was excellent. On 30 June

the company departed for PHU BAI. The platoon was chopped to OPCON of 3/4

and remained at CAM LO as perimeter security.

f. Communications and Electronics. On 10 July the Battalion commu-

nication contact team lesson plans and handouts were completed and

instructor/team members assigned. On 18 July the Battalion received a new

frequency from the 3d Marine Division CEO for Battalion Tac Net #2. On 21

July Communications Officer attended a seminar at the 1st Amphibian

Tractor Battalion. Representatives of the 3rd Tank Battalion, 3d and 9th

Motor Transportation Battalion were also in attendance. The purpose of

the meeting was to discuss plans for establishing a Composite Communica-

tions Center when the 9th Marines CP (rear) displaces forward. On 22 July

Battalion Tac Net #2 activated on a new frequency. The new frequency

provides for better radio communications with Company "B", located in the

PHU BAI TAOR. On 22 July the wire section installed a "hot line" between

this Battalion's S-3 bunker and the 3d Tank Battalion's S-3 bunker. All

battalions in the Southern Sector, Sub-sector I will be on the "hot line"

when the circuit is completed. On 22 and 23 July the Communications tent

was roofed with tin in preparation for the Monsoon Season. From 25-27

July the Communications Officer, the Communications Chief and the elec-

tronics Technicial Chief made a visit to Company "B", committed in

Operation HASTINGS at that time. All communications systems were checked

and proved operative. On 28 July the wire section made and operational

check of all AN/PSR-1 SID's.

g. Logistics. On 1 July one ONTOS was completely submerged in water,

was retrieved and delivered to FLSG "A" for evacuation. Contact teams

from FMFPAC arrived to inspect (T.I.) the Replacement and Evacuation (R&E)

of ONTOS vehicles for FY-66. One wing tank, road wheel, track and lumber

was sent to Company "B" via "Rough Rider" on 15 July.

ENCLOSURE (1)

12

CONFIDENTIAL

DECLASSIFIED

DECLASSIFIED

CONFIDENTIAL 3

5750

No ONTOS track has been received by this organization during July. This

remains a critical problem. Eight ONTOS were received under FY-66 R & E

program and are being processed for issue to companies.

(1) Ordnance/Maitenance. A total of 17 ONTOS were deadlined

during the month and 15 were returned to service. Quarterly maintenance

services were performed on nine ONTOS. Sixteen contact teams were dis-

patched to provide services for units of this command. There were 41 work

orders accepted and 38 were completed.

(2) Motor Transport. During the month there were 49 work orders

opened and 45 were completed. Thirteen quarterly services and five annual

services were performed. There were two acceptance checks performed. A

total of 1383 trips were dispatched covering 15,385 miles. There were two

vehicles received, one M-37 and one M-62. No vehicles were dropped.

(3) Supply. In July the following major items of supply were

received.

Item Qty

Road wheels, ONTOS 68

BA-30, batteries 300

Metal stakes, 5" 415

Machinegun, Cal 50 1

Truck, 3/4 ton M-37 1

Pistols, Cal 45 15

106MM RR 1

Machinegun, Cal 30 1

Wrecker, M-62 1

a. The following major items were dropped.

Item Qty

Tent, GP 3

Tent, Maintenance 4

Binoculars, 7X50 1

Typewriter 1

Rifle M-14 Cal 7.62mm 49

Requisitions were submitted as follows: Two priority two, 19

priority five, 66 priority twelve and 89 priority seventeen for a total

of 176 requisitions. Requisitions filled durig the month were: Three

priority two, 17 priority five, 131 priority twelve and 130 priority

seventeen for a total of 281.

ENCLOSURE (1)

13

CONFIDENTIAL

DECLASSIFIED

DECLASSIFIED

CONFIDENTIAL

3

5750

h. Civic Action.

(1) Medical Assistance. The Medical Contact Team of this command

dispensed a total of 433 medical treatments in YEN BAC (AT985708) and

accounted for another 721 treatments in the CAM HOA (AT970704) Hamlet

complex. Emergency medical assistance was rendered to two inhabitants of

CAM HOA. One was injured by a water buffalo and the other was severely

burned by a gasoline stove he was filling. Priority was also given toward

eliminating the breeding grounds of the Anopheles mosquito in both hamlets

through the use of insecticide and DDT.

(2) Agricultural Assistance. Extensive progress was made in

improving the irrigation capability of the YEN BAC - CAM HOA Hamlet complex

through the introduction of a new 1000 gallon per minute pump to the ex-

isting irrigation network. This project accounted for a 30% increase of

arable land for the two hamlet complex. An additional high capacity pump

was acquired from the Ministry of Rural Hydraulics, Republic of Vietnam

and will double the existing irrigation capacity when it is installed later

this year. Initial contact has also been made with a USOM fisheries expert

to ascertain the feasability of stocking a local pond with the protein-rich

and fast growing African Perch. Assistance was also rendered to CAM HOA

in a joint effort to eliminate insect damage to seedling rice plants

through an extensive spraying project.

(3) Community Development. The past month witnessed a resurgence

in the number of public improvement projects undertaken and completed in

both hamlets. Improvements in CAM HOA included the complete renovation of

the existing school edifice, the improvement of three old wells and the

construction of three new deep water wells. Projects in YEN BAC included

the construction of a new footbridge and the construction of three new wells.

All projects were completed by the Vietnamese themselves with the technical

and economic assistance of this command. Land was also cleared and lev-

eled in YEN BAC for the proposed new permanent school structure which will

be built by the villagers next month. Arrangements have already been

completed to purchase 100 bags of cement, 75 sheets of roofing material,

and lumber to ensure rapid and expeditious completion of the project.

(4) Commodity Distributions to YEN BAC - CAM HOA complex

included 400 pounds of clothing, 160 gallons of cooking oil, 500 pounds

of powdered milk, 2000 bars of soap, 90 school kits, 80 school kit re-

fills, large amounts of writing paper and pencils as well as smaller quan-

tities of candy, toys and cigarettes. Large amounts of scrap lumber were

also distributed, as were 41 bags of cement, 50 sheets of roofing and

other assorted building materials. Approximately 1200 pounds of solid and

liquid garbage were also furnished as fodder for both hamlets. All com-

modities were distributied through the hamlet leaders.

ENCLOSURE (1)

14

CONFIDENTIAL

DECLASSIFIED

DECLASSIFIED

CONFIDENTIAL 3

5750

(5) Area Security and Pacification continued to improve through

the employment of 4 Popular Forces soldiers with this command. The

Popular Forces cadre was instrumental in detecting a apparent effort by

VC operatives to discredit hamlet leaders. Their vigilance and alertness

enabled us to mount a successful counter-offensive. This technique of

embarrassing hamlet leadership by accusing it of misappropriating funds

and even of having VC sympathies is, according to some local personnel a

favorite of the Viet Cong.

(6) Special Projects. A party was held for 170 children and 11

adults from the YEN BAC - CAM HOA complex on the 4th of July weekend. Our

guests were treated to hamburgers, hot dogs, ice cream and other assorted

treats, and they all seemed to enjoy themselves. A special three hour

sight seeing tour of DANANG was arranged for some 90 youngsters and adults

on 26 July. The itinerary included China Beach, the harbor, religious

shrines and other selected points of interest. This was for many children

(and some adults) the first time that they had ever seen DANANG.

(7) Visitors. Visitors to YEN BAC included the Belgian

Ambassador to Vietnam Mr. SELLIEZ, Brigadier General ELWOOD, USMC, III MAF,

the Department of Defense Combat News Team and other correspondents.

ENCLOSURE (1)

15

CONFIDENTIAL

DECLASSIFIED

CLICK THE BANNER ABOVE TO RETURN TO THE COMMAND CHRONOLOGIES INDEX

OR

CLICK THE BANNER BELOW TO RETURN TO THE ONTOS CREWMEN MAIN PAGE