What Our Brigade Did in Nam

SKY SOLDIERS KILL 51 NVA

  Tuy Hoa- Brightly wrapped packages donated by the Paratroopers of the 173d Airborne Brigade lifted the spirits of 1,200 refugees on Christmas Day and helped to deepen the ties of friendship between Vietnamese and American.
  The scene was the Chop Chai Refugee Center located two miles north of the city of Tuy Hoa. The Vietnamese people at Chop Chai were relocated there in September when the Sky Soldiers conducted extensive operations in the rich rice lands west of here. At the refugee center, the people now live without the fear of harassment from the Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Communists.
  According to Major Don A. Schwab, Brigade Civil Affairs Officer, the packages of candy, cookies, toys and other gifts were collected from Paratroopers wishing to donate part of their Christmas gifts from home to the needy Vietnamese people. The Brigade Chaplains Office, the 173d Engineer Company and the Civil Affairs Office collected the many presents and early Christmas Day, Sky Soldier representatives played Santa Claus to the refugees of Chop Chai.
  Instead of the traditional sled pulled by eight reindeer, the Santa Clauses of the 173d had a three-quarter ton truck filled to the top with the donated presents. As soon as the truck rolled into sight and the children got wind of the surprise the center became alive with the sounds of happy kids and their parents.
  After a brief ceremony, during which Nguyen-San refugee director, explained to the people the gifts were from the Paratroopers of the 173d, heads of the families were called up front to receive the packages. Soon, bright-colored balloons danced gaily in the air and many a child's smiling face became smudged with chocolate candies and other goodies.
  "The kids really enjoyed themselves," recalled Private First Class Nathan Todd, a Civil Affairs Paratrooper from Bremerton, Wash. "It was a nice Christmas for them as well as for us."
  More surprises are being planned for the refugees of Chop Chai. Brigade Chaplains, coordinating with the Civil Affairs Office are working on a project that the refugees will remember for a long time. According to Chaplain (Lieutenant Colonel) John W. Hulme, donations collected at Protestant and Catholic masses will be used for a surprise project.

Ex-Marine Goes 173d

     Bong Son- Sp4 Edward Richardson, of Brooklyn NY, has had the unique experience of serving a tour in Vietnam with both 3rd Marine Division and 173d Airborne Brigade. His first tour was with the Marines in 1965. Stationed at Chu Lai with the 4th Marine Regiment, Richardson saw plenty of action and was seriously wounded on Christmas Eve. Receiving a medical discharge, he eventually fully recovered and joined the Army a year later. After Jump School he joined 2nd Battalion, in Bong Son.
     The 24 year old veteran was an RTO, (radio-telephone operator) with the Marines and has his old job back with the Paratroopers. Now with Alpha Company 2nd Battalion, Richardson said, "Both the 3rd Marines and 173d are top notch Combat Units. Basic training was tougher with the Marines, but I think the Sky Soldiers have it tougher here in Vietnam."
     Although both the Marines and 173d are always in the thick of the action, Richardson said, "I didn't even know what a rucksack was until I joined the Brigade." Richardson was referring to the 80 lb rucksacks in which Paratroopers haul up to 5 days rations, along with ammunition, grenades and other field equipment. "The Marine unit I was with carried no rucksacks and was re-supplied every day," said Richardson. "Also, we wore flack jackets and used M-14's." Now outfitted with a rucksack and M16, Richarson said, "Despite the hardships, I'm enjoying my tour with the 173d. It should be an invaluable experience."

NVA Rather Quit Than Fight 173d

     TUY HOA- An NVA unit recently decided to disobey written orders from its Regimental Commander rather than defend a nearly impregnable Battalion sized Base Camp and Training Area against a Company of the Brigade.
     The orders exhorting the camp's defenders to stay and fight if the 173d entered the area were found among other documents in the camp by Bravo Company, 4/503d Infantry, who were on patrol several miles northwest of Tuy Hoa. According to the Company Commander Captain, Carleton P. Vencill of Yerington Nevada, Bravo Company had been moving up a stream when a 'Kit Carson' Scout, a former NVA Officer who rallied to Vietnamese government forces, spotted an NVA outpost on top of the steep stream bank.

Fire Exchanged

Patience Proves Profitable

     BONG SON- After sitting four hours in the midst of a torrential rainstorm, an ambush team from the 173d Airborne Brigade was ready to throw in the towel and call it a day.
     Then, they heard movement in the brush to their front.
     "The rain was just coming down light when we started out said Sp4 Howard Jeffries of Ozone Park, NY. "But, once we set up, it really began to pour."
     Just after dawn, the soaking wet Paratroopers of Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 503d Infantry had just about decided they wouldn't have any luck when Jeffries, the team leader, heard some crackling of brush and spotted a small group of VC heading directly toward the ambush.
     When the enemy got near enough, Jeffries hollered, "dung lai" ('halt' in Vietnamese), but his New York accent gave him away and the VC soldiers started to run.
     Opening up, the Paratroopers killed two enemy and found indications of more casualties. "I was sure glad we got them," asserted Jeffries afterwards. "But, I was even happier to get out of the rain."

Misfired AK 47 Helps 1st Bn

By PFC James Stringer

     The keen eye of a 1st Battalion Paratrooper and a faulty magazine in an NVA's AK47 rifle recently led to the capture of an 82mm mortar with base plate and tripod, and the death of two NVA Officers.
     The Paratroopers were conducting a search and clear operation in the Suoi Ca Mountains. Charlie Company was searching a previously found NVA base camp when their OP (observation post) spotted three enemy soldiers, and wounded one.
     "We were following their trail when we came to a large rock formation and I thought I saw something moving," said Sgt Thomas Darden of Granger, Texas. "I told that Platoon Leader and we stopped to search the area."

Complex Found

Buddha Brings 3rd Bn Luck

By PFC Paul Sheehan

     BAO LOC, RVN- Paratroopers of the 173d Airborne Brigade's 3rd Battalion believe in Buddha and it's not because they've changed their religion.
     Buddha is a Scout Dog whose keen senses recently helped avert a devastating ambush on a hillside near Dalat and resulted in 10 NVA dead.
     "Without Buddha I don't know what might have happened," asserted 1Lt Rory S. Fausett of Madison, Wisc. "Those NVA were pretty well set up."
     According to reports, the Paratroopers from Bravo Company, 3rd Battalion, 503d Infantry, were moving up a ridgeline when Buddha suddenly "alerted" to enemy in the area.
     Seeing the Dog's signal, PFC Jerry Whitcomb, the Platoon's flank security took another look in his own area and caught sight of three NVA bushwackers. Whitcomb fired up all three with his M16 before the enemy reacted.

Quick Reaction

     Whitcomb's quick action also caused the NVA to prematurely detonate two command detonated mines, which exploded harmlessly 50 meters in front of the Sky Soldiers.
     The NVA were heavily entrenched atop the hill, and in the ensuing fire fight they unleashed a heavy barrage of machine gun and automatic weapons fire. They also had several snipers tied in trees.
     Although the NVA in their fixed positions gained an immediate fire superiority, Bravo Company quickly moved on line and gained the initiative.
     The Paratroopers used an old favorite ploy of yelling and shouting at the NVA, and it seemed to unnerve the defenders.
     "GO LIMA, GO, GO LIMA GO, GO LIMA GO," shouted the Sky Soldiers as they charged through the foliage toward the enemy emplacements.
     Lieutenant Colonel Henry H. Berke of Fairfax, Va., the 3rd Battalion Commander, pointed out that, "Bravo Company maintained excellent control of the fight, especially considering the disadvantage of deploying uphill."
     Charlie Company, which was trailing Bravo up the hill, deployed to provide flank security. C Company's Medics were instrumental in prompt care and evacuation of the wounded.
     1st Lieutenant Peter Wright of Palo Alto, Ca, called in Artillery within a hundred meters of the advancing Paratroopers. Meanwhile, Lima Platoon led the frontal assault.

Artillery Helps

     Due to the Artillery falling to their rear and small arms fire to their front, the NVA were mounting casualties rapidly and began to disperse. To add to their plight, a flock of Gunships had little trouble in locating and blasting their positions.
     Field First Sergeant Billy Yates of Carrolton, Ga said, "When we reached the top of the hill we found three dead NVA snipers strapped to the trees."
     Seven more bodies were found in the 20-bunker hilltop base camp. There were signs of numerous other NVA dead and wounded.
     The bunkers were built with three foot thick ceilings and could hold five soldiers each. "They had definitely planned on staying," smiled one Paratrooper.

New VC Hospital Found Near Dalat

By PFC Paul Sheehan

     BAO LOC- A curious group of Paratroopers recently found one of the largest and most sophisticated North Vietnamese Hospital complexes yet uncovered in South Vietnam.
     The hospital complex included over 100 adjustable beds, operating tables and two kitchens. The Sky Soldiers of the 173d Airborne Brigade made the discovery 15 miles southeast of Dalat.
     The Paratroopers got their first clue to the hidden complex when 1Lt Lance Singleton of Detroit Mi, spotted a well-hidden trail they hadn't noticed before. Singleton, a Platoon Leader with Alpha Company, 3rd Battalion, 503d Infantry proceeded to establish an ambush on the trail.
     Although the ambushers saw no signs of enemy activity, the following morning the persistent Platoon followed the trail and found the complex which was hidden deep within a triple canopy forest.
     A medical expert from Saigon's 521st Medical Detachment, Captain David Montgomery of Kent, Ohio, was called into the area and disclosed that, "it is the largest and most sophisticated enemy hospital I've seen in Vietnam."
     Captured medical supplies included stretchers, penicillin, saline solutions, plasma, heroin and syringes. Also a number of letters and documents were retrieved.
     Apparently, there were female nurses in the area as women's gloves and sandals were also found.
     The complex was divided into four wards. Each ward was accompanied by a series of bunkers, and some of the bunkers were constructed to accomodate litters. The beds were of typical Vietnamese bamboo construction with adjustable back rests so the patient could sit up.

Steel Roof

     Wards and other structures had apparently been covered by canvas, but this had been removed by the time the Paratroopers arrived. The kitchen roofs were made of galvanized steel. There was a corn field adjacent to the hospital. Also, a stream had been dammed off and bamboo pipes inserted in the dam to aid in drawing water. The kitchen contained a supply of rice and corn and was replete with earthen stoves.
     It was obvious that the NVA had hastily evacuated the hospital as evidenced by a mixture of plaster of paris still moist and pliable. In addition, Paratroopers found pots still wet from washing.

Troops Spotted

     The NVA cadre must have spotted the Paratroopers coming as Sp4 Mahlon Dunn of Greenwich Village, NY found and disarmed a chicom grenade trip wire booby trap.
     Captain Huba Wass de Czege, a Hungarian native who now lives in Gainesville, Fla, said, "It was obvious from the condition of the bamboo that the complex was recently built. Also some of the wards were still under construction."

ARVN, 2/503d Link in Operation

     LZ ENGLISH- As night fell, the two Commanders folded their maps, shook hands and returned silently to their units. The next day's Combat Assault was now carefully planned. It was nothing new to Captain Robert Fox, Orlando Fla, and his Paratroopers of Bravo Company, 2/503d Infantry, but this one was different.
     A light rain began to fall, as Fox briefed his Platoon Leaders on the details of the operation. "From now on, we are under the command of Major Nguyen Thieu, the Commander of the 3rd Battalion, 40th ARVN Regiment," he explained, pulling his poncho over him. He's calling the shots."
     The operation, the first of its kind for the Brigade, brought a Company-size American unit directly under the command of an ARVN Regiment. According to Fox, a veteran Company Commander, Bravo Company has worked with ARVN units before with much success. "Their tactics differ from ours," he remarked, "but they are definitely good troops." First Lieutenant Glen R. Ray, Battalion Advisor Commander of the ARVN Regiment said "Operations of this type have many advantages to both units. Similar operations in the past have produced good results."
     Designed to familiarize both units with each other's tactics, the operation took place southeast of LZ English, about 35 miles north of Qui Nhon. "Their knowledge of the terrain and booby traps will definitely help us," stated 1st Sgt Worthy F. Kelton of Reford NC. As 1st Sgt Kelton prepared his rucksack for the Assault, he added, "The ARVNs are also very good at interrogation of the civilians."
     An early morning rain christened the operation as the choppers landed in the dense terrain, the Paratroopers and ARVNs swiftly joining their respective units. Dispersion was stressed by both Commanders to their men as they moved through the thick jungle foliage on the first day of the joint operation.

Fire Base Defended by CIDG

     TUY HOA- A new level in American-Vietnamese cooperation was reached recently when a Civilian Irregular Defense Group (ClDG) Company began manning the defensive perimeter of a 4th Battalion 503d Infantry support base. The base, is located in the mountains west of Tuy Hoa along South Vietnam's central coast, and serves as the Forward Command Post of the 4th Battalion.
     In using the indigenous soldiers, Major Kenneth Wright, Operations Officer for the Battalion, said, "this is the second CIDG company we've had on the perimeter now. They've done a good job, both on the perimeter and on their daily reconnaissance patrols around the base."
     According to SFC John Jelen, the CIDG adviser from Special Forces Detachment A 221, the hundred-man company was recruited by American and Vietnamese Special Forces from villages in the Cung Son area, about 12 miles south of the fire support base. They are trained in weapons, ambush and patrolling techniques and are primarily used for defensive purposes in their home area. This is the first time the unit has been used to defend an American Fire Support Base.

Battalions Seek Out
Enemy Near An Khe

Viet Cong Suffer Losses

    BONG SON- The remote jungled foothills of the Central Highlands north of An Khe were the Brigade's prime area of interest during the first weeks of January as elements of the 2nd and 4th Battalions, 503d Infantry assisted by gun-ships of Delta Troop, 2nd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment conducted Reconnaissance in Force missions throughout the region, seeking out enemy base camps and staging areas.
    Both Infantry Battalions made numerous light contacts during the period and turned up several caches of rice and medical supplies. However, the biggest single contact of the period was made by elements of the 1st Battalion (Mechanized) 50th Infantry when it met a Viet Cong Company along Route 19 and killed nine.
    A single APC from Alpha Company, l/50th accompanied by a Tank from the 1/69th Armor began the contact when they were engaged by enemy mortar and rocket fire. An hour long battle ensued when the remainder of Alpha Company and Helicopter Gunships quickly reinforced. In addition to nine VC killed, the Infantrymen found 7 AK47 rifles, 2 B-40 rocket launchers and an APO machine gun which the routed enemy left in their wake.
    Elsewhere in Operation Walker, 4th Battalion Hawk Ambush teams had considerable success in turning up small encampments including one Battalion-sized VC camp which housed over a ton of rice and three banners with Fidel Castro's picture.
    Two Sky Soldiers from C/4/503d also killed seven VC and captured 7 weapons between them (see stories this page).
    The biggest single discovery, however, was made by A/2/503d which turned up an enemy tunnel hospital complex 40 miles northwest of An Khe. The discovery followed a short firefight with enemy snipers in which the Company killed two. Then, after searching the area, the Paratroopers found three large buildings with beds and a tunnel complex leading away from it. The tunnel complex turned into a hospital which contained three operating tables, a mess hall, sleeping area for 48 and large wheat storage bin.
    The next day, Gunships of Delta Troop 2/1 Cavalry Regiment flying visual Reconnaissance in a nearby area, spotted two groups of VC moving across a valley and killed eight.
    In Operation Cochise/Dan Sinh, the 1/503d made light and scattered contact while operating along the coast north of Qui Nhon, while to the south near Tuy Hoa, D/16th Armor began a large operation with the 47th ARVN Regiment.

On Security Paratrooper Keeps Cool

    AN KHE- SP4 John Luchesi of Hayward Ca, sat comfortably as the 'just in case man'. Concealed in the tall elephant grass with two Claymore mines strategically placed in front of him, the Paratrooper with the 173d Airborne Brigade sat silently vigilent, 'just in case' the ambush team he was with might possibly get ambushed.
    Luchesi's team from Charlie Company, 4th Battalion, 503d Infantry was situated in the remote foothills of the Central Highlands 40 miles north of An Khe along a trail where roving bands of Viet Cong had been recently sighted.
    The movement was hesitant, a few rustles in the brush and then silence, a few more rustles followed by silence again. Nervously reaching for the firing devices on his Claymore mines, Luchesi waited soundlessly clutching the detonator. First came an AK47 rifle poking through the grass, then a black pajama clad arm and the visage of a Viet Cong.
    Squeezing the trigger, the Sky Soldier detonated his Claymore mines and then sprayed the area with fire from his M-16. There was no fire returned, and with his ambush team Luchesi checked the area. Three Viet Cong all with weapons, were found dead.

3/503d Infantrymen Uncover Enormous Cong Base Camp

By SP4 Ralph Dixon

    BAO LOC- "It never ceases to amaze me when we find a Viet Cong base camp," said one Paratrooper quietly. "One minute you're thrashing through the jungle and the next, here's this nice clearing and a whole set up, big enough for 200 guys to live."
    The Paratrooper was reflecting on a North Vietnamese base camp his Platoon from Alpha Company, 3d Battalion, 503d Infantry had just discovered near Bao Loc. "The place was really enormous," said Platoon Leader 1Lt Kenneth P. Kuckowicz of Yucca Valley Ca. "It stretched 400 meters long and 200 meters wide, and not a person in sight."
    Within the camp there were 60 huts, 50 defense bunkers, an intricate trench system, a tailor shop, one large and two small classrooms, a small hospital and three mess halls. "It was all just sitting there," continued Kuckowicz, "it could have easily accomodated a Battalion."
    After searching the complex thoroughly, the Sky Soldiers found evidence of recent use by small groups of enemy. They found a pile of North Vietnamese propaganda pamphlets, several boxes of ammunition, medical books, documents and a miniature firing range.
    "I guess it was really lucky there wasn't anybody around," reflected the Platoon Leader. "We were working along as a Platoon and if the place had been occupied, we would have been in world of trouble." Other Infantrymen operating with Task Force South were brought into the area and the base camp was destroyed.

New to Nam, 4th Bn PFC Zaps Four

By Sgt John McCulloch

    AN KHE- A 173d Airborne Brigade Paratrooper with less than 30 days in Vietnam, recently zapped four Viet Cong without realizing it. Pfc George Darnes of NJ, had been sent to relieve a fellow trooper on observation post while the remainder of his Company ate chow.
    Settling down to prepare for his his watch, he had been there less, than five minutes when he heard movement in the bushes before him. Suspicious of the rustling sounds, he reached for the firing devices on the two Claymore mines that had already been set up and quietly waited.
     Suddenly he saw a black pajama top pop through the undergrowth and two strange faces emerge. Squeezing the firing devices he immediately blew the Claymores and then sprayed the area with his M16.
    Hearing the explosions, the rest of the Paratroopers from C Company, 4th Battalion, rushed to his aid and cautiously moved through the undergrowth toward the enemy. No contact was encountered however. Instead they found four dead Viet Cong and four enemy rifles. "It all happened so fast," said Downes, "I didn't have much time to think. I admit, though, I was a little bit nervous."
     Brigadier General John W Barnes, Commanding General of the Brigade, presented the 22 year old Paratrooper an Army Commendation Medal with "V" device (for Valor) the same day that the action occurred.

Fish Fry Firefight Sees VC Forces Fizzle

    BONG SON- Paratroopers of the 173d Airborne Brigade were recent uninvited guests at a Viet Cong fish fry which wound up as a hot firefight.
    The Infantrymen from Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 503d Infantry, had just passed through a small fishing village along South Vietnam's north central coast when they spotted two Viet Cong standing by a hut wearing camouflaged shirts, red shorts and carrying rifles. Both VC spotted the troopers and yelled, but Pfc Dennis M. Baker of Arlington Washington, quickly fired up one with a burst from his M-16.
    A barrage of fire then erupted from the hut and the firefight began. "They had a B.A.R. (Browning Automatic Rifle) at the door providing cover, while the rest retreated into the nearby jungle said Baker.
    When the firing subsided, the Paratroopers entered the hut and found three Viet Cong dead and pot of boiling water with fish and rice stacked alongside.

Paratroopers Quell Monkey Business

By Sp4 Ralph Dixon

          BAO LOC- This time there was more than monkeys on Monkey Mountain.
    At least, this is what Paratroopers of the 3rd Battalion, 503d Infantry, discovered as they climbed the heavily jungled hill 80 miles north of Saigon.
    Named for the abundance and variety of monkeys which lived there, 'Monkey Mountain', near Bao Loc, had been combed several times by the Infantrymen of the 3d Battalion. But, they had never found anything of significance.
    This time however, as the Paratroopers of Alpha Company, working as part of Task Force South, began their trek up the hillside, they noticed something different. Platoon Sergeant Carl Miller of Metropilis Ill, and Sergeant Jerome Lyford of Westport Conn, had moved to the head of the column when they spotted two figures retreating from them through the brush. "They were dressed in black pajamas and carrying weapons," said PSG Miller. "They sure weren't monkeys."
    First Lieutenant Stephan J.Tunks of Omaha Neb, quickly began pushing his Platoon up the hill toward the retreating enemy. "It was real thick foliage," said 1Lt Tunks, "and tough to move through. But, we were making pretty good progress until we came under fire." The barrage came from several hidden positions near the hillcrest and included everything from machine gun fire to B-40 rockets.
    Calling in Artillery support, the Paratroopers bombarded the crest for nearly two hours before moving up. At the summit they found a Company Headquarters base camp with 16 large camouflaged huts, a series of well fortified bunkers and a trench system.
    The Viet Cong had left behind a pile of documents, an AK47 rifle and several boxes of ammunition and grenades. "I guess they figured we wouldn't be coming up this way again," said 1Lt Tunks with a smile.

Paratroopers Win At Viet Cong Game

Two can play the game.

Kit Carsons' Lead 2/503d Victory

   BONG SON- Despite a jammed weapon and a hail of enemy gunfire, a Kit Carson scout recently led a Platoon from the 2nd Battalion in savage assault which resulted in eight enemy dead.
    Le Tai, a former Viet Cong, who came over to the government forces, was working with Company B, 2d Battalion, 503d Infantry when the action occured along South Vietnam's north central coast near Bong Son. "Tai was out near the front of our element," said 1Lt Francis J. Miles of North Vernon In, "when he thought he spotted two VC near a thatched hut." The point element radioed back to check if friendly forces might be in the area, but it proved unnecessary because the VC suddenly opened fire.

Takes Charge

    Taking charge of the situation, Tai urged the Paratroopers into a counterattack. He stood in the face of the gunfire, and pointed out the enemy positions, including an automatic rifle which was blazing from the hut. Moving quickly, the Paratroopers zeroed in on the enemy positions and routed the small force. "By pointing our their positions," said 1Lt Miles, "Tai saved a lot of lives."
    Only a few days earlier, Tai and one of his fellow scouts, Vo Duong, saved the lives of several Bravo Company soldiers by discovering four well camouflaged booby traps in an area where the Company was setting up for the night.

Chieu Hoi

Tai and Duong are products of the Chieu Hoi program being conducted by the 173d Airborne Brigade's Civic Action Office. Both were Viet Cong Infantrymen operating in the same locale where the 173d is now operating. "I can't say enough about them," asserted Miles. "Their knowledge and loyalty to the 173d have made them a great asset to our Company."

3 Operation Toll at 2000 Enemy

   BONG SON- The 173d Airborne Brigade recently terminated three combat operations, which accounted for nearly 2,000 Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Soldiers killed during the past year.
   The Sky Soldiers conducted Reconnaissance in Force, Search and Clear type operations in three primary areas; around An Khe (Operation Walker), the coastal mountains west of Tuy Hoa (Operation Bolling/Dan Hoa) and heavily populated Binh Dinh Province (Operation Cochise/Dan Sinh).
   Operation Cochise, which commenced 31 March 1968, featured Reconnaissance-in-Force operations against the 3d NVA Division, the 22d NVA Regiment and several Viet Cong local force Battalions. In 10 months, the Brigade accounted for 929 enemy dead, 1,987 detainees, 122.1 tons of rice and 247 pounds of documents, 233 individual and 22 crew served weapons.
   The operation was highlighted by heavy contact by the 1st Battalion (Mechanized) 50th Infantry, during May, accounting for 329 KIA, a joint sweep and clear operation, titled 226, with the 40th ARVN Regiment during September which ended with over 300 confirmed Viet Cong killed or apprehended and the largest money cache of the war, $150,000 in 50-dollar greenbacks, found in July.
   During the operation, the Brigade expelled the 3d NVA Regiment from the province, totally secured coastal highway QL 1, and from Qui Nhon to the southern border of I Corps and conducted extensive pacification programs.
   In Operation Bolling, which began in October 1967, elements of the Brigade killed 705 enemy, apprehended 2488 suspects and captured 237 individual weapons.
   Two major battles occurred during the Operation, the first in January 1968 when the 4th Battalion, 503d Infantry decimated a Battalion from the 95th NVA Regiment at Tuy Hoa North Airfield, killing 189, and the second in March, when Delta Company, 16th Armor killed over 200 NVA and VC in a four hour battle.
   Operation Walker, with the purpose of providing security for highway QL 19 between the port of Qui Nhon and the central highlands, resulted in 272 enemy killed since January 1968.
   Replacing the three terminated operations are Operation Dung Cam/Lee (Cochise), Li Do/Wainwright (Bolling) and Suc Manh/Marshall (Walker).

Sky Soldiers Get Choice of Rations

   BONG SON- The American foot soldier in Vietnam undoubtedly has a much more diversified diet than any of his predecessors in other wars.
   There are two basic types of rations now offered to Infantry in the field, the C Ration, or standard canned meal, and the relatively new dehydrated Long Range Patrol (LRP) ration fondly called "lurp" and when mixed with water almost tastes like the real thing.
   When the rations are passed out in the 173d Airborne Brigade, it is always a big question who will get what. Many meals and desserts are in strong favor, but others are not quite so popular. Meals, like hash and desserts like apricots are seldom in demand.
   A trooper who enjoys apricots usually gets his fill. SP4 James Gavin of Wilkes Barre, Pa., says, "I'm sure glad my Mom brought me up liking those things."
   As far as favorite meals go spaghetti seems to be the most popular dehydrated meal with beef and rice running a close second. Beans and franks ranks high among the canned meals.
   Since the C-Rations have been changed (unpopular meals have been phased out of production), and lurps added, the food complaints have sharply declined among the Infantrymen. Together the C's and lurps make for a total of 20 different meals. Hot sauce is often added as seasoning.
   As one Paratrooper succinctly summed up his diet, "it ain't too good, but it ain't too bad either."

LTC Herbert Assumes Command of 2/503d

   BONG SON- Lieutenant Colonel Anthony B. Herbert assumed command of the 2nd Battalion, 503d Infantry during recent ceremonies at LZ English.
   Colonel Herbert takes over from LTC John W. Nicholson, who commanded the Battalion since August. Prior to his new assignment, Colonel Herbert served as the Brigade's Inspector General (IG). He came to Vietnam in August.
   Born in Herminie, Pa., Colonel Herbert joined the Army in 1947 and went on to distinguish himself heroically in the Korean War as a Master Sergeant, where he was wounded four times, he came out of the war as the U.S. Army's most decorated enlisted man. In addition to the Purple Heart with 3 Oak Leaf clusters, Colonel Herbert has been decorated with the Silver Star, two Oak Leaf clusters, the Bronze Star with V, Soldier's Medal, Army Commendation Medal with 2 Oak Leaf clusters and and he is the only non-Turk in the world to receive the coveted Turkish Ozanu. He has also earned the Combat Infantryman's Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, Jump Wings from the German and British Armies, Pathfinder's Badge and Ranger Tab.
   Commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in 1957, Colonel Herbert's colorful career has taken him to Japan,. Korea, Alaska, Iceland, the Azores, Canada, Saudi Arabia, 51 African Nations and across Europe. He is a qualified interpreter in Portuguese. After graduating from the University of Pittsburgh in 1956, the 38-year old Lieutenant Colonel went on to earn a Masters Degree and PHD from the University of Georgia in Psychology.

Trooper Risks Death 5 Times for Men

   AN KHE- Crossing a 60-meter open area five times through intense enemy fire to get ammunition for his beleagured men completely disregarding his own wounds, has earned a 173d Airborne Brigade Paratrooper the Silver Star.
   Staff Sergeant Billy Joe Caton of Porterville, Ca. was presented the nation's third highest award for Valor by Brigadier General John W. Barnes, Brigade Commander, during recent ceremonies at the 173d Jungle School.
   The 26 year old Sergeant was a Weapons Squad Leader with Company A, 3d Battalion, 503d Infantry, when the action occurred some 80 miles north of Saigon last August.
   At that time his Company was occupying a position near the town of Di Linh when it came under attack from a large enemy force. Heavy rocket, mortar and automatic weapons and small arms fire pounded the Company's perimeter. Seeing that his Squad was taking the brunt of the attack, Sergeant Caton crossed the 60 meter open stretch from his Company CP to his men while under intense enemy fire. An enemy grenade exploded near him and pelted his leg with shrapnel but he refused medical aid.

Manned the Gun

   When he reached his men's positions he found that the machine gunner and his assistant had been wounded so he took over the gun and blasted four enemy bearing satchel charges who were preparing to overrun the gun emplacement. Low on ammunition, Caton returned to the CP through a hail of enemy fire, grabbed the supplies and returned to his troops. After distributing the ammunition he fired on the enemy with an M-16. Suddenly he spotted an enemy rocket emplacement. But without the necessary equipment to destroy it and getting low on ammunition, Caton again braved the open field to return to the CP for supplies. He brought back the ammo and a grenade launcher which he used to destroy the enemy rocket emplacement.
   SSgt Caton is now an instructor with the Brigade Jungle School.

'Crossbow Scores 1st Kill'

New Idea for Recon

   BONG SON- Unaware he was centered in the cross hairs of a high powered Sniper's scope, a lone NVA soldier knelt beside a stream to fill his canteen. The crack of an M-14 rifle suddenly broke the jungle silence and then all was quiet except for the rushing water of the stream.
   "Crossbow", a six man reconnaissance team, whose primary mission is to report on the location and activities of enemy forces, emerged from the dense jungle foliage to check their first kill in operation Dung Cam/Lee, 40 miles northwest of Bong Son.
   Composed of men from Alpha Company, 2nd Battalion, 503d Infantry, 173d Airborne Brigade, Crossbow is unlike a hawk team in that that its members are completely independent of any Platoon and have no base of operation.

Skilled Men

   Dressed in camouflaged fatigues, the men were specially selected for their knowledge of the enemy, experience with weapons and past performance in the field.
   The idea to form the team began with Captain Lewis C. Cording of Van Nuys, Ca. after he assumed command in December. "Having a Reconnaissance team in the area is like having a direct line with the enemy," said Cpt Cording. "From their reports we have a better idea of where Charlie is and where he is going."
   "Although the main mission of Crossbow is to observe the enemy, the team also conducts ambushes and works as a Sniper squad said 1Lt Ismael Noriega of Queens, NY. "The M-14 rifle with an M-80, 22 power snipers scope is employed as part of the team's arsenal." "We travel light, carrying only essential items which enables us to travel faster and cover more distance than the rest of the Company," said Sgt Sidney P. Roberts of New Road La., the team leader. "I guess our biggest advantage is that we know that we have the rest of the Company to back us up so we are ready to lock horns with Charlie at any time."

Cameraman Favors Rifle in Firefight

   BONG SON- A U.S. Army photographer with the 173d Airborne Brigade recently learned that quick shooting pays off in more than just good photos.
   The stern lesson was learned by Specialist 5 Ralph J. Dixon of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia while on an ambush mission with a reconnaissance team from the 74th Infantry Long Range Patrol.
   The ambush had been executed only moments before against four Viet Cong moving along a jungle trail, and Dixon volunteered to go forward and check the results with team leader Patrick Tadina of Honolulu.
   "When we got there," said Dixon, "there were two bodies and heavy blood trails leading into the bush. Then, as we started to check out one body I saw the other moving slowly and pointing a weapon." Wheeling quickly, Dixon shot a burst with his M-16 rifle and fired up the Viet Cong. "It was just instinct," said Dixon modestly. "Anyone else would have done the same thing."
   When the patrol returned to base camp, Dixon was presented an on-the-spot Army Commendation Medal for Valor by the Brigade Commanding General, Brigadier General John W. Barnes.
   However, for the 23-year-old veteran photographer working on his 22d month in Vietnam it wasn't anything new. Less than a year ago in the central highlands near Kontum, he was awarded another ARCOM with "V" after volunteering to move out in front of a firefight and rescue a wounded comrade.
   "I guess I just like to be where the action is," said Dixon, who plans on extending in Vietnam. I'm from Malaysia and familiar with the jungle. I think I can be of help out there."

Naval Gunfire Experts Call Big Guns in Brigade Support

By SGT Tom Faulkner

   BONG SON- "Hey, what is that Marine doing out here with our Company?" asked one puzzled Paratrooper of the 1st Battalion. His buddy quickly informed him, "You better be glad he is here. That guy calls in the big Navy guns."
   A little heard of but highly effective team of naval gunfire experts are currently supporting the 173d Airborne Brigade along the coastal regions of Binh Dinh Province.

   The three men of Detachment 21, Sub Unit 1, 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liason Company (ANGLICO), includes one Navy Lieutenant and two Marine enlisted men and are located at LZ English, the 173d Command Post. "Our job is to provide Naval gunfire for any 173d Troops or attached units that are within our guns' range," explained Lt.(j.g.) Robert M. Chiado of Chicago. "The Navy's guns have been especially effective along the coast where the 173d's Artillery can't reach."
   Although a Naval fire mission can be initiated in less than 15 minutes, it requires a great deal of precision and communication both on the part of the Navy and the Army.

Clear to Fire

   "We will receive coordinates of a specific target from a line unit," said Lance Corporal Arnold Tripp of Jackson, Ohio, "and we immediately contact the 173d Fire Support Coordinator (FSC) to clear the area for firing." According to Tripp, the ship is then contacted and will prepare an air advisory to clear the air ways of all aircraft. One of the team members then boards an Army "Hawkeye" aircraft and flies to the target area, keeping constant communication with team members in the Brigade's Tactical Operations Center. Once the target area is cleared, the air spotter will give the ship the 'go ahead' and firing commences. All rounds are then adjusted by the spotter in the aircraft.
   Recalling his first spotter mission, Tripp remarked, "I called the fire mission and the first round was slightly off. I made one adjustment and they were right on target."
   All coordinate data is processed on the ships by computers and the accuracy of the guns is amazing.
   "One day I was flying a spotter mission just a couple miles inland and not only could see my target but also the ship," recalled PFC Tim Butts of San Carlos, Calif. "The pilot fired smoke rockets on the target and the ship in turn fired on the location of the smoke. They were on target with the first round. I knew they were good, but that was hard to believe."
   The procedures for calling Naval gunfire are involved but the team at LZ English has it down to a science and can have the ship on target in minutes. In December of 1968, LZ English, 40 miles north of Qui Nhon, came under an enemy mortar attack and Naval gunfire was summoned immediately. In less than 15 minutes, the first rounds were on the way and the enemy mortar position was destroyed.
   Lt Chiado of Des Moines Iowa, points out the advantages of Naval gunfire, "The ship can be positioned to best support a particular area and is on standby 24 hours a day. Inland targets are easily reached and the big Navy guns are accurate. More rounds per minute can be fired than with Artillery and often times faster than Artillery."
   Yet with these obvious advantages, Naval support is sometimes overlooked by the Infantry units… "I think this is mainly because they don't even know we're here and if they do, they think it is too complicated to use," replied Cpl Tripp. "We have a ship on station 20 out of 30 days each month. All the Infantry has to do is contact us in the TOC and give us the coordinates, we'll take it from there."
   The young Marine added, "If they want us to go to the field with them all they have to do is ask. We're always ready to go and we can call Naval gunfire from the field as well as the air."

Battleship New Jersey

Photo/navy

     Some of the ships that have supported the Brigade since April 1968 are the USS Mason, USS Jenkins and the USS Knox, all Destroyers. The big Battleship, USS New Jersey has fired for the 173d several times in the last few months and is scheduled to return soon. Her 16-inch guns have a killing radius of 150 yards from as far away as 20 miles.

   In addition to calling Naval gunfire on known enemy targets, the ANGLICO Detachment also calls nightly harassing fire mission and preps certain areas where line units will be operating.

   Although they are not kept as busy as they would like, the three men of Detachment 21 concur that their job is a good experience.

   "Not only have we had the opportunity to see the war from the air, land and sea, we have also established a good working relationship with the Army," said Lt. Chiado.

3d Bn Finds Huge
Enemy Rice Cache

          By SP5 Ralph Dixon

    BAO LOC- Alert Paratroopers of Charlie Company, 3d Battalion, 503d Infantry, 173d Airborne Brigade, acting on an intelligence source, recently found a huge, 204 ton enemy rice cache in Lam Dong Province, north of Saigon.
    One of the largest enemy rice caches to have been found during the Vietnam war, it was valued at more than 1,000,000 piasters or $15,000. The gigantic cache was discovered when the Sky Soldiers were conducting a search and clear mission and came across an old enemy base camp. After a thorough search of the camp, Captain Harold G. Crowe of Elizabethon Tn, divided his Company into two Platoons to comb a wider area.
    A short while later, Paratroopers of the 3d Platoon spotted a well camouflaged trail and followed it for about 100 meters before coming into an open area containing 10 hooches. "I opened the door to one of the hooches," said Sp4 Alan J. Krueger, of Milwaukee Wi, Pointman for the Platoon. "I was almost buried by a landslide of rice.
    The rest of the Company was called to the scene and a landing zone was cleared so the rice could be extracted. It took 20 large conex containers and nearly eight days to airlift the supply of rice to the Battalion base camp where it was distributed to the local villagers. Based on the theory that a hungry soldier is not a very good fighting soldier, the VC/NVA morale should be at an all-time low. Only a week ago, Charlie Company found over two tons of rice near the same area.

Sky Sweep Coordination Kills Enemy

By SP4 Adrian Acevedo

    BONG SON- The element of surprise and close coordination between Infantry and Air Cavalry units of the 173d Airborne Brigade have been working against Viet Cong cadre in the villages of the Bong Son Plains in a new operation code named 'Sky Sweep'.
    The idea is for lift ships from Delta Troop, 2/1st Cavalry to Air Assault Paratroopers from the 1st and 2d Battalions, 503d Infantry around a village. Then, supported by Cobra Gunships and LOH Reconnaissance ships, the Infantrymen search the village for signs of the enemy.
    On a recent mission, an LOH pilot, CW2 Charles D. Holley of Fritch Texas, spotted a man jumping into a crater several hundred meters from a village. As Holley flew closer and discovered the man was carrying an AK-47 rifle, another Viet Cong sneaked up on the LOH from the rear and they both opened fire. Holley's M-60 machine gun jammed, but a Cobra piloted by 1Lt John Grace of Ft Worth Texas moved in and fired up both Viet Cong. At this point, the remaining VC in the village tried to escape but were stopped by accurate fire from the gunships. The Infantrymen from the 2d Battalion then swept the area, turning up three more Viet Cong bodies and killing two more for a total of seven.

C/3/503d Captures Limelight; Hawk teams Successful in Lee

More of The Brigade`s Duty`s

@

Drop Zone 875

From Boys To Men...

 "You ask me Now to tell you

Of the hearts and minds of men

Of teenage boys with grown up toys,

Who went to war back then.

     You ask me Now to tell you 

Of the wounds I have inside,

Of sleepless nights and firefights

The many times I've cried.

You ask me Now to tell you,

The reasons why I hurt,

While back in Vietnam resides

Blood mingled with the dirt.

You ask me Now to tell you,

If war was justified,

Yet no respect or honor's paid

To those who fought and died.

You ask me Now to tell you,

If it was just a game,

While you stand there with

The average age of an American infantry soldier is 19 years.
He is a short haired, tight-muscled kid who, under normal circumstances is considered by society as half man, half boy. Not yet dry behind the ears, not old enough to buy a beer, but old enough to die for his country. He never really cared much for work and he would rather wax his own car than wash his father's; but he has never collected unemployment either.

He's a recent High School graduate; he was probably an average student, pursued some form of sport activities, drives a ten year old jalopy, and has a steady girlfriend that either broke up with him when he left, or swears to be waiting when he returns from half a world away.

He listens to rock and roll or hip hop or rap or jazz or swing and 155 mm Howitzers.
He is 10 or 15 pounds lighter now than when he was at home because he is working or fighting from before dawn to well after dusk.

He has trouble spelling, thus letter writing is a pain for him, but he can field strip a rifle in 30 seconds and reassemble it in less-in the dark. He can recite to you the nomenclature of a machine gun or grenade launcher and use either one effectively if he must.

He digs foxholes and latrines and can apply first aid like a professional.
He can march until he is told to stop or stop until he is told to march.
He obeys orders instantly and without hesitation, but he is not without spirit or individual dignity.
He is self-sufficient. He has two sets of fatigues: he washes one and wears the other. He keeps his canteens full and his feet dry. He sometimes forgets to brush his teeth, but never to clean his rifle. He can cook his own meals, mend his own clothes, and fix his own hurts. If you're thirsty, he'll share his water with you; if you are hungry, his food. He'll even split his ammunition with you in the midst of battle when you run low. He has learned to use his hands like weapons and weapons like they were his hands. He can save your life - or take it, because that is his job.

He will often do twice the work of a civilian, draw half the pay and still find ironic humor in it all. He has seen more suffering and death then he should have in his short lifetime.    He has stood atop mountains of dead bodies, and helped to create them.   He has wept in public and in private, for friends who have fallen in combat and he is unashamed.

He feels every note of the National Anthem vibrate through his body while at rigid attention, while tempering the burning desire to 'square-away' those around him who haven't bothered to stand, remove their hat, or even stop talking. In an odd twist, day in and day out, far from home, he defends their right to be disrespectful.

Just as did his Father, Grandfather, and Great-grandfather, he is paying the price for our freedom.  Beardless or not, he is not a boy.  He is the American Fighting Man that has kept this country free for over 200 years.  He has asked nothing in return, except our friendship and understanding.

Remember him, always,

          for he has earned our respect and admiration

with his blood.

                                                                                       March 2004     

VA Benefits for Former Prisoners Of War

Former American POWs are eligible for special veterans benefits, including enrollment in VA medical care for treatment in VA hospitals and clinics without copayments as well as disability compensation for select injuries and diseases that have been generally associated with internment.  These benefits are in addition to regular veterans benefits and services to which they, as veterans, are entitled.

Nearly a third of the 125,213 Americans surviving captivity were estimated to be alive as of January 2004.  Records show that 142,219 Americans were captured and interned during World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, the Somalia and Kosovo conflicts, and Operation Iraqi Freedom.  There were no servicemembers reported missing in action from the Bosnia deployment or from Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.  Of the total POWs returned to U.S. military control, an estimated 35,900 were living as of the end of 2003.

American Prisoners Of War

       Captured and Interned   Died While POW   Returned to U.S. Military Control       Refused   to Return      Alive at end of  2003^* 
GRAND TOTAL    142,219 16,984  125,214 21       35,900 
WW I    4,120   147     3,973   --       --     
WW II   130,201 14,072  116,129 --       33,050 
Korean  7,140   2,701   4,418   21       2,150  
Vietnam 725     64      661      --      591    
Gulf War        21      --       21      --       21     
Somalia 1       --      1        --       1      
Kosovo  3       --      3        --       3      
Iraq    8       --       8       --       8      
^*Note:   The estimate of the number alive from World War II and the Korean War at the end of 2003 is based on mortality estimates from VA's Office of the Actuary that are rounded to the nearest 50.  Because of the advanced age of World War I veterans, estimates of those alive would be too unreliable to report.

Former POWs --

Congress has defined a prisoner of war as a person who, while serving on active duty, was forcibly detained by an enemy government or a hostile force, during a period of war or in situations comparable to war.

With nine out of ten former POWs having served in World War II, the average age of former POWs alive today is 84.

Compensation

As of March 2004, there were 21,345 former POWs receiving compensation benefits from VA.   Nearly 14,000 of them are rated as totally disabled.

Studies have shown that the physical hardships and psychological stress endured by POWs have life-long effects on health and on social and vocational adjustment.  These studies also indicate increased vulnerability to psychological stress.  The laws on former POW benefits recognize that military medical records do not cover periods of captivity.   For many diseases, unless there is evidence of some other cause, VA disability compensation can be paid on the basis of a presumption that a disease present today is associated with the veteran's captivity or internment.

For POWs detained for 30 days or more, such eligibility covers any of the following illnesses that are found at a compensable level (at least 10 percent disabling): avitaminosis; beriberi; chronic dysentery; cirrhosis of the liver; helminthiasis; irritable bowel syndrome and malnutrition, including associated optic atrophy.  Also covered are:   pellagra and any other nutritional deficiency; peptic ulcer disease; and peripheral neuropathy, except where directly related to infectious causes.  For former POWs who suffered from swelling of the legs or feet during captivity, ischemic heart disease (sometimes known as "wet" beriberi) is also covered.  Several categories of diseases are presumptively associated with captivity without any 30-day limit:   psychosis; any anxiety state; dysthymic disorders; cold injury; and post-traumatic arthritis.

The base rate of VA monthly compensation, according to degree of disability, ranges from $106 to $2,239 per month.  Veterans rated as 30 percent or more disabled qualify for additional benefits based upon the number of dependents.  Dependents of those rated 100 percent disabled may qualify for educational assistance.

Spouses of those veterans who die as a result of service-connected disabilities are eligible for dependency and indemnity compensation.  Spouses of former POWs who were rated 100 percent disabled and who died of a condition unrelated to their service also may be eligible, depending on the date of death and how long the veteran held the 100 percent disability rating.  Those non-service-connected deaths prior to October 1999 are covered if the former POW had been 100 percent disabled for at least 10 years.  More recent non-service-connected deaths are covered under a law that provides the benefit when the former POWs was 100 percent disabled for a year or more.

- more -

Former POWs --

Medical Care

Former POWs receive special priority for VA health-care enrollment without any length-of-interment requirement, even if their illness has not been formally associated with their service.  Former POWs are exempt from making means test copayments for inpatient and outpatient medical care and medications, but they have the same copay rules as other veterans for extended care.  They also are eligible for dental care.

VA periodically has provided training for its medical staff about the issues of former POWs, and an online curriculum is maintained at <http://www1.va.gov/VHI/page.cfm?pg=9>.

Outreach Campaign
In collaboration with its Advisory Committee on Former Prisoners of War, VA launched a campaign in 2003 to ensure that eligible former POWs are aware of their VA benefits.   Direct mail was used where addresses could be found for these veterans who were not currently on the rolls.  For those already receiving benefits, they were reminded of the possible availability of increased compensation if a condition has worsened and they also were alerted to the improvement of benefits in recent years.  In addition, to seek former POWs for whom VA could not locate an address, or to reach widows of veterans who may have died of a service-connected condition, VA issued news releases and provided interviews to alert the public to expanded presumptive service-connection policies.   Brochures, exhibits and VA Web sites were improved to provide more information to former POWs and the public.

By early 2004, there had been 356 veterans added to the rolls, former POWs who had not previously been drawing financial benefits to which they were entitled, and the number receiving higher ratings as totally disabled was up by more than 1,000.

Additional Resources
POW coordinators are assigned to each VA regional office and medical center and are available to provide more information.  Former POWs may contact VA regional offices with general benefits questions at 800-827-1000.  Callers are automatically connected to the nearest VA regional office.  Medical eligibility questions may be directed to 877-222-8387.  Additional information for former POWs also is available from VA's Web site at

http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/Benefits/POW

Subject: POW/MIA Consultations Conclude in Cambodia
United States Department of Defense
News Release
On the web: http://dod.mil/releases/nr20040802-1078.html

  No. 732-04
Aug 02, 2004
IMMEDIATE RELEASE

POW/MIA Consultations Conclude in Cambodia

The four nations involved in accounting for Americans missing in action from the Vietnam War closed their meeting Friday in Siem Reap, Cambodia, agreeing to intensify cooperation on losses in border areas.

The 2004 Consultations were hosted by Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for POW/Missing Personnel Affairs Jerry D. Jennings. Senior leaders from the United States, Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam gathered to forge a common vision, share experiences and set a course for the future.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen opened the meeting challenging the conference participants to find new ways to cooperate on the POW/MIA issue “for the sake of humanity.” He said it was “…important to enhance cooperation and integration of efforts between the United States, Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia as so many of the missing were lost in border areas.”

Last year’s gathering in Bangkok, was the first time the four nations had come together to hold such a meeting since the end of the war in 1975. The United States also continues to work with each of the countries individually to investigate MIA cases and excavate loss sites in an effort to recover, identify and return to the families in the United States the remains of missing Americans.

Expressing gratitude for the assistance the United States has received from Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam, Jennings said, “Without your cooperation, this mission could not continue. We know that and the families and veterans know that.”

At the conclusion of the two-day session, the delegates agreed to reactivate senior-level trilateral discussions on cases in the border areas, where the United States will join either Vietnam and Laos, or Vietnam and Cambodia to mount a three-nation, or trilateral, effort for case resolution.

Additionally, the delegates established new mechanisms at the expert level to coordinate efforts on these cases. Special emphasis will be placed on the United States government’s highest priority cases, those involving servicemen last known to be alive (LKA) at the time of their incident of loss.

Resolving the LKA cases and improving trilateral investigations in the border areas are two tasks President Bush has identified as key to success in accounting for missing United States personnel. The multilateral consultations follow recent bilateral breakthroughs that also reflect President Bush’s push for greater cooperation. These include agreements between the United States and Vietnam, and the United States and Laos on initiatives to improve access to each country’s archival holdings, along with renewed access for investigations and recoveries in previously denied areas of the Central Highlands in Vietnam.

Since the end of the war, the United States has accounted for more than 700 Americans from the Vietnam War. More than 1,800 are unaccounted-for from the war. More than 88,000 are still missing from all conflicts.

Additional information on POW/MIA accounting may be found on the DPMO web site at http://www.defenselink.milhttp://www.dtic.mil/dpmo or by calling (703) 699-1169.

Travel`in       Through    Our Bunker`s