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DECLASSIFIED

HEADQUARTERS
2d Combined Action Group
III Marine Amphibious Force
FPO San Francisco, California 96602

                                                                          3/ALL/mad
5750
5 Dec 1970

CONFIDENTIAL

From: Commanding Officer
To: Commandant of the Marine Corps (Code HD)
Via: (1) Commanding General, III Marine Amphibious Force
(2) Commanding General, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific
Subj: Command Chronology for period 1 October 1970 to 31 October 1970
Ref: (a) MCO 5750.1A
(b) FMFPacO 5750.8B
Encl: (1) 2nd Combined Action Group Command Chronology

1. In accordance with the provision of references (a) and (b) enclosure (1) is submitted.

2. Downgraded at 3-year intervals, declassified after 12 years, DOD Dir 5200.10.

J. J. TOLNAY


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HEADQUARTERS
2d Combined Action Group
III Marine Amphibious Force
FPO San Francisco, California 96602

COMMAND CHRONOLOGY

1 October 1970 to 31 October 1970

INDEX

Part I ORGANIZATIONAL DATA 1-1 to 1-2
Part II NARRATIVE SUMMARY 2-1 to 2-2
Part III SEQUENTIAL LISTING OF SIGNIFICANT EVENTS 3-1 to 3-13
Part IV SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS NONE

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PART 1

Organizational Data

1. Designation Commander Date
2d Combined Action Group Lt Col J.J. TOLNAY 1 - 31 Oct 70
Subordinate Units
1st Combined Action Company Capt  T.M. CARPENTER 1 -  4 Oct 70
  1stLt S.E. RICHMOND 5 - 31 Oct 70
2nd Combined Action Company Capt  R.A. CRANE 1 - 18 Oct 70
  Capt  V.E. ONEILL 19 - 31 Oct 70
3rd Combined Action Company Capt  L.H. WILLIAMS 1 - 31 Oct 70
4th Combined Action Company 1stLt T.R. SADDLER 1 - 31 Oct 70
7th Combined Action Company Capt  R.M. MALLARD 1 - 31 Oct 70

Attached Units

DET, Kit Carson Scouts, 1st Mar Div G-2 (C-1)
DET, Scout Dogs, 1st MP Battalion, FLC
DET, Medical Section, III MAF
DET, ARVN Interpreters/Translators, III MAF

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 Nam Province, RVN
CACO 2-4   Hieu Nhon District, Quang Nam Province, RVN
CACO 2-7   Hoa Vang District, Quang Nam Province, RVN

3. Staff Officers

Executive Officer Maj   C.L. RUSHING 1 - 31 Oct 70
S-1 Officer Capt  E. COCKRELL 1 - 31 Oct 70
S-3 Officer Maj   C.L. RUSHING 1 - 27 Oct 70
  Capt  R.A. CRANE 28 - 31 Oct 70
Asst S-3 Officer 1stLt R.D. FLOWERS 1 - 31 Oct 70
S-4 Officer Capt  E.P. WAHL 1 - 31 Oct 70
Chaplain/S-5 Officer Lt    F. BIANCHINO,USN (CHC) 1 - 31 Oct 70
ARVN Liaison Officer 1stLt HOA 1 - 31 Oct 70

4. Average Monthly Strength
USMC USN Other
Off Enl Off Enl Off Enl
14 596 1 48 0 9

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5. End of Month Unit Diary Strength
USMC USN Others
Off Enl Off Enl Off Enl
14 556 1 44 0 9

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Part II

NARRATIVE SUMMARY

     The month of October saw 2nd CAG making adjustments both in personnel and physical property. The MOS of each man in the unit was checked to determine if he was placed in the correct billet. The process of reviewing the MOS of over 600 men involved much time and effort but the results proved to be worthwhile. Due to the number of personnel rotating to CONUS, and a cut-back in excess personnel, all members of the Group were required to take an extra measure of work upon themselves, sometimes doing the jobs of two men in addition to normal guard duties, to maintain security. The entire personnel of the Group freely gave the extra measure required of them. The S-4 Section at the 2nd CAG HQ continued to pare down excesses of property and distribute the physical property of the Group in such a manner that no Company would suffer a shortage while another Company would be in excess.
     Under the S-3 Section, the Mobile Training Team continued their fine performance. Serving as a follow-up to the education each CAP Marine receives in the intensive two week CAP School, the Mobile Training Team, on their tours, covered those areas of instruction that the individual CAP Commander felt his men required. A dialogue developed between the Training Team and the CAP Marines. The Marines in the field gave the Training Team valuable information and suggestions as to what the CAP School should cover in their course of instruction. With the information gathered by the Mobile Training Team and from past experience the school staff worked throughout October preparing the courses to be given in the new school. The course of instruction was streamlined without weakening the content. One of the requested subjects was a course in Vietnamese language. The CAP Marines in the field stated that a working knowledge of the Vietnamese language was an invaluable aid in their dealings with the local people. This course of instruction was planned to include both mandatory classes and extra periods of instruction for those who request it. The course will be supervised by the OIC of ARVN interpreters, 1st Lieutenant HOA.
     In the latter portion of the month, Quang Nam Province was hit with two severe tropical storms and over a week of rain generated by an off shore typhoon. The resulting high winds and high water caused extensive damage to both civilian and military property.
     The rapidly rising waters caused flood conditions. The position of many of 2nd CAG’s field units became untenable. Helicopter and Swift boat evacuation of these units was accomplished. CACO 2-3 and CACO 2-7 were evacuated in their entirety. CACO 2-2 Headquarters remained in position, although all of their CAPs were evacuated. CACO 2-4 Headquarters and CAP 2-4-5 remained operational while the rest of 4th Company CAPs were evacuated. CAP 2-1-4 was evacuated to CACO 2-1 Headquarters. The remainder of 2nd CAG’s units remained in their respective TAOC’s. The Group Headquarters

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suffered extensive flooding. The entire south portion of the base was under 4 to 5 feet of water, while the north portion was at one time covered with 3 feet of water. All but 19 people were evacuated from the Group Headquarters. The remaining personnel included the Command group, staff NCO section heads, communications personnel, and vital enlisted men who requested to remain behind to keep the unit functioning and to perform security duty. The helicopters used in the evacuations were from MAG-16 and Blackcat. The helicopter pilots accomplished the nearly-impossible all throughout the evacuations, landing in restricted areas, difficult landing zones in heavy foul weather. The personnel of the Group worked long hours, accomplishing difficult tasks without complaint. All hands accomplished the work required of them, plus many requested extra responsibilities. During this trying period the true meaning of esprit de corps was shown by the men of 2d CAG.
     In addition to the Marines evacuated, over 500 Vietnamese civilians and 500 Popular Force troops were evacuated. The evacuees received outstanding support from 2/5 at LZ Baldy. Second Battalion, 5th Marines supplied the influx of evacuees with dry clothing, food and shelter.
     Distinguished visitors received during October by 2d CAG included, Lt. General Keith B. McCUTCHEON, Commanding General, III Marine Amphibious Force, Brigadier General MULBERRY, Lieutenant General JONES and Colonel SCHACHER.

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PART III

SEQUENTIAL LISTING OF SIGNIFICANT EVENTS

1. Operation Summary

1 October 70 CAP 2-7-1 patrol apprehended (2) VN civilians obviously trying to evade the patrol at grid BT 030634, 5 km NW of Dien Ban District Headquarters. Unresponsive to questioning, the VN were detained and delivered to District Headquarters. RESULTS: 2 VN civilians detained.
2 October 70 USMC member of CAP 2-2-2 patrol accidentally detonated (1) M-26 grenade booby trap rigged with a trip wire firing device submerged in a rice paddy at grid AT 892592, 3 km NW of Dia Loc District Headquarters. The USMC was WIA from the exploding grenade and medevaced by helicopter. RESULTS: (1) USMC WIA(E).
2 October 70 CAP 2-7-1 ambush initiated OWF on 2 VC with weapons at grid BT 031642, 9 km SE of Hoa Vang District Headquarters. VC returned SAF and (1) ChiCom grenade. One USMC received minor fragmentation wounds from the exploding grenade. RESULTS: (1) USMC WIA(M).
3 October 70 On resupply mission to CACO 2-1 CAPs, a CACO 2-1 M-37 vehicle detonated an unknown size box type mine rigged with a pressure type firing device at grid 927719, 3 km north of Hieu Duc District Headquarters. Two USMC were WIA from the exploding SFD. RESULTS: (2) USMC WIA(E); (1) M-37 vehicle designated as a combat loss.
3 October 70 PF member of CAP 2-7-5 patrol accidentally detonated (1) M-26 grenade rigged with trip wire firing device at grid BT 053697, 4.5 km SE of Hoa Vang District Headquarters. One PF was WIA from exploding SFD and medevaced by helicopter. Two PF received minor fragmentation wounds from the exploding SFD. Search for further SFDs was negative. RESULTS: 1 PF WIA(E); 2 PF WIA(M).
5 October 70 A USN member of CAP 2-2-1 patrol accidentally detonated on M-26 grenade rigged with trip wire firing device at grid AT 948584, 3 km east of Dia Loc District Headquarters. The USN was WIA from the SFD and medevaced by helicopter to 95th Evac Hospital. RESULTS: (1) USN WIA(E).
5 October 70 CACO 2-1 M-151 vehicle, while traveling on QL#540 was destroyed by a command detonated type box mine of unknown size at grid AT 927719, 3 km north of Hieu Duc District Headquarters. (2) USMC were KIA from the exploding SFD and (1) USMC was WIA and medevaced by helicopter. Sweep of the area for further SFDs was nonproductive. RESULTS: (2) USMC KIA; (1) USMC WIA(E); (1) M-151 vehicle destroyed.

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6 October 70 CAP 2-3-1 ambush initiated OWF on USEF at grid BT 073580, 1 km east of Dien Ban District Headquarters. VC returned (4) ChiCom grenades and fled north. (1) PF received minor fragmentation wounds during the contact. Swept area. RESULTS: (1) PF WIA(M).
7 October 70 CAP 2-4-3 ambush initiated OWF on (4) VC carrying weapons at grid BT 170579, 500 meters NE of Hieu Nhon District Headquarters. VC fled unknown direction without returning fire. Swept area. RESULTS: 2 VC KIA.
8 October 70 Hearing an explosion CAP 2-1-2 patrol base dispatched patrol to investigate. The patrol discovered 1 ARVN M35A2C truck which had detonated (1) unknown size box mine with a pressure type firing device at grid AT 927719, 3.2 km north of Hieu Duc District Headquarters. Sweep of the area disclosed (1) ARVN KIA and (2) ARVN WIA from the exploding SFD. The (2) ARVN WIA were medevaced by helicopter. Search of the area for further SFDs was nonproductive. RESULTS: (1) ARVN KIA; (2) ARVN WIA(E); (1) M-35A2C destroyed.
8 October 70 Acting on information received from VN child, CAP 2-4-7 discovered on 175mm HE round booby trap rigged with trip wire firing device at grid BT 176553, 2.4 km SE of Hieu Nhon District Headquarters. Sweep of the area for further SFD was nonproductive. SFD was destroyed in place. VIP was made. RESULTS: (1) SFD destroyed.
10 October 70 CAP 2-1-5 ambush at grid AT 953663, 3.7 km SE of Hieu Duc District Headquarters, received ChiComs, B-40’s, and heavy volume of SAF from an estimated 40 enemy in green uniforms attacking from the north. CAP returned OWF causing enemy to flee back to the north. 1 USMC was KIA, 5 USMC were WIA and 4 PF were WIA in the contact. Search of area negative. RESULTS: 1 USMC KIA; 4 USMC WIA(E); 1 PF WIA(E); 1 USMC WIA(M), and 3 PF WIA(M).
10 October 70 CAP 2-7-8 ambush at grid BT 054663, 8.2 km north of Dien Ban District Headquarters heard an explosion from Tu Cau Village. CAP reacted with sweep which revealed 2 non-CAP RF KIA and 3 non-CAP RF WIA from incoming B-40. VC had captured 2 M-16s, 1 M-79 and 1 PRC-25. Further sweep revealed 4 M-79 HE rounds and 1 M-26 grenade. Ordnance destroyed. RESULTS: 2 RF KIA; 1 RF WIA(E), 2 RF WIA(M); 3 individual weapons lost, 1 PRC-25 lost; 4 M-79 HE rounds and 1 M-26 grenade destroyed.
11 October 70 CAP 2-3-2 patrol base observed a large crowd gathering at grid BT 053598, 2.2 km NW of Dien Ban District Headquarters. Patrol base dispatched a patrol to investigate. Patrol discovered a section of QL#1 had been destroyed by an unknown size and type explosive. A sweep of the area for further explosive devices was nonproductive. RESULTS: Negative.

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11 October 70 A 2d CAG HQ M-35A2C vehicle, while enroute to CACO 2-1, received (1) unknown type round from an USEF at grid AT 937687, 1 km east of Hieu Duc District Headquarters. USMC in vehicle did not return fire due to lack of discernable target. One USMC received minor lacerations to his arms when the round shattered the front windshield. RESULTS: (1) USMC WIA(M).
12 October 70 CAP 2-3-2 ambush initiated organic weapons fire on USEF attempting to mine QL-1 at grid BT 053596, 2.3 km NW of Dien Ban District Headquarters. VC returned SAF and fled W. While sweeping area CAP PF accidentally detonated an unknown type booby trap with trip wire firing device. One PF was WIA and medevaced and 2 USMC received minor fragmentation wounds from the exploding SFD. Search of area for further SFDs was nonproductive. RESULTS: 1 CAP PF WIA(E); 2 USMC WIA(M).
12 October 70 CAP 2-3-8 ambush initiated OWF on (11) VC at grid BT 048611, 3.5 km NW of Dien Ban District Headquarters. VC returned SAF and fled SE. Sweep of area disclosed 1 VC KIA, 1 M-26 grenade, 1 ChiCom grenade, 1 B-40 round and assorted medical supplies and documents. RESULTS: 1 VC KIA; 1 M-26 grenade; 1 ChiCom grenade; 1 B-40 round destroyed; assorted medical supplies and documents turned over to Dien Ban District Headquarters.
14 October 70 CAP 2-7-8 ambush initiated OWF on 4 VC at grid BT 050660, 7 km SE of Hoa Vang District Headquarters. VC returned fire and fled NE. Sweep revealed 1 K-54 pistol. RESULTS: 1 IWC.
19 October 70 Acting on information received from local villagers that 10 VC were at grid BT 056620, 3.8 km north of Dien Ban District Headquarters, a CAP 2-3-8 patrol base dispatched patrol to investigate. The patrol apprehended 5 VN females, ages 16 to 30, and 1 VN male age 30, obviously trying to evade the patrol. Unresponsive to CAP PF questioning the 6 VN were delivered to District Headquarters for interrogation. RESULTS: 6 VN detainees.
20 October 70 CAP 2-3-7 patrol initiated OWF on 2 VC with weapons at grid BT 033612, 3.4 km NW of Dien Ban District Headquarters. Sweep of area disclosed 2 VN males, age 25, and 1 VN female age 20, with improper identification and quantity of unidentifiable documents. Unresponsive to CAP PF questioning the 3 VN were delivered to District Headquarters for interrogation along with the unidentifiable documents. RESULTS: 3 VN detainees.
20 October 70 A CAP 2-7-2 patrol initiated organic weapons fire on 2 VC with weapons at grid BT 028625, 5.5 km NW of Dien Ban District Headquarters. The enemy returned SAF and fled north. A sweep of the area disclosed 1 AK-47 and 1 heavy blood trail. RESULTS: 1 IWC.

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21 October 70 Acting on information received from local villagers that 7 VC were located at grid AT 932588, 2.2 km NE of Dai Loc District Headquarters, a CAP 2-2-1 patrol base dispatched a patrol to investigate. Arriving at the scene the CAP observed 2 VN obviously trying to evade the patrol. The 2 VN were apprehended and delivered to District Headquarters for interrogation. RESULTS: 2 VN detainees.
21 October 70 While on patrol a USMC member from CAP 2-7-10 was injured when a command detonated 105mm HE round exploded at grid BT 037644, 6.3 km NW of Dien Ban District Headquarters. USMC was evaced by helicopter. Further search for SFDs was negative. RESULTS: 1 USMC WIA(E).
22 October 70 CAP 2-3-8 patrol initiated OWF on 6 VC with weapons at grid BT 056628, 4.3 km north of Dien Ban District Headquarters. VC returned SAF and fled NE. Sweep of area revealed 3 VC KIA, 7 VN civilians, 2 rain jackets and 300 lbs of rice. The VN civilians, unresponsive to CAP PF questioning were delivered to District Headquarters for interrogation where they were classified as VC. RESULTS: 3 VC KIA; 7 VC POW; 2 rain jackets and 300 lbs of rice captured.
22 October 70 CAP 2-7-1 ambush initiated OWF on 3 VC with weapons moving east at grid BT 025635, 3.3 km south of Hoa Vang District Headquarters. The enemy returned SAF and ChiCom grenades and fled east. One USN was WIA during the contact and medevaced by helicopter. A sweep of the area disclosed 3 VC KIA, 2 AK-47 rifles, 2 9mm pistols, 5 M-26 grenades, 1 map, 1 poncho liner, and 1 black head band. RESULTS: 1 USN WIA(E); 3 VC KIA; 4 IWC; 5 M-26 grenades destroyed; 1 map, 1 poncho liner, and 1 black head band captured.
24 October 70 A combined operation of CAP 2-4-2, 2-4-5, and a local non-CAP PF platoon discovered 1 81mm HE mortar round booby trapped with a trip wire firing device across a trail, 1 105mm HE round booby trap rigged with a trip wire firing device along the side of a trail, 5 one foot deep by one foot wide by three feet long punji pits across a trail junction, 1 M-79 HE round booby trap rigged with a trip wire firing device across a trail, and 1 60mm HE mortar round booby trap rigged with a trip wire firing device across a trail, all found within grid squares BT 1254, BT 1255, and BT 1354, approximately 4.5 km SW of Hieu Nhon District Headquarters. Also discovered were 2 spider holes in a treeline at grid BT 124550, 4.4 km SW of Hieu Nhon District Headquarters, 1 hospital tunnel complex reinforced with steel and wood capable of holding 12 persons

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  at grid BT 130548, 3.8 km SW of Hieu Nhon District Headquarters, 1 camoflauged well which had been used as a VC watering point at grid BT 126549, 4.3 km SW of Hieu Nhon District Headquarters, 4 recently used camoflauged base camps with a fire place, and lean-tos each camp capable of holding 6-8 people at grid BT 124550, BT 127547, BT 127549, and BT 129548 approximately 3.4 km SW of Hieu Nhon District Headquarters, and a small quantity of miscellaneous medical supplies, black pajamas, and assorted documents at grid BT 130548, 3.8 km SW of Hieu Nhon District Headquarters. The SFDs, punji pits, spider holes, base camps, hospital tunnel complex and well were destroyed. The medical supplies, black pajamas and assorted documents were delivered to District Headquarters. RESULTS: 4 SFDs, 5 punji pits, 2 spider holes, 1 hospital tunnel complex, 4 base camps and 1 well destroyed; miscellaneous medical supplies, black pajamas and assorted documents captured.
24 October 70 An USEF initiated SAF on CAP 2-7-4 at grid BT 050630, 3 km SE of Hoa Vang District Headquarters. CAP 2-7-4 returned organic weapons fire causing the enemy to flee in an unknown direction. Three PFs received wounds during the contact and were medevaced. A sweep of the area was nonproductive. RESULTS: 3 PF WIA(E).
24 October 70 CAP 2-1-2 initiated OWF on 6 VC with weapons at grid AT 927719, 3 km north of Hieu Duc District Headquarters. The OWF set off a secondary explosion believed to be a mine at the same location of 3 previous mining incidents. The enemy returned SAF and fled south. A sweep of the area was nonproductive. RESULTS: Negative.
25 October 70 CAP 2-2-1 ambush at grid AT 935579, 2.3 km east of Dai Loc District Headquarters, apprehended 1 VN male, age 42, obviously observing the CAP’s position. Unresponsive to CAP PF questioning, the VN was detained and delivered to District Headquarters for interrogation. RESULTS: 1 VN detainee.
26 October 70 Acting on information received from a POW, CAP 2-3-3 patrol base dispatched a patrol to investigate and captured 1 VC agent at grid BT 050582, 1.5 km west of Dien Ban District Headquarters. The VC agent was turned over to District Headquarters for interrogation. RESULTS: 1 VCI captured.
27 October 70 Hearing an explosion CAP 2-7-5 patrol base dispatched a patrol to investigate. The patrol discovered 1 VN child with fragmentation wounds to the body caused by the detonation of a M-26 booby trap which was rigged with a trip wire along a trail at grid BT 049695, 4.5 km NE of Hoa Vang District Headquarters. CAP 2-7-5 medevaced the VN child to 95th Evac. RESULTS: 1 VN child evaced.

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27 October 70 CAP 2-4-2 while on operational sweep of grid square BT 1856, 2.3 km SE of Hieu Nhon District Headquarters, found 9 bunkers, all within the above mentioned grid square. Three of the bunkers were rigged with one of the following SFDs; 81mm HE mortar round, 105mm HE round, B-40 HE round. All SFDs were rigged with trip wire firing devices. SFDs and bunkers were destroyed. RESULTS: 3 SFDs and 9 bunkers destroyed.

2. Neutralization of Enemy Forces

 
a. NVA KIA 0
b. VC KIA 9
c. NVA POW 0
d. VC POW 8
f. Hoi Chanh  
 
 
(1) NVA 0
(2) VC 0
(3) VCI 0

3. Casualties Sustained

  a. USMC KIA 3  
b. USMC WIA(E) 15  
c. USMC WIA(M) 5  
d. USMC MIA 0  
e. USN KIA 0  
f. USN WIA (E) 2  
g. USN WIA(M) 0  
h. USN MIA 0  
i. CAP PF KIA 2  
j. CAP PF WIA(E) 15  
k. CAP PF WIA(M) 3  
l. CAP PF MIA 0  

4. New Techniques Employed

    Negative

5. Command Relationships

    2nd CAG experienced no problem areas with Vietnamese or local FWMAF units during October.

6. Significant Accomplishments of Attachments

    a. Kit Carson Scouts: At the beginning of the reporting period 2nd CAG employed 8 KCS, one man was in a UA status at the end of the month bringing the end of the month strength down to 7 effective men. The KCS accounted for

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3 VCS detained, 4 mines/booby traps discovered, 1 cache discovered, 2 caves and tunnel complexes discovered; participated in 287 patrols and aided in 33 classes.

    b. ARVN Interpreters: 2nd CAG had seven interpreter and one Officer-interpreter assigned to its units during October. The interpreters provided valuable services in the translation of documents for ceremonies, and coordinated operations with Vietnamese counterparts.

    c. Scout Dogs: During October, 2nd CAG utilized 15 Scout Dog Teams and 11 Mine and Booby Trap Teams. As usual the Teams performed their duties in an excellent manner and were a welcome addition to the units which they worked with.

7. Lessons Learned

    Negative

8. Logistics

     a. General: During this reporting period this Command has established itself in a C-1 category for supply and maintenance under the Mares Forstat Reporting System.
 
b. Significant Events: This Command lost two vehicles, a truck M-151 and a truck M-37, due to enemy action. These vehicles hit mines on a dirt road while resupplying CAPs. In addition, one truck M-35 was code H as a result of a semi-trailer backing into it and bending the fram. Supply point distribution has been effected. This has resulted in a more equitable use of vehicles and should reduce miles traveled over a monthly basis.

     c. Damage to Weapons due to enemy action: During the reporting period the Command armory received no weapons damaged due to enemy action.

     d. Motor Transport: The Group Motor Transport drove a total of 18,678 miles during the reporting period. There were six (6) vehicles deadlined for 2nd echelon maintenance and eight (8) vehicles for/to 3rd echelon maintenance. Breakdown is as follows:

    
NOMENCLATURE     ECHELON     QTY
M35A2C, Truck 2nd 3
M37B1, Truck 2nd 2
M151A1, Jeep 2nd 1
M35A2C, Truck 3rd 1
M37B1, Truck 3rd 5
M151A1, Jeep 3rd 1
M274, Mule 3rd 1

    (1) Average deadline time was as follows:
         
2nd Echelon          2-4 Days
3rd Echelon          15-45 Days

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e. Airlifts:   As in previous reports no airlifts have been scheduled.

f. Messhall:   Approximately 23,250 meals were prepared during this reporting period in the 2nd CAG Messhall. Of the above total approximately 12,000 meals were distributed to troops in the field.

g. Armory:   The Group Armory repaired a total of 75 weapons. In addition, 20 weapons were sent to 1st FSR for 3rd Echelon Maintenance.

h. Supplies:   This command experienced no difficulties in obtaining supplies for operational effectiveness for the reporting period.

i. Problem Areas:   None

9. Civic Action/Psychological Operations

  a. The month of October witnessed significant and substantial accomplishments in our Civic Action Program. Civic Action NCO’s from 2nd Combined Action Group continue to act as liaison between hamlet, village and district officials in initiating community projects under direction of the Group Civic Action Officer, Lieutenant F. BIANCHINO, USNR (CHC).

  b. Our areas of operation were completely innundated at the close of the month and approximately 1000 Vietnamese were moved via helicopter and boats to high ground and safe areas. During the havoc caused by the flood, the Corpsmen of CACO 2-4 in the village of Son Phon, Hieu Nhon District assisted in the delivery of a Vietnamese baby girl.

  c. In Hieu Nhon District, Civic Action efforts supported the program initiated by the village priest to distribute clothing, food, soap and other essentials to all the people affected by the flood.

  d. Projects associated with self-improvement, particularly agricultural projects, have been encouraged by the CAPs. Vegetable seeds donated by interested people in the U.S. have proved most beneficial to local farmers. Milk products for pig consumption were distributed by Civic Action NCOs.

  e. Classes in English and Preventive Medecine are held regularly and Vietnamese Cultural Teams performed in all Districts. Consequently, good fellowship and better understanding between CAP Marines, Popular Forces and civilian populace has resulted.

  f. In the month of October 2nd CAG’s Civic Action Officer received a plethora of gifts from people in the United States. All the gifts were distributed to the CAPs for further distribution to the populace.

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  g. Commodities distributed during the month of September (sic) were as follows: food 7000 lbs; soap 520 lbs; clothing 1200 lbs; baby food 250 lbs; sewing kits 112.

  h. Medical assistance in support of Civic Action Med Caps resulted in the treatment of 21,316 Vietnamese civilians and 54 dental cases. First aid instruction was given to 61 civilians who assist in Med Caps and serve as interpreters for the corpsmen.

  i. During the month of Cotober, CAP Marines assisted Vietnamese civilians in completing the following projects: marketplace 1; schools 1; wells 3; fences 1.

10. Personnel and Administration

  a. Personnel Transactions. During the month of October the following personnel transactions were completed.

 
(1) Joined USMC
  Off Enl
  1  19
 
(2) Rotated CONUS USMC
  Off Enl
  1  96
 
(3) Reassignment Within WestPac USMC
  Off Enl
  0  30
 
(4) Transferred by Service Records while sick (out of country hospital)
USMC
  Off Enl
  1  23

 
(5) Extension of WestPac Tour effected USMC
  Off Enl
  0  1

  b. Promotions: During the month of October the following promotions were effected.

      To PFC  2      To SSgt  0 
To LCpl  60      To GySgt  0 
To Cpl  6      To 1st Sgt/MSgt  0 
To Sgt  1      To SgtMaj/MGySgt  0 

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  c. Legal Matters

    (1) Courts held: GCM   0 
     SpCM  0 
     SCM   0 
     
(2) Article 32 Investigations:    0   
(3) NJP:      2   
 
(4) JAG-Type Investigations:  1  Completed
yes

  d. Award Recommendations

      BSM - 5
NAM - 1
PH  - 20

  e. Congrints/Splints/Welreps

    The command has responded to:

 
  (2) CONGRINTS (0) SPLINTS (6) 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)     Okinawa (2)
Taipei (10)     Bangkok (7)
Hawaii (16)     Sydney (7)
(b) In Country (0)      

     (2) Mail:.   Daily average bags of mail processed:

  Incoming (10) Outgoing (2)

     (3) Hospital Visitations: All in country hospital patients are visited weekly by their respective CACO Commanders.

  g. Career Planning

  Re-enlistments: (0) 2 yrs; (0) 3 yrs; (0) 4 yrs;   (1) 6 yrs;

  Extensions: (1)  12 months.   

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11. Intelligence:   During the monsoon season enemy troop movement has traditionally been light. October saw this light movement cut down to a lower level than expected due to the frequent tropical storms which hit Quang Nam Province with high winds and severe flood conditions.
     Most of the enemy sighted during October were moving in small groups of four or five men. It is probable that these small units were contacts between the larger units which have gone to higher ground, and local Viet Cong Infrastructure. In most cases these units tried to avoid detection and contact. Those Viet Cong units which did initiate contact with 2nd CAG units were usually eight men or stronger. There was a noticable lack of contact with, or sightings of, NVA units, or NVA troops working in conjunction with local communist forces.
     As the monsoons make resupply a problem the enemy units make extensive use of caches along the way of expected troop movement or way-stations. The CAPs of 2nd CAG have been highly successful in finding and destroying these caches, thereby disrupting enemy lines of supply. Towards the end of October, units from CACO 2-4 discovered and destroyed a major cache complex. Approaching a wooded area, the units ran into a heavily mined and booby trapped trail. They destroyed these mines and traps, and moved forward finding 2 spider holes, a hospital tunnel complex reinforced with steel and wood capable of holding 12 people, a camoflauged well, camoflauged base camps, and a small quantity of miscellaneous medical supplies, black pajamas, and assorted documents. The entire hospital and base camp complex was destroyed and the material found was returned to Hieu Nhon District Headquarters to be analyzed. Two days later CAP 2-4-2 found 9 bunkers, 3 of which were mined with trip wire firing devices. The bunkers and protective mines were blown by the CAP.
     The pattern of heavy mine emplacement established in previous wet weather experience in Vietnam held true in October. The majority of wounds received by CAP personnel were from enemy emplaced mines rather than contact with enemy troops. Trip wire firing devices were used in rice paddies submerged in the paddy water, command detonated mines were used along routes of resupply against vehicles and foot traffic.
     On the 11th of the month the VC cut QL#1 2.2 kilometers northwest of Dien Ban District Headquarters. On the 12th, CAP 2-3-2 initiated organic weapons fire on an USEF attempting to mine QL#1. The VC returned fire and fled west. While sweeping the area, one PF accidentally detonated an unknown type booby trap rigged with a trip wire firing device. One PF was WIA(E) and 2 USMC received minor fragmentation wounds.
     With the onslaught of the three tropical storms in the last three days of the month and the evacuation of the majority of the CAPs of the Group, it is expected that the VC units may have entered the TAOCs of 2nd CAG prior to their reinsertion of the pulled units. This may cause increased contact with the enemy during November.

  a. Weapons and Ordnance Captured:

      (1) Individual Weapons Captured
 
AK-47   2
K-54   1
9mm pistol   2

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DECLASSIFIED

CONFIDENTIAL

      (2) Ordnance Captured
  
175mm round   1
105mm round   3
81mm round   3
25 lb. box mines   2
B-40 round   3
M-79 round   1
M-26 grenade   1
ChiCom grenade   1
SFD   6

     
(3) Gear Captured
   VC flag   1
VC banner   1
Propaganda leaflets   350
Tobacco   3 lbs
Rice   310 lbs
Haversack   1

12. Communications

  a. Battery usage (BA-386): 1452 batteries were used during the month.

  b. Combat Operations Center: The following communications traffic was passed through the combat operations center over various nets:

      Incoming Messages    278
Outgoing Messages 237
Spot Reports 112
Casualty Reports   6
  Total Traffic 633

  c. Communications Supply: For the month there was a total of 46 outstanding requests.

  d. Maintenance:

      Work Requests Submitted    124
Work Requests Completed 123
Work Requests Outstanding   1
  Total Outstanding  10

13. Fire Support: During October 2nd CAG utilized (12) artillery fire missions, (4) 81mm illumination missions, and (10) 60mm fire missions

14. Air Support: In addition to gunship missions, 2nd CAG utilized 53 helicopter evacuation missions during October.

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DECLASSIFIED

CONFIDENTIAL

15. Activations, Deactivations, Redesignations and Relocations of CAPs:
There were no activations, deactivations, redesignations or relocations of CAG units during October.

16. Special Services

     a. During the month of October, two Special Services trip to Hong Kong were made for the purchase of Poloroid film, tiger shorts, projector bulbs, and miscellaneous smaller items.

     b. Weekly rations of beer and soda to Combined Action Companies continued with 416 cases of beer and soda distributed.

     c. Two USO shows were provided during the month of October.

18. Medical Department

     a. General: During the month of October, emphasis was placed on wet weather hygiene and prevention of immersion foot.
      An increase in the number of cases of Hepatitis was noted and personnel were instructed not to eat or drink Vietnamese foods or beverages.
      Hospital Corpsman in the field were instructed to intensify the training program of PF Corpsmen.
      Routine inspection of CAPs was carried out during this period.
      Med Caps at 2nd CAG level totaled 1,042 during October.

    b. Personnel:
      (1) Medical Department Representative: A.L. GRANT HMC, USN
(2) Admin/Sick Call Petty Officer: J.F. COMBS, HM1, USN
(3) Supply/Sick Call Petty Officer: G.J. DAGLEY, HM1, USN
         (a) Detached    05
(b) Hospitalized (NBC)    03
(c) Hospitalized (WIA)    02
(d) Joined    00

      c. MedCap: During the month of October, Combined Action Platoons treated 21,251 civilians in routine Med Caps and a total of 65 civilians who were casualties resulting from hostile action.

      d. Training: CAP Corpsmen held a total of 91 classes with a total attendance of 463 Health Workers, PF Corpsmen and civilians.

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(End of 2d CAG Command Chronology for October, 1970)

Go to the Command Chronology for November, 1970


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