SITREP 68.
SITREP-68. SITREP is a military acronym that stands for, Situation report. A sitrep can be defined as; A short concise statement identifying a units current location and tactical situation. The 40 pages of sitrep’s contained in this paper are derived from 3,000 pages of S/2-S/3 daily staff journals for the 4/3 11th LIB, Americal Div. 1968. Sitrep’s highlight the activities of Alpha, Bravo, Charlie and Delta companies as well as, Recon, Aero scouts, HHC, C&C and T F Barker. Read on and you will find crisis, conundrum and comedy.
Editors note:
If you served in the 4/3 in 1968 and you got hot steel in your body there is a 95% chance your name will be on these pages. If you were snake bit, FUO, Dysentery, Malaria, heat exhaustion, or twisted ankle, there is only a 70% chance your name will appear. It is a good sign when your name does not appear at all.
DECEMBER
23 Dec. 67 2140H
Received report from Company D that 4.2 FO is missing from patrol. Patrol is looking for him. At 2150H Co. D reports Sgt. Maddox KIA by hostile fire and Pfc. Goodwin slightly wounded. Co. C requests DUSTOFF for 4 US WIA.
29 Dec. 67 1448H
This would be the first combat assault conducted by Co C. At 1448H Co C engaged 3-4 VC. One VC threw grenade wounding 2 US. Co C captured 1 female VCS with a bullet in her ass.
JANUARY
01 Jan. 68
Co C reported VN children passing out anti-war propaganda to troops. Material brought into Bde.
02 Jan. 68
PF & RF troops will conduct an operation in our AO. All personnel are cautioned to not fire at these individuals.
04 Jan. 68
Co B returned one EM by DUSTOFF. EM has frag wounds received when he tried to blow a hole in a dried mud hooch with his M-79 GL.
04 Jan. 68
Booby trapped hole in defensive wire vic. Bunker 60-61. (friendly booby trap)
11 Jan 68
Co D reports that a man jumped out of the bushes, knocked weapon out of GI’s hands. GI took out knife and stabbed VC in the back. VC last seen running away with knife in back.
13 Jan. 68 1243H
Co C have hit mine at BS588833. DUSTOFF completed at 1315. Mine was Bouncing Betty.
Lt. Scully KHA
PFC. Hall KHA.
SSG. Conroy, WHA
SGT Montgomery,
SGT Walker,
SP4 Thrasher,
PFC Garner,
SP4 Elston,
PFC Henderson
PFC Howes WHA.
16 Jan. 68
Medic PFC Fullerton accidental shooting of PFC. David Perkett. DOW
17 Jan. 68
Co C extracts 7,500 LBS of rice. Approx 6,000 LBS left to move.
18 Jan. 68 1740H
Ragged Ladder Bravo informed TOC that 80 VC KIA by Gunship vic. BS5080. (editors note, the area around BS 5088 will later be nick named, Sniper Alley)
19 Jan. 68
Total rice extracted during operation, (A & C) 37,080 LBS.
20 Jan. 68 0955H
Co C sitrep neg. Obs 1 destroyed APC Vic. BS529853
21 Jan. 68 1046H
Co C finds 1 VC KIA and 2 fresh graves. 2nd plt received permission to dig up graves. 2nd plt. Dug out 1 live VC wearing shorts, no equipment . Also 2 bodies and 5 hands. One body was burnt and had half face missing. One body 6+ ft. tall and believed to be Chinese.
22 Jan. 68
SSG. Robert Wise and PFC. William Jeffers hit booby trap at BS526921
25 Jan. 68 0700H
4/3 now OPCON 198th LIB
26 Jan 68
Co C reports sniper fire vic. BS518884. ( sniper alley )
26 Jan. 68
Co C reports sniper fire vic. BS541888. ( sniper alley )
FEBRUARY
01 Feb. 68
Co C reports receiving sniper fire vic. BS525877. ( sniper alley )
03 Feb. 68 1325H
Msg. Fm Maj. Sanders, Bde. S-3 (assistant), to Maj. Holck by LL; one company alerted for CA. Company will be OPCON TF Barker. Co C alerted.
03 Feb. 68 1515H
Co C req medics (Rabies innoc. team) be picked up by Helicopter; pickup complete 1520H and moved to Co A Loc.
03 Feb. 68 1750H
Co A reports that the 2 medics with Co A have not received mail for 20 days. Supplies not sufficient for amount of days they have been on OP. One individual has not been paid sense Oct. 67.
09 Feb. 68 1750H
Co D req. DUSTOFF BS596909. For 4 US WHA by booby trap. Pers. Concerned;
Jose Saenz,
Robert Morgan,
Robert Standerfer,
Vernon Ghiosby.
09 Feb. 68 1920H
Co A , 1st Plt. While moving into ambush position Co A shot 1 VCS in the leg. As GI’s approached, the VC blew himself up scattering large amounts of Money, documents and body parts all over field.
10 Feb. 68 1215H
Fm. TF Barker, (Co B 4/3 ) made contact with unk. size VC element.
10 Feb. 68
Co D reports 3 persons wounded result of booby trap. Persons involved:
Sydney Stanton,
Charles Robertson,
Roger Williams.
10 Feb. 68 1715H
Co A extracts 4,000 LBS rice
10 Feb. 68 1725H
Recon Plt. Killed 2 VC, captured 2 VC, one slightly wounded. Possible 2 more kills by Dolphin ship.
11 Feb. 68 From CG
When Platoons and companies engage 5 or 6 VC, they request gunship and arty; this is not correct-Platoon must do the work. Platoon leaders, once they receive fire must estimate the situation, develop it, fire and maneuver--be aggressive!!! Don’t wait for supporting fires-------Go after the Dinks before they break contact and disappear into their holes. It is wrong for 1 or 2 snipers to hold up an Americal Platoon. ( editors note: I wonder if this is the same tight ass General who thought BUFF was not a politically correct name for a firebase. )
15 Feb. 68 Fm. CG
Observed air strikes in TF Barker AO; was extremely pleased and a great deal of confidence in the Air Force’s ability to place an air strike within 200M of friendly troops. Felt that dropping 750 LBS bombs brought fine results and is safer than arty. Use air strikes whenever possible.
15 Feb. 68 0445H
TF Barker reports to this TOC. Co B 4/3 Inf. Rec’d 3 mortar rounds. 3rd round KHA one man vic. BS737804. KHA
Peter Collicchio US 55881248
15 Feb. 68 1113H
Co C 4th Plt was working with Recon platoon when a cow came running out of the bushes directly toward Sgt. Hartley. Sgt. Hartley shot and killed the cow in self defense. Cow was evacuated to OP George. Civilians demand 10,000 dong in payment.
15 Feb. 68 1615H
Co B 4/3 had 1 KHA by mine.
Sgt. Anthony Podebrasky, US 55981248
15 Feb. 68 2200H
4/3 receives 32 replacements: A Co gets 8, B Co gets 8, C Co gets 11, D Co gets 13.
16 Feb. 68 0945H
Co D hits booby trap resulting in 3 WHA
17 Feb. 68 1010H
From Maj. Calhoun, S-3, TF Barker. Co B 4/3;
Sgt Wester, KHA,
Sp4 Brown,WHA,
Sp4 Willingham, WHA (not serious),
Psg. Williams, Maurice T., leg and arm blown off. Also 1 more EM unknown.
17 Feb. 68 1025H
Co D req. DUSTOFF for 2 WHA by mine.
17 Feb. 68 1300H
Reference Co D mine at 1025H.
Sp4 Serro Gregory E. lost part of both legs,
Sp4 Bishop Arnold D., Shrapnel in leg and chest.
Sp4 Crescente Rafeal A. slight wound by shrapnel, (face).
Pfc. Brown Chenels W. Slightly wounded by shrapnel in stomach.
Sp4 Willingham Kern P., condition unknown.
Psg. Williams Maurice T., lost arm and leg.
SSG. Wester Wilburn E. KIA.
18 Feb. 68 1405H
Co B tripped 250-500 Lb. bomb resulting in 1 US KHA,
Sp4 Clifton Walker
and 2 WHA,
Pfc. David K Pomeroy and
Pfc. Percy McFarland. Later report Pomeroy KHA.
19 Feb. 68 0855H
Co A finds improvised bomb.
21 Feb. 68 1125H
Recon req. DUSTOFF for 1 ind. W/shrapnel wounds from secondary blast while grenading hut, Pfc. Richard M Mejia.
24 Feb. 68 0914H
Co C req. DUSTOFF for 1 US who fell, hurt back, paralyzed.
24 Feb. 68 1310H
Co B w/TF Barker has 7 WHA. Names of 4; Blecher, Heckard, McKenny, and Lee. Resulting from AP mine.
26 Feb. 68 1530H
Co C hits booby trapped ammo box filled with explosives. KHA, James Nichols, Monte Van Skike, John Stewart.
26 Feb.68 1615H
TF Barker Co B 4/3, Pvt. Richard R. Potter, Serious head wound from command detonated mine.
27 Feb. 68 1550H
Co C has 7 US/WHA by mine. 4 urgent, 3 priority. John Dillard and Ernest Beam DOW.
MARCH
02 Mar. 68 1320H
Co C 1st Platoon locates Platoon size NVA camp at BS567864.
03 Mar. 68 1305H
Request DUSTOFF for Co B TF Barker, Psg. Russo, Co B was KHA by mortar fire. Four others wounded, 2 serious.
03 Mar. 68 1802H
Co A TF Barker request DUSTOFF.
04 Mar. 68 1502H
Recon Platoon closed LZ Sue at 1100 hours. Company D 81mm now on George. Recon attached to Co A.
05 Mar. 68 0711H
Co D request DUSTOFF for 3 WHA Booby trap. Individual is
Pfc. Edward Van Horn. US 56959448.
06 Mar. 68 1440H
Co C reported 1 individual tripped a Bouncing Betty. Mine sprang into air but failed to detonate.
06 Mar. 68 1850H
Americal Military Intelligence detachment request for Pfc. Dennis ?? (commo platoon) who was injured by Booby Trapped cigarette lighter.
09 mar. 68 0957H
Co B request DUSTOFF for 2 WHA and 1 KHA result of Booby Trap.
09 Mar. 68 1221H
Co C engaged 5 VC w/web gear. Result 1 VC KIA, 1 VC CIA, other 3 escaped.
10 Mar. 68 0948H
1st Platoon Co C tripped Booby Trap resulting in 1 US KHA, 1 US WHA.
Sgt. Warren Lane, KHA.
Pfc. Paul Herrymen, WHA.
10 Mar.68 1650H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 1 US injured by Water Buffalo. (non battle wound)
11 Mar. 68 2130H
TOC notified 4.2 Ammo bunker is on fire. Request DUSTOFF for Pfc. Ralph Branson US 56588094. Individual has 2nd and 3rd degree burns.
12 Mar. 68 1735H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 2 indiv. Injured by falling into river.
12 Mar. 68 1905H
Recon platoon obs. Vic. BS465768 40 VC moving toward the TRA KHUC river. E troop engaged with arty. 10 VC KIA
13 Mar. 68 0850H
Unit strength, operation SHOW LOW;
Co A 4/3 Inf. 143 people
Co B 4/3 Inf. 118 people
Co C 4/3 Inf. 166 people
Recon 4/3 Inf. 24 people
13 Mar. 68 1414H
Received message from Maj. Hartsfield thru SFC. Mocksing, ref. LTC Atkins dinner invitation.
14 Mar. 68 0700H
All units in the Vic of respective PZ’s for extraction and termination of operation SHOW LOW.
14 Mar. 68 1802H
Disposition of all units:
Co A OPCON TF Barker LZ Dottie
Co B OPCON TF Barker LZ Uptight
Co C BS537837
Co D- LZ Sue
Co D 81mm OP George
Co E- LZ Sue
Recon OP George
15 Mar. 68 0640H
Report from Bde. (SFC Cross) all quite in Division AO; No significant contacts.
15 Mar. 68 1800
Med Cap conducted by Capt. Gouzoules, (Bn S-5) results: 114 indiv. Treated, 27 male, 39 female, 58 children. Medcap was at AN PHONG (1) hamlet
Editors note; Co B 4/3 will hit 2 Booby traps in one hour while acting as blocking force for Co C 1/20 which is conducting a combat assault Vic. My Lai.
16 Mar. 68 0915H
Co B 4/3 request DUSTOFF vic. 733793. Booby trap was 105 arty. round hung from tree. Result, 1 US KHA,
1LT. Cochran.
WHA are Sp4. Wilburn, Sp4 Cantu, Pfc. Traversa
16 Mar. 68 1015H
Co B request DUSTOFF for 3 WHA result of Booby trap.
Pfc. Gunta-----left foot blown off
Pfc. Blacher---frag wounds in leg
Pfc. Shiffley---multiple frag wounds
16 Mar. 68 1355H
Co C found 2 improvised hand grenades.
17 Mar. 68 0911H
TF Barker reported 1 man of CO B 4/3 WHA at 0810H Vic. BS741788 by Booby trap. Sgt. Larry H. Taylor.
17 Mar. 68 0946H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 1 US WHA by Booby trap. Indiv. Concerned, Henderson.
17 Mar. 68 1725H
Co C Vic. BS532889 saw 2 VC on raft. Fired warning shots then engaged w/2 VC KIA.
18 Mar. 68 0924H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 2 KHA, 2 WHA result of Booby trap. Dustoff complete 0957
E-3 KHA Richard R Lynn
E-3 KHA Charles L. Bozemen
E-3 WHA Anthony L. Lawrence
E-6 WHA Lloyd Moore
19 mar. 68 0640H
Co B received 12 rounds of mortar fire resulting in 1 US KHA,
Sp4. Milus
5 WHA, Ssg. Rushin, Pfc. Hartzell, Pfc. Millsaps, Pfc. Mossford, Pfc. Anderson.
19 Mar. 68 0800H
Co A request DUSTOFF Vic. BS595837 for 2 US WHA.
Sp4. Edward Riley,
William Schuler.
20 Mar. 68 1055H
Co C received 1 round sniper fire at BS513877. 1 US KHA,
Michael Cordia.
22 Mar. 68 2143H
Received message from Bde. S-2 that a country wide attack will commence at KHE SANH. To include 1 corps area.
24 Mar. 68 1045H
Co C 2d platoon departed Sue at this time for assigned mission and stay behind ambush.
24 mar. 68 1540H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 1 US with temp of 104.8.
Richard Jeffrey.
25 Mar. 68 1100H
Co B request DUSTOFF for 2 US WHA by VC grenade.
Sp4 Leon R. Mercer,
Pfc. Michael F. Smith.
25 Mar. 68 1715H
Psywar team conducted propaganda broadcast mission from 1640 to 1730 hours.
26 Mar. 68 1256H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 1 US litter patient, serious Bee sting. Pfc. Gregory Burnside.
26 Mar. 68 1530H
Co D request DUSTOFF for 1 US KHA, 1 US WHA result of Booby trap.
KHA, Barnett,
WHA, 2lt. Henry Warner.
26 Mar. 68 1550H
Co B located VC body, Booby trapped w/grenade. Body approx. 2 weeks old. Body had documents, grenade and a .38 cal. S&W revolver.
27 Mar. 68 1906H
SPOT REPORT: Co A 1st squad 1st plat. Observed 10 VC w/weapons N side of SONG TRA BONG river. 5 VC began crossing while 5 VC waited. Engaged and KIA 5 VC in river. Tried to recover bodies but other VC kept up sniper fire.
27 Mar. 68 1920H
SPOT REPORT: Co A 1st sqd 1st plat observed 30 indiv. When engaged the VC broke up into groups of 3 or 4 and ran away.
28 Mar. 68 1259H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 2 US heat casualties.
Nathaniel Stevens,
Richard Pennamon.
28 Mar. 68 1303H
Co D request DUSTOFF for 2 US KHA, 3 US WHA result of Booby trap. KHA are:
Sgt James A. Harrington,
Sgt Lee M. Lambert.
WHA are, Sgt. Larry Phipps,
Pfc. John Bohan,
Sp4. Cavanough Pertilla.
28 Mar. 68 1335H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 2 US WHA, 2 US KHA result of Booby trap. KHA,
Sp4. Roy Elston,
Sp4. Peter Baldwin.
WHA, Ssg. Lloyd Moore,
Pfc. James Howes.
28 Mar. 68 1935H
Co A request DUSTOFF for 5 US WHA result of Booby trap.
APRIL
01 April 68 0734H
Co C 1st platoon (-) commenced move from ambush site to LZ Sue.
01 April 68 0815H
Co A 3d lift PZ 0800H; TD 0815H. LZ cold. All lifts complete.
01 April 68 0825H
Aero scout platoon cptr 1 VC w/web gear, 2 grenades.
01 April 68 0825H
At 0820H Gunships engaged 1 VC result 1 VC KIA.
1 April 68 0836H
Gunships engaged 2 VC result 2 VC KIA.
1 April 68 1910H
Recon Plat reports 2 VC KIA w/no weapons or ID
1 April 68 2218H
Recon reports engaging 1 VC w/result 1 VC KIA.
1 April 68 2250H
Recon platoon reports engaged 1 VC w/ claymore result 1 VC KIA.
2 April 68 0120H
Informed Bde. Total Bn casualties for March. 9 KIA, 25 WHA
2 April 68 2050H
Telecom from Cpt. Holbrook, effective immediately the term "Search and Destroy" will no longer be used. Phrases to be used instead include; Combat sweep, Offensive search, recon in force and Combat patrol.
3 April 68 1040H
At 0810H Co A tripped a booby trap resulting in 5 US WHA. At 1815H Eng. With mine detectors accompanying 2d platoon tripped another Booby trap resulting in 1 US KHA, 10 US WHA.
3 April 68 1040H
Final report on Booby trap incident;
1) At 0810H 2d plat Co A tripped Booby trap resulting in 4 WHA. (3 evacuated).
2) At 0815H Eng carring mine detector tripped a Booby trap resulting in 1 US KHA, 10 US WHA.
3) 1 KHA and 2 WHA assgn to 3/C/26 eng.
3 April 68 1448H
Complete casualty report ref. Co A incident:
Sgt. Bellomy, Broken leg
Pfc. Skumurski, frag wound, leg and head. DOW
Pfc. Claggett, frag wound in arm.
Pfc. Neally, frag wounds in buttocks.
Sp4. Lis, frag wounds in leg.
Co A personnel with minor wounds;
Lt. Anderson, Sgt. Daigneault, Ssg. Cooper, Pfc. Kastern, Sp4. Meyers, Sp4. Gerda,
3/C/26 eng casualties;
Wright, Paul; Gartley, Sgt. Halper.
4 April 68 1930H
Co C weapons plat on OP George report women informed them of 200 heavily armed VC BS518884.
5 April 68 1337H
Recon Platoon obs. 25-30 Vn persons evading south from BS510815
5 April 68 Summery
Normal offensive sweep and search operations continued throughout the Old Guard AO. Co A 4/3 moving to LZ Sue. Co B 4/3 remained OPCON TF Barker. Co C 4/3 moved from LZ Sue to assume GOLDEN FLEECE operations along the Song Tra Bong . Co D moved from NDP. Recon moved from OP George.
6 April 68 1567H
Late entry; at 1545 Aero scouts plat engaged estimated 4 VC w/weapons evading vic. 444771 resulting in 2 VC KIA.
7 April 68 1108H
Co C will carry the following equipment for the upcoming operation; 6 LAW’s per plat, 1 81mm mortar, 12 81mm illum rds, 4 days rations.
7 April 68 1247H
Recon plat engaged 1 VC evading result 1 VC WIA/CIA (critically)
7 April 68 1322H
Co D engaged unk size enemy force evading Result 4 VC KIA, 7 VC CIA, 2 VC WIA/CIA, 5 CIA. 2 KIA wearing green uniform w/pistol belts and packs.
7 April 68 1341H
Co D engaged 1 VC result 1 VC KIA.
7 April 68 1404H
Co D engaged 1 VC result 1 VC KIA.
7 April 68 1410H
Co D engaged 1 VC evading result 1 VC WIA/CIA.
7 April 68 Summary
Co A LZ Sue security and stand down. Co B OPCON TF Barker. Co C continues operation GOLDEN FLEECE by creating maximum ambushes and daylight patrols along the Song Tra Bong river/valley. Co D continued phase 1 of operation CAPASTRANO. Co D had 6 enemy KIA, 9CIA.
8 April 68 1200H
Recon squad size stay behind ambush engaged 15 VC resulting in 7 VC KIA, no weapons.
8 April 68 1318H
Co D request DUSTOFF for 2 US w/gunshot wounds. DUSTOFF complete 1341H. Co D KIA 7 VC, 6 weapons.
8 April 68 1703H
Bde. TOC; Operation CAPISTRANO renamed; NORFOLK for the northern section and MUSCATINE for the southern section.
9 April 68 1435H
Co D now in process of destroying huts Vic. BS523689. Found two more huts, Killed pigs, destruction complete 1445H.
9 April 68 1526H
Co D received heavy AW and SA fire from unk size element.
9 April 68 1545H
Co D adjusting arty.
9 April 68 1550H
Co D request air strike. Co D request DUSTOFF for 1 US WHA.
9 April 68 1830
Co D request DUSTOFF for 2 US WHA. Co D engaged w/enemy force of 2 platoons. Spooky will be on station 1950H.
10 April 68 2300H
Co C CA to CO D location at 1500H. Co D found well concealed Hut and Tunnel complex. Co D found 123 personal and crew served weapons, 3,600 Chicom and hand made hand grenades, 9 B-40 rockets, 200 home made Bangalore Torpedoes 2 ½" X 3 ½ Ft. long, several thousand lbs. of explosives.
11 April 68 1923H
Co C spring ambush vic. BS537738 resulting in 1 VC KIA.
12 April 68 1313H
LRRP team HELEN report 15 to 20 VC KIA by arty BS483714.
12 April 68 1441H
Co C 2d plat report VC is leading them to location where 10 VC are hiding in tunnel.
12 April 68 1540H
Co C engaged 1 VC resulting in 1 VC WIA/CIA.
13 April 68 1148H
Co C report 1 US WHA by sniper. C&C ship provided DUSTOFF.
14 April 68 1000H
Co C reports 1 US WHA by sniper. Minor, no DUSTOFF needed.
16 April 68 0657H
Co BCA LZ cold.
16 April 68 0850H
Swift boats checked in. Operating in assigned AO today.
16 April 68 0905H
Award ceremony, Silver star for Sp4. Slocum, Co A, will be at LZ Sue 17 April 68 at 1100H.
16 April 68 1515H
Co B reports 1 US WHA BS712805 result gun shot wound to foot. Sgt. Robert Caballero. DUSTOFF complete 1545H
17 April 68 0820H
Aero scout chopper down w/unk cause. Will not be able to assist Co C CA. All four crew members injured and evacuated.
17 April 68 0853H
Co C extraction CA. LZ cold
17 April 68 0958H
At BS759819 Co C detained 2 VC. Observed swift boats searching sampans 300m offshore.
17 April 68 1145H
Aero scout received permission to put rifle platoon on ground vic. Crash landed gun ship.
17 April 68 1644H
Co D request DUSTOFF
17 April 68 1730H
Co C weapons platoon request for 1 US w/ gun shot wound in thigh.
17 April 68 1910H
Co C weapons platoon report engaging 1 VC result 1 VC KIA.
18 April 68 1807H
Message from BINH SON Dist. HQ’s ; Today at 1100H VC were placing Booby traps vic. (5789).
18 April 68 Summary
Co B observed 5 VC evading. The VC hit a Booby trap that KIA 4 VC. 1 VC escaped.
19 April 68 0856H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 4 US result of Booby trap.
R. Pennamon and L. Hargrove KIA,
O’Neil and Finn WHA.
19 April 68 1422H
DUSTOFF requested by 2d platoon E troop. Mine explosion while receiving supplies. 11 US WHA and 1 US KHA.
19 April 68 1541H
Recon platoon request DUSTOFF result of Booby trap BS463844. 1 US WHA.
19 April 68 Summary
At 1422 hours BS560893 3d platoon Co A and 2d platoon E troop detonated a mine resulting in 1 US KHA from 3d platoon Co A. 8 US WHA from 3d platoon Co A. 1 US WHA from HHC and 2 US WHA from 2d platoon E troop.
20 April 68 0913H
Recon platoon request DUSTOFF for 1 US KHA 1 US WHA result of Booby trap. BS487858 DUSTOFF completed 0934H
20 April 68 1022H
Aero scouts engage 1 VC result 1 VC KIA.
21 April 68 0850H
Co D combat assault 0827H. All lifts cold.
21 April 68 0948H
Co B combat assault all lifts cold.
21 April 68 1127H
Companies B and D engaged 2 VC result 1 VC KIA.
21 April 68 1205H
At 1100 hours 1st platoon Co A spotted 2 VC placing mines. Believe more Booby traps in area.
21 April 68 1206H
Co A found another mine 15ft. From first and 30 ft. from second mine.
21 April 68 1240H
Co C request DUSTOFF for female w/unk illness.
21 April 68 1659H
Aero scouts capture 1 VC WIA.
21 April 68 2034H
Co D request DUSTOFF for 1 US w/2d & 3d degree burns on hands result of attempt to heat C rations.
22 April 68 0715H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 1 US WHA by AW fire. Indiv. Concerned, Sgt. Don Fox.
22 April 68 0835H
Aero scouts engage and KIA 1 VC w/ multiple secondary explosions. Believe VC was placing mines.
22 April 68 0920H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 1 US KIA, 1 US WHA result of Booby trap. Persons concerned;
Michael Price KIA,
Richard Cooper WHA.
22 April 68 1220H
Co D request DUSTOFF for 1 US injured by .45 cal round to calf. Indiv. Wayne A. Lombardo.
22 April 68 Summary
Co C conducted a cordon and search grid. BS5288. 1 US WHA by AW fire. 1 US KIA 1 US WHA by Booby trap.
23 April 68 0930H
CA’s for companies B and D complete at 0921. All LZ’s cold.
23 April 68 1415H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 2 US WHA by Booby trap.
23 April 68 1527H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 2 US KHA result Booby trap. BS 527853 Indiv KIA, Russel Matheny, Lewis Harmon.
24 April 68 0837H
Co B request DUSTOFF for 4 US WHA result Booby trap vic. BS775842
24 April 68 0930H
Co B detonated Booby trap resulting in 5 US WHA. 2 or 3 minutes later they detonated another Booby trap resulting in 4 US WHA. Indiv concerned:
Thomas K Willingham Shrapnel in chest
Marvin R. Jones Shrapnel in both legs
Crecencic C. Garcia Shrapnel in both legs
Amos Williams Shrapnel in back and legs
Richard Silva Shrapnel in face
Leo J. Stockam Shrapnel in arms and legs
William Price, Richard H. Gerdel and Laster Walker.
24 April 68 1055H
From LTC Henderson: Mine/Booby trap incident Co B reveals possible pattern. If unit remains in same spot for 24 Hrs. they’ll get more Booby traps and mines.
24 April 68 1836H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 3 US WHA result Booby trap. John Pollite, Peyton Leslie,
Thomas Brzoska.
24 April 68 Summary
Co B suffered 9 US WHA, 2 US KHA.
Co C suffered 3 US WHA.
25 April 68 1145H
BG Young arrived LZ Dottie for discussions about how to neutralize or destroy Booby traps. Also talked about extracting salt.
25 April 68 1520H
Co C request DUSTOFF for
1 US WHA, George Daise,
2 US KHA, Eric Fickland and George Jacobs.
25 April 68 1600H
The amount of salt extracted so far totals 26,010 lbs.
25 April 68 1627H
Co C request additional DUSTOFF for 1 US in state of shock.
26 April 68 1435H
Co A 1st platoon engaged 1 VC result 1 VC WIA/CIA.
27 April 68 1300H
Aero scouts engage 1 VC result 1 VC WIA/CIA.
27 April 68 Summery
Co A secures LZ Sue. Co B extracts salt. Co C conducts combat sweep. Co D LZ Dottie and uptight. Recon OP George.
28 April 68 1150H
Co B request DUSTOFF result sniper fire. Patrick
Tregarthan,
Howard Snitchles,
Robert Amspacher,
Michael Smith.
28 April 68 1500H
Total amount of salt extracted is 99,960 lbs.
29 April 68 0704H
Aero scouts engage 2 VC evading result 1 VC KIA.
29 April 68 0801
Aero scouts engage 1 VC result 1 VC WIA/CIA.
29 April 68 0849
Co B request DUSTOFF for 6 US WHA result Booby trap. Indiv concerned; James Placek,
Ronnie Ladd,
Peter Breitenstein,
Mario Fernandez.
29 April 68 1305
Co B request DUSTOFF for 1 US WHA result Booby trap.
30 April 68 0914
Aero scouts engaged 1 VC result 1 VC KIA.
MAY
01 May 68 1810H
Co A mortar platoon request DUSTOFF for 2 US WHA result Booby trap of unk type. BS474863, Dustoff completed 1821H. Indiv. Concerned;
George Peters,
Mark Akutgaha.
01 May 68 Summary
Operations continued as normal throughout the MUSCATINE AO with Co A securing LZ Sue. Co B search Ville at BS734864. Co C secure and assist construction of FSB vic. BS538825. ( Editors note: This grid will receive the name LZ BUFF on May 5, 1968) Co D security for LZ Dottie and Uptight. Recon clearing mines and Booby traps OP George. Recon platoon suffered 2 US WHA result Booby trap.
02 May 68 0750H
Co C 2d platoon request DUSTOFF for 2 US WHA, 1 US KHA result of Booby trap. Persons concerned;
Sgt. William Topka,
Psg. Cruz; Bulton, Andres WHA,
Pfc. James Hadley KHA.
Request at 0735, complete at 0755.
03 May 68 0050H
Battalion aid station reports 1 US WHA Co D result sniper fire.
Sgt. Bobby Scott.
03 May 68 1100H
Co D request DUSTOFF for 1 US WHA result of Booby trap.
Sp4. Hillard Little (medic, HHC)
03 May 68 1645H
Aero scouts engaged 1 VC result 1 VC KIA
03 May 68 1835
Co C request DUSTOFF for 1 US WHA result sniper fire. Graig Slocum. Request 1815, complete 1830.
03 May 68 2015H
A Water Buffalo attacked Indiv. From Co D. Indiv. Shot Buffalo and now villagers want money.
03 May 68 2130H
Co A 3d platoon request DUSTOFF for 6 US WHA result of Booby trap. Persons concerned;
Robert Ransom,
Alen Nake,
Timothy Shelton,
Granvillo Slone,
Michael Estep,
Edward Czoch.
04 May 68 1306H
Co A reports a sudden change of attitude from the civilians in Dien Vill. They have changed from being friendly to a hostile attitude.
05 may 68 0137H
LZ Dottie received 18-20 rounds 82mm mortar rounds resulting in 9 US WHA. Request DUSTOFF at first light. Persons concerned; Charles martinez-HHC,
Douglas Cook-HHC,
Thomas Lowthers-HHC,
Jose Alvarez-HHC,
E-3 Maynard-Co C,
Michael Kravdc.
05 May 68 Summary
Co C conducted local security and assisted in construction of LZ Buff. (Editors note: This is the first time the name LZ BUFF has been used in journal reports instead of a grid coordinates)
06 May 68 0223H
Co D reports 3 US WHA result of mortar frags. Neg. DUSTOFF.
07 May 68 0745H
Aero scouts appre. 1 Male VCS, military age evading. Extracted to LZ Dottie.
07 May 68 0935H
Co D 2nd platoon engaged 3 VC w grenades. Result 3 VC WIA/CIA. DUSTED off.
07 May 68 2100H
At 1851 hours Co A 2nd platoon hit Booby trap w/secondary explosion resulting in 4 US WHA, 1 US KHA.
2lt. Robert Anderson w/frag wound,
Sp4. Daniel Gerda w/frag wounds,
Pfc. Booker Corael w/frag wounds.
Pfc. Michael lestern,
Pfc. Richard Gereg,
Pfc. William Krarling,
Pfc. James Grant was KHA.
08 May 68 0315H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 1 US result gun shot wound to foot. Pfc. Darrell Derouin
08 May 68 1710H
Aero scouts engaged 1 VC result 1 VC KIA.
08 May 68 1925H
Co D request DUSTOFF for 2 US result AW fire. Fred Fullerton-KHA, David Clark-WHA.
11 May 68 1045H
Co D request DUSTOFF for 1 US WHA result of sniper.
11 May 68 1900H
Co D now located LZ Ross.
11 May 68 Summary
Co D was released to OPCON 198th LIB.
12 May 68 0815H
Aero scouts engaged 6 VC evading result 4 VC KIA. At 0825 Aero scouts engaged 2 VC result 2 VC KIA.
12 May 68 0915H
Co A request DUSTOFF for 4 US WHA result of explosion. VC blew himself up and shrapnel hit US indiv. Sgt Stephen Campbell, Sgt. Danial Dye, Sp4. Michael Telgenof, John Shepard and three others with minor wounds.
12 may 68 1205H
Co C reports observing chopper go down vic. BS580802. C & C checked area and found 1 downed chopper w/injured persons on board.
13 May 68 0841H
Co A request DUSTOFF for 2 US WHA result Booby trap at BS566766. Indiv.
Sp4. Ronnie Hudson,
Gary Stump.
14 May 68 0045H
Report from Co E that 4 US received burns result of 4.2 power ignition. Will DUSTOFF at daylight.
15 May 68 1320H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 1 US w/gun shot wound. Investigation of circumstances will be conducted.
16 May 68 SCOREBOARD
Col. Henderson: Cmdrs check into safety program. The 11th LIB leads the Division in non-battle injuries from gun shots and burns.
20 may 68 1045H
Co A request DUSTOFF for 20 US WHA, 5 US KHA result explosion. KHA include: Sgt. Western, Sgt. Pargheault, Sgt. Junk, Sp4. Hartly (medic-HHC). ( editors note: complete list of casualties and details available on request).
23 May 68 2320H
Co A request DUSTOFF for 2 US WHA result Booby trap.
Sp4. Roger Schmidt,
Sp4. Paul Shumake.
24 May 68 1058H
Co A request DUSTOFF for 3 US WHA result Booby trap at BS718819. Reed-Arty RTO, Holbrook (psyops team), HHC Nurse-Perry.
26 May 68 0820H
Co A request DUSTOFF for 1 US w/head wound.
John L. Shepard.
28 May 68 1233H
At 1224 hours Co C reports 1 US with chills. Cpt. Sam is skeptical.
29 May 68 0130H
LZ Bronco attacked resulting in 1 KHA and 25 WHA.
JUNE
01 June 68 0605H
Co A 2nd platoon enroute LZ Dottie.
01 June 68 0610H
Co C engaged 1 VC result 1 VC WIA/CIA DUSTOFF complete 0645.
01 June 68 0720H
Co C ambush closed LZ Buf.
02 June 68 1450H
Co C 2nd platoon closed LZ Buf.
02 June 68 1850H
Co C reports Pfc. Clauson missing from patrol, possibly asleep. Request flare and Gunships. Aircraft announced over loud speaker for Clauson to stay put until first light. LTC Barker will search w/C & C 0600 03 June 68.
03 June 68 0650H
LTC. Barker located uninjured indiv at 0640 hours. BS552810.
03 June 68 1130H
LATE ENTRY: 02 June 68 at 1915H Co D engaged 9 VC evading result 2 VC KIA.
03 June 68 1130H
Co D hit mine result 1 US WHA. Dolphus Breland evacuated by Aero scouts to LZ Dottie.
03 June 68 1610H
Aero scouts engaged 2 VC result 2 VC KIA.
04 June 68 0953H
Aero scouts engaged sanpan resulting in 1 VC KIA.
04 June 68 1055H
Recon platoon engaged 1 VC result 1 VC KIA.
04 June 68 1250H
Co D request DUSTOFF for 1 US WHA result Booby trap.
Pfc. Denver Bush.
05 June 68 0935H
Co D engaged 3 VC w/weapons in a sanpan. Result 3 VC KIA, sanpan destroyed.
06 June 68 0820H
Co B 4/3 inf. Will be attached to 1/1 Cav. Operating in BURLINGTON TRAIL.
06 June 68 1530H
Request DUSTOFF for 6 US WHA result Booby trap. Recon and E troop.
07 June 68 0940H
Co D request DUSTOFF for 1 US WHA result Booby trap BS526755. Sp4. Michael Donovan.
08 June 68 1617H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 3 US result of Booby trap.
Sgt. William Young,
Pfc. John Ulrich,
Pfc. Ronald Hollers. BS558832.
10 June 68 0655H
Co C 2nd platoon closed LZ Buf.
10 June 68 TELECOM
At 1200 hours operation MUSCATINE will terminate.
11 June 68 1605H
Recon request DUSTOFF for 4 US WHA result of 2 mine explosions. Recon names:
Sp4. James Burnett,
Pfc. Jerry Scism.
12 June 68 1223H
Co B 4/3 no longer OPCON 198th LIB. Effective 1200 today OPCON 196th LIB.
13 June 68 0630H
Co A 1st platoon request DUSTOFF for 4 US WHA result of Booby trap.. BS718819.
13 June 68 0725H
Co A engaged 2 VC result 2 VC KIA.
13 June 68 0755H
Co A report C & C ship exploded and crashed BS718817. Aero observer reports 0-2 aircraft and C&C ship collided mid air. A Co reports 7 KHA, no survivors. Persons include;
W01 Carter,
W01 Johnson,
Crewchief Pfc. Weimer,
Gunner Sp4. Milton,
LTC Barker,
Cpt. Michles,
1lt. Phillips.
14 June 68 1900H
Recon request DUSTOFF for 1 US WHA, gunshot to neck.
18 June 68 1130H
Co D request Dustoff for 2 US WHA result Booby trap.
20 June 68 0610H
Co D ambush element closed LZ Dottie.
20 June 68 0612H
Co B ambush element closed LZ Buff
20 June 68 1045H
Co A replaced Co D on LZ Dottie. Co D conducted CA to BS505755.
20 June 68 2253H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 5 US WHA result mortar frags.
Sp4. Richard Billingsley,
Sp4. Eugene Couturiaux,
Pfc. Harvey Geltz,
Sp4. Charles Stewart,
Sp4. William Frank.
21 June 68 0150H
Co D request DUSTOFF for 2 US w/ gunshot wound result friendly encounter.
Sgt Gary Wright,
Pfc. John Jardin.
21 June 68 1105H
Dolphin 530 report a missing Helicopter.
22 June 68 0005H
Co D request DUSTOFF for 2 US WHA result of a grenade attack. Pfc. Paul Peck,
Sp4. Robert Standerfer.
22 June 68 2207
Task force A left on assigned mission.
23 June 68 0610H
Co B closed on LZ Paradise.
23 June 68 1120H
Co C extracted to LZ Bronco for stand down.
24 June 68 0935H
Aero scouts engaged 1 VC result 1 VC KIA.
24 June 68 0938H
Co D request DUSTOFF for 2 US WHA from sniper fire.
Sp4. Paul Amason,
Sp4. Donald Berkholtz.
24 June 68 1017H
Gunships engaged 2 VC result 2 VC KIA.
25 June 68 0020H
WHA result motars; Sgt. Howard McKenzie-4.2 platoon, Thimothy Reichart-E TRP.
25 June 68 1401H
Co A requests DUSTOFF for US injured by Booby trap.
Ssg. Charles Rails,
Sgt. Edmond Marzenell,
pinesli.
25 June 68 1410H
Co D request DUSTOFF for 2 US WHA result Booby trap.
Pfc. Anthony Mello,
Pfc. Minyard McClure.
26 June 68 1203H
Co B request DUSTOFF for 3 US WHA result Booby trap. BS630905.
Pfc. Barker,
Pfc. Horton,
Pfc. Currier,
Pvt. Michener.
27 june 68 0825H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 1 US WHA result Booby trap BS693950. Urgent-Kissell. Sp4. Norval Guyton deafened.
27 June 68 1006H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 6 US WHA result Booby trap BS698950.
Sp4. Billy Childress,
Pfc. Oliver foremen,
pfc. Robert Sullivan,
Pfc. Ford gregg,
Donald Michaels,
Pfc. Michael O’Daniel.
LATE REPORT
Jeffory Ott Co C mortar plat WHA w/ frag wounds.
28 June 68 0813H
Co B request DUSTOFF for 3 US WHA result Booby trap. Sp4. Howard, Duff, Hatch.
30 June 68 0930H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 2 US WHA result booby trap. Joseph Hardy.
JULY
01 July 68 0625H
Co D ambush closed on LZ Buf. Co B ambush closed on LZ Dottie. Recon ambush closed on LZ Paradise. Co C elements vic LZ Paradise.
01 July 68 1000H
Co A moved from LZ Bronco to LZ Buf.
01 July 68 1145H
Division FAC reports CH-47 Helicopter and a UH-1B Helicopter had mid air collision.
05 July 68 1100H LZ WEST
4/3 Inf. Assumed operations in designated sector 4/31 AO. TOC will be at LZ West. AT990250.
05 July 68 1735H
Co D KIA 1 VC hiding in well at AT924250.
06 July 68 2240H
4/31 Inf. report photo interpretation shows unit at AT901208: 3 foxholes, 3 weapons mounted on tripod, Wheeled vehicle w/canvas top.
09 July 68 0600H
Co B closed on LZ West. Co D closed LZ Karen. Co C vic AT929237.
11 July 68 0900H
Co A request DUSTOFF for 1 US w/gun shot wound result of accident. LZ west; AT990250
11 July 68 0955H
Gunships engaged 2 MAM’s evading result 2 VC KIA
11 July 68 2145H
Co D request DUSTOFF for 1 US w/gunshot wound result accident. Pfc. Doug Mitchel shot by individual in 2nd platoon. Vic AT851236
12 July 68 0755H
Co A CA, LZ cold.
12 July 68 0823H
Co C CA, LZ cold.
12 July 68 0833H
Gunships engaged 2 VC result 3 VC KIA. Got 3d VC on the bonus round.
12 July 68 0905H
Battalion SITREP Neg, location: Co A- AT808255, Co B- AT842243, Co C- AT813255, Co D- AT846237.
12 July 68 1130H
Spot report: Co C and A are finding indiv. And crew served weapons, rockets, mortars, equipment, documents and a classroom large enough for 40 persons.
12 July 68 1320H
Co D found message written on fibrous material, Banana leaf. The Vietnamese translation was, "US are coming, will shoot me. Am leaving because I love my wife and do not want her shot."
14 July 68 2400H
All 4/3 elements vic LZ O’Conner.
15 July 68 0640H
Unit strength: A Co-114, B Co-93, C Co-108, D Co -118, E Co-69.
18 July 68 0855H
Co A request DUSTOFF for 1 US WHA result Booby trap at AT913351.
SSG. James Hildebrandt, KHA.
18 July 68 1011H
Recon request DUSTOFF for 1 US WHA w/gunshot to arm at AT905239.
Pfc. Gary R Stephen.
18 July 68 2400H
Spot report: 4/3 continues security and ambush patrols vic LZ Karen, LZ Lurch and LZ O’Conner.
19 July 68 1240H
Co A request DUSTOFF for 1 US KHA, 2 US WHA by SA fire at AT904253. James Hall -WHA , Philli Oglesby-KHA, Lenioda Hargrove-WHA.
19 July 68 1245H
Co A engaged 2 VC result 2 VC KHA.
21 July 68 0750H
Co A and C arrive Lurch. AT925238
21 July 68 1855H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 1 US injured by entrenching tool.
Pfc. Jack D Merrell.
26 July 68 1400H
Request DUSTOFF for Cpt. Hendrix w/multiple burns on hands and face.
AUGUST
01 Aug. 68 2400H
Spot report: 4/3 secures LZ Karen, LZ Lurch, Hill 210, and LZ O’Conner.
01 Aug. 68
Co C found 14 bodies in graves vic AT905214.
04 Aug. 68 1250H
Co A and Co C prepare to move to Hill 54.
09 Aug. 68 SUMMARY
Co A continues patrol sweep at BT418083.
Co B secures Hill 54.
Co C at Chu Lai for stand down.
Co D secures LAAM site and bridge security.
13 Aug. 68 1418H
Co C closed on Hill 54.
13 Aug. 68 SUMMARY
Co A secures LAAM site and BA BAU Bridge.
Co B secures LZ Bowmen.
Co C conducts operations vic Hill 54.
Co D Chu Lai for stand down.
16 Aug. 68 1155H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 1 US WHA by sniper at BT335104.
Pfc. Richard Woods.
19 Aug. 68 1115H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 1 US w/FUO at BT382117.
Sp4. Ronald A. Chura.
19 Aug 68 1120H
Co B request DUSTOFF for 1 US w/frag wounds from misfired claymore. LZ Bowmen,
Ernesto G. Espinoza.
23 Aug. 68 0255H
Co D reports 7 US WHA result mortar attack;
James Herdzik,
William Gress,
Daniels Rodriques,
Mathew Smith,
Larry Jones.
23 Aug. 68 1755H
Recon request DUSTOFF for 1 US w/hand wound result accident while cleaning M-79.
Graig Anthony.
24 Aug. 68 2012H
Co C 1st Platoon 1st Squad reports 6-8 VC in kill zone. Can hear VC talking
24 Aug. 68 2025H
Co C reports talking VC turned out to be fish playing in water.
27 Aug 68 0040H
Co D request DUSTOFF for 5 US WHA result mortar and AW fire. BT405106.
Willie Epps,
Henry Warner,
Wayne Westving,
Larry Kinch,
Roger Able.
28 Aug. 68 1615H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 1 US WHA result Booby trap at BT344151.
SSG. William B Ford.
31 Aug. 68 2137H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 1 US w/snake bite.
SEPTEMBER
01 Sept. 68 2005H
Recon request DUSTOFF for Peter Alexander result self inflicted gunshot wound to leg from M-79.
03 Sept. 68 0001H
All 4/3 elements prepare to move to QUANG NGAI airfield. Co B and E will secure LZ Buf.
04 Sept. 68 1800H
Co A NDP: BS454778
Co B LZ BUF
Co C NDP: BS466755
Co D NDP: BS466755
Recon LZ BUF
(Editors note: The battle that will develop over the next 24 hours will earn the recon platoon a presidential unit citation. More details of this battle are available on request.)
05 Sept. 68 0325H
Weather report: Extremely bad conditions with increased winds and rain. Bad weather may reach a high over the next few days. Take measures to secure property and lives.
05 Sept. 68 1140H
Co B receiving SA fire from BS513795. Recon receiving heavy AW fire. Paul Adams was shot then evacuated by C&C ship. BS545794. Co C receiving fire from BS455579.
05 Sept. 68 1415H
Co D reports pinned down by AW fire from BS474725. 2 US WHA.
05 Sept. 68 1617H
Co D reports C&C ship shot down BS475729.
06 Sept. 68 1410H
Recon platoon reports it is pinned down at BS548773.
06 Sept. 68 1708H
Recon reports 1 US WHA, details to follow.
06 Sept. 68 1725H
Shark received fire resulting in 2 US WHA; Pilot and door gunner.
07 Sept. 68 0120H
Status of recon platoon: 10 US KHA, 4 US WHA, 13 US uninjured, 1 US MIA.
Sgt. Secrest-KHA,
Hanson-KHA,
Gehman-WHA,
Moree-KHA,
Morrow-KHA,
Alerjo-WHA,
Jones (medic) KHA,
Montgomery-WHA.
07 Sept. 68 1140H
Co D request DUSTOFF for 1 US KHA, 4 US WHA result Booby trap at BS564772.
KHA-William Cooper,
WHA- Pfc. Cheney,
WHA- James Elker,
Pfc. Robert Hannah.
08 Sept. 68 0931H
MG Gettys, Div. Commander, Arrives Buf.
08 Sept. 68 0952H
DG Galloway, Assistant Div. Commander, Arrived LZ Buf.
08 Sept. 68 1010H
Col. Henderson, Brigade Commander, arrived Buf.
08 Sept. 68 1247H
Aero scouts report 1 aircraft shot down at BS485775. Co A moving to secure area.
08 Sept. 68 1638H
Co B request DUSTOFF for 2 US WHA result grenade frag at BS480770.
Michael Whalen,
Jesse Thompson.
09 Sept. 68 0040H
Notified Bde that A,B,C and D would continue intensified search operations north of the TRA KHUC river.
09 Sept. 68 1118H
Co B engaged 3 VC result 3 VC KHA.
09 Sept. 68 1201H
C&C aircraft at BS555775 extracted by Dolphin 588
09 Sept. 68 1735H
Two persons know the location of a Howitzer buried during TET offensive.
13 Sept. 68 0625H
4/3 field strength: A-93, B-94, C-88, D-85
14 Sept. 68 0945H
Co D request DUSTOFF for 1 US WHA result Booby trap at BS514744. William V Lewis Jr.
15 Sept. 68 1120H
Co A reports finding 4 Bamboo vipers tied to rafters of hut. BS513757
15 Sept. 68 1533H
Co C now located LZ Thunder and Charlie Brown.
16 Sept. 68 1000H
Co B- LZ Liz, Co D-LZ Dragon, Co A-LZ Bronco.
17 Sept. 68 0830H
Unit strength: A-112, B-103, C-93, D-107
20 Sept. 68 1602H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 1 US w/head wound from frag. BS782407. Larry Goodwin.
22 Sept. 68 0750H
Co C request DUSTOFF for 1 US with gunshot wound to leg. Line #134
27 Sept. 68 Spot Report
Co. A LZ Thunder
Co. B LZ Bronco
Co. C Operation Handstand BS928224
Co. D closed Bronco
Recon LZ Thunder
28 Sept. 68 Summary
4/3 units combined to destroy over 100 sampans.
30 Sept. 68 0805H
A Co reports contact at BS775362. Hagen and Mylo received frag wounds. Sgt. Hayes received wounds to face.
30 Sep. 68 Summary
All companies received fire throughout the day.
OCTOBER
01 Oct. 68 0001H
Spot report: All 4/3 units perform operations vic of Handstand, Charlie Brown, Bronco, Thunder and Montezuma.
01 Oct. 68 1900H
Co. D request DUSTOFF for 1 US (navy) at BS928225. EM injured when 50. cal. exploded during test fire.
03/Oct. 68 1915H
Co. A reports 1 US WHA result mortar attack. No DUSTOFF.
03 Oct. 68 2040H
Co. A reports 3 US WHA; Lt. Miller, Sgt. Slocum, Pfc. Hargrove.
04 Oct. 68 Summary
Brigade request clearance to spray defoliation 2000 meters inside 4/3 AO 06 Oct. 68 at 1100H.
05 Oct. 68 0700H
Co. C conducting CA at BS888325.
05 Oct. 68 0800H
Co. A report engaging 10 VC at BS875249. Result 8 VC KIA.
05 Oct. 68 Summary
Co. A engaged 10 VC result 8 VC KIA. Co. A engaged 2 VC result 2 VC KIA. Detained 2,000 VN.
06 Oct. 68 late entry
Brigade reported defoliation will be sprayed in area BS8427 to BS7143
06 Oct. 68 1210H
Late entry: Co. C 3rd platoon request DUSTOFF for 1 KHA, 5 WHA result of Booby trap BS811311.
Jose Alamo,
Steven Jackson,
Richard Miller,
Cleotra Sims,
Elemer Lefever,
Edger Smith.
07 Oct. 68 1510H
Co. A request DUSTOFF for 1 US WHA by small arms fire at BS912248. Mike D. Voorhies. Contact result in 3 VC KIA.
07 Oct. 68 2400H
OPORD: (operations order)
Co. A secures Charlie Brown.
Co. B on offensive search and recon. Prepares 1 platoon for independent 3 day op.
Co. C on offensive search and recon. Prepares 1 platoon for independent 3 day op.
Co. D secures LZ Thunder.
08 Oct. 68 Briefing
Action: Uptight-1 US KHA 20 US WHA from mortar attack
1/20 14 US WHA result explosion
1/20 1 US KHA 2 US WHA result of explosion
3,600 Lbs. of mail from Hawaii.
09 Oct. 68 1210H
Defoliation spray in area BS8120 to BS6940 from 1040H to 1050H.
10 Oct. 68 1215H
Co. C request DUSTOFF at BS782385 for I US with frag wound. Edwin R. Concepcion received blowback from a frag.
10 Oct 68 2130H
Co. A ambush coordinates BS807354 heard movement to their front. Threw grenade result in 2 US with frag wounds. Russell Sawyer, Donald Yost.
15 Oct. 68 1012H
Co. C request DUSTOFF for 1 US at BS867336. WHA,
Owens.
17 Oct. 68 1940H
Co. C request DUSTOFF at BS885311 for 1 US WHA by AW fire. Thomas McKinsie
19 Oct. 68 2400H
4/3 Inf. Had enemy contact throughout the day.
20 Oct. 68 0400H
Message from Battalion: Defoliation mission will be on 21 Oct. 68, target BS8729 to BS7543.
20 Oct. 68 1405H
Most missions cancelled due to torrental rain. Co. A LZ Bronco, Co. B LZ Charlie Brown, Co. C LZ Thunder.
21 Oct. 68 1410H
Battalion requests for defoliation mission from BS2628 to BS7442 for 23 Oct. 68
23 Oct. 68 Summary
Companies C and B at LZ Bronco to prepare for operation Vernon lake. 1/20 Inf assumed operational control of southern DUC PHO AO with Co. D OPCON 1/20 Inf.
24 Oct. 68 1345H
Co. C request DUSTOFF for Thibodeaul.
24 Oct. 68 1675H
Co. D request DUSTOFF for Lee Tomsick, Herst Yates, both FUO (fever of unknown origion)
29 Oct. 68 2400H
Co. C OPCON 3/1 Inf.
31 Oct. 68 1240H
Message from 3/1 Inf. Co. C has 1 em with gunshot to knee.
31 Oct. 68 1406H
Co. D request DUSTOFF at BS473779. Booby trap, shrapnel in chest. Thomas Behrens. DOW
31 Oct. 68 1855H
Co. A request DUSTOFF at BS494779 for 1 US gunshot in chest. John Hudson.
31 Oct. 68 Summary
Companies A, B and D continue to run ops in the southern DUC PHO area. Co. C 4/3 inf. Is OPCON 3/1 Inf.
NOVEMBER
01 Nov. 68 1105H
Co. D request DUSTOFF for 2 US:
Wayne Petterson w/bad feet,
Thomas Neubauer w/bad finger.
01 Nov. 68 1435H
Co. C released OPCON 3/1 returned OPCON 4/3.
02 Nov. 68 summary
4/3 Inf. Initiated phase 111 of operation VernonLake 1 by moving HQ to FSB Cork. Company A and B collocated at BS400577. Company C and D collocated at BS438588. Recon FSB Cork. E Company at FSB Cork.
03 Nov. 68 2005H
Unit strength: Co. A-88, Co. B-85, Co. C-75, Co. D-69, Recon-32.
04 Nov. 68 0700H
LZ cork request DUSTOFF for 1 US WHA result mortar attack. Jerry Mallicoat w/frag wounds.
05 Nov. 68
Thomas Malovrn gunshot wound at BS407595. Co. C
07 Nov. 68 Summary
4/3 had neg casualties from SA fire. Co. c had 3 US WHA by Punji sticks. Co. D had 1 US WHA by Punji stick.
08 Nov. 68 0925H
CO from Co. C 4/3 Inf. (Cpt. Middleton) received injury from punji stick at BS385581. At 0920H Cpl. Reynolds of Co. C mortar platoon, fell into punji pit result puncture in right ankle. Evacuated by C&C.
08 Nov. 68 0953H
Co. C request DUSTOFF for 1 US WHA by punji stick. BS385581.
Pfc. Cooper.
08 Nov. 68 1307H
Co. D request DUSTOFF for 1 US WHA by punji stick at BS386582. 1Lt. Kovac, Victor B.
09 Nov. 68 1211H
Be prepared to move Co. C to LZ warrior at BS386532.
11 Nov. 68 1340H
Co. C request DUSTOFF for 1 US WHA at BS383581.
Sp4. Edward Kennedy w/punji stick.
13 Nov. 68 Summary
All units 4/3 terminate Vernon Lake 11 and extract to Southern DUC PHO AO.
16 Nov. 68 0925H
Co. C request DUSTOFF for 1 US w/broken arm.
1Lt. William Kelley.
16 Nov. 68 1500H
Co. C request DUSTOFF for 1 US unconscious, FUO.
19 Nov. 68 Summary
4/3 Inf. Had no major contact in the DUC PHO AO.
20 Nov. 68 Spot report
Co. A, secure and improve LZ Dragon
Co. B, secure and improve LZ Liz
Co. C, secure and improve LZ Charlie Brown
Co. D, secure and improve LZ Thunder
21 Nov. 68 Spot report
Recon and Co. C at LZ Bronco for standdown. Co. A Dragon, Co. B Liz, Co. D, Thunder.
21 Nov. 68 1115H
Co. B was attacked by a Water Buffalo at BS779419. Forced to kill animal in self defense
21 Nov. 68 1348H
Co. D request DUSTOFF for 1 US WHA result of Booby trap at BS845305.
Orsus Mooney, us54444347.
21 Nov. 68 1405H
Co. D request DUSTOFF for 3 US WHA result Booby trap at BS864334.
Thomas Stanley, DOW.
George W. Page
Melvin Thompson, DOW
22 Nov. 68 2355H
Co. A request DUSTOFF for 1 US (navy) James Blalock. Vehicle blew up. Believed to be Booby trapped. One leg amputated, one leg pending amputation.
22 Nov. 68 1209H
Co. D request DUSTOFF for 1 US at BS836328 result accident while cleaning M-79.
Steven J. Karpinski
25 Nov. 68 Summary
Co. A continued security of LZ Charlie Brown
Co. B continues security of LZ Thunder
Co. C continues security of LZ Bronco
Co. D on stand down
Recon continues ops off Bronco
27 Nov. 68 0105H
Co. A request DUSTOFF for 2 US WHA result of mortar attack at BS914252.
Jimmie R. Green, DOW
Vann, WHA
29 Nov. 68 2255H
Report from Co. C commanding officer: Patrol dispatched from Co. C returned with 3 persons who had been drinking in the refugee camp BS863315. A weapons check revealed that there weapons were clear.
DECEMBER
04 Dec. 68 Summary
4/3 continues to perform sweep and search ops in the southern DUC PHO AO. Secures LZ’s Bronco, Thunder and Charlie Brown.
10 Dec. 68 1100H
Co.B request DUSTOFF for 1 US w/broken ankle BS935225.
George Douglas.
10 Dec. 68 1400H
Co. B request DUSTOFF for 1 US
David Karaba, possible broken back.
10 Dec. 68 1610H
Co. B request DUSTOFF for 1 US
D. W. Johnson, back injury
11 Dec. 68 0020H
Message from Battilion commander to Commanding officer of Delta Co. All commanders will adhere to the following; No burning of hooches unless ordered by the BN CO. Mistreatment of prisoners will not be tolerated. All VN persons are to be treated with respect and gentleness. Indiscriminate firing of weapons at persons or hooches will not be tolerated.
11 Dec. 68 late entry:
LZ Dragon; Task force Pryor composed of 2nd platoon from Co. B, 3rd platoon from Co. D and Recon platoon. Commanded by Capt. Pryor. Op’s begin west of Bronco.
11 Dec. 68 Summary
Co. A Thunder
Co. B Charlie brown
Co. C blocking position BS707429
Co. D Dragon
TF Pryor remain in clandestine position BS765351 throughout day.
13 Dec. 68 2115HCo.
A ambush request DUSTOFF for 1 US w/FUO
John Gilman
13 Dec. 68 2150H
DUSTOFF refused. FUO not priority.
14 Dec. 68 0530H
Received 4 squelch breaks on radio, TF Pryor in position.
14 Dec. 68 0845H
TF Pryor request DUSTOFF for 1 US from Co. B, name; Cannon
14 Dec. 68 1101H
TF Pryor request DUSTOFF at BS785365 for 1 US KHA 3 US WHA result Booby trap.
Oscar Sanabia, KHA
Thomas Fegley, WHA
Wayne Yeske, WHA
Lee Gale, WHA
14 Dec. 68 1305H
TF Pryor closed on LZ Bronco.
14 Dec. 68 1405H
Co. D hits pressure type 82mm mine but it did not go off.
15 Dec. 68 1000H
LTC Davis assumes command of 4/3 Inf.
16 Dec. 68 1342H
Co. D at BS705558 found 1 82mm round Booby trapped under a coconut shell. Shell was accidentally kicked into the air but it did not go off. Destroyed in place.
16 Dec. 68 1615H
Co. A request DUSTOFF for 3 US injured by tunnel collapse. WHA by explosion caused gasses include;
Donnie Bateman
Gregory Wyrick
Bruce Sagor
Pallischeck
17 Dec. 68 Spot report
Strength report:
Co. A 103
Co. B 118
Co. C 128
Co. D 118
Co. E 64
18 Dec. 68 1150H
Co. D request DUSTOFF for 2 US WHA by Booby trap at BS810320.
Robert Pelton
James Herdzik
18 Dec. 68 2205H
Co. B request DUSTOFF for 1 US with temp of 103. DUSTOFF denied until AM. Nor would DUSTOFF pick up KHA at Handstand.
19 Dec. 68 2020H
DUSTOFF request from Co. B for Capt. Pryor. After talking to surg. It was agreed to DUSTOFF Capt. Pryor with temp of 104.
21 Dec. 68 0920H
Co. C request DUSTOFF for 2 US WHA at BS771344. Result Booby trap.
John J Rollet
Walton Mc Kenely
23 Dec. 68 Summary
No Sig. events
25 Dec. 68 1230H
DUSTOFF request for 3 US WHA when ¼ truck was ambushed. Co. B persons involved;
Robert Amspacher
Thomas Geary
Gordon Reynolds
27 Dec. 68 1245H
2 Delta Co. persons injured when jeep rolled.
Sotana
Zayas
27 Dec. 68
Co. C conducted a CA result 5 VC KIA, 7 VC CIA and 20 VCS detained.
28 Dec. 68 1615H
Co. D request DUSTOFF for 1 US KHA BS808327. Booby trap
Sgt. A. W. Howard Jr.
28 Dec. 68 1740H
Aero scoute report one aircraft down BS762358. Some crew badly hurt. Co. A 3rd platoon moving to secure.
Area.
30 Dec. 68 Summary
4/3 continues present mission in southern DUC PHO AO w/light contact
Copyright © Charlie Company 4-3.