1967

Vietnam War Timeline

Nui Dat 1967

Op '' Caloundra"
(9-10 January 1967)

Op 'WOLLONGONG'
(11 January-14 February 1967).
OP Order ( 254 kb pdf file)

FormationslUnits: 1 ATF with under command units tasked: 5 RAR, 6 RAR, 1 APC Sqn (A Sqn 3 Cav Regt), 1 Fd Regt, 1 Fd Sqn, 3 SAS Sqn, 161 (Indep) Recce Flt).
Enemy Forces. Annex A to Op Order 1/67 - Details here ( 209 kb pdf file)
Description: Patrol and search of an un-named AO of approximately 669 sq km, including 5 RAR TAOR of 146 sq km, 6th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment TAOR of 122 sq km, and beyond these, long range patrol search by 3 SAS Sqn of AO of 324 sq km covering from NW through north to SE of 1 ATF Base. Terrain generally undulating across the central and western areas of the province except for Xui Dinh in the SW; covered mainly in jungle and clear forest with brushwood, rice, rubber and some grassland. Viet Cong forces were 275 Regt probably in the NW of the province with objectives likely on Route15 or Route 2 north of 1 ATF Base, D445 Bn in the SE of the province Bkeij to raid ARVN outposts, and village guerrillas supporting:
Deployment : By foot, APC and helicopter.
Location: PhuocTuy province, 5 km NNE of 1 ATF Base.
Results: Casualties: Viet Cong: KIA 1, wounded/ escaped 3. Four tonnes of rice destroyed.
Remarks: 103 Fd Bty was placed on theatre grid at YS 4571 (Binh Ba rubber) between 20th –25th January. Later 103 Fd Bty placed on theatre grid at YS 4369 the northern edge of the Taskforce. 101 Fd Bty placed on theatre grid at YS 4568 or YS 4665 just E or SSE of the Taskforce between the 20th –24th January. From the 24th – 31st Jan,101 Fd Bty moved to YS 3063 just north of Ap Long Cat on Route15, west of the Warbies. 131 Div Loc Bty. surveyors provided coordinates.
Source: AWM95, 1/4/24 - 1-31 January 1967, Narrative, Annexes (20.61Mb PDF file)

Op 'CAMDEN'
(16-18 January and 31 January - 2 February 1967)
OP Order ( 357 kb pdf file)

Formations/Units: 1 ATF, with under ommand units tasked: 5 RAR, 6 RAR, A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, 1 Fd Regt, 1 Fd Sqn,.161 (Indep) Recce Fit; in support Btry A 2/3 5th Arty US), l/83d Arty, (US), No. 9 Sqn RAAF.
Enemy Forces. No change from Op Wollonggong. Annex A to Op Order 1/67 - Details here ( 209 kb pdf file)
Description: Cordons-and-searches of selected areas of HOA LONG, the village being of total area 2.5 sq km immediately south of 1 ATF base astride Route 2, population 3750. The AO was the area within the village boundary. Flat terrain; the village lay generally under clear forest, bordered by cultivation and grassland, rubber, brushwood, jungle and rice. Viet Cong cadre members, and other residents of Hoa Long, were carrying out terrorist and subversive activities within and beyond the village, the population including persons resettled in May 1966 from the former Xa Long Phuoc. Deployments,by APC and on foot.
Location: Phuoc Tuy province, 1 km south of I ATF Base.
5 RAR 16 & 18 Jan 67. 6 RAR 16 Jan 67
Summary. 5 RAR completed the FOURTH phase of this op by cordoning, searching and interrogating the population, of the NE section of HOA-LONG village. As a. result of this phase, five females were detained for further interrogation. This small number confirmed earlier belief that VC activity in HOA LONG is largely ineffective. In an attempt to deny the VC access to HOA LONG. 5 RAR..were given the task of erecting a double dannert fence around the outside of the village At some stage in the future I hope that, Section authorities will build an inner fence and mine the gap between the two fences. n the meantime, the outer fence should severely limit VC access to the village.
Results: Viet Cong: PW 10, detainees 19.
Source: AWM95, 1/4/24 - 1-31 January 1967, Narrative, Annexes (20.61Mb PDF file)

Op 'SEYMOUR'
(28-31 January 1967).

FormationsjUnits: 6 RAR, with under command A Sqn 1 APC Sqn less one troop, A Coy 5 RAR; in direct support 101 Fd Bty.
Description: A search-and-destroy operation in an AO (un-named) of 16 sq km, to the immediate NE of Nui Dinh. Generally rising terrain to the SW and NE of the Suoi Chau Pha, which flowed diagonally NW to SE through the centre of the AO rice astride the line of the stream, beyond that a mix of jungle and clear forest. Two Viet Cong communication/ liaison routes from the Hat Dich to Lang Phuoc Hoa and Ba Ria were within the AO; a series of contacts with Viet Cong squad and platoon-sized forces in this area on 26 and 27 January during Operation Wollongong prompted the operation. Viet Cong forces in the vicinity included C20 and C21 Coys, other minor units, possibly a battalion of 274 Regt.
Deployment: By APC and foot.
Location: Phuoc Tuy Province, 7 km SW of I ATF Base.
Results: Casualties: Own: KIA 1, WIA (accidentally) 3; Viet Cong: KIA 2, wounded/escaped. 3.0 tonnes of rice and 30 sheets of aluminium destroyed.
28-1-67 Tweedie G.L. Pte 3787416 6 RAR B 21 RAINF KBA Mistaken for Viet Cong and shot while on patrol
Source: AWM95, 1/4/24 - 1-31 January 1967, Narrative, Annexes (20.61Mb PDF file)

Op "TAMBORINE'
(1-8 February 1967)

EKN/67/0084/VN. Phuoc Tuy Province, Vietnam, February 1967. Two members of a patrol from B Company, 5th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment (5RAR), push their way through tall grass searching for enemy forces near the Task Force base at Nui Dat during Operation Tamborine. In front with an M60 machine gun at the ready is Private (Pte) Garry Cassidy of Young, NSW, and behind is Pte Bruce Everard of Warrnambool, Vic. Copyright: AWM copyright

Photo Courtesy of the AWM
ID No:EKN/67/0084/VN
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Formations/Units: 6 RAR, with under command A Sqn 1 APC Sqn less one troop, element 1 Fd Sqn; in direct support 161 Fd Bty (NZ), one OH-13 of 161 (Indep) Recce Fit.
Description: An area ambush operation, directed primarily at Route 23 between Dat Do and the Song Tre, approximately 9 km to the east, combined with search-and-destroy, within an unidentified AO of about 52 sq km. Flat to undulating terrain astride Route 23, rising slightly, with undulations, to the north and SE; covered mainly in rice and brushwood with
small areas of jungle particularly in the SE, and patches of clear forest. Intelligence sources suspected the presence within the AO of D445Bn, expected to attack Dat Do or a village to its south before the Tet Ceasefire commenced on 8 February. Deployment by helicopter and APC.
Location: PhuocTuy province, 11 klm ESE of 1 ATF Base.
Results: Casualties: Own: KIA (accidentally) 4,WIA 1,WIA (accidentally) 13; Viet Cong: KIA 7, wounded/escaped 1. Three carbines were captured, with small quantities of food, clothing, equipment, medical supplies and documents.
FSB Lance YS 51-64 FSB 8 km SE of Nui Dat, 3 km SE of Long Tan and 4 km NNE of Dat Do. 161 Bty, RNZA (Honner?s Bty 13Jun66-13May67) firebase set here 1-8 Feb 67. Phuoc Tuy Prov, III Corps.
131 Div Loc Bty. Surveyors provided provisional grid to 161 Fd Bty NZ at YS 514644. No work before 1400 hrs on the 1st Feb.
Summary.In an endeavour to curtail VC resupply activities from villages to. the SOUTH EAST of the Task Force area 6 RAR were given the. task.of patrolling the area to the EAST of Dat Do by day and ambushing Route 23 by night. The villages in this area have long been a major source of supplies to VC main force units further to the EAST. Surprisingly, ony minor contacts with local VC were made. During Operation TAMBORINE a tragic accident occurred when rounds fired by 161 Bty RNZA fell on Company. HQ of D Company 6 RAR. The CSM of D Company was killed and sixteen others were wounded. Subsequently, two others died of wounds.
Casualties
6-2-67 Kirby J.W. T/WO2 6 RAR D 31 RAINF KIA FFF Shrap from 161 BTY drop short at Dat Do.
6-2-67 Kelly B.W. Pte 6 RAR D 20 RAINF KIA FFF Shrap from 161 BTY drop short at Dat Do.
6-2-67 Cliff R.W. Gnr 1 FD REGT 21RAA DOW FFF At 36EVACHOSP from 161 BTY drop short at Dat Do earlier that day.
7-2-67 Powter D.R.J. Pte 6 RAR D 21 RAINF DOW FFF At 36EVACHOSP from 161 BTY drop short at Dat Do on 06.02.67.
Source: AWM95, 1/4/30 - 1-28 February 1967, Narrative, Annexes (29.98Mb PDF file)

Op 'BEECHMONT',
(8-12 February 1967)

Formations/Units: l ATF with under command units tasked: 5 RAR, 6 RAR, A Sqn
3 Cav Regt, 1 Fd Regt, 1 Fd Sqn, 3 SAS Sqn, 161 (Indep) Recce Fit.
Description: Patrolling of the immediate vicinity of 1 ATF base. The AO is assumed to have been the area
around the base within Line Bravo, excluding Sector AOs, of approximately 174 sq km. Terrain undulating to hilly except for the Nui Dinh in the west, Nui Nhge in the NW and the features Nui Dat and Nui Dat 2; mainly clear forest and rice, with areas of jungle, grassland, rubber and brushwood. Viet Cong action associated with the Tet holiday period was anticipated. Deployment probably primarily on foot.
Location: Phuoc Tuy province, in the immediate vicinity of the lATF base.
Results: The only results identified against this operation were reported by 6 RAR: Viet Cong: PW 5. Captured were a number of grenades, documents and medical supplies.
Remarks: The sole source located for this operation was the 6 RAR unit history. The detail (except for enemy) is based generally on the pattern of 1 ATF Operation 13/66 'Bathurst'
Source: AWM95, 1/4/30 - 1-28 February 1967, Narrative, Annexes (29.98Mb PDF file)

Photo Courtesy of theAWM

Op 'BEAUMARIS'
(13-14 February 1967)

COL/67/0140/VN. An unidentified Australian soldier from 8 Platoon (8 Pl), C Company (C Coy), 5th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment (5RAR), hurt in a booby trap explosion during Operation Beaumaris, in Phuoc Tuy Province is being stretchered into a 9 Squadron, UH-1B Iroquois helicopter (A2-1019) for medivac to the American hospital at Vung Tau. Identified from left to right: 212969 Sergeant Ralph Hindmarsh, 8 Pl, C Coy, 5RAR; 47046 Lieutenant George Roger Wainwright, Officer Commanding 8 Pl, C Coy, 5RAR; unidentified (on stretcher); unidentified; unidentified; unidentified air crewman; Captain Anthony (Tony) White, Regimental Medical Officer, 5RAR. Copyright: AWM copyright

Photo Courtesy of the AWM
COL/67/0140/VN

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Formations I Units: 5 RAR, with under command A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, two combat engineer teams 1 Fd Sqn, one platoon 1ARU; in direct support 103 Fd Bty, one OH-13 of 161 (Indep) Recce Fit; in support Btry A 2/35th Arty (US), Btry A l/83d Arty (US), 772d RF Coy (RVN).
Description: A cordon-and-search of Xa An Nhut, the village comprising four hamlets being astride but mainly south of Route 23 between Xa Long Dien and Dat Do; in area it was almost 1 sq km, population about 1100. No AO was assigned. Flat terrain except for the village, which was mainly on slightly higher ground, the surrounding area covered in rice restricted, however, to the east to 600 m towards the outskirts of Dat Do. Xa An Nhut, at the centre of the richest rice-growing area of Phuoc Tuy province, played an important role in supplying 5 Div, D445 Bn, as well as C25 Coy located in the nearby Long Hai hills; 30 villagers were believed to be engaged in hostile activities, some being absent with Viet Cong units. Deployment by APC, extraction by truck.
Location: Phuoc Tuy province, 8 kms SSE of 1 ATF base.
Results: Casualties: Own: KIA 3,WIA 5; Viet Cong: PW 6. Detained were 14 Viet Cong suspects and 5 active Viet Cong sympathisers. An unrecorded allied-laid booby-trap caused own casualties.
Execution: 5 RAR Op 'Beaumaris' . 5 RAR Association Site
Summary: As a continuation of efforts to pacify the inhabitants of villages within the Province and restore government controls 5 RAR cordoned and searched the village of XA AN NHUT on the 14th February. The whole population of 1100 people were interrogated and.as a result it. is probably true to say that the VC infrastructure within the village has been destroyed, The Company Commander, Company Second in Command and Artillery Observation Officer of C Company 5 RAR were all killed when a booby trap exploded on the village perimeter during the morning of the 14th February, This was Major BOURNE'S first operation with 5RAR and his loss as with those of the other two officers will be felt greatly.
Casualties
14-2-67 Williams P. Capt NZ 161BTY RNZA KIA Booby trap at An Nhut. Att to 5 RAR as Arty FO.
14-2-67 Milligan R.B. T/Capt 5 RAR C 30 RAINF KIA Booby trap at An Nhut. M16 mine.
14-2-67 Bourne D.M. Maj 5 RAR C 35 RAINF KIA Booby trap at An Nhut. M16 mine.
Source: AWM95, 1/4/30 - 1-28 February 1967, Narrative, Annexes (29.98Mb PDF file)

Op 'DALBY'
(16 February 1967)

Formations/Units: 6 RAR, with under command one troop A Sqn 1 APC Sqn; in direct support 101 Fd Bty, one OH-13 of 161 (Indep Recce Fit; in support 1 Fd Regt minus, two army aviation companies (US), No. 9 Sqn RAAF.
Description: A search-and-destroy operation in an AO of 17 sq km to the immediate north of Dat Do. Generally flat to
undulating terrain with the exception of a horse-shoe shaped feature, height 82 m, just north of Dat Do, the AO was covered mainly in rice and brushwood, with areas of grassland and patches of clear forest and jungle. Viet Cong squad-sized guerrilla groups and Viet Cong courier parties were expected in the area. Deployment by helicopter.
Location: Phuoc Tuy Province, 6 km SE of 1 ATF base.
Results: Casualties: Viet Cong: wounded/escaped 1, PW 4. A large quantity of clothing, some documents, medical supplies, ammunition and a small quantity of rice were captured.
Summary: Operation DALBY was conducted by 6 RAR on the 16th February basically to revise airmobile assault techniques in preparation for future operationls The operation was successful and netted 1 VC WIA, 4 suspects.and small quantities of ammunition and documents were captured.
Source: AWM95, 1/4/30 - 1-28 February 1967, Narrative, Annexes (29.98Mb PDF file)

Op 'BRIBIE'
(17-18 February 1967)

P02629.008. Nui Dat, Vietnam. 17 February 1967. Members of C (Charlie) Company, 6th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment (6RAR) sitting on Armoured Personnel Carriers (APC) await the start of Operation Bribie. Seven members of 6RAR were killed and twenty six were wounded during the operation. During the battle, one of the APCs was destroyed by a direct hit from enemy recoilless rifle (RCL) fire killing the driver and wounding the commander. Unable to move it, the Australians set fire to it so that the Viet Cong could not salvage any working parts. After leaving it overnight, the Australians returned to find `Du Me Uc Dai Loi' (roughly translated to `Australians get stuffed') in Vietnamese, painted on the APC in blood. (Donor P. McNamee) Copyright: AWM copyright

Photo Courtesy of the AWM
ID No: P02629.008

Click on Image to Enlarge

Formations/Units 6 RAR with under command A Sqn 1 APC Sqn; in direct support 1 Fd Bty, one OH-13 of 161 (Indep) Recce Fit; in support l/83rd Arty (US), one army aviation company (US), No. 9 Sqn RAAF.
Description: 1 ATF Reaction Force task, developing into a battalion search-and-destroy operation; initial deployment was to establish a blocking position to prevent the withdrawal eastwards of a Viet Cong force which had unsuccessfully ambushed Route 44 between Dat Do and Lang Phuoc Hai. No AO was assigned but the area of the action was less than 4 sq km.
Flat terrain, covered mainly in brushwood, clear forest and rice. The Viet Cong force encountered, suspected to be D445 Bn, had additional support weapons and was believed to be defending strongly a possible concentration area, at the same time covering die withdrawal of other troops and higher headquarters. Deployment by helicopter and APC.
Location: Phuoc Tuy province, 15 km SE of 1 ATF base.
Results: Casualties: Own: KIA 8, WIA 27; Viet Cong: KIA 8, wounded/escaped 50-70. Several weapons and a quantity of ammunition and clothing were captured.
Summary: As a result of heavy contact between ARVN forces and a battalion sized VC force S0UTH of Dat Do on the 17th of February, 6 RAR and A SQN 3 CAV REGT were despatched to the area in an attempt to destroy the VC Force. 6 RAR moved rapidly by US Airmobile Company, 9 SQN RAAF and APC and made contact with the VC shortly after arriving at the objective LZ. A and B Companies were soon involved in a fierce fight with a VC force of battalion size equipped with support weapons. Surprisingly the VC showed no sign of giving ground and displayed excellent fire discipline and control. After spirited attacks by 6 RAR, airstrikes and artillery concentrations, the VC broke contact in the late evening and withdrew EAST taking their dead and wounded with them. In an endeavour to cut off the VC force which undoubtedly suffered a number of casualties, Assistance was requested from HQ II Field Force VIETNAM. The 2/47 Mechanised Battalion and Battery C1/11 .Artillery^from the US 9th Infantry Division arrived early on the 18th February and commenced clearing the area NORTH of the battle. No further contacts were made and this force was withdrawn on the 19th February. The final result of Operation BRIBIE will probably never be known but I am convinced that 6 RAR inflicted severe casualties upon elements of D445 Battalion and probably rendered them inoperable for some time to come.
Remarks: 2/47th Inf (Mech Inf) and Btry C 1/11th Arty, both from 9th Inf Div (US), were deployed in support of 1 ATF, 18-19 February.
Casualties
17-2-67 Waters B.D. Pte 6 RAR B/5 21 RAINF KIA East of Hoi My in the 'Light Green'.
17-2-67 .Rooney K.M. LCpl 6 RAR B/5 23 RAINF KIA East of Hoi My in the 'Light Green'.
17-2-67 Riley W.M. Pte 6 RAR B/5 19 RAINF KIA East of Hoi My in the 'Light Green'.
17-2-67 Pomroy V.I. Tpr A3CAV 2Tp 21 RAAC KIA APC c/s 21B hit by 3 x 75mmRCL East of Hoi My.
17-2-67 Webster D.R. Pte 6 RAR B/5 21 RAINF KIA East of Hoi My in the 'Light Green'.
17-2-67 Birchell M.J. Pte 6 RAR B/5 22 RAINF KIA East of Hoi My in the 'Light Green'.
17-2-67 Arnold P.J. Pte 6 RAR B/5 21 RAINF KIA East of Hoi My in the 'Light Green'.
17-2-67 Rich A.W. Pte 6 RAR B 21 RAINF DOW At 2FDAMB N.D. from wds that day in the 'Light Green'.
Source: AWM95, 1/4/30 - 1-28 February 1967, Narrative, Annexes (29.98Mb PDF file)

Op 'RENMARK'
(18-21 February 1967)

Photos Courtesy of the AWM VN/67/0130/09

5 RAR Op 'Beaumaris' . 5 RAR Association Site

Formations I Units: 5 RAR, with under command elements A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, four combat engineer teams 1 Fd Sqn; in direct support 103 Fd Bty, one OH-13 of 161 (Indep) Recce Fit; in support A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, Btry A l/83d Arty (US), element 1 Coy RAASC, 68 Avn Coy (US), No. 9 Sqn RAAF.
Description: A search-and-destroy operation in AO Pauline, of 21 sq km, in die area of the Long Hai hills. Steep mountainous terrain in the west, varying from 173 m in the north to 323 m in die south, rolling out to gendc slopes in the
east; covered mainly in jungle, with several areas of brushwood, a small rubber plantation and some isolated patches of grassland. The Long Hai hills were a long-standing Viet Cong base area, dominating nearby Dat Do and Long Dien district. D445 Bn and C25 Coy were the main units utilising the area. Deployment was by APC, truck and helicopter.
Location: Phuoc Tuy province, 14 km SSE of 1 ATF base.
Artillery Support: 131 Div Loc Bty. Establish a BP in the gun area by 181200 H Feb. Survey party travelled with gun party of 103 Fd Bty. They returned by air from the FSB at 181600 H. The party limited to 15 persons and 900 lb stores. FSB positioned at YS 479564.
Results: Casualties: Own: KIA 7, DOW 2, WIA 24; Viet Cong: KIA 1. Four camps, one resting place and three rice storage caches were destroyed. A quantity of ammunition, several mines and one carbine were captured. Remarks: The operation was significant for casualties caused by Viet Cong-laid mines.
Summary: Operation RENMARK had been scheduled to commence early on the 18th Februar, but was unable to commit 5 RAR until 6 RAR had completed their activities. Accordingly, 5 RAR deployed by Airmobile Company, 9 SQN RAAF and APC on the afternoon of the 18th February and 6 RAR returned to base, by helicopter after the lift of 5 RAR was complete.
Operation RENMARK was originally conceived to clear the LONG HAI Mountains so that ultimately this area could be used for training by the Reinforcement Unit. The operation was preceeded by a B52 strike on the morning of the 18th February. 5 RAR were complete in the AO by 1630 hours on the18th and commenced searching the area on the 19th. No signif icant. conflicts were made although signs that up to 80 VC had moved through the area very recently suggested that some of the VC forces involved in Operation .BRIBIE may have withdrawn into the SOUTHERN point of the hill feature.
The mine incident which destroyed one APG and virtually annihilated Company HQ and a platoon of B Coy 5 RAR was a sharp blow to the morale of 5 RAR. In the event it was decided to terminate the operation as reports from intelligence sources and reported sightings of VC artillery suggested that the HQ of the VC 5 th Division 275 Regt and support ing elements were moving much closer to the Task Force base than they had previously.
Casualties
20-2-67 Poole M.D. Pte 5 RAR Sp 20 RAINF KIA Tripped mine in Long Hai's.
20-2-67.Clark D.M. Pte5 RAR B/4 21 RAINF KIA APC c/s 33B hit mine in Long Hai's.
20-2-67 Green G.B. LCpl5 RAR B/4 21 RAINF KIA APC c/s 33B hit mine in Long Hai's.
21-2-67 Mitchinson K.L. LCpl A3CAV 3Tp 22 RAAC KIA APC c/s 33B hit mine in Long Hai's.
21-2-67 Webster J.C. Pte5RAR B/4 22 RAINF KIA APC c/s 33B hit mine in Long Hai's.
21-2-67 Wilsen R.P. Tpr A3CAV 3Tp 21 RAAC KIA APC c/s 33B hit mine in Long Hai's.
21-2-67 .Sandow R.W. Pte5 RAR B/4 20 RAINF KIA APC c/s 33B hit mine in Long Hai's.
24-2-67 Carruthers J. T/Lt5 RAR B/4 28 RAINF DOW At 3FDHOSP from mine wds on 21.02.67 in Long Hai's.
Source: AWM95, 1/4/30 - 1-28 February 1967, Narrative, Annexes (29.98Mb PDF file)

Op 'KIRRIBILLI'
23 February-5 March 1967

Formations/Units: 1 ATF, with under command units tasked: 5 RAR, 6 RAR, A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, 1 Fd Regt, 1 Fd Sqn,
3 SAS Sqn, 161 (Indep) Recce Fit.
Description: A patrolling-and-surveillance operation to deny Viet Cong access to 1 ATF base; the six patrol AOs totalled 45 sq km, commencing beyond 5 km radius from centre of the base. Activity comprised company-sized infantry patrols, and APC patrols by day. Undulating terrain, rising generally to the north and covered mainly in clear forest, rice and jungle, with areas of rubber and some brushwood. 274 Regt was believed to have moved from Hat Dich (NW) to the east of Phuoc Tuy either to avoid allied operations, or possibly to join with 275 Regt under HO 5 Div for operations against 1 ATF base if both battalions were out of base, or against other local objectives by attacking a target and ambushing the relief. Deployment by foot and helicopter.
Location: Phuoc Tuy province, 6 km average from 1 ATF base to the NE, east, SE, SW and NW.
Results: Casualties: Viet Cong: wounded
Summary: To deny the VC access to the base area by company sized search and destroy patrols. Operation KIRHIBILLI was initiated on the 23rd February. SAS patrols were deployed to the SOUTH EAST, NORTH WEST and EASTERN extremities of the TA0R. This operation continued into MARCH but no contacts with VC forces were made.
Source: AWM95, 1/4/30 - 1-28 February 1967, Narrative, Annexes (29.98Mb PDF file)

Photo Courtesy of the AWM

'OP 'LEETON'
(6 March-1 June 1967)
INTERDICTION IN THE EAST, THE HORSESHOE AND THE FENCE ' .
by Captain Robert J O'Neill MID
THE MINFIELD - by Greg Lockhart

Formations /Units: 1 ATF, with under command units tasked: 5 RAR (relieved by 7 RAR), 6 RAR, A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, 1 Fd Regt, 1 Fd Sqn, 161 (Indep) Recce Fit; in support Btry A l/83d Arty (US), ARVN/RF/PF units as allotted, one Army  
aviation company (US), No. 9 Sqn RAAF.
Description: A barrier operation to establish a company-defended locality immediately north of Dat Do at the 'Horseshoe' and a 10 km-long wire fence system to be erected within a 200 m-wide cleared strip from 'the Horseshoe' to the sea at Lang Phuoc Hai, parallel to and east of Route 44; a total of 20 292 anti­personnel mines (12 700 of them fitted with anti-lifting devices) were laid within the fence system. No AO was allotted (the fence alignment is represented on the orientation map). Terrain undulating to flat, covered mainly in rice, grassland and brushwood, with sand dunes by the sea. The barrier was designed to assist the GVN authorities to maintain control of southern Phuoc Tuy province, that area being largely dominated by D445 Bn, and C25 Coy based in the Long Hai hills, as well as village guerrillas. Dat Do was a valuable provisioning centre for Viet Cong main force and provincial forces. Deployment by truck, helicopter and APC.
Artillery Support: 131 Div Loc Bty. To provide theatre grid to the Horseshoe and the elements positioned on it by 15th Mar 67. Provide theatre grid to 103 Fd Bty repositioning in Nui Dat by 20th Mar 67. 131 Surveyors would later be called upon to accompany Topo in the survey of the Barrier Fence.
Location: Phuoc Tuy 12 klmn SE of the 1 ATF base.
Results: Casualties: Own: KIA 7, WIA 12; Viet Cong: KIA 5 wounded/escaped 4, detainee 1. Destroyed were 5 tonnes of rice.
Remarks: Own casualties occurred during the laying of minefield. 6 RAR were assigned by 1 ATF Op Order 2/67 but there is no evidence in after action reports or unit history of the battalions participation.
The Barrier was AKA " Graham's Folly" and considered one of the 'blunders' of the war. Against senior Engineer advise Brig Graham insisited on the building of the barrier. Many Australian casualties occurred as a direct result of this minefield being laid as the Viet Cong lifted the mines in great numbers and redeployed them against the Australians. Despite this 'blunder' Brig Graham was promoted to Major-General on the 10 February 1969.
22,592 M16 anti-personnel mines were laid in a barrier approx 11 klms in length. The barrier proved to be ineffectual but did have some effect during March and April in reducing the movement of supplies to the Viet Cong.

Op'AYR'
(7 March 1967)

Formations I Units: 6 RAR, with in direct support 101 Fd Bty, one OH-13 of 161 (Indep) Recce Fit; in support 1 Fd Regt (minus), l/83d Arty (US), one army aviation company (US), No. 9 Sqn RAAF
Description: A  search-and-destroy operation in an area centred 4 Ion ESE of Xa Binh Ba; no AO was assigned, but operations were confined to an area of approximately 8 sq km. Terrain undulating but rising slightly to the
north; covered mainly in clear forest (thick bamboo, however, was reported) with areas of jungle and several atches of grassland. VC activity reported in the previous two months included movement of up to two main force
battalions, but current estimates were only for small parties of up to squad-size, being possibly main force recce parties, cadre or supply groups. Deployment by helicopter.
Location: PhuocTuy province, 6 km north of 1ATF base.
Results: One old platoon-sized VC camp located.
Remarks: This operation also had the purposes of practising the unit in the techniques and procedures of an airmobile assault, and familiarisingthe unit with the northern portion of its new TAOR.

Photo Courtesy of the AWM

Op 'PORTSEA'
(21 March-17 April 1967)

P06136.004. Members of 8 Platoon, C Company, 6th Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment (6RAR), move across an exposed area of ground secured by a group of M113 Armoured Personel Carriers from A Squadron, 3rd Cavalry Regiment during Operation Portsea in 1967. One member of 6RAR was killed in action during the operation, three later died of wounds. Credit line: Donor M Minell Copyright: Status to be assessed

Photo Courtesy of the AWM
P06136.004

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Formations/units: 1ATF, with under command units tasked: 5RAR, 6 RAR, A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, 1 Fd Regt, 1 Fd Sqn, 161 (Indep) Recce Fit; in support Btry A 2/35th Arty (US), Btry A l/83d Arty (US), one army aviation company (US), No. 9 Sqn RAAF; conducting operations in co­ordination and co-operation: 1st Brigade 9tii Inf Div (US), 43d Inf Regt (RVN), one squadron 11th Arm Cav (US), element II FFORCEV engineers.
Description: A combined search-and-destroy operation in an area NE, east and SE of 1ATF base to a radius of from 15-25 km; conducted in two phases: 21-31 March, the 1ATF portion of the combined AO being 70 sq km centred 6 Ian ESE of Dat Do; 1-16 April, 48 sq Ian centred 11 kms ENE of Dat Do. Terrain generally undulating rising gradually to the north, covered mainly in jungle and clear forest with some rubber and grassland, except for the SW which comprised mainly large areas of rice and brushwood. The area had long been used by the VCas a major base supply complex involving the movement of supplies and equipment from the populated areas in the south of the province to main force units to the north and NE of Xuyen Moc. Deployment by helicopter and APC.
Location: PhuocTuy province, 1ATF AOs centred 15 km ESE of 1ATF base.
Results: Casualties: Own: KIA 1, DOW 2, WIA 7, accidentally wounded 1; VC: KIA 2, wounded/ escaped 200 (plus). Captured or destroyed were 114 tonnes of rice, one-third tonne salt, 40 gallons of cooking oil, 1 assault rifle and other small arms, and miscellaneous munitions; 9 sampans were destroyed.
Artillery Support: 161 Bty, RNZA, Honner's Bty firebase first set here 22-24Mar67; Martin?s Bty here 5-17Mar68. Hitching?s Bty here: 5-17Mar68, 16-27Aug68, 5-8Dec68, left section 19-20Mar68. Andrew's Bty: alternate section: 1Nov69-5Dec69 and 10Jan-13Feb70, left section: 22Mar-4Apr70, 4- 7May70, right section: 4-17Apr70, 30Apr-7May70. Master's Bty, left section: 1Feb-10 Mar71, right section: 10Mar-23April. Phuoc Tuy Prov, III Corps.
131 Div Loc Bty. A How Bty 11 ACR positioned at the Horseshoe FSB 20th March. A Bty 1/83rd Arty (8 inch) positioned at the Horseshoe FSB 22nd March. A Bty 2/35th Arty (155mm) positioned Horseshoe FSB 21st March.101 Fd Bty at YS 5461 east of Dat Do FSB 24th March.101 Fd Bty at YS 5963 just south of Route 23 close to the Song Rei FSB 31st March.13 Mar 67 survey sect moved to the Horseshoe feature (YS4962) and brought control to 4 points in that area.
b) 20 – 25 Mar 67 survey sect again moved to the Horseshoe feature and supplied control to a further 6 points for; A Bty 11 ACR US, 161Fd Bty NZ, A Bty 2/35 Arty US, A Bty 1/83 Arty US, 101 Fd Bty .A FSB was deployed into YS 5963 and survey was provided to this area on the 26 Mar 67.
Casualties
29-3-67 Hart P.R. Pte 6 RAR 22 RAINF DOW At 2FDAMB after GSW on 21.03.67.
30-3-67 Bracewell D.H. Pte 6 RAR 21 RAINF DOW At 2FDAMB after wds at Ap My An on 16.03.67.

PUCKAPUNYAL
(27-28 April 1967).

COL/67/0325/VN. Troops from 7th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment (7RAR), wait at Luscombe Field, while mates are lifted off by a fleet of Iroquois helicopters. The troops were starting Operation Puckapunyal, a short shakedown for the Battalion which had recently arrived from Australia. Copyright: AWM copyright

Photo Courtesy of the AWM
COL/67/0325/VN

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Formations limits: 7 RAR, with in direct support 161 Bty,( RNZA), one OH-13 of 161 (Indep) Recce Fit; in support two army aviation companies (US).
Description: A search-and-destroy operation in the general area of Nui Nghe; no AO was assigned but operations were confined to an area of approximately 45 sq Ian centred 6 Ian WSW of Xa Binh Ba. Undulating terrain but rising generally to the NE, the Suoi Chau Pha being the SW limit and Route 2 the east, with Nui Nghe (203 m) overlooking the northern half of the area; covered mainly by jungle and clear forest (some bamboo reported however), with areas of rice mainly to the NE and within 1 km of the Suoi Chau Pha. Recce elements of 274 Regt and C41 Coy were possibly in the area. Deployment by helicopter, return on foot. . A three phase operation. Phase 1: secure fire support base (FSB)' Aspro', 5 klm west of Nui Dat by A Coy. Phase 2: a helicopter airborne assault on LZ 'Bondi Beach' by C Coy. Phase 3: a battalion search and destroy operation with companies following independent routes. In support were 161 Fd Bty (RNZA), two US Army air mobile helicopter companies, two light fire teams and four RAAF Canberra Bombers loaded with 500lb bombs. Terrain: padi, patches of spring bamboo and some light rain forest.
Location: Phuoc Tuy province,6 km NW of 1ATF base.
Results: Nil.
Artillery Support: FSB Weir - YS 45-74 FSB located 4 km WNW of Nui Dat, 5 km NE of Nui Thi33 km NNE of Vung Tau. 161 Bty, RNZA (Honner?s Bty 13Jun66- 13May67) firebase set here 27Apr 67. Likely named in honor of Sir Stephen Weir, the NZ Ambassador to Thailand and SVN, who had been a gunner himself and was very supportive of 161 Bty RNZA. One night (appx 22Oct68) when a US arty unit was passing through, there were 72 artillery pieces set up here. Phuoc Tuy Prov, III Corps.
131 Div Loc Bty. 7th Apr Survey passed to ARVN 105mm Gun Coy at Dat Do. 10 Apr In conjunction with Topo Survey section, survey was passed from Nui Dat to ARVN Gun Coy at Xuyen Moc. 14 Apr A calibration target and OP were set in several hundred metres NORTH of the Horseshoe feature. 20 Apr A BP set in for B Radar. 27 – 28 Apr survey passed from Nui Dat to 161 Fd Bty NZ who were approx 5000m West of Nui Dat in support of 7RAR sweep of the area. 29 Apr Members provided to Topo Svy section in an experimental scheme to show the feasibility of a heli-borne satellite station for long distance survey. Due to faulty equipment the scheme was not completed
No 2 Sqn RAAF fly the first mission in support of  Australian troops by providing 7 RAR with air support during Operation "Puckapunyal".

Op 'LISMORE'
(2-8 May 1967).

GIL/67/0377/VN. Troops of 7th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment (7RAR), dash from a United States Army Iroquois helicopter to launch Operation Lismore, their first major mission against the Viet Cong. The Battalion was swept into the field by twenty American helicopters to begin the operation. These soldiers are from the Fire Assault Platoon, Support Company. Left to right: 214654 Private (Pte) Ken Aspinal; 4717908 Pte Jozsef Alex Csorba; and 3411857 Pte Peter Gates. Copyright: AWM copyright

Formations/units: 7 RAR, with under command two combat engineer teams 1 Fd Sqn, under operational control A Sqn 3 Cav Regt less one troop; in direct support 161 Bty, RNZA, one OH-13 of 161 (Indep) Recce Fit; in support two army aviation companies (US), No. 9 Sqn RAAF
Description: A search-and-destroy operation in an AO of 47 sq km centred 6 km ESE of Dat Do. Undulating terrain flanked by the coastline and bisected laterally by the Song Ba Dap; covered mainly in jungle and brushwood, with rice areas throughout but mainly flanking the river, also some clear forest, grassland, sand and swamp. The area was a VC base area, assisting domination of Dat Do and nearby villages, also being used to establish caches of arms and equipment for local forces; the operational area of C25 Coy, previously of D445 Bn, it provided a covered approach from the east for objectives in the south of Phuoc Tuy province. Insertion by helicopter and APC, extraction by helicopter.
Location: Phuoc Tuy province, 15 km SE of 1ATF base.
Results: Casualties: Own: Nil; VC: KIA 5, wounded/escaped 7. Destroyed were one regimental, diree company and three platoon positions, other installations, and 3 tonnes of rice. A number of weapons, some ammunition, and a large range of miscellaneous stores were captured.

Photo Courtesy of the AWM ID No: GIL/67/0377/VN
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Op 'ARMIDALE'
(13 May 1967).

Formations!units: 6 RAR (minus), with in direct support 101 Fd Bty, one OH-13 of 161 (Indep) Recce Fit; in support A Sqn 3 Cav Regt
Description: A cordon-and-search of a reported VC harbour area 2 km SSW of the site of Xa Long Phuoc. No AO was
identified. Terrain flat, the objective being in an area of jungle surrounded by rice to the east, south and west, clear forest and rubber to the north. Sector Headquarters had advised that 40 (plus) armed VC had been sighted there and initial reconnaissance by OH-13 and FAC aircraft resulted in VC ground fire. Deployment by APC.
Location: Phuoc Tuy province, 5 km south of 1ATF base.
Results: Nil.

Op ''BAROSSA'
(4 June 1967).

Formations/units: 2 RAR, with in direct support one field battery 1 Fd Regt; in support one army aviation company (US). Description: A search-and-clear operation in the area of Xa Binh Ba; within the Binh Ba TAOR (ARVN) of 11 sq km astride
Route 2. Terrain flat to undulating covered mainly in rubber, with grassland, jungle and clear forest in the SW; in the centre of the
TAOR Xa Binh Ba and the nearby airstrip. VC activity in the area was probably limited to local guerrilla elements. Deployment by helicopter.
Location: Phuoc Tuy province, 12 km NNE of 1ATF base.
Results: Nil.

Op 'DARWIN'
(6-7 June 1967)

Formations/units: 2 RAR, with under command two combat engineer teams 1 Fd Sqn; in direct support 161 Fd Bty (NZ), one OH-13 of 161 (Indep) Recce Fit; in support two army aviation companies (US).
Description: A search-and-destroy operation, along an axis from an LZ 6 km ENE of Xa Long Tan generally westwards to 1ATF base, a distance of approximately 12 km; no AO was assigned. Terrain undulating to hilly, covered mainly in clear forest and jungle, with areas of brushwood, rice and grassland; thick jungle and bamboo were also reported. D445 Bn was possibly
located about 1 km NE of the intended airmobile assault landing in a VC base area, which area could also produce contacts with small groups of VC forces of various types. Insertion by helicopter, return on foot on axis of operation.
Location: Phuoc Tuy Province, maximum distance 12 km cast of 1ATF Base.
Results: One VC camp destroyed.

Op 'BROKEN HILL'
(7-13 June 1967)

Photo Courtesy of the AWM
COL/67/0493/VN
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Formations/units: 7 RAR, with under command one combat engineer team 1 Fd Sqn, under operational control one troop A Sqn 3 Cav Regt; in direct support 106 Fd Bty, one OH-13 of 161 (Indcp) Recce Fit; in support No. 9 Sqn RAAF
Description: A search-and- destroy operation in AO Judy of 27 sq km, centred 5 km NW of Xa Binh Ba. In the period 9-10 June, the operation had a blocking function for the US Army/ARVN Operation Akron, to the north and west of the AO. Flat to undulating terrain, except for Nui Nhon (150 m), covered mainly in jungle and clear forest with areas of rubber in the east, and some patches of bamboo and grassland. The area was important for the VC because it lay between the Hat Dich base area, to the NW, and the opulated areas of Xa Binh Ba, Ngai Giao and Xa Binh Gia; consequently all types of VC forces could be encountered. Deployment by helicopter and APC.
Artillery Support: 131 Div Loc Bty. On the 7th Survey sect moved north in convoy to the FSB position YS 440737, a reportedly “disused” cemetery on Binh Ba’s outskirts. Surveyors dug weapon pits and set their hootchies on their section of the FSB perimeter. 106 Fd Bty was to arrive the next day. Early the next morning surveyors awaited transport and protection from 3 Cav. Our Bdrs checked with 106 Bty recce party HQ tent. The news was not good, 3 Cav could not supply protection due to operational commitments. Limited assistance is offered if we can link up with an APC on sentry duty on the old airfield.
Location: Phuoc Tuy province, 11 km NNW of 1 ATF base.
Results: Casualties: Own: WIA 2; VC: KIA 1, wounded/escaped 3. Evacuated were 124 civilians, of whom two were detained as suspects. A number of VC camps and defensive positions, as well as 4 tonnes of rice, was destroyed. Six weapons, a quantity of ammunition, grenades and booby-traps were captured.

Op 'GERALDTON'
(15-21 June 1967

Photo Courtesy of the AWM

Formations/units: 2 RAR, with under command two combat engineer teams, under operational control one troop A Sqn 3 Cav Regt; in direct support 161 Fd Bty (NZ), one OH-13 of 161 (Indep) Recce Flt; in support two army aviation companies (US), No. 9 Sqn RAAF
Description: A search-and-destroy operation in an AO of 55 sq km, centred 5 km east of the outskirts of Dat Do. Terrain flat to undulating, with mainly rice astride Route 2 in the north with some brushwood and jungle, the remainder mainly jungle with areas of brushwood and patches of swamp, and rice near the Song Ba Dap—the southern boundary. The area was a VC base area containing equipment and arms caches for district and guerrilla forces, also providing a covered approach for attacks on targets in the south of the province; D445 Bn less one company was reported to be in the area on 21 May 67; district and guerrilla forces could also be encountered. Insertion by helicopter, extraction by helicopter and APC.
Location: PhuocTuy province, 14 km SE of 1ATF base.
Results: Casualties: Own: WIA 2; VC: KIA 1. Approximately 90 bunkers, 200 weapon pits, 225 metres of tunnels, 8 huts and 2 rice caches, as well as many UXBs were destroyed. An extensive range of items, including clothing, cooking utensils, explosives, ammunition, grenades, defence stores, rice (4 tonnes) and salt, as well as two canoes and an ox-cart were located.

OP 'COOPAROO'
(23 June-1 July 1967).

Formations /units: 7 RAR, with under command two combat engineer teams 1 Fd Sqn, under operational control one company (plus) 2 RAR; in direct support 106 Fd Bty, one OH-13 of 161 (Indep) Recce Fit; in support A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, two army aviation companies (US), No. 9 Sqn RAAF.
Description: A search-and-destroy operation, in AOs Pinky and Rachel of 56 sq km, centred 7 km SE of Xa Binh Gia. Terrain undulating to hilly, rising from south to north, covered mainly in jungle with some clear forest and brushwood, also small areas of grassland at the NW and SE extremities. Forming part of the western section of a major VC-base area, the area provided the closest covered assembly area for an attack on 1ATF base and was also a possible transit area for D445 Bn. Intelligence indicated on 22 June that a main force regiment was probably in the area as well as small groups from the VC provincial administrative organisation. Insertion by helicopter and APC, extraction by helicopter.
Location: Phuoc Tuy province, 12 km ENE of 1ATF base.
Artillery Support: 131 Div Loc Bty. FSB YS 500715 was a clearing in a heavily timbered area.Survey Section was divided into 3 groups. 2 control groups would be stationed at the 2 “known” points. One on top of Nui Dat, the other at the Horseshoe. Lt Yerbury and the 3rd “balloon” group were air lifted with 106 Bty by Chinooks out to the FSB. the survey section was to provide survey for 106 Bty who were to occupy a FSB at YS 500715, about 10,000 m NE of Nui Dat for Op “Cooparoo”. To accomplish this one survey party, incl Sect Comd, went with 106 Bty to the FSB, another party to the Horseshoe and a third party to the top of Nui Dat. The main problem to be overcome was that the FSB could NOT be seen from Nui Dat or the Horseshoe as it was a small clearing in the jungle, with trees of 10 – 20m ht. . Additional tasks performed during the period were ; a) The providing at the request of the OC, a BP at D Coy 2 RAR. b) The surveying for the 8” guns when they moved to a new position near LUSCOMBE airfield YS 436679 during Op “Cooparoo”.
Results: Casualties: Own: WIA 4, DOW 1 (accidental discharge). One fully dug-in battalion position was destroyed, one quarter-tonne of rice captured. [Note: This operationwas named after flic Brisbane suburb of Coorparoo, but was misspelt as Cooparoo.
Casualties
26-6-67 Cox J.G. Pte 1731426 7 RAR C 22 RAINF DOWBA At 8FDAMB from GSW from other Pl. members .

OP 'PADDINGTON'
(6-16 July 1967)

Art Courtesy of the AWM
AWM : ART40578

Formations/Units: 1ATF with under command units tasked: 2 RAR, 7 RAR, A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, 4 Fd Regt, 1 Fd Sqn, 161 Indep
Recce Fit; under operational control 2/47th Inf (Mech) (US), 1/11th Arm Cav (US); in support Btry B 1/1 lth Arty (US), Btry B 2/35th Arty (US), Btry C l/84th Arty (US); conducting operations in cooperation with 1st Bdc 9th Inf Div (US) and Task Force 'B' Marine Corps Bde (RVN); coordinating headquarters HQ 9th Inf Div (US).
Description: A combined search-and-destroy operation with RVN and US forces, 1ATF additionally to establish a fire support and logistic base at Xuyen Moc, and provide security for engineer clearing operations on Routes 23, 328 and 329. The 1ATF AO was 136 sq km approximating a quadrant adjacent to and NE of Xuyen Moc. Undulating terrain, mainly jungle, with some clear forest, and scattered areas of grassland mainly in the south, also some areas of brushwood. The area was a traditional VC stronghold and base area for the regiments and logistic elements of 5 Div; 274 Regt was believed to be in occupation. Deployment by helicopter, APC and foot.
Location: Phuoc Tuy province, 29 km ENE of 1ATF base.
Artillery Support: The forward Infantry from 3 forces would have direct Artillery support from 6 Batteries (2 Australian and 4 US) at the Taskforce FSB “Tom” just outside Xuyen Moc. FSB Tom - YS 65-76 FSB 23 km due E of Nui Dat, 18 km NE of Dat Do and appx 12 km N of the coast. Was known simply as Xuyen Moc until renamed Tom sometime in 1967. 161 Bty, RNZA (Martin?s Bty 28Apr67- 6Apr68) firebase set here 8-15Jul67 . Phuoc Tuy Prov, III Corps.On the 9th Survey Section 131 Div Loc joined the Taskforce redeployment convoy and journeyed out to Taskforce FSB Tom YS 6669 while 1ATF HQ flew into the area with 7RAR. For this Operation 4 FSBs were established. These bases were: TOM YS 6569, JOHN YS 5975, BILL YS 6278, MIKE YS 6082, The Arty element at TOM consisted of two Btys of 4 Fd Regt and 4 Btys of US Arty. Last survey at FSB Tom fixed 31C, YS 648703 the Engineers LP to map grid. 31C was on top of a hill overlooking Paddington’s area of operations. 131 Div Loc Bty, From this fixed vantage point the surveyors tried to get visual contact with 2 more US FSBs to our NNW. FSB Mike YS 618820 13km NNW and FSB Bill YS 6278 in the bush 9km NNW of Tom’s 31C position. Visual contact with these 2 FSBs would give us a chance to transfer theatre grid to their positions. This would then put all Gun Batteries on map grid.
Results: Casualties: Own: KIA 1 (accidentally), WIA 1 (accidentally); VC: KIA 31. 171 bunkers, 200 m of trench, three fighting positions, 32 tunnels, and 34 other military structures destroyed; 138 bunkers and 34 other military structures damaged; 14 tunnel entrances, 180 m of trench uncovered, other facilities discovered (bunkers, tunnel system) were to be destroyed later by airstrike.
Casualties
10-7-67 Wride D.S. Spr 18665 1 F DSQN 23 RAE F /BCAS Tree fell on dozer during ops.

Op 'SOUTHPORT'
(22-28 July 1967)

Type 56 NVA MG

Op 'CAIRNS'
(25 July-1 August 1967).

Photo Courtesy of the AWM
VN/67/0130/11

Formations/Units: 2 RAR, with under command two combat engineer teams 1 Fd Sqn; in direct support 161 Fd Bty (NZ), one OH-13 of 161 (Indep) Recce Fit; in support one army aviation company (US).
Description: A search-and-destroy operation in AO Banana of 38 sq km centred 2 km east of the SE outskirts of Dat Do, its western boundary just east of the barrier minefield and fence from the Horseshoe to the coast. Terrain undulating, half under rice, the remainder jungle and brushwood, with some patches of clear forest, and sand dunes near the coast. The VC used
the wooded areas to the east of Dat Do as a base area, because of proximity to supplies from that town, and access to routes to the east and north; VC administrative elements only were likely to be encountered. Deployment by helicopter into the Horseshoe, on foot from the Horseshoe.
Location: Phuoc Tuy province, 11 km SE of 1ATF base.
Results: Casualties: Own: KIA 2,WIA 6; VC: KIA 4, wounded/escaped 1. A considerable amount of explosives, mines and equipment was located and destroyed and 42 bunkers were destroyed.
Casualties
1-8-67 Woolford R.M. LCpl 2RAR D21 RAINF KIA Booby trap in En.camp in the Long Green.
1-8-67 McGarry P.S. Pte 2412362 2RAR D 67.08.01 20 RAINF KIA Booby trap in En.camp in the Long Green.
LIGHT GREEN. A narrow area of light scrub and grass beginning at tha eastern foothills of tha NUI DIEN BA (YS4954) and runnirg between the hamlets of AP LO GOM and XA HOI MY parallel to the lateral coastal sand dunes as far as the mouth of the BA DAP River at TS580570. The BA DAP River forms the northern side of this area.
LONG GREEN. Light and thick scrub with swamps lying in an area bounded to the west by PHUOC LOI Hamlet (YS5057) and DAT DO (YS5060), to the north by Route 23 to the east by the SONG RAI and to the south by the SONG BA DAP.

Op 'BALLARAT'
(4-16 August 1967)

EKT/67/0025/VN. South Vietnam. c. 9 August 1967. Armoured personnel carrier (APC) from A Squadron, 3rd Cavalry Regiment, Royal Australian Armoured Corps (RAAC), lumbers over an embankment during Operation Ballarat which began 4 August 1967 and ended 16 August 1967. Copyright: AWM copyright

EKT/67/0063/VN . Phuoc Tuy Province, South Vietnam. c. 10 August 1967. Trooper John Weire of Mentone, Vic, uses an umbrella to shelter from the shower of rain, during Operation Ballarat which began 4 August 1967 and ended 16 August 1967, while the remainder of the crew, Sergeant John Murphy of Cressy, Vic (left), and Craftsman Terry Parker of Launceston, Tas, keep a sharp lookout for Viet Cong (VC) from their armoured personnel carrier (APC) from A Squadron, 3rd Cavalry Regiment. (Black and white version held as COL/67/0654A/VN) Copyright: AWM copyright

Photos Courtesy of the AWM:
EKT/67/0063/VN
EKT/67/0025/VN
Click Images to Enlarge

Formations /Units: 7 RAR, with under command four combat engineer teams 1 Fd Sqn; in direct support 106 Fd Bty, one OH-13 of 161 (Indep) Recce Fit; in support No. 9 Sqn RAAE
Description: A search-and-destroy operation in AO Lion of 73 sq km centred 7 Ian WNW of Xa Binh Ba. Terrain, except for Nui Nghe (203 m) in the south of the AO, undulating but rising generally to the north and east, mainly jungle and cleared forest with isolated clearings, patches of bamboo, swamp, brushwood and rice, with a larger area of rice in the SW. VC activity
indicated was for Rear Services units of 5 Div and possibly C41 Coy moving back into the area after Operations Akron (US) and Broken Hill (7 RAR) to assess damage, begin area rehabilitation and reactivate supply lines; elements in the main contact proved to be from 274 Regt. Deployment on foot.
Location: Phuoc Tuy province, 9 km Nw of 1 ATF base.
Artillery Support: FSB Ap Suoi Nghe - YS 43-71 FSB, appx 2 km W of Rte-2, 5 Km N of Nui Dat and on the S edge of the Binh Ba Rubber Plantation. 161 Bty, RNZA (Martin?s Bty 28Apr67-6Apr68) firebase set here 6-9Aug67 . Phuoc Tuy Prov, III Corps.131 Div Loc Bty. 5th Aug, surveyors joined the 106 Bty Recce Party on their way out to the proposed FSB position. A simple diamond traverse from 31A Nui Dat, up the highway and off to the FSB was envisaged. At first light, 6th Aug surveyors were moving into a position where they could observe both Nui Dat and Nui Ong Cau in the Warbies. Triangulation had been approved by Topo as a means of fixing the Bty Centre for 106. Again the scheme would assume the angle at Nui Ong Cau. Observations completed, calculations quickly brought theatre grid to 106 Bty Centre. No sooner had 106Fd Bty been positioned than a fire mission was called. The fire mission continued for some time and was joined by the guns at Nui Dat. As the guns of the FSB and Nui Dat continued firing, 161 Fd Bty NZ arrived at the FSB and set up around the new Bty position. Their guns were placed on steel mats to stop them sinking. They were immediately into action to help out 106. During the small breaks in the fire mission a little bell helicopter kept coming in and taking off from the 106 Bty HQ tent area. The fire mission continued till a halt was called on all guns. Fire missions were called for all afternoon and into the evening, from Nui Dat and our FSB.
Result: Casualties: Own KIA 5, DOW 1, WIA 20; VC: KIA 7 WE 33, PW 1. Captured wre a number of weapons, a quantity of rice and a battalion-sized bunker system.
Casualties
6-8-67 Aylett D.R. T/Cpl 7 RAR A/1 22 RAINF KIA GSW/shrap wds in contact on Nui Nghe.
6-8-67 Hayes J.F. Cpl 7 RAR A/1 27 RAINF KIA GSW from MG to body in contact on Nui Nghe.
6-8-67 Brophy E.F. Pte 7 RAR A 22 RAINF KIA GSW/shrap wds in contact on Nui Nghe.
6-8-67 Milford D.G. Pte 7 RAR A 22 RAINF KIA GSW/shrap wds in contact on Nui Nghe.
6-8-67Harstad B.A. Pte 7 RAR A 21 RAINF DOW GSW/shrap wds in contact on Nui Nghe.
6-8-67 O'Connor J.M. Pte 7 RAR A/2 25 RAINF DOW GSW to head in contact on Nui Nghe.
6-8-67 Downward K.R. Pte 7 RAR A RAINF WIA GSW/shrap wds in contact on Nui Nghe.

Op 'ATHERTON'
(16-24 August 1967)

CAM/67/0727/VN. Vietnam. 1967-09. Corporal Ivor Briggs of Charters Towers, Qld, stands guard at the entrance to a Vietnamese hamlet while it was searched by members of 2RAR /NZ (ANZAC) (The ANZAC Battalion comprising 2nd Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment and a component from the 1st Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment), during Operation Atherton. The hamlet was near a Viet Cong controlled area south-east of the 1st Australian Task Force (1ATF) base at Nui Dat. Behind him is a village man with an ox cart. Copyright: AWM copyright

Photo Courtesy of the AWM
CAM/67/0727/VN

Formations I Units: 2 RAR, with under command four combat engineer teams; in direct support 161 Fd Bty (NZ), one OH-13 of 161 (Indep) Recce Fit; in support elements No. 9 Sqn RAAF
Description: A search- and-destroy operation in AO Pineapple of 64 sq km, together with route clearing and engineer protection along Route 23 within the AO boundary. Terrain generally
undulating, mainly brushwood and rice with some clear forest and patches of jungle north of Route 23, mainly jungle and rice
with some brushwood south of Route 23, with scattered patches of grassland throughout. The> operation was designed
to clear the infiltration routes into the east prior to the GVN elections, to maintain pressure on the VC base area, known as the
'Long Green', east of Dat Do, and to secure the 1ATF eastern flank from VC interference during village searches later in the month. Deployment by helicopter.
Location: Phuoc Tuy province 12 kms SE of 1ATF base.
Results: Casualties: Own: KIA 2,WIA 8; VC: KIA 2, wounded/escaped 2. Captured were quantities of weapons, munitions and equipment; destroyed were quantities of rice and salt, one ox-cart, a number of tunnels, weapon pits, bunkers and huts.

Click Image to Enlarge

Op 'MOSMAN'
(18 August 1967)

Formations/Units: 7 RAR, with under operational control (for cordon-and-search) 106 Fd Bty, one companyV, 1 SAS Sqn, 1 ARU, Def PIHQ 1 ATF, one troop A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, two combat engineer teams, element 1 Aust CA Unit.
Description A search, without cordon, of Hoa Long, of area, location, population and terrain as described in Operation Camden (no. 3 above).The AO was represented by the village boundary extended slightly to the north and east. Increased VC guerilla activities in and around the village prompted the detailed search, which was intended to negate any VC subversive intentions to disrupt the forthcoming GVN elections. Deployment by TCV.
Location: Phuoc Tuy province, 3 km south of 1ATF base.
Results: Limited quantities of small arms ammunition, used medical ampoules and 51 panji stakes were captured.

Op 'BURNSIDE'
(24 August 1967)

EKN/67/0138/VN. Phuoc Tuy Province, South Vietnam. 24 August 1967. Soldiers from the Mortar Platoon of 7th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment (7RAR), in the village of Dat Do during Operation Burnside. Left to right: 374177 Lieutenant David Tresise; 55235 Captain (Capt) H. D. Clively; unknown. Capt Clively, before he was commissioned, was the first Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) of 7RAR. (Black and white version held as COL/67/0789/VN) Copyright: AWM copyright

Formations I Units: l ATF, with under command units tasked:V, 7 RAR, 4 Fd Regt, one troop A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, elements 1 Fd Sqn, Det 1 TopoSvyTp, 1 SAS Sqn, 1 ARU, 161 (Indep) Recce Fit, 1 Aust CA Unit; with in support l/83d Arty (US), Btry A 2/35th Arty (US), two army aviation companies (US), element No. 9 Sqn RAAF.
Description: A search, without cordon, of Dat Do,V searching to the east of Routes 52 and 44 (the north-south axis through the village), and 7 RAR to the west. Dat Do was the rice-marketing centre of Phuoc Tuy province, population 6000 and area about 6 sq km. Terrain generally fiat, with Dat Do situated on slightly elevated ground surrounded by rice except for grassland to the north and NE; most of the village was under clear forest-type vegetation. Route 23 bisected the village on the east-west axis. Some small-scale patrol clashes had occurred between ARVN and VC forces around Dat Do. At the same time the VC were believed to be building up supplies of small arms and explosives to interfere with an election to be held in early September, and also checkpoints, and military traffic to the Horseshoe, occupied by lATF, to the immediate north. Local guerillas, the C25 Coy, and possibly elements of D445 Bn were probaby involved. Deployment by helicopter, APC and foot. Location: Phuoc Tuy province, 9 km SE of lATF base.
Results: 7 RAR located 480 tonnes of unmilled rice.

Photo Courtesy of the AWM EKN/67/0138/VN
Click Image to Enlarge

Op ''ULMARRA'
(26 August 67).

EKN/67/0133/VN . Phuoc Tuy Province, South Vietnam. 26 August 1967. US Army Chinook helicopters land on a roadway near Phuoc Hai to airlift 7th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment (7RAR) troops back to base at the conclusion of Operation Ulmarra. (Black and white version held as COL/67/0784/VN) Copyright: AWM copyright

Formations/Units: lATF, with under command units tasked:V, 7 RAR, 4 Fd Regt, 1 SAS Sqn, 1 ARU, elements A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, 1 Fd Sqn, 161 (Indep) Recce Fit; in support l/83d Arty (US), Btry A 2/35th Arty (US), two army aviation companies (US)
Description: A search, without cordon, of Lang Phuoc Hai,V searching the NE portion of the village, 7 RAR the SW. Lang Phuoc Hai was a thriving fishing village 6 km SSE of Dat Do on Route 44, population of almost 9000 and area about 1 sq km. Terrain flat. The village, with a high density of dwellings and fish processing shelters, was bordered on the NE and SW by sand dunes, on the NW by brushwood, and on the SE by the South China sea. The seaward approach to Lang Phuoc Hai made it a useful point of entry for VC supplies. Old VC trenches were located on both the NE and western sides of the village, and VC forces could have included local guerillas, the C25 Coy, or elements ofD445 Bn, employing sniping, booby-traps or mines. Deployment by helicopter and APC.
Location: On the coast of Phuoc Tuy province, 16 km SSE of 1ATF base.
Results: 24 persons handed over to GVN police for misdemeanours

Photo Courtesy of the AWM EKN/67/0133/VN
Click Image to Enlarge

1ATF Op 'AINSLIE'
(31 August-21 September 1967)

P02060.004. Fire Support Base (FSB) Alanbrooke , South Vietnam. c.1967-09. Bare-chested gunners of an Australian Field Artillery battery settling in to the newly constructed FSB during Operation Ainslie. Note the canvas covered "hootchies" (living shelters) and sandbag protected weapon pits. Operation Ainslie was carried out by the 1st Australian Task Force (1ATF) between 1967-08-31 and 1967-09-21 with the aim of relocating 1000 villagers from the "Slope 30" area to a protected area near Xa Bang. The villagers had previously been forced to hand over much of their crops to the Vietcong. (Donor G. Murphy)

P02060.002. Binh Ba, South Vietnam. c.1967-08. A Flying Crane helicopter (either a Sikorsky CH-54 or S-64 Tarhe) flying over jungle after delivering ammunition to Fire Support Base (FSB) Alanbrooke during Operation Ainslie. Between 1967-08-31 and 1967-09-21 Operation Ainslie was carried out by the 1st Australian Task Force (1ATF) to relocate about 1000 villagers from the "Slope 30" area to a protected village near Xa Bang. Villagers in the Slope 30 area had been forced to provide much of the food they grew to the Viet Cong. (Donor G. Murphy)

Photos Courtesy of the AWM
P02060.004/ P02060.002
Click Images to Enlarge

Formations/Units: 1ATF, with under command units tasked:V, 7 RAR, A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, 4 Fd Regt, 1 Fd Sqn, 1 SAS Sqn, 1 ARU, 161 (Indep) Recce Fit, 1 Aust CA Unit, HQ Coy 1ATF; in support Btry A 2/3 5th Arty (US), Btry A l/83d Arty (US), army aviation companies (US), No. 9 Sqn RAAF
Description: A route clearing, resettlement and search-and-destroy operation, in conjunction with 11th Arm Cav (US) The northern 1ATF AO was that assigned toV and 7 RAR, of 43 sq km, astride Route 2 centred 6 km north of HQ Due Thanh District at Ngai Giao; the AO covered the villages to be resettled including Xa Bang. The southern AO, area 9 sq km and centred 4 km north of 1ATF base, was that in which the new village, Ap Suoi Nghe, was to be built. Route 2 was to be cleared to 200 m each side of the road from the district headquarters northwards to link up with 11th Arm Cav (US), route clearing from the northern boundary of the northern 1ATF AO to 5 km NNW of the Courtenay rubber plantation astride the northern provincial border. Terrain for the northern AO generally as for Operation Southport (no. 24 above), the southern AO undulating with rubber, grassland and some habitation immediately west of Route 2, most of the area being mainly clear forest with patches of jungle and rice. The VC used the area of Xa Bang, known to them as 'Slope 30', for the bulk procurement of supplies and as a key logistic centre for the network of tracks radiating from the area to 5 Div and VC provincial forces bases; the presence of civilians in the area inhibited 1 ATF artillery fire. VC forces of all types might be encountered. Deployment by helicopter.
Location: Phuoc Tuy province, the northern AO 16 km north of 1ATF base.
Results: Casualties: Own: DOW 1, WIA 2; VC: KIA 18, wounded/escaped 14, PW 3. A number of weapons, some ammunition, supplies and equipment were captured or destroyed; and 109 bunkers, five huts and 100 m of trench were destroyed. A total of 1132 persons, comprising 246 families, were resettled; of these 130 persons (34 families) were rehoused at Xa Binh Ba.
Remarks: An additional phase was added to the operation as a result of intelligence developed;V and 7 RAR were deployed in blocking positions to deal with 1J274 Regt and 2J274 Regt attempts to cross Route 2 from west to east. This deployment produced the main contacts of the operation.Slope 30 - Area in Phuoc Tuy Prov near Duc Tanh from which 7 RAR cleared and relocated all civilians during Operation Ainslie. The displaced were moved to "Hamlet 3," aka Ap Suoi Nghe, approx 14Sep 67. Phuoc Tuy Prov, III Corps.131 Div Loc Bty
FSB Allanbroke - YS 45-78 FSB, 1 km W of Rte-2, 11 km N of Nui Dat, 5 km WNW of Ngai Giao. 161 Bty, RNZA (Martin?s Bty 13 May 67-14 Apr 68) firebase set here 5-19 Sep 67. Phuoc Tuy Prov, III Corps

The AC-130 Gunship first arrived in South Vietnam on 21 September 1967 under the Gunship II program, and began combat operations over Laos and South Vietnam that year. By 30 October 1968, enough AC-130 Gunship IIs arrived to form a squadron. The 16th Special Operations Squadron (SOS), of the 8th Tactical Fighter Wing (TFW) were activated on the above date at Ubon AB, Thailand.By December 1968 most AC-130s were flown under F-4 escort from the 479th TFS (Tactical Fighter Squadron), normally three Phantoms per Gunship. In late 1969, under the code name of "Surprise Package", 56-0490 arrived with solid state laser illuminated low light level TV with a companion YAG laser designator, an improved forward looking infrared (FLIR) sensor, video recording for TV and FLIR, inertial navigation, and a prototype digital fire control computer. Surprise Package was equipped with the latest 20 mm Gatling guns and 40 mm Bofors cannon, but no 7.62 mm close support armament. Surprise Package was refitted with upgraded similar equipment in the summer of 1970, and then redeployed to Ubon RTAFB. Surprise Package served as a test bed for the avionic systems and armament for the AC-130E. In the summer of 1971, Surprise Package was converted to the Pave Pronto configuration, and assumed its new nickname, Thor .In Vietnam, gunships destroyed more than 10,000 trucks and participated in many crucial close air support missions.

l ATF Op 'KENMORE'
(29 September-11 October 1967)

THU/67/0936/VN. VIETNAM. 1967-10. A BUNKER FOUND IN AN ABANDONED VIET CONG CAMP IS EXAMINED BY PRIVATE LLOYD VENZ OF BEAUDESERT, QLD, AND 7TH BATTALION, THE ROYAL AUSTRALIAN REGIMENT (7RAR), DURING OPERATION KENMORE IN PHUOC TUY PROVINCE. Copyright: AWM copyrigh

Photo Courtesy of the AWM
THU/67/0936/VN

Formations/Units: lATF, with under command units tasked: 7 RAR, A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, 4 Fd Regt, element 1 Fd Sqn, 161 (Indep) Recce Fit; in support Btry A l/35th Arty (US), Btry A l/83d Arty (US), army aviation companies (US), No. 9 Sqn RAAF.
Description: A search-and- destroy operation in AOs Waratah and Banksia, of 97 sq km later extended, centred 6 km SE of
Xuyen Moc and bordering 24 km of coastline. Terrain undulating to hilly, mainly jungle with some rice in the west, sand dunes along the coast, areas of clear forest in the west and east, and scattered areas of brushwood and grassland throughout. The area was an important VC supply area, particularly in terms of seaborne resupply, but also for equipment production cells; members of these cells, local guerillas and supply system co-ordination troops were likely in the area. Deployment by helicopter, advanced elements by APC.
Location: PhuocTuy province, 26 km ESE of l ATF base.
Results: Casualties: VC: KIA 16, wounded/escaped 4, PW 1. A number of weapons, small arms ammunition, grenades and mines were captured, along with over 12 tonnes of rice, 120 lb of salt, large quantities of documents and miscellaneous equipment; 230 bunkers, 300 weapon pits and 74 military structures were destroyed.

l ATF Op 'SANTA FE'
(27 October-18 November 1967)

1 ATF Op Order 35/67
(pdf file 1.2mb)
7 RAR Op Order 15/67
(pdf file 876kb)
7 RAR After Action Report
(pdf file 8.93mb)

EKN/67/0141/VN. Phuoc Tuy Province, South Vietnam. 11 November 1967. Soldiers from Support Company, 7th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment (7RAR), dodge the downdraft of an Iroquois helicopter during Operation Santa Fe. (Black and white version held as COL/67/0793/VN) Copyright: AWM copyrigh

COL/67/1049/VN. VIETNAM. 1967-10. TROOPS OF THE 7TH BATTALION, ROYAL AUSTRALIAN REGIMENT (7RAR), WASTE NO TIME IN MOVING AWAY FROM A CHINOOK HELICOPTER WHICH HAS JUST DROPPED THEM IN THE LANDING ZONE FOR THE START OF OPERATION SANTA FE IN PHUOC TUY PROVINCE. Copyright: AWM copyrigh

Photos Courtesy of the AWM
EKN/67/0141/VN
COL/67/1049/VN

Formations/Units: l ATF, with under command units tasked:V, 7 RAR, A Sqn3 Cav Regt,4 Fd Regt, 1 Fd Sqn, 1 SAS Sqn, 1 ARU, 161 (Indep) Recce Fit; under operational control 3/5th Cav (US); in support Btry A 2/35th Arty (US), Btry A l/83d Arty (US), one army aviation company (US), No. 9 Sqn RAAF; conducting operations in co­operation with HQ 9th Inf Div (US), 1st Inf Bde (US), 11th Arm Cav (US) and one regiment 18th Inf Div (RVN).
Description: A search-and-destroy operation, on a co­operating multi-brigade basis; the lATF AO was 266 sq km centred 14 km NNW of Xuyen Moc, and astride portions of Routes 327, 328 and 330. Terrain undulating to hilly, mainly jungle with some clear forest and areas of grassland, a few plantations being established near the routes mentioned; small scattered areas of rice, brushwood and bamboo throughout, with patches of swamp in the east. VC use of the area was for bases, staging areas, communication routes and food production, particularly in the area of Xa Thua Tich and to its close NNE; occupying the area were logistic troops, although all VC unit types could be encountered, either in bases or in transit. Extensive underground storage, tunnels and bunkers were anticipated. Deployment by helicopter and APC.
Artillery Support: Theatre grid was provided by the surveyors to FSB Wilton (1.75 pdf)YS 538778, by traversing from a known Topo point on the eastern side of Xa Binh Gia YS 507774. On the 27th Oct a regimental Fire Support Base was established at YS 5476 as part of the preliminary operation SANTA FE. Theatre grid was provided by a traverse from a Topo Svy point at YS 507774 to YS 538778 and thence to the gun area. The second FSPB, LION (1.75 pdf) was established at THUA TICH – YS 6181. This FSPB caused quite a headache survey-wise as there was no control in the area. Prior to the commencement of the Op this problem was discussed with TOPO Survey and the initial plan was to traverse along Route 327 and 328 starting from FSPB WILTON at YS 5476. The protection for this job was to come from the Infantry and Cavalry elements who were to move along this Route. However after discussions with the Infantry and Cavalry it was found their rate of advance would have been too fast and consequently this plan was dropped. The next possible alternative was provided by a move of 2 RAR HQ to a hill at YS 566764. A quick recce of this hill proved the idea impractical owing to very dense trees and undergrowth.The morning of the 3rd Nov, 108 Fd Bty and 106 Fd Bty departed FSB Wilton and were airlifted to FSB Lion. 131 surveyors worked all day till last light to get them on Regimental Grid. Later that day A Bty 2/35th US moved under APC escort from FSB Wilton along Route 327 and up Route 328 to FSB Lion.
Location: Phuoc Tuy province 20 km NNE of lATF base
Maps:.1. Xuyen Moc 1;50000. Enemy Locations(1.75 pdf) . 2. Xuyen Moc : 1:50000. AO and FSBs
Results: Casualties: Own: (Aus) KIA 3, WIA 8; US 3/5th Cav: KIA 2, WIA 14; VC: KIA 38, wounded/escaped 9, PW 5. There were 54 weapons, 3000 rounds of ammunition captured, large numbers of mines and grenades destroyed, over 6 tonnes of rice and a large quantity of medical supplies either captured or destroyed; also 69 camps, 813 bunkers, 237 military structures and 1600 m of tunnel were destroyed. Remarks: 87 soldiers were hospitalised with malaria and 59 with fever of unknown origin.
Casualies
5-11-67 Tregear B. Gnr 4FDREGT 108 Bty 29 RAA DOW From wds received on 4.11.67
10-11-67 .Allen N.G. Pte 7 RAR A/2 21 RAINF KIA Mine. D10 at FSB Lion
10-11-67 .Fallon B.E. Pte 7 RAR A/2 31 RAINF KIA Mine. D10 at FSB Lion.
Medical Evacuation (Dustoff)

Battle of Dak To
3- 22 November

 
Video Duration 1.02 mins

The Battle of Dak To was a series of major engagements of the Vietnam War that took place between 3 November and 22 November 1967, in Kontum Province, in the Central Highlands of the Republic of Vietnam (South Vietnam). The action at Dak To was one of a series of People's Army of Vietnam (PAVN) offensive initiatives that began during the second half of the year. North Vietnamese attacks at Loc Ninh (in Binh Long Province), Song Be (in Phuoc Long Province), and at Con Thien and Khe Sanh, (in Quang Tri Province), were other actions which, combined with Dak To, became known as "the border battles
."During the summer of 1967, heavy contact with PAVN forces in the area prompted the launching of Operation Greeley, a combined search and destroy effort by elements of the U.S. 4th Infantry Division, the U.S. 173rd Airborne Brigade, and Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) 42nd Infantry Regiment and Airborne units. The fighting was intense and lasted into the fall, when the North Vietnamese seemingly withdrew.
By late October, however, U.S. intelligence indicated that local communist units had been reinforced and combined into the 1st PAVN Division, which was tasked with the capture of Dak To and the destruction of a brigade-size U.S. unit. Information provided by a PAVN defector provided the allies a good indication of the locations and intentions of North Vietnamese forces. This intelligence prompted the launching of Operation MacArthur, and brought the units back to the area along with more reinforcements from the ARVN Airborne Division. The battles that erupted on the hill masses south and southeast of Dak To became some of the most hard-fought and bloody battles of the Vietnam War.

3 - 25 November. Fifteen SAS fighting patrols are inserted into the area along a line from north of Binh Gia to east of Xuyen Moc.

6 November. An SAS patrol ambushes a Viet Cong patrol killing three Viet Cong, 6 klms east of Bing Gia.
8 - 9 November. A ten man SAS fighting patrol kill one Viet Cong and locate an enemy camp, two klms south of Thua Tich. Further SAS patrols kill 4 Viet Cong in the vicinity.
17 November. An SAS patrol ambushes a Viet Cong patrol killing three, close to Nui Dinh.

1ATF Op 'FORREST'
(23 November 1967-5 January 1968)

1 ATF Op Order 36/67
(6.52 pdf file)

EKN/67/0145/VN. South Vietnam. November 1967. Two Australian soldiers watch an American medical evacuation 'dustoff' helicopter during Operation Forrest in the jungle. At left is 2784813 Private David Reuben Roberts, 7th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment (7RAR). Copyright: AWM copyrigh

Formations/Units: 1ATF, with under command units tasked:V, 7 RAR, A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, 4 Fd Regt, 1 Fd Sqn, 1 SAS Sqn, 1 ARU, 161 (Indep) Recce Fit, 1 Aust CA Unit; in support Btry A 2/35th Arty (US), Btry A l/83d Arty (US), No. 9 Sqn RAAF. US Air Mobile Coys
Description:A rice-denial operation in conjunction with HQ Phuoc Tuy Sector and sector forces, in an AO comprising Phuoc Tuy province west of the 71 easting and south of the 83 northing, but excluding sector AOs permanently allocated, these being primarily astride sections of Routes 2, 15, 23 and 44. Terrain undulating to hilly, except for major features such as Nui Dinh and Nui Thi Vai in the SW; jungle mainly in the east and west, with rice in the south, areas of brushwood mainly in the SE, and clear forest predominating in the centre except for plantations and grassland most commonly bordering provincial routes. The VC used the rice-harvest time, December-January, to restock because of large quantities available and GVN difficulty in applying control; the VC logistic system had already been damaged by earlier 1ATF operations. Deployment by helicopter, APC and foot.
Artillery Support:: 4 Fd Regt daily Information sheets.(6.52 pdf file) 131 Div Loc Bty Operational Report. (6.52 pdf file)
Location: Phuoc Tuy province, approximating to 1ATF TAOR.
Results: Casualties: Own: KIA 4, WIA 35; VC: KIA 47, wounded/escaped 17, PW 42, detainees 360. Captured were 108 weapons, a significant quantity of ammunition, 11 mines and 10 grenades, 300 lbs of documents and 0.5 tonne of rice.
Casualties
27-11-67 Pettitt N.C. Pte 2RAR 21 RAINF DOW At 8FDAMB from wds earlier that day.
27-11-67 Rivett J.C. Pte 2RAR A 24 RAINF KIA Booby trap.
27-11-67 Cullen B.T. Pte 7 RAR D 20 RAINF KIA GSW to head.
27-11-67 Hawker N.V.G. Pte 7 RAR D 22 RAINF DOW At 24EVACHOSP from GSW earlier that day.
35 Aust WIA
Photo Courtesy of theAWM ID No:EKN/67/0145/VN

7 RAR 'Op OODNADATTA'
(24 November 1967)
(subsidiary operation of
Op 'Forrest')

Formations /Units: 7 RAR, with under operational control 106 Fd Bty (dismounted), D Coy 2 RAR, 1 SAS Sqn, 1 ARU, one troop A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, one troop 161 Fd Bty (NZ) (dismounted), elements 1 Fd Sqn and 1 Aust CA Unit, miscellaneous GVN police and specialist personnel; in direct support one OH-13 of 161 (Indep) Recce Fit.
Description: As a subsidiary operation of Operation Forrest, a cordon-and-search of Hoa Long, area, location, population and terrain asdescribed in Operation Camden (no. 3 above). The AO was represented by the village boundary. VC sympathies in Hoa Long indicated the likelihood of a VC attempt to build up rice stocks from this village during harvest; encounters were expected with village guerillas, the VC political structure and possibly purchasing agents. Deployment by foot.
Location: Phuoc Tuy province, 3 km south of 1ATF base.
Results: Screening centres processed 4137 villagers including children; detainees totalled within Operation Forrest

2RAR Op 'CANUNGRA'
(3-4 December 1967).

Formations/Units: 2 RAR, employing two companies, with under operational control 3 Tp A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, elements 1 Fd Sqn, detachments 1 Div Int Unit and 1 Aust CA Unit, ARVN and GVN elements; in direct support 108 Fd Bty; in support one army aviation company (US), element No 9 Sqn RAAF.
Description: As a subsidiary operation of Operation Forrest (no. 34 above), a cordon-and-search of Hoi Bai hamlet, part of Xa Hoi My, of area 300 m by 150 m, population 271, and 2.5 km south of the outskirts of Dat Do adjacent to Route 44. The AO was represented by the hamlet boundary. Terrain was flat, rice surrounding the hamlet located on a spur-road immediately east of Route 44. Relatives of VC guerillas and sympathisers lived in the hamlet and some guerillas depended on it for clothing, food and intelligence. Deployment by helicopter and APC.
Location: Phuoc Tuy province, 13 km ESE of 1ATF base.
Results: 1700 lbs of rice found, 86 persons screened,detainees totalled under Operation Forrest

7 RAR Op 'SHEPPARTON'
(11-12 December 1967)(subsidiary operation of
Op 'Forrest')

Formations/Units: 7 RAR, with under operational control one troop A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, detachments 1 Div Int Unit, AFV Pro Unit, 1 Aust CA Unit, 1 ATF Psy Ops, GVN police and other elements; in direct support 106 Fd Bty; in support one army aviation company (US), element No. 9 Sqn RAAF.
Description: As a subsidiary operation of Operation Forrest (no. 34 above), a cordon-and-search of Phu My, of area 1.6 sq km and population 1244, on Route 15, 3 km south of the border with Bien Hoa province. The AO was represented by the village boundary. Terrain flat, the village set in grassland immediately north of the Song Thi Vai, with clear forest and small areas of rice to the east, mangrove, jungle and a little rice to the west of Route 15. Representatives or small parries of
the Finance and Economy Sect, Rear Svc and FwdSupply Council procuring rice could be present in the village, aided by village guerillas, C41 Coy and elements of Group 84; elements of D445 Bn could be supporting, while elements of 274 Regt could be on foraging raids east of Route 15. Deployment by helicopter and APC.
Descriptive Narrative: The tempo of FORREST changed again on 11 December when orders were issued for the cordon and search of the village of Phu My (a village of about 3000 people) on the next day. The cordon was positioned by 2030 hours. A succession of six ox carts were apprehended by C Company. The search, involving A and C Companies, commenced at 0815 hours and was completed by 1130. A change to usual procedure was the insertion of Battalion Headquarters on the morning of 12 December to act as the control headquarters on the morning after the rifle companies had set their cordons. Twenty-six suspects were detained during this operation and handed over to the South Vietnamese authorities. (Conscripts and Regulars - Michael O'Brien pages95 & 95 - Allen & Unwin)
Location: PhuocTuy province 20 km WNW of 1ATF base.
Results: Detainees totalled under Operation Forrest (no. 34 above).

7 RAR Op 'DIMBOOLA'
(13-14 December )
(subsidiary operation of
Op 'Forrest')

Formations I Units: As for Operation Shepparton (above).
Description: As a subsidiary operation of Operation Forrest (no. 34 above), a cordon-and-search of OngTrinh Dc, area 500 sq m and population about 500, and Phuoc Loc, area about 300 m by 400 m, population about 600, on Route 15 immediately SW of the Nui Ong Trinh/Nui Thi Vai complex. The AO was represented by the village boundaries. Terrain flat, the villages set in grassland, with clear forest to the east, mangrove, with additionally for Phuoc Loc, an area of almost 1 sq km of rice west of Route 15. VC activity was as forecast for Operation Shepparton (no. 37 above). Deployment by helicopter and APC.
Location: PhuocTuy province, 17 km west of 1ATF base.
Descriptive Narrative: The purpose of DIMBOOLA was to conduct a cordon and search of the village of Ong Trinh situated on Route 15 on 14 December. The village had two parts: the northern Ong Trinh proper had a population of about 500 with a military post to its south that had a protective minefield, while the southern hamlet of Phuoc Loc had a strongly Catholic population of about 600.
During this operation A Company walked into an unmarked minefield on the periphery of Ong Trinh while they were establishing the cordon. They managed to extract themselves from the minefield without suffering any casualties. This incident emphasised the need for more detailed research before such operations. It was clear that Headquarters 1st Australian Task Force had insufficient information about mines laid by South Vietnamese forces and that these mines were often laid haphazardly. While troops were told to avoid the areas near Regional Force and Popular Force posts, and particularly areas enclosed by barbed wire, such guidance was not enough to avoid the extreme hazard of such mines. In this instance, A Company's vigilance and good luck were sufficient to save its men from injury.(Conscripts and Regulars - Michael O'Brien pages95 & 95 - Allen & Unwin)
The village search started at 0815 hours and was completed by 1130. Fifteen suspects were detained.
Results: Detainees totalled under Operation Forrest (no. 34 above).

7 RAR Op 'MELBOURNE'
(15-16 December 1967)(subsidiary operation of
Op 'Forrest')

Formations I Units: As for Operation Shepparton (above).
Description: As a subsidiary operation of Operation Forrest, a cordon-and-search of Lang Phuoc Hoa, area 0.25 sq km, population about 365, on the western side of Route 15, 9 Ion WNW of Ba Ria. The AO was represented by the village boundary. Terrain flat, with areas of rice to the NW and SW, the Rach Tre to the west, and jungle to the SE; across Route 15 jungle to the north and east, and brushwood to the east and SE. The VC were believed to be using Lang Phuoc Hoa as a transit area for personnel and equipment between the Rung Sat and Phuoc Tuy province; fish and rice were the main items supplied to VC, who maintained a village guerilla unit and a tax-collecting element targetted at local boat traffic. Deployment by helicopter and APC.
Location: Phuoc Tuy province 16 km WS W of 1ATF base.
Descriptive Narrative: On 16 December a cordon and search of the village of Phuoc Hoa (population 7700) on Route 15 was conducted. The C Company cordon was in position by 2145 hours on 15 December. The first of twelve fishermen was apprehended at 2230 hours and others followed throughout the evening.
The search operation, which started at 0815 hours and was completed by 1100, was executed without any noteworthy incident. Twenty-nine suspects were detained. The report afterwards noted that the repetition of such routine operations tended to induce a certain atmosphere of complacency in execution and planning if care was not taken. Such a reaction would have been dangerous if the Viet Cong had been able to determine predictable patterns in the battalion's operations.(Conscripts and Regulars - Michael O'Brien pages95 & 95 - Allen & Unwin)
Results: Detainees totalled under Operation Forrest.
16 - FSB Charlie - YS 29-62 FSB. A "crab-covered seaside position" on Rte 15, 20 km due N of Vung Tau, 9 km W of Ba Ria, and 15 km SW of Nui Dat. 161 Bty, RNZA (Martin?s Bty 13May67-14Apr68) firebase set here 16Dec67 and other days in Dec67. Phuoc Tuy Prov, III Corps.

7 RAR Op 'LORNE'
(15-21 December 1967)

(subsidiary operation of
Op 'Forrest')

Formations/Units: 7 RAR, with under operational control C Coy 2 RAR, two combat engineer teams 1 Fd Sqn; in direct support 161 Fd Bty (NZ); in support one army aviation company (US), element No. 9 Sqn RAAF.
Description: A search-and-destroy operation against C41 Coy in its expected position on the NW slope of Nui Bao Quan, the NW feature of the Nui Dinh complex. No AO was assigned; the centre of the operational area, involving two separate blocking positions associated with a company assault, was Nui Bao Quan (504 m). Terrain precipitous, except along the ridge lines, with rocky slopes, the whole area jungle-covered. VC were believed to be using the Nui Dinh complex as a temporary base area to avoid allied search-and-destroy operations in the lower-lying major base areas and as a lying-up area prior to harrassing attacks on Route 15; C41 Coy was indicated to be using Nui Bao Quan for these purposes. Deployment by foot and helicopter.
Descriptive Narrative: A company attack on suspected positions of Chau Due District Company near the summit of Nui Bao Quan in the north of the Nui Dinh Hills. The attack was to be made from the south by C and D Companies with A and B companies and C Company 2 RAR in blocking positions. The company advanced on 15 parallel routes which was subsequently reduced to nine.
It was during this operation that the platoon located a large complex which required engineer destruction. It was a large cave complex occupied by C41 (Chou Dui) Company and showed evidence that the caves were used as protection against artillery and air strikes. The engineers used one hundred 40 lb beehive charges to destroy the caves. It was reported that charges provided a good shattering effect. The demolition of the caves was considered successful.
ArtillerySupport : FSB Alpha (27th Nov) (YS3974) 106 Fd Bty was inserted into bush at FSB Alpha some 6km west of Binh Ba. FSB Bravo (7th Dec) (YS2570) 106 Fd Bty was airlifted out of FSB Alpha and inserted just off Route 15 at FSB Bravo approx 2km north of Ap Ong Trinh Dc. DESCRIPTION A subsidiary operation of Forrest. A search and destroy operation by 7 RAR, B Coy 2RAR, 2 combat Engineer teams 1 Fd Sqn against C41 Coy on the NW side of the “Warbies”. In direct support 161 Fd Bty NZ near Ap Long Cat Route 15. They deployed to FSB Charlie YS 295623 on the 16th Dec. On 18th Dec 161 Bty established a FSPB in YS 2962. The Bty was put on theatre grid by a traverse from Nui Low (YS 264472 ) directly into the FSPB.
Location: PhuocTuy province, 10 km west of 1ATF base.
Results: Casualties: Owrr.'WIA 1; VC: KIA 5. About 44 weapons, a mine, grenades and ammunition were captured.

. 1ATF Op 'LAWLEY'
(22-23 December 1967).(subsidiary operation of
Op 'Forrest')

Formations/Units: 1ATF, with under command units tasked: 2 RAR, 7 RAR, A Sqn 3 Cav Regt, 4 Fd Regt, 1 Fd Sqn, 161 (Indep) Recce Fit, detachments 1 Div Int Unit and 1 Aust CA Unit, A Sect 1 Topo Svy Tp, GVN police and other elements; in support Btry A l/83d Arty (US), one army aviation company (US).
Description: As a subsidiary operation of Operation Forrest, a cordon-and-search of Ngai Giao approximately 5 km north of Xa Binh Ba, on and adjacent to Route 2, and comprising Ngai Giao hamlet of 0.25 square km and population 626, Vinh Thanh hamlet of 500 m by 300m and population 688, and La Van hamlet of 0.25 sq km and population 1232. Terrain flat to undulating, the hamlets set in grassland with rubber to the north, west and south, and several areas of rice at varying distances to the east. VC access to these hamlets was likely due to their proximity to VC base areas to the north and NW, articularly following the resettlement of the population of the 'Slope 30' area in Operation Ainslie (no. 31 above); VC party committees and guerilla units had been active, mainly in collecting rice and transporting it to enemy base areas. Deployment by helicopter and APC.
Artillery Support: In direct support was 4 Fd Regt at a FSB YS4473 just south of Binh Ba close to the old “Broken Hill” position. On 23rd Dec, 106 Bty established a FSPB in YS4471. Theatre grid was provided by a traverse from Nui Dat (YS434675) into the FSPB.
Location: PhuocTuy province, 12 km north of 1ATF base.
Results:1218 persons were screened, and 50 evacuated to Sector HQ
for further action. Detainees totalled under Operation Forrest

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The Phoenix Program (Vietnamese: Chiến dịch Phượng Hoàng, a word related to fenghuang, the Chinese phoenix) was a military, intelligence, and internal security program designed by the United States Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and coordinated and executed by Republic of Vietnam's (South Vietnam) security apparatus and US Special Operations Forces such as the Navy SEALs, United States Army Special Forces and MACV-SOG during the Vietnam War. It was in operation between 1967 and 1972, but similar efforts existed both before and after this. The program was designed to identify and "neutralize" (via infiltration, capture, or murder) the civilian infrastructure supporting the National Front for the Liberation of South Vietnam (NLF orViet Cong) insurgency.

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