DECLASSIFIED
HEADQUARTERS
2d Combined Action Group
III Marine Amphibious Force
FPO San Francisco, California 96602
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3/LEN/aze
3000
17 June 1970
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(CONFIDENTIAL)
From: |
Commanding Officer |
To: |
Commandant of the Marine Corps (Code HD) |
Via: |
(1) Commanding Officer, Combined Action Force |
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(2) Commanding General, III Marine Amphibious Force |
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(3) Commanding General, Fleet Marine Forces, Pacific |
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Subj: |
Command Chronology for period 1 May 1970 to 31 May 1970 |
Ref: |
(a) MCO 5750.1A |
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(b) FMFPacO 5750.8B |
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(c) CAFO 5750.1 |
Encl: |
(1) 2d Combined Action Group Command Chronology |
1. In accordance with the provision of references (a), (b) and (c),
enclosure (1) is submitted.
2. Downgraded at 3-year intervals, declassified after 12 years, DOD Dir
5200.10.
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DECLASSIFIED
HEADQUARTERS
2d Combined Action Group
III Marine Amphibious Force
FPO San Francisco, California 96602
COMMAND CHRONOLOGY
1 May 1970 to 31 May 1970
INDEX
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DECLASSIFIED
(CONFIDENTIAL)
PART 1
Organizational Data
1. Designation |
Commander |
Date |
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2d Combined Action Group |
LtCol D.R. CHRISTENSEN |
(1May - 31May 70) |
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Subordinate Units |
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1st Combined Action Company |
Capt R. D. TOMLIN |
(1May - 31May 70)
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2nd Combined Action Company |
Capt T. M. BELDON |
(1May - 31May 70)
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3rd Combined Action Company |
Capt W. J. CAMPBELL |
(1May - 31May 70)
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4th Combined Action Company |
1stLt R. W. JOHNSON |
(1May - 31May 70)
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7th Combined Action Company |
Capt R. M. MALLARD |
(1May - 31May 70)
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8th Combined Action Company |
Capt J. R. KNIBBS |
(1May - 31May 70)
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9th Combined Action Company |
GySgt R. E. MCCLELLAND |
(1May - 31May 70)
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GySgt B. W. BALLARD |
(1May - 31May 70)
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Attached Units
DET Kit Carson Scouts, 1st Marine Division G-2 (C-1)
DET, ARVN Interpreters/Translators, III MAF
DET, Medical Section, HQ, III MAF
DET, Scout Dogs, III MP Battalion, 1st Marine Division
2. Location
HQ, 2d CAG |
Hieu Nhon District, Quang Nam Province, RVN |
CACO 2-1 |
Hieu Duc District, Quang Nam Province, RVN |
CACO 2-2 |
Dai Loc District, Quang Nam Province, RVN |
CACO 2-3 |
Dien Ban District, Quang Man Province, RVN |
CACO 2-4 |
Hieu Nhon District, Quang Nam Province, RVN |
CACO 2-7 |
Hoa Vang District, Quang Nam Province, RVN |
CACO 2-8 |
Hoa Vang District, Quang Nam Province, RVN |
CACO 2-9 |
Duc Duc District, Quang Nam Province, RVN |
1-1
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DECLASSIFIED
(CONFIDENTIAL)
3. Staff Officers
ExecO/S-5 Off |
Maj J. A. MCCARTY |
(1 May - 31 May 70)
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S-1 Off |
1stLt W. J. DECKER |
(1 May - 31 May 70)
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S-2/S-3 Off |
Maj L. E. NUGENT |
(1 May - 31 May 70)
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Asst S-2/S-3 Off |
2dLt M. A. CARDINALE |
(1 May - 31 May 70)
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S-4 Off |
Capt J. T. FOX |
(1 May - 31 May 70)
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DECLASSIFIED
4. Average Monthly Strength
USMC |
USN |
Others |
Off Enl |
Off Enl |
Off Enl |
16 722 |
0 40 |
0 16 |
5. End-of-Month Unit Diary Strength
USMC |
USN |
Others |
Off Enl |
Off Enl |
Off Enl |
16 701 |
0 39 |
0 2 |
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DECLASSIFIED
Part II
NARRATIVE SUMMARY
During May 2d CAG continued to give 4th CAG personnel on the job training.
On 18 May 1970 2d CAG received eight men from 4th CAG for training. Two
men were sent to CACO 2-4, three to CACO 2-3 and three to CACO 2-7. All
the 4th CAG personnel did an outstanding job, and all received their
Combat Action Ribbon.
During May, seven new CAPs were formed. The personnel to man these platoons
were transferred from 3rd and 4th CAG. The insertion dates were as follows,
CAP 2-3-8 - 041130, CAP 2-3-9 - 041130, CAP 2-4-6 - 051300, CAP 2-4-7 -
051530, CAP 2-7-8 - 051320, CAP 2-7-9 - 031320, and CAP 2-7-10 - 041430. The
emplacment of these CAPs enabled 2d CAG to close off enemy routes of access
and escape.
Contact during May was higher than that of the previous month. The enemy
moved into CAG TAOCs in probe type attacks, then fading back when the CAPs
returned fire. Quite often during the month the enemy emplaced mines,
ambushes, or barricades across QL#1 in an attempt to cut this highly
important transportation route. The enemy made extensive use of
fragmentation devices in his attacks, thereby causing a high incident
of wounds among the CAP U.S. and Vietnamese personnel.
During May 2d CAG received three additional officers. Captain L.H. WILLIAMS
and Captain R.A. CRANE received familiarization tours of 2d CAG. First
Lieutenant M.W. BASSLER was transferred to 2d CAG from 3rd CAG. He was
assigned as XO of CACO 2-3.
2-1
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DECLASSIFIED
(CONFIDENTIAL)
PART III
SEQUENTIAL LISTING OF SIGNIFICANT EVENTS
3 May 70 |
A CAP 2-3-3 patrol apprehended 1 VN civilian without an identification card
during a routine identification check at BT 056612, 2.8 km N of Dien Ban
District Headquarters. Unresponsive to questioning by CAP PF, the VN was
classified as a VCS and delivered to District Headquarters for further
interrogation. RESULTS: 1 VCS.
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4 May 70 |
A CAP 2-2-1 patrol initiated organic weapons fire on 9 VC moving NE at AT
948592, 3.6 km NE of Dai Loc District Headquarters. The enemy returned SAF
and fled in an unknown direction. The patrol called an 81mm mortar fire
mission on probable enemy escape routes located on both sides of a river
at the above coordinates. A sweep of the area on the far side of the
river was not conducted because of the intervening river. However, the
bodies of 5 VC were observed lying in the open and obviously dead. A
sweep of the area on the near side of the river disclosed 1 NVA with minor
fragmentation wounds, 1 AK-47, 1 M-26 grenade, 1 SA magazine, 1 first aid
pouch, 1 cartridge belt and 1 bunker containing miscellaneous eating
utensils. Upon questioning by CAP PF, the POW stated he was a platoon
commander in the Q-82 Battalion and his platoon consisted of 9 NVA and
13 VC. The POW was rendered first aid and delivered to District
Headquarters for further interrogation. The rifle, SA magazine, first
aid pouch cartridge belt and eating utensils were delivered to District
Headquarters. The M-26 grenade and bunker were destroyed. RESULTS: 5 VC
KIA, 1 NVA POW; 1 IWC, 1 SA magazine, 1 first aid pouch, 1 cartridge belt
and miscellaneous eating utensils captured; 1 M-26 grenade, 1 bunker
destroyed.
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4 May 70 |
A CAP 2-2-4 patrol apprehended 3 VN civilians during a routine
identification check at AT 858566, 5.7 km W of Dai Loc District
Headquarters. One VN civilian had no identification card and 2 VN civilians
possessed counterfeit identification cards. Unresponsive to questioning by
CAP PF, the VN were classified as VCS and delivered to District
Headquarters for further interrogation. RESULTS: 3 VCS.
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4 May 70 |
CAP 2-3-9 was inserted with the geographical center of the TAOC at BT
093560, 3.8 km SE of Dien Ban District Headquarters.
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5 May 70 |
CAP 2-4-6 was inserted with a geographical center of the TAOC at BT 116584,
4.3 km W of Hieu Nhon District Headquarters.
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DECLASSIFIED
5 May 70 |
CAP 2-4-7 was inserted with a geographical center of the TAOC at BT 179555,
3 km SE of Hieu Nhon District Headquarters.
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5 May 70 |
Responding to a request from the Triem Dong Village Chief, a CAP 2-4-2
patrol conducted a search and apprehended 1 VN civilian in a house at
BT 119560, 4.2 km SW of Hieu Nhon District Headquarters. The search
disclosed 300 lbs of rice. Unresponsive to questioning by CAP PF, the
VN was classified as a VCS and delivered to District Headquarters for
further interrogation along with the 300 lbs of rice for redistribution.
RESULTS: 1 VCS; 300 lbs rice delivered to District Headquarters for
redistribution.
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5 May 70 |
A CAP 2-4-3 ambush initiated organic weapons fire and called an 81mm mortar
fire mission on 6 VC moving NE along the E side of a river at BT 180578,
1.9 km E of Hieu Nhon District Headquarters. The enemy fled in an unknown
direction without returning fire. A sweep of the area was not conducted
because of the intervening river. Two VC bodies were observed through
field glasses lying in the open and obviously dead. RESULTS: 2 VC KIA.
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5 May 70 |
A CAP 2-8-3 ambush initiated organic weapons fire on an estimated 7 VC
observed by use of a Starlight Scope moving N at AT 901803, 10 km NW of
the Danang Airfield. The enemy returned fire with ChiCom grenades, SAF
and fled N. One USMC was WIA and 1 USN received minor fragmentation
wounds in the contact. The USMC WIA was medevaced by helicopter. A
sweep of the area was nonproductive. RESULTS: 1 USMC WIA(E),
1 USN WIA(M).
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5 May 70 |
A CAP 2-4-6 ambush received SAF and 3 ChiCom grenades from an USEF in a
treeline at BT 115589, 5 km E of Hieu Nhon District Headquarters. The
ambush returned organic weapons fire causing the enemy to flee in
an unknown direction. A sweep of the area was nonproductive. One USMC
received a minor fragmentation wound in the contact. RESULTS: 1 USMC WIA(M).
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6 May 70 |
A CAP 2-7-2 patrol apprehended 7 VN civilians either without identification
cards or altered identification cards in the vicinity of BT 028621, 5.9 km
NW of Dien Ban District Headquarters. Unresponsive to questioning by CAP
RF, the VN were classified as VCS and delivered to the 3rd CIT for further
interrogation. RESULTS: 7 VCS.
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7 May 70 |
Acting on information received from local villagers that 5 VN had
assassinated 1 RD Cadreman at BT
076586, 1.1 km NE of Dien Ban District Headquarters, a CAP 2-3-1 patrol base
dispatched a patrol to investigate. The patrol received SAF from 5 VC at
the above coordinates. The patrol returned organic weapons fire causing
the enemy to flee N. The patrol called an 81mm
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DECLASSIFIED
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mortar fire mission on probable enemy escape routes. A sweep of the area
disclosed 1 RD Cadreman KIA and 1 SA magazine. The magazine was delivered
to District Headquarters. RESULTS: 1 RD Cadreman KIA, 1 SA magazine captured.
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7 May 70 |
A CAP 2-7-6 ambush initiated organic weapons fire on 3 VC raising a VC flag
at BT 073705, 6.8 km SE of Hoa Vang District Headquarters. The enemy
disappeared from sight without returning fire. A sweep of the area
disclosed 1 local force VC guerrilla hiding in a house occupied by 1 VN
male. The POW was dressed in black pajamas and 1 cartridge belt with 1
M-26 grenade. He stated he was with 3 other armed VC. Unresponsive to
questioning by CAP PF, the VN male occupant of the house was classified
as a VCS. The POW and VCS were delivered to District Headquarters for
interrogation along with the cartridge belt. The VC flag and M-26 grenade
were destroyed. RESULTS: 1 VC POW, 1 VCS, 1 cartridge belt captured; 1
VC flag and 1 M-26 grenade destroyed.
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8 May 70 |
CACO 2-9 Headquarters, located adjacent to Duc Duc District Headquarters at
AT 862484, received 6 82mm HE rounds and a CAP 2-9-2 patrol base at AT
866477, 1 km NW of Duc Duc District Headquarters, received 6 60mm HE
rounds from an USEF in an unknown location. Four VN civilians were WIA
from the exploding mortar rounds at the CACO 2-9 Headquarters location.
The CACO 2-9 Headquarters rendered first aid and medevaced the WIA
civilians. RESULTS: 4 VN civilians WIA(E).
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8 May 70 |
A CAP 2-2-1 ambush received 2 RPGs and SAF from an USEF at AT 927579, 600m
NE of Dai Loc District Headquarters. The ambush returned organic weapons
fire causing the enemy to withdraw in an unknown direction. Minutes later,
the CAP patrol base in a compound at AT 929577, 1.2 km E of Dai Loc District
Headquarters, received 30 RPGs, 15 82mm mortar HE rounds and SAF from an
USEF followed by a ground attack employing bangalore torpedoes and ChiCom
grenades. The CAP returned organic weapons fire and requested a reaction
force from L Company 3rd Battalion 5th Marines. The CAP 2-2-1 ambush and
L 3/5 joined forces with the patrol base by means of fire and maneuver
through the enemy force. The enemy withdrew in an unknown direction. The
CAP called an 81mm mortar fire mission on probable enemy escape routes.
One CAP USMC, 2 L 3/5 USMC, 6 PF were WIA and 3 CAP USMC received minor
fragmentation wounds in the contact. One 60mm mortar, 1 M-79 grenade
launcher, 1 M-16, 100 60mm illumination rounds and 100 60mm WP rounds
were destroyed and 2 M-60 machine guns were damaged by enemy fire. A sweep
of the area disclosed 3 dud M-72 LAAWs, 1 RPG, 1 RPG pouch, 1 bangalore
torpedo, 48 feet of detonating cord, 7 ChiCom grenades,
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DECLASSIFIED
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10 M-79 HE dud rounds, 5 bamboo slats used to breach the compound wire and 1
VC/NVA SNCO belt. The belt, RPG pouch and bamboo slats were delivered to
District Headquarters. A 1st MAR DIV EOD Team destroyed all ordnance
discovered in the sweep. RESULTS: 1 CAP USMC WIA(E), 6 PF WIA(E), 3
CAP USMC WIA(M); 1 60mm mortar, 1 M-79 grenade launcher 1 M-16, 100
60mm illumination roundes 100 60mm WP rounds destroye and 2 M-60
machienguns damaged by the enemy; 3 IWC; 1 RPG pouch, 1 VC/NVA SNCO
belt and 5 bamboo slats captured; 1 RPG, 1 bangalore torpedo, 48 feet
of detonating cord, 7 ChiCom grenades and 10 M-79 HE dud rounds destroyed.
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8 May 70 |
A CAP 2-7-2 ambush initiated organic
weapons fire on 11 VC moving W at BT 018618, 5.7 km NW of Dien
Ban District Headquarters. The enemy returned SAF and fled W. The ambush
called an artillery fire mission on probable enemy escape routes. A sweep
of the area disclosed 1 local force VC guerrilla, 1 RPG-2 launcher. The
1 RPG and 3 ChiCom grenades were destroyed. RESULTS: 1 VC POW; 1 CSWC;
1 RPG and 3 ChiCom grenades destroyed.
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8 May 70 |
A CAP 2-4-3 patrol received SAF and ChiCom grenades from an estimated 5 VC
at BT 169581, 1.2 km NE of Hieu Nhon District Headquarters. The patrol
returned organic weapons fire causing the enemy to flee W. One PF was KIA
and 3 USMC received minor fragmentation wounds in the contact. A sweep of
the area disclosed 1 VC KIA, 1 AK-47 and 4 ChiCom grenades. The grenades
were destroyed and the rifle was delivered to District Headquarters. At
090600H, a CAP 2-4-3 patrol conducted a resweep of the area of contact.
The patrol apprehended 5 VN civilians were classified as VCS for delivering
food to local force VC. The VCS were delivered to District Headquarters for
further interrogation. RESULTS: 1 PF KIA, 3 USMC WIA(M), 1 VC KIA: 5VCS; 1
IWC; 4 ChiCom grenades destroyed.
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8 May 70 |
A CAP 2-1-5 ambush initiated organic weapons fire on 2 VC moving E at AT
947658, 3.5 km SW of Dai Loc District Headquarters. The enemy returned
fire with ChiCom grenades, SAF and fled E. One USMC and 1 VN civilian
were WIA and 3 USMC and 1 VN civilian received minor fragmentation wounds
from enemy fire in the contact. The USMC and 1 VN civilian WIA were
rendered first aid and medevaced by helicopter. The 1 VN civilian receiving
minor wounds from enemy fire was rendered first aid and released. A sweep
of the area was non-productive. RESULTS: 1 USMC WIA(E), 3 USMC WIA(M), 1
VN civilian WIA(E), 1 VN civilian WIA(M).
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DECLASSIFIED
9 May 70 |
Two USMC members of 2nd CAG Headquarters were WIA and a 2nd CAG truck was
destroyed by an unknown size command detonated box mine while proceeding
N on QL-1 at BT 054595, 1.9 km NW of Dien Ban District Headquarters. The
2 USMC WIA were medevaced by helicopter to NSA Hospital by a CAP 2-3-2
patrol that moved to the ambush site upon hearing the explosion. A search
of the area for further SFDs was nonproductive. RESULTS: 2 USMC WIA(E), 1
2nd CAG truck destroyed.
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9 May 70 |
A USMC member of a CAP 2-7-1 patrol accidentally detonated 1 M-26 grenade
booby trap on a trail rigged with a trip wire firing device at BT 029634,
6.4 km NW of Dien Ban District Headquarters. Three USMC received minor
fragmentation wounds from the exploding SFD. A search of the area for
further SFDs was nonproductive. RESULTS: 3 USMC WIA(M).
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9 May 70 |
A CAP 2-3-9 patrol in the process of moving into a night ambush site,
received 2 ChiCom grenades from 5 VC at BT 095561, 3.6 km SE of Dien
Ban District Headquarters. The patrol returned organic weapons fire
causing the enemy to flee S. Three USMC and 2 RF were WIA in the contact
and medevaced by helicopter to 1st MED Battalion. During a sweep of the
area, a PF member of the patrol accidentally detonated 1 M-26 grenade
booby trap rigged with a trip wire firing device. The PF was KIA and
1 USMC received minor fragmentation wounds from the exploding SFD.
RESULTS: 1 PF KIA, 3 USMC WIA(E), 1 USMC WIA(M).
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10 May 70 |
A CAP 2-7-1 patrol base received 25
RPGs and SAF from an estimated 15 VC
at BT 028637, 6.4 km NE of Dien Ban District Headquarters. The patrol base
returned organic weapons fire causing the enemy to withdraw in an unknown
direction. One RF was KIA, 11 USMC and 7 RF were WIA, 1 USN and 1 USMC
received minor fragmentation wounds and 1 VN civilian was WIA from the
enemy fire in the contact. Six USMC, 7 RF, and 1 Vietnamese civilian WIA
were medevaced by helicopter and 5 USMC were medevaced by vehicle. A sweep
of the area disclosed 1 AK-47 and 1 SA magazine which were delivered to
District Headquarters. The CAP was reconstituted the morning of 10 May.
RESULTS: 1 RF KIA; 11 USMC WIA(E), 7 RF WIA(E), 1 USMC WIA(M), 1
USN WIA(M), and 1 VN civilian WIA(E); 1 IWC; 1 SA magazine captured.
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10 May 70 |
A USMC dog handler of an attached 3rd MP Battalion Scout Dog Team, working
as the point element of a CAP 2-4-3 patrol, accidentally detonated a 105mm
HE round along a trail rigged with an unknown type firing device at BT
167588, 1.5 km NE of Hieu Nhon District Headquarters. The dog handler was
WIA from the exploding SFD. The handler and his uninjured dog were medevaced
by helicopter to NSA Hospital. A search of the area for further SFDs was
nonproductive. RESULTS: 1 3rd MP BN USMC WIA(E) accompanied by his
dog.
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DECLASSIFIED
10 May 70 |
A combined operation of CAP 2-9-2, elements of the 5th Marines, PF Plt 124
and RF Company 369 initiated organic weapons fire and called a fixed wing
air strike on 15 VC moving E at AT 886498, 2.1 km NE of Duc Duc District
Headquarters. The enemy returned fire with M-79 HE rounds, SAF and fled
E. One USMC received minor fragmentation wounds in the contact. A sweep
of the area disclosed 1 ton of buried rice which was given to the RF unit
to distribute among local villagers. RESULTS: 1 USMC WIA(M), 1 ton of
rice captured.
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11 May 70 |
Acting upon information received from a US Air Force
AO flying an OV-2 Aircraft that a camouflaged bunker was located at
BT 128550, 4.1 km SW of Hieu Nhon District Headquarters, a CAP 2-4-2 patrol
base dispatched a patrol to investigate. The patrol initiated organic weapons
fire killing 1 VC in the bunker and 1 VC attempting to flee the area. A sweep
of the area disclosed 2 VC KIA, 4 M-26 grenades, 1 SA magazine and 1 cartridge
belt. The grenades, magazine and cartridge belt were delivered to District
Headquarters and the bunkers were destroyed. The AO observed 4 VC attempting
to outflank the CAP 2-4-2 patrol and dived to engage them. The 4 VC
initiated AWF on the aircraft which took an unknown number of hits,
crashed and burned at BT 132550, 3.2 km SE of Hieu Nhon District
Headquarters, the 4 VC fled in an unknown direction. The CAP 2-4-2
patrol moved to the crash site and initiated organic weapons fire on 2
VC throwing grenades and firing small arms at the burning aircraft. The
enemy fled S without returning fire. A sweep of the area was nonproductive.
The body of the pilot killed in the crash was recovered at 1245H and
delivered to 2nd CAG Headquarters. RESULTS: 1 USAF KIA, 2 VC KIA; 4 M-26
grenades, 1 SA magazine and 1 cartridge belt captured; 1 OV-2 Aircraft
and 2 bunkers destroyed.
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11 May 70 |
A CAP 2-7-4 ambush received 15 M-79 HE rounds and SAF from an USEF at BT
044628, 4.8 km NW of Dien Ban District Headquarters. The ambush returned
organic weapons fire causing the enemy to flee in an unknown direction.
One USMC was WIA in the contact and medevaced to NSA Hospital. A sweep
of the area was nonproductive. RESULTS: 1 USMC WIA(E).
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11 May 70 |
A CAP 2-2-1 ambush initiated organic weapons fire on 5 NVA moving E at AT
931582, 1.8 km NE of Dai Loc District Headquarters. The enemy fled E without
returning fire. The ambush called an 81mm mortar fire mission on probable
enemy escape routes. During a sweep of the area, 1 NVA who was WIA in
the initial contact initiated fire with 1 ChiCom grenade and SAF. The
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DECLASSIFIED
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ambush returned organic weapons fire killing the NVA. A search of his body
and surrounding area disclosed 1 AK-47, 1 cartridge belt and 1 notebook
indicating the NVA was a member of the 75th NVA Battalion. The notebook
was delivered to District Headquarters for analysis along with the rifle and
cartridge belt. RESULTS: 1 NVA KIA; 1 IWC, 1 notebook and 1 cartridge belt
captured.
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12 May 70 |
A CAP 2-7-9 ambush received M-79 HE rounds, RPGs, AWF and SAF from an USEF
at BT 020653, 8.4 km NW of Dien Ban District Headquarters. The ambush
returned organic weapons fire and called a helicopter gunship mission on
the enemy causing them to flee in an unknown direction. Seven USMC, 3 PF
were WIA and 1 VN civilian was KIA from enemy fire in the contact. The
USMC and PF WIA were medevaced by helicopter to NSA Hospital. A sweep of
the area disclosed 1 M-79 grenade launcher, 1 bag containing 20 M-79 HE
rounds and ChiCom grenades were delivered to District Headquarters.
RESULTS: 7 USMC WIA(E), 3 PF WIA(E), 1 VN civilian KIA; 1 IWC, 1 bag
containing 20 M-79 HE rounds and 5 ChiCom grenades captured.
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14 May 70 |
A CAP 2-3-1 patrol initiated organic weapons fire on 1 VC moving E at BT
076584, 1.4 km E of Dien Ban District Headquarters. The enemy returned SAF
and disappeared from sight. A sweep of the area disclosed 1 VC KIA.
RESULTS: 1 VC KIA.
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15 May 70 |
A CACO 2-9 Headquarters and CAP 2-9-2 patrol called a fixed wing air strike
on 5 VC eating rice at AT 878498, 1.9 km N of Duc Duc District Headquarters.
The enemy fled in an unknown direction without returning fire. A sweep of
the area disclosed 1 VC KIA, 3 destroyed bunkers, 150m of destroyed
trenchline, 3 homemade C-4 explosive filled "C" ration can booby traps on
separate trails each rigged with a trip wire firing device. The SFDs were
destroyed. RESULTS: 1 VC KIA; 3 surprise firing devices, 3 bunkers and
150m of trench lines were destroyed.
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16 May 70 |
A CAP 2-3-6 patrol received SAF from an estimated 15 VC at BT 060598, 1.6 km
N of Dien Ban District Headquarters. The patrol returned organic weapons
fire, requested a reaction force from CAP 2-3-2 and called a fixed wing
air strike and 60mm mortar fire mission on the enemy location. The combined
action of the CAP 2-3-6 patrol reinforced by CACO 2-3 Headquarters, CAP
2-3-2 reaction force, air strike and 60mm mortar fire mission caused the
enemy to flee N. A sweep of the area disclosed 1 dud 250 lb bomb, 1 dud
M-79 HE round, 3 bunkers and 1 fighting hole. The SFD, dud bomb, dud
M-79 round, bunkers and fighting hole were destroyed. RESULTS: 1 SFD,
1 dud 250 lb bomb, 1 dud M-79 HE round, 3 bunkers and 1 fighting hole
destroyed.
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DECLASSIFIED
18 May 70 |
A CAP 2-7-1 patrol apprehended 1 VN male obviously attempting to evade the
patrol at BT 023634, 6.5 km NW of Dien Ban District Headquarters.
Unresponsive to questioning by CAP RF, the VN was classified as a
VCS and delivered to District Headquarters for further interrogation. He was
confirmed as a local force VC guerrilla by the DIOCC. RESULTS: 1 VC POW.
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19 May 70 |
Two USMC members of CACO 2-7, while attempting to tow a CACO 2-9 M-151 with
a 5 ton truck, accidentally detonated a 105mm HE round booby trap rigged
with a pressure type firing device located on the shoulder of the road at
BT 033641, 6.6 km NW of Dien Ban District Headquarters. One USMC was WIA,
1 USMC received minor fragmentation wounds from the exploding SFD and
the 5 ton truck was damaged. The 5 ton truck and M-151 were towed to 2nd
CAG Headquarters. The USMC WIA was medevaced by vehicle to 1st MED BN. A
search of the area for further SFDs was nonproductive. RESULTS: 1 USMC
WIA(E), 1 USMC WIA(M); 1 5 ton truck damaged.
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19 May 70 |
A CAP 2-4-7 patrol discovered one VC body washed ashore at BT 176555, 3km S
of Hieu Nhon District Headquarters. The VC was wearing a cartridge belt
and was believed to have been KIA by a CAP 2-4-7 ambush on 152025H:
(Ref. item #3 CAF OPSUM 151600H to 161600H May 1970).
The cartridge belt was delivered to District Headquarters.
RESULTS: 1 VC KIA; 1 cartridge belt captured.
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19 May 70 |
A CAP 2-9-2 patrol received 2 ChiCom grenades from an USEF at AT 866492, 1.6
km NW of Duc Duc District Headquarters. The patrol returned organic weapons
fire causing the enemy to flee NE. Two USMC, 1 PF and 1 VN civilian received
minor fragmentation wounds and 1 VN civilian was KIA from the exploding
enemy grenades. A sweep of the area was nonproductive. RESULTS: 2 USMC
WIA(M), 1 PF WIA(M), 1 VN civilian KIA, 1 VN civilian WIA(M).
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19 May 70 |
A CAP 2-9-2 ambush received 6 ChiCom grenades and SAF from 5 VC at AT
866486, 1.4 km NW of Duc Duc District Headquarters. The ambush returned
organic weapons fire causing the enemy to flee N. Two USMC and 4 PF were
WIA in the contact and medevaced by vehicle to the 5th Marines BAS. A
sweep of the area disclosed 1 VC KIA, 1 cartridge belt and 4 ChiCom
grenades. The cartridge belt was delivered to District Headquarters.
The grenades were destroyed in place. RESULTS: 2 USMC WIA(E), 4 PF WIA(E),
1 VC KIA; 1 cartridge belt captured; 4 ChiCom grenades destroyed.
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DECLASSIFIED
21 May 70 |
A CAP 2-4-3 ambush received 3 M-79 HE rounds from an USEF at BT 169579, 800m
NE of Hieu Nhon District Headquarters. One of the incoming rounds impacted
in a bag of M-79 rounds. The M-79s exploded and caused 2 M-72 LAAWs to
detonate. Five USMC were WIA, 2 PF received minor fragmentation wounds,
1 PF received minor internal ear damage and 2 M-16 rifles were destroyed
by the exploding M-79 rounds and M-72 LAAWs. The ambush returned organic
weapons fire causing the enemy to flee in an unknown direction. The five
USMC WIA were medevaced by helicopter. A sweep of the area was nonproductive.
RESULTS: 5 USMC WIA(E), 3 PF WIA(M); 2 M-16 rifles, 2 M-72 LAAWs destroyed.
|
21 May 70 |
A USMC member of a CAP 2-3-8 patrol during a sweep of a previous contact
area at BT 046617, 4 km N of Dien Ban District Headquarters received third
degree burns to his hands when a detected RPG propellant accidentally ignited. The USMC was given first aid and medevaced by vehicle.
A further sweep of the area was nonproductive. RESULTS: 1 USMC WIA(E).
|
21 May 70 |
A CAP 2-7-1 patrol received 8 rounds SAF from an USEF at BT 031635, 6 km NW
of Dien Ban District Headquarters. Lacking a discernable target, the patrol
did not return fire. One USMC and 1 RF were WIA in the contact and medevaced
by helicopter to 1st Med Bn. During a sweep of the area, the patrol detained
5 VN civilians. Unresponsive to questioning by CAP RF, the VN were
delivered to District Headquarters for further interrogation. RESULTS:
1 USMC WIA(E), 1 RF WIA(E), 5 VN civilians detained.
|
22 May 70 |
A CAP 2-7-6 patrol, while on a combined operation with the 7th CIT Team
apprehended 2 VN males at BT 072704, 6.5 km SE of Hoa Vang District
Headquarters whose names appeared on the black list. The VN were classified
as local force VC guerrillas by CIT and delivered to District Headquarters
for further interrogation. RESULTS: 2 VC POW.
|
22 May 70 |
A CAP 2-7-9 ambush initiated organic weapons fire on 6 VC at BT 015651, 7.5
kn S of Hoa Vang District Headquarters. The enemy returned SAF and fled SW.
One USMC received a minor gunshot wound from the contact. A sweep of the
area was nonproductive. RESULTS: 1 USMC WIA(M).
|
22 May 70 |
A CAP 2-1-4 ambush initiated organic weapons fire on 3 VC at AT 946695, 2 km
E of Hieu Duc District Headquarters. The enemy returned fire with M-79 rounds
and SAF and fled W. One USMC received minor fragmentation wounds in the
contact. A sweep of the area was nonproductive. RESULTS: 1 USMC WIA(M).
|
3-9
Top
DECLASSIFIED
25 May 70 |
A CAP 2-7-3 ambush initiated organic weapons fire on 3 VC moving W at BT
032653, 7.8 km NW of Dien Ban District Headquarters. The enemy fled W
without returning fire. Moments later, the ambush received 5 M-79 HE
rounds from an USEF 100m to their S. The ambush returned organic weapons
fire causing the enemy to flee in an unknown direction. Two USMC were KIA,
2 USMC were WIA and 1 VN boy was WIA from enemy fire in the contact. The 2
USMC WIA and VN boy WIA were rendered first aid and medevaced by helicopter.
A sweep of the area disclosed 1 VC KIA, 1 AK-47 rifle, 2 AK-47 magazines, 1
cartridge belt and 1 M-26 grenade. The rifle, magazines and cartridge belt
were delivered to District Headquarters and the grenade was destroyed.
RESULTS: 2 USMC KIA, 2 USMC WIA(E), 1 VN boy WIA(E), 1 VC KIA; 1 IWC, 2
AK-47 magazines and 1 cartridge belt captured; 1 M-26 grenade destroyed.
|
25 May 70 |
A CAP 2-3-6 ambush initiated organic weapons fire on an USEF moving E at BT
063588, 600m N of Dien Ban District Headquarters. The enemy returned fire
with 1 ChiCom grenade and fled E. One USMC received a minor fragmentation
wound in the contact. A sweep of the area disclosed numerous blood trails.
RESULTS: 1 USMC WIA(M).
|
26 May 70 |
Three USMC members of CAP 2-4-1, on a
resupply mission from CACO 2-4 Headquarters, enroute to their CAP initiated
SAF on 5 VC in a treeline at BT 175583, 1.4 km NE of Hieu Nhon District
Headquarters. The enemy returned AWF. Moments later, the 3 USMC received
fragmentation from a command detonated 81mm HE round, ChiCom grenades and
AWF from 4 VC hidden in a large water hole 10m away. The 3 USMC were KIA
and 1 AN/PRC-25 radio was lost to the enemy in the contact. Hearing the
firing, a CAP 2-4-3 patrol base dispatched a reaction force. The reaction
force initiated organic weapons fire on the enemy fleeing W. The enemy did
not return fire. A sweep of the area disclosed 2 VC KIA, 1 AK-47 and 1 M-16.
The rifles were delivered to District Headquarters. RESULTS: 3 USMC KIA, 2
VC KIA; 2 IWC; AN/PRC-25 radio lost to the enemy.
|
27 May 70 |
A CAP 2-3-5 ambush initiated organic weapons fire on 1 VC moving E at BT
071560, 2-1 km SE of Dien Ban District Headquarters. The enemy returned
fire with 1 ChiCom grenade and disappeared from sight. A sweep of the area
disclosed 1 VC KIA, 1 AK-47 and miscellaneous documents. The documents were
delivered to District Headquarters, for analysis along with the rifle.
RESULTS: 1 VC KIA; 1 IWC and miscellaneous documents captured.
|
3-10
Top
DECLASSIFIED
28 May 70 |
A CAP 2-3-1 patrol base received SAF from 3 VC at BT 078588, 1.5 km E of
Dien Ban District Headquarters. The patrol base returned organic weapons
fire causing the enemy to flee N. The patrol base called an 81mm mortar
fire mission on probable enemy escape routes. A sweep of the area
disclosed 1 VC KIA and 1 AK-47. The rifle was delivered to District
Headquarters. RESULTS: 1 VC KIA; 1 IWC.
|
3-11
Top
DECLASSIFIED
CONFIDENTIAL
2. Neutralization of Enemy Forces
a. |
NVA KIA
|
1
|
b. |
VC KIA
|
21
|
c. |
NVA POW
|
1
|
d. |
VC POW
|
6
|
e. |
VCI POW
|
0
|
f. |
HOI CHANH
|
|
(1)
|
NVA
|
0
|
(2)
|
VC
|
0
|
(3)
|
VCI
|
0
|
3. Casualties Sustained
|
a. |
USMC KIA
|
6
|
(including 1 DOW)
|
b. |
USMC WIA(E)
|
47
|
(including 3 NBC)
|
c. |
USMC WIA(M)
|
29
|
|
d. |
USMC MIA
|
0
|
|
e. |
USN KIA
|
0
|
|
f. |
USN WIA(E)
|
1
|
(including 1 NBC)
|
g. |
USN WIA(M)
|
1
|
|
h. |
USN MIA
|
0
|
|
i. |
CAP PF KIA
|
4
|
|
j. |
CAP PF WIA(E)
|
39
|
(including 1 NBC)
|
k. |
CAP PF WIA(M)
|
9
|
|
l. |
CAP PF MIA
|
0
|
|
m. |
CAP KCS KIA
|
0
|
|
n. |
CAP KCS WIA(E)
|
1
|
|
o. |
CAP KCS WIA(M)
|
0
|
|
p. |
CAP KCS MIA
|
0
|
|
4. New Techniques Employed Negative
5. Command Relationships
2d CAG experienced no major problems of coordination
with Vietnamese or local FWMAF units during May.
6. Significant Accomplishments of Attachments
a. ARVN Interpreters -
During May 2d CAG utilized 8 ARVN interpreters, 7 in the
field and 1 stationed at 2d CAG Headquarters. The interpreters proved a
valuable aid in coordinating with the Vietnamese at Province, District and
local level commands.
b. Kit Carson Scouts - During May 2d CAG
utilized 11 KCS. At the end of the reporting period one scout was marked as
UA, and another scout was dismissed from service with 2d CAG as unsuitable.
In May 1 KCS received a wound and was temporarily medevaced for treatment of
the wound. The end of reporting period strength was 9 KCSs. The scouts went
on 276 patrols
3-12
Top
DECLASSIFIED
CONFIDENTIAL
and conducted 4 classes. Their efforts accounted for 1 enemy POW, 3 VCS, the
capture of 1 individual weapon, distruction of 3 mines and 3 cave tunnel
complexes.
c. Scout Dogs/Mine Dogs - Two Scout Dog teams
and four Mine Dog teams were utilized during May. The work of these teams
has been constantly of an excellent quality and continued to be so in May.
7. Lessons Learned Negative
8. Logistics
|
a. General: During this reporting period, this command continues
to be in a C-2 category under the Mares Reporting System.
|
b. Significant Events: During this period this unit received
the following combat essential equipment;
|
|
|
NOMENCLATURE
|
|
|
QTY
|
|
Pressure Steam Cleaner
|
1
|
M35A2C Truck
|
1
|
M101A1 Trailer
|
4
|
M151A1 Jeep
|
1
|
M60 Machine Gun
|
2
|
|
c. Damage to Weapons due to Enemy Action: During this period
this command's armory received (4) combat weapons damaged beyond repair
due to enemy action. The following is a breakdown:
|
|
|
NOMENCLATURE
|
|
|
QTY
|
|
60mm Mortar
|
1
|
M16A1 Rifle
|
2
|
M79 Grenade Launcher
|
1
|
|
d. Motor Transport:
(1) The Group Motor Transport Section drove a total of 34,457 miles during
this period. During this period (4) motor transport vehicles were deadlined
for 2nd echelon maintenance. Breakdown is as follows:
|
|
|
|
(1) M35A2C Truck
|
|
(2) M37B1 Truck
|
|
(1) M151A1 Jeep
|
|
(2) During this reporting period no vehicles were deadlined for / to 3rd or
4th echelon mainteance.
3-13
Top
DECLASSIFIED
CONFIDENTIAL
(3) This command received the following combat essential equipment.
Breakdown is as follows:
(4) Average deadline time was as follows:
|
|
2nd Echelon Maintenance
|
10 days
|
e. Airlifts:
(1) As in previous reports no airlifts have been
scheduled.
f. Messhall:
(1) Approximately 9,870 meals were served during this
period, in the 2nd CAG messhall.
(2) A total of 2,820 meals were distributed to field
units from the 2nd CAG messhall.
g. Armory:
(1) The armory has repaired a total of 70 weapons during
this period. Forty (40) weapons were sent in for repair to lst FSR for
3rd echelon maintenance.
h. Miscellaneous Services: None
i. Supplies: Supplies are generally satisfactory although due to
lag periods in processing of requisitions there is a undue delay in the
completion of documents.
j. Problem Areas:
(1) The command's "Critical Problem Areas" have been the
failure to receive the following items:
|
Nomenclature
|
Qty on Rqn
|
|
Gen PU-482
|
2
|
(2) Failure to receive the above mentioned items causes a marked loss of
logistic efficiency.
(3) Failure to hold (108) 60MM Mortars is the largest deficiency in combat
essential equipment. Unlike generators the failure to have the 60mm mortars
on hand causes this command no tactical impairment.
3-14
Top
DECLASSIFIED
9. Civic Action/Psychological Operations
1. During the month of May, Civic Action NCOs from
the 2nd Combined Action Group continued their efforts to act as liaison
between hamlet, village, and district officials in initiating civic action
and community development projects. Despite an increase in combat activity
around the first of the month, civic action efforts in MedCaps, education,
distribution of commodities, personal response, and construction projects
continued at an acceptable level.
a. An example of the civic
action work that has been done is that many of the CAPs have concentrated
on the results of tactical operations and helped in many ways to rebuild
destroyed homes, schools and pagodas and roads.
2. Most CAP units have been holding school classes
on English and other pertinent subjects. There was an increase in regular
attendance of these classes in May. CAPs have been holding more classes
on health and sanitation, although most of the people are holding their
regular shower calls now, the CAPs still hold shower calls in hamlets in
which this has not yet become a habit.
3. CAP Civic Action NCOs have been holding classes
for the Hamlet and Village Chief Officials concerning the procedures
necessary to acquire their hamlet and village needs through GVN sources.
The Officials have learned how their money allotments work and how to go
through the proper channels to spend their hamlet and village funds. The
Officials have been very interested in this schooling.
4. During the month of May 2d CAG has received
several gifts from people in the United States. These have been gifts of
clothing, candy, and articles of personal hygiene. The gifts have been
distributed to needy Vietnamese within the CAPs TAOC's.
5. Commodities distributed during the month of May
were as follows: food, 1458 lb.; meals fed, 522; clothing, 345 lb.; soap,
1588 lb.; school refill kits 50; personal hygiene kits, 22; sewing kits,
207; Phy Ed kits, 58; Masonary kits, 6.
6. During May, CAP personnel of the Group assisted
the Vietnamese civilians in completing the following projects: fences, 15;
public heads, 1; public showers, 2; wells 18; dwellings, 3; pagodas, 2;
bridges, 3; school class rooms, 2; family bunkers, 1.
7. Medical assistance in support of civic action saw
MedCaps resulting in the treatment of 19,102 Vietnamese civilians and 22
dental cases were treated. Vietnamese medically evacuated during the month
of May were 45 adults and 39 children.
3-15
Top
DECLASSIFIED
CONFIDENTIAL
8, CAP Corpsmen continued to train Vietnamese
civilians in the basics of first aid. During the month 52 such civilians
were under going training. These aides assist in MedCaps and serve as
interpreters for the corpsmen.
9. Psychological operations activities employed by
2nd CAG during the month of May included the use of air-dropped leaflets
and hand dissemination of leaflets and Vietnamese newspapers.
(1) Approximately 30,000 "CAPs are here to help you"
leaflets were air-dropped.
(2) Approximately 40,000 "safe conduct passes" were
air-dropped.
(3) 50,000 reward leaflets were air-dropped during the
month of May.
(4) Approximately 40,000 Vietnamese newspapers were hand
distributed by CAP Marines.
10. Personnel and Administration
a. Personnel Transactions. During the month of May the
following personnel transactions were completed.
|
(1)
|
Joined
|
USMC
|
|
Off Enl
|
|
3 168
|
|
(2)
|
Rotated CONUS
|
USMC
|
|
Off Enl
|
|
0 21
|
|
(3)
|
Reassignment Within WestPac
|
USMC
|
|
Off Enl
|
|
0 6
|
|
(4)
|
Transferred by Service Records While Sick (out of country hospital)
|
|
USMC
|
|
Off Enl
|
|
1 34
|
|
(5)
|
Extension of WestPac Tour Effected
|
USMC
|
|
Off Enl
|
|
0 0
|
b. Promotions: During the month of May 1970 the following
promotions were effected:
|
|
|
To PFC
|
5
|
|
To SSgt
|
3
|
To LCpl
|
44
|
|
To GySgt
|
0
|
To Cpl
|
104
|
|
To 1st Sgt/MSgt
|
0
|
To Sgt
|
3
|
|
To SgtMaj/MGySgt
|
0
|
3-16
Top
DECLASSIFIED
CONFIDENTIAL
c. Legal Matters
|
|
|
1. Courts held:
|
|
GCM - None
|
|
|
SpCM - None
|
|
|
SCM - None
|
2. Article 32 Investigations
|
|
None
|
3. NJP
|
|
12
|
4. JAG-Type Investigations:
|
|
None
|
d. Award Recommendations
|
|
|
SSM -
|
0
|
BSM -
|
2
|
NCM -
|
1
|
NAM -
|
1
|
PH -
|
76
|
e. Congrints/Splints/Welreps
The command has responded to:
|
|
(2)
|
Congrints
|
(0)
|
Splints
|
(3)
|
Welreps
|
f. Morale and Welfare
1. R&R: The command has utilized the following number of
quotas to the R&R areas listed.
|
a.
|
Hong Kong
|
(5)
|
|
Japan
|
(3)
|
Taipei
|
(3)
|
|
Bangkok
|
(8)
|
Hawaii
|
(7)
|
|
Sydney
|
(9)
|
Okinawa
|
(2)
|
|
Manila
|
(0)
|
|
b.
|
In Country
|
(12)
|
|
|
|
3-17
Top
DECLASSIFIED
CONFIDENTIAL
2. Mail. Daily average bags of mail processed:
3. Hospital Visitations. All Incountry Hospital patients
are visited weekly by their respective CACO Commanders.
g. Career Planning
|
Re-enlistments:
|
( 0 )
|
2 yrs;
|
( 0 )
|
3 yrs;
|
( 0 )
|
4 yrs;
|
|
( 0 )
|
6 yrs.
|
|
|
Extensions:
|
( 0 )
|
____
|
months;
|
( 0 )
|
____
|
months;
|
|
( 0 )
|
____
|
months;
|
( 0 )
|
____
|
months;
|
|