OPERATION
5-67 (PIROUS)
DETACHMENT
B-52
5TH SPECIAL
FORCES GROUP (AIRBORNE) 1ST SPECIAL FORCES
APO
AVGB-B-52 16 June 67
SUBJECT: After Action Report to OPORD 5-67,
10 April through 15 June 1967. (U)
TO: Commanding Officer
5th Special Forces
Group (Airborne), 1st Special Forces
ATTN: DCO-SO
APO
1.
REFERENCES.
a. MSG, COMUSMACV NR 11025 dated 3 Apr 67 Fm:
COMUSMACV To: CG III MAF
b. DET B-52, OPORD 5-67
2.
GENERAL:
a. During
the period 10 April 1967 through 15 June 1967, Project Delta was under OPCON
III MAF,
b. The
area of operations (AO) is shown in Incl 1. Operations Overlay.
3. (C) TASK ORGANIZATION:
a. US/VN
HQ Element
b. Six
(6) US/VN Recon Teams
c. Five
(5) CIDG Roadrunner Teams
d.
USAF (ALO/FAC)
e. 91st Airborne Ranger Bn (-)
f. 281st Assault Helicopter Co (-)
g. 118th
Aviation Co (-) (Air Radio Relay)
h. HMM-265
(Marine Air)
i. Nung
Security Co (-)
j. VN
Labor Force
4. (C) MISSION: PROJECT DELTA conducts
reconnaissance, surveillance and exploitation operations within the assigned
area of operations (AO), and employ TAC AIR strikes on enemy installations as
appropriate.
5. (C)
SEQUENCE OF EVENTS:
a. 6
April - 9 April Pre-mission coordination was made by the CO and Staff with III
MAF at
b. 10
April - Advanced party departed for FOB at Khe Sanh.
c. 11
April - VN advance party and Nung Security Co (-) departed for FOB.
d. 12
April - Main body departed for FOB. CO Det B-52, departed for III MAF for
coordination
on change of AO. Decision on AO change not finalized, personnel continued to
improve defensive positions.
e. 13
April - Received notification of AO change, personnel began preparation for
move.
f. 14
April - Advanced party departed for Hue-Phu Bai. New FOB site picked at Dong
Da.
g. 15
April - Main body moved to FOB.
h. 16
April - FOB became operational. 5th SFG (Abn) DCSO received a briefing on the
present operation at the FOB. Key personnel conducted an aerial recon of AO.
Aircraft received moderate ground fire, no hits taken. Gunships expended 800
rounds 7.62mm into area, unknown results. Three suspected VC sighted by
adjacent unit, a patrol was dispatched with negative results. H&I fires
requested in area.
i. 17
April - Recon team 7 and Roadrunner team 102 received OPORDs conducted aerial
recon of Recon Zones (RZ) and conducted briefbacks. Infiltration of Recon team
7 and Roadrunner team 102 postponed 24 hours due to adverse weather conditions
in the AO. j. 18 April - At 0825H Delta
FAC observed 27 enemy troops and two trucks (larger than ¾ ton) moving east and
southeast along road in the AO. Upon sighting the FAC, the enemy began
camouflaging. Two immediate air strikes called damaging the trucks, no further
BDA available. Recon team 9 and Roadrunner team 103 received respective OPORDs
and conducted aerial recon of RZs. Recon team 7 and Roadrunner team 102
inserted at last light, by rappelling, without incident.
k. 19
April - One member (VN) of recon team 7 extracted due to injury received during
insertion. Roadrunner team 102 split into two elements, both have radio
contact. Recon team 9 and Roadrunner team 103 conducted briefbacks. Roadrunner
team 102 reunited. Infiltration of Recon
team 9 and Roadrunner team 103 postponed 24 hours due to inclement weather.
Recon team 7 and Roadrunner team 102 continued mission with negative enemy
contact or sighting.
l. 20
April - Roadrunner team 102 reported sighting estimated enemy company in black
and khaki uniforms with carbines and Thompson submachine guns. Also reported
being followed by an estimated squad. Recon team 10 received OPORD. Recon team
9 and Road-runner team 103 infiltration postponed 24 hours due to inclement
weather. Roadrunner 102 reports negative further contact or sightings, Recon
team 7 had negative enemy contact or sightings. Both teams continued missions
with negative enemy contact or sightings.
m. 21
April - Roadrunner team 103 infiltrated without incident. Recon team 10
conducted aerial recon of RZ and briefback. Recon team 9 received new OPORD.
Infiltration of Recon team 10 postponed due to low cloud cover in AO. Recon
team 7 and Roadrunner teams 102 and 103 continued mission with negative enemy
contact or sightings.
n. 22
April - Roadrunner team 102 extracted without incident due to completion of
mission. Recon team 9 made aerial recon
of RA. Recon team 10 infiltrated at last light, one USSF injured. Due to heavy
ground fire during medevac, entire team extracted. Roadrunner team 103 reported
it was split and surrounded. Team became reunited but could not be extracted
due to poor weather conditions. Team is remained concealed until morning. Recon team 7 continued mission with negative
enemy contact or sightings.
o. 23
April - Roadrunner team 103 extracted, ground fire received during extraction.
Recon team 8 and Roadrunner team 101 received OPORDs. Ranger Co 5 inserted on a
24 hour raid operation. Recon team 7 extracted without incident due to
completion of mission. Recon team 9 conducted briefback and inserted without
incident. Recon team 9 continues mission with negative enemy contact or sightings.
Ranger Co 5 continued mission of search and destroy with negative enemy contact
or sightings.
p. 24
April - Recon team 8 and Roadrunner team 101 conducted briefbacks. 5th Ranger
Company extracted without incident. Insertion of Recon Team 8 and Roadrunner
team 101 postponed 24 hours due to adverse weather in AO. Recon Team 9
continues mission with negative enemy contact or sightings.
q. 25
April - Recon team 11 issued OPORD. Insertion of Recon Team 8 and Roadrunner
Team 101 postponed due to inclement weather. Recon Team 9 continued mission
with negative enemy contact or sightings.
r.
26 April - Roadrunner Team 101 inserted into AO without incident. Infiltration
of Recon team 8 delayed due to adverse weather and AW fire vicinity of LZ.
Recon teams 11 and 12 received OPORDs. Recon team 9 and Roadrunner team 101
continued mission with negative enemy contact or sightings.
s. 27
April - Recon team 9 reported being pursued by 10-25 personnel, requested
immediate extraction vicinity coordinates YD289109. First recovery ship
extracted, by hoist, 2 VN team members. Second recovery ship downed by AW/SA
fire, no crew members injured. Machine
guns, radios and ammo taken off downed ship by crew and a link-up with
remaining members of Team 9 effected. Three USMC CH-46s departed FOB with 5th
Ranger Company, 91st Airborne Ranger Bn. Two CH-46s landed vic YD289113
receiving ground fire, third CH-46 crashed due to power failure, vicinity
coordinates YD293111, one minor injury to VN Ranger. Crew, weapons, radios and
injured VN extracted by another CH-46. All ground elements effected link-up.
TAC Air Support
utilized to suppress heavy ground fires.
Additional Ch-46s requested and received from 1st MAW. Five CH-46s extracted
all elements on ground, all ships received ground fire. TAC Air destroyed downed HAW-1D, CH-46 not
destroyed by order of 1st MAW. All further operations delayed 24 hours due to
activity with extraction of Team 9.
Roadrunner Team 101 continued mission with negative enemy contact or
sightings.
t. 28 April - 3rd Ranger Company and Roadrunner Team 104 received OPORDS. Recon Teams 11 and 12 conducted briefbacks. Infiltration of Recon Team 11 unsuccessful due to numerous obstacles on LZ. Recon team 12 aborted infiltration due to heavy SA/AW fire on and surrounding the LZ. Immediate Combat Skyspots called on area. Roadrunner team 101 continued mission with negative enemy contact or sightings.
u. 29
April - 3rd Ranger Company inserted into designated AO without incident.
Roadrunner Team 104 made aerial recon of AO. Roadrunner team 104 made aerial recon of AO. Roadrunner team 104 conducted briefback and was infiltrated at last light. VN team leader was injured on insertion and VN commander made decision to extract entire team. Extraction effected without incident. Roadrunner team 101 and 3rd Ranger Company continued missions with negative enemy contact or sightings.
v. 30
April - Roadrunner team 104 replaced by Roadrunner team 105 due to three
members of team 104 being injured on insertion 29 April. Roadrunner Team 105
issued OPORD, Recon team 12 issued OPORD. Recon team 11 and Roadrunner Team 105
conducted aerial recon of respective AOs and conducted briefbacks. Roadrunner
Team 105 and Recon team 11 infiltrated at last light without incident.
Roadrunner team 101, 3rd Ranger Company, Roadrunner team 105 and Recon team 11
continue missions with negative enemy contact or sightings.
w. 01
May - Roadrunner team 101 extracted without incident due to completion of
mission. Recon Team 12 conducted aerial
recon of assigned AO. Roadrunner team 102 received OPORD, conducted aerial
recon of assigned AO and conducted briefback. Recon team 12 conducted briefback
and infiltrated into assigned AO without incident. Roadrunner team 102
infiltration postponed due to an internal fire-fight at Dong Da National
Training Center. 3rd Ranger Company patrol reported on enemy, black uniform,
seen vicinity coordinates YD530014, fired on individual, however, he escaped
from the patrol. No further enemy contact or sightings. Roadrunner Team 105,
Recon team 11 and Recon team 12 continued mission with negative enemy contact
or sightings.
x. 02
May - 3rd Ranger Company reported AW/SA fire vicinity YD523018 from an
estimated
7 enemy. An airstrike and gunships from 281st Avn Co (-) placed fire on and
silenced AW psn. Additional fire received from vicinity YD533028 and YD518027
during extraction. Fire was suppressed by gunships. Extraction completed
without loss or damage to friendly forces. Company extracted due to completion
of mission. Recon team 12 observed and destroyed an unoccupied aerial
observation post vicinity YC512932. Recon team 8 received OPORD. All elements
continued mission with negative further enemy contact or sightings.
y. 03
May - Recon team 12 requested airstrike on 3 enemy armed with rifles, in (3)
indistinguishable
uniform vicinity YC509924. No BDA received. Recon team 6 received OPORD. Recon
team 8 infiltrated into designated AO at last light without incident. All
elements continued mission with negative further enemy contact or sighting.
z. 04
May - Roadrunner team 105 extracted without incident due to completion of
mission. Recon team 6 made aerial recon
of assigned AO and conducted briefback. Roadrunner team 8 extracted due to
compromise. Recon team 6 infiltration delayed due to time factor involved in
extracting Team 8. Roadrunner team 102 infiltrated at last light without
incident. All elements continued missions with negative enemy contact or
sightings. Area encompassed by coordinates YD540120, YD600120, YD540040 and
YD600040 reassigned to 3d MARDIV by CG, III MAF. Request to CG, II MAF for
extension of AO. Area encompassed by coordinates YD300180, YD200180, YD200120
and YD300120.
aa. 05
May - Recon team 11 extracted without incident due to completion of mission. Road-runner
team 104 received OPORD conducted aerial recon of assigned AO and conducted
briefback. Recon team 3 received OPORD, Roadrunner team 103 received OPORD and
made aerial recon of assigned AO. Roadrunner team 104 and Recon team 6
infiltrated in respective AOs at last light without incident. All elements
continued missions with negative enemy contact or sightings.
bb. 06 May - Roadrunner team 103 conducted
briefback and inserted into assigned AO at Recon team 12s extraction LZ. Recon
team 12 extracted with SA fire in area of extraction LZ. 281st Avn Co gunships
placed suppressive fire on area with unknown results. Recon team 3 made aerial
recon of assigned AO, Recon team 5 made aerial recon, conducted briefback and
infiltrated into AO at last light without incident. All elements continued
missions with negative enemy contact or sightings.
cc. 07 May - Recon team 4 received OPORD. 1st
Ranger Company received OPORD and made aerial recon of assigned AO. Roadrunner
team reported enemy contact, 1 friendly MIA, team extracted without incident.
Mission of 1st Ranger Company changed to search for missing roadrunner. All
other recon elements continued missions with negative enemy contact or
sightings.
dd. 08
May - Recon team 6 requested Senior USSF Advisor be extracted due to illness
and new Advisor be inserted. Exchange took place without incident. 1st Ranger
Company inserted into assigned AO without incident. Roadrunner team 101
received OPORD. Roadrunner team 103
extracted due to loss of 2 HT-1 radios by Team 104 and SOI by team 103.
Extraction took place under SA/AW fire, 1 gunship hit, suppressive fires placed
on area by 281st Avn Co (-) gunships. Roadrunner team 102 extracted due to
possible comm communications compromise. Roadrunner team 105 made aerial recon
of assigned AO. Recon team 3 infiltrated without incident. All elements
continued mission with negative enemy contact or sightings.
ee. 09 May - Extension to AO approved by CG, III
MAF. Roadrunner team 101 infiltrated assigned AO at last light without incident.
Recon teams 3, 5 and 6 and 1st Ranger Company continue missions with negative
enemy contact or sightings.
ff. 10
May - Recon team 6 extracted with SA ground fire vicinity of extraction LZ, 281st
Avn Co (-) gunships placed suppressive fire on area with unknown results. 5th
Ranger Company issued OPORD. PROJECT DELTA air radio relay U1A aircraft crashed
on take off from FOB strip. Personnel received moderate burns, one back injury.
Local investigating officer appointed awaiting arrival or regularly appointed
investigating officer. All elements continued missions with negative enemy
contact or sightings.
gg. 11
May - 5th Ranger Company inserted into assigned AO without incident. Recon
elements and Ranger Company continued missions with negative enemy contact or
sightings.
hh. 12
May - Roadrunner team 106 received OPORD, made aerial recon of assigned AO and
conducted a briefback. All elements continued missions with negative enemy
contact or sightings.
ii. 13
May - Recon team 1 received OPORD. Recon team 5 extracted without incident due
to completion of mission. Roadrunner Team 106 was extracted due to
compromise. Extraction ships received
heavy volume of AW fire, 281st Assault Helicopter Company (-) gunships placed
suppressive fires on area, Delta FACs called immediate airstrikes on the area
with unknown results. Roadrunner team 101 received SA fire from estimated
platoon, Team evaded and continued mission. Roadrunner team 107 received
OPORD. All elements continued mission
with negative further enemy contact or sightings.
jj. 14
May - Recon team 3 and Roadrunner team 101 extracted without incident due to
completion of mission. Recon Teams 1 and Roadrunner team 107 made aerial recon
of assigned AOs and conducted briefbacks. Roadrunner team 107 infiltrated at
last light without incident. UH-1D aircraft attempting to infiltrate Recon team
1 was hit by SA/AW fire and crashed vicinity YD588815. A recovery ship came in
and extracted the crew and a portion of the team. The second recovery ship was
also shot down in the same location as it attempted to extract remainder or
personnel on ground. 281st AHC (-) Gunships, Spooky and 2 F4s, controlled by
Delta FACs, illuminated the area and placed suppressive fires until the second
crew and remaining team members could be extracted. Only two minor injuries
were incurred. Due to darkness, nature of terrain and enemy fire and activity
the following equipment had to be left in the area when the personnel on the
ground were extracted by rope ladder: 3 M-60 machine guns w/ammo, 1 M-14,
complete
radio sets in each UH-1D, 8 first aid kits, 2
survival kits with URC-10s and assorted web gear. This equipment was reported
destroyed by airstrike the following morning. All elements continue mission
with negative further enemy contact or sightings.
kk. 15
May - Recon team 7 received OPORD. Roadrunner team 108 received OPORD and
conducted aerial recon of assigned AO. Two downed UH-1Ds destroyed by TAC
Air. Roadrunner team 107 extracted
without incident due to compromise and leg injuries to personnel. Roadrunner
team 108 conducted briefback and infiltrated into assigned AO. Team received SA/AW fire, 1 VN WIA,
infiltration ships drew heavy fire. Gunships from 281st AHC (-), flare ships
and TAC AIR expended in vicinity after team extracted. Committed elements
continue missions with negative enemy contact or sightings.
ll. 16
May - Ranger Co 5 reported light contact with estimated enemy squad. 1 enemy
KIA, 1 USSF WIA, 1 VN WIA. TAC AIR silenced, AW Psn. Company destroyed small
way station, captured 5 weapons, assorted maps, documents and medicines. CG III
MAF extended AO east to 75 grid line, north to 00 grid line, south to 60 grid
line and west to the Laotian border. Roadrunner team 107 could not select LZ
due to SA/AW fire in area of proposed LZs. Committed elements continued
missions with negative enemy contact or sightings.
mm.17 May - Ranger Co 5 extracted in four
lifts without incident due to completion of mission. Recon team 4 extracted
under SA/AW fire due to completion of mission.
Gunships from 281st AHC (-) placed suppressive fire on area and silenced
1 AW psn. Recon team 9 received OPORD.
Recon team 7 and Roadrunner team 107 made aerial recons of respective AOs.
Roadrunner team 107 infiltrated assigned AO without incident. Infiltration of Recon team 7 aborted due to
heavy volume of SA/AW fire received on LZ.
Seven enemy troops in dark uniforms were sighted, immediate combat
Skyspots were
called in on the area. Roadrunner
team 106 received OPORD. Committed element
continued mission with negative
enemy contact or sightings.
nn. 18 May - Recon team 9 and Roadrunner team 106
conducted aerial recons of respective AOs. Recon team 9 and Roadrunner team 106
not infiltrated due to Delta VN Commander not receiving confirmation of AO
extension from 1st ARVN Corps. Committed
element continued mission with negative enemy contact or sightings.
oo. 19
May - Recon team 7 received OPORD. VN channels confirmed AO extension.
Roadrunner
team 106 infiltrated assigned AO under SA/AW. Gunships from 281st AHC (-)
placed suppressive fire in area and team continued mission. Recon team 9
infiltrated assigned AO, 1 USSF impaled on punji stake, team extracted.
Committed elements continued mission with negative further enemy contact or
sightings.
pp. 20
May - Recon team 2 received OPORD. Recon team 7 made aerial recon of assigned
AO. 3rd Ranger Co received OPORD and conducted aerial recon of assigned AO.
Recon team 7 conducted briefback and infiltrated AO without incident. 3rd
Ranger Co conducted briefback. Committed elements continued mission with
negative enemy contact or sightings.
qq. 21
May - 3rd Ranger Co inserted into assigned AO without incident, 1 VN injured on
insertion and extracted immediately. Company reported light contact with enemy
squad; destroyed three new huts and pursuing enemy. Enemy weapons and equipment
not identifiable. Roadrunner team 107 requested extraction due to illness of
team member. During the first extraction attempt the recovery ship received
SA/AW fire, taking two hits. The pilot received a head wound and the recovery
NCO was hit in the right arm by pieces of the shattered aircraft panel.
Roadrunner team 107 instructed to move to higher ground for later extraction on
order. On second attempt to extract Roadrunner team 107, a 281st AHC (-)
gunship was shot down by SA/AW fire, crashed, started burning, rolled into a
small ravine and exploded. A panel was seen in the vicinity of the wreckage.
TAC
AIR
support was called in to destroy enemy wpns positions. Jolly Green Giant rescue
ship called to extract survivors, however, it could not land or hover in the
area. Jolly Green Giant picked up Roadrunner team 107. CH-46 from 1st MAW
dispatched to attempted survivors extraction. CH46 extracted one crew member,
three others listed as MIA. Rescue
aircraft spotted a red panel, additional slicks and gunships sent to area.
Recovery ship was hit by SA/AW fire during attempt to extract two personnel,
confirmed to be Americans; PFC Gallagher, 281st AHC (-) doorgunner was hit,
evacuated to 3d Med. Bn, PHU BAI, pronounced DOA. Decision made to insert 1st
Ranger Company at first light. 3d Ranger
Co captured approx 65 lbs of rice, 5 rucksacks and several canteens. All
committed elements continue missions with negative further enemy contact or sightings.
rr. 22 May - Two of three MIAs spotted by command
and control aircraft. Ranger Co 1 inserted under SA/AW fire, 1 CH-46 helicopter
hit by ground fire and crashed on LZ.
Crew of downed CH-46 extracted immediately. CH-46 crew confirmed on
enemy KIA. 1st Ranger Co searching for
MIAs, receiving sporadic sniper fire, moving to vicinity of wreckage. 3d Ranger
Co reported one VN WIA, caused by light contact with unknown size enemy force.
Evacuation of WIA accomplished without incident. 1st Ranger Co. made contact
with a survivor of gunship. Stated he was with the pilot but they were
separated during recovery attempt the previous evening. An extraction was
effected without incident and crewman was taken to 3d Med Bn PHU BAI. 1st
Ranger Co reported no human remains found in or around the wreckage. Two MGs
found on wreckage still serviceable, were put on extraction ship. C&C
aircraft reported sighting another panel marker, 1st Ranger Co to remain in
area overnight. All committed elements continue missions with negative further
enemy contact or sightings.
ss. 23 May - 1st Ranger Co made radio contact
with and found missing pilot, co-pilot still missing. Attempt to extract pilot
unsuccessful due to heavy ground fire. TAC AIR strikes called in on area, 1st
Ranger Co and pilot moving to new LZ. 1st Ranger Co reported contact with est
enemy platoon, three VN Rangers KIA, 2 VN Rangers WIA and 1 Interpreter WIA.
TAC AIR gave continuous support and performed LZ prep. No radio contact with
Roadrunner team 106 for 24 hours. 3d Ranger Co reported finding enemy base
containing 4 huts with a capacity of 20 persons each, also many pigs and
chickens. Captured 2 mimeograph machines
one in new condition, no enemy troops sighted. 1st Ranger Co
extracted, after heavy saturation of area by TAC AIR, by 16 CH-46s. WO
Wrobleski, co-pilot from 281st AHC (-), still MIA. Committed elements continued
missions with negative further enemy contact or sightings.
tt. 24
May - Roadrunner team 106 extracted without incident due to completion of mission. Recon team 2 made an aerial recon of assigned
RZ. Search by air continued for MIA WO Wrobleski.
uu. 25
May - Ranger Co 3 extracted due to completion of mission. Extraction ships
received scattered sniper fire. Recon team 7 extracted without incident due to
completion of mission. Roadrunner team 104 received OPORD. Recon team 2
infiltrated assigned RZ without incident. Recon team 11 received OPORD.
Roadrunner team 104 received no RZ and OPORD due to all LZs in previous area
either occupied or under observation. Search for MIA WO Wrobleski continued.
vv. 26
May - Recon team 11 and Roadrunner team 104 made aerial recons of respective
RZs. Recon team 2 ambushed by unknown size force, VN pointman KIA. Team
requested immediate extraction. During extraction, helicopters received SA/AW
fire. Immediate TAC yy. 29 May - Recon team 10 made aerial recon of assigned
AO. Insertion of Recon team 11 delayed due to preponderance of SA/AW fire
received in vicinity of LZ during aerial recon and indications of enemy activity
in these areas discovered by Delta FACs. Search continues for MIA WO Wrobleski.
Committed elements continue mission with negative
enemy
contact or sightings.
zz. 30
May - Roadrunner team 104 reported being pursued by 5-6 enemy, 1 team member
WIA, grenade fragments, requested extraction. Recon team 11 received OPORD for
new RZ. Team extracted without incident. Extraction of Roadrunner Team 104
prevented Recon team 10's preparation from being completed. Recon team 10's
insertion delayed 24 hours. Search for MIA, WO Wrobleski continued. Committed
elements continued mission with negative enemy contact or sightings.
aaa. 31
May - Recon team 11 made aerial recon of assigned AO. Recon team received
OPORD. Task Force 13 placed under opcon of Delta Project. Task Force composed
of two combat reconnaissance platoons, 1 CIDG Platoon, and a USSF/LLDB Command
and control element. 2d Ranger Co made contact with an estimated enemy squad, 1
VN Ranger WIA. WIA medevaced and taken to 3d Med Bn, Phu Bai. Recon team 10 and
Recon team 11 not infiltrated due to darkness. Medevac of VN WIA delayed the
infiltration schedule. 2d Ranger Co preparing LZ for extraction, negative
further enemy
contact
or sightings. Search for MIA, WO Wrobleski continued.
bbb. 01
June - Ranger Co 2 extracted without incident due to completion of
mission. Coordination and planning of
Task Force 13 operation continued. Recon team 10 infiltrated into assigned RZ
at last light, without incident. Recon team 11 infiltrated into assigned RZ at
last light, senior USSF advisor injured back on infiltration and also damaged
the team's PRC/25 radio. Team was extracted and injured USSF personnel taken to
3d Med Bn, Phu Bai. Recon team 4 made aerial reconnaissance of assigned RZ. Search for MIA WO Wrobleski continued.
ccc. 02
June - Ranger Co 5 received OPORD. Recon team 10 reported contact with
estimated
10 enemy. Team successfully broke contact with no friendly casualties,
estimated 1 enemy KIA. Team 10 requested extraction due to compromise and
injury to two VN members. On first extraction attempt 1 VN extracted by hoist,
due to hazards presented by the terrain Team 10 was directed to another LZ.
Second extraction attempt was completed without incident. Recon team 4
infiltration aborted due to aircraft losing power on both primary and alternate
LZs. Search for WO Wrobleski continued.
ddd. 03
June - Recon team 4 made an aerial recon for a new LZ. Task Force 13 conducted
briefback and made an airmobile assault into assigned AO without incident.
Ranger Co 5 conducted briefback. Recon team 4 infiltrated into assigned AO
without incident. Committed elements
report negative enemy contact or sightings. Search for MIA WO Wrobleski
continued.
eee. 04
June - Ranger Co 5 inserted into assigned RZ with scattered sniper fire
directed at insertion aircraft. Gunships from 281st AHC (-) provided
suppressive fire. Made contact with three VC wearing black and green uniforms,
type weapons unknown, enemy broke contact, no casualties. LTC Baites, USMC,
Squadron 235 crashed in the F8 aircraft VIC YD777116 due to power failure. WO
English and MAJ Roth pilots of the helicopter sighted LTC Baites VIC YD8121102,
landed and evacuated the slightly injured person to Marine medical facilities.
All committed elements report negative further enemy sightings or contact.
Search for MIA WO Wrobleski continued.
fff. 05
June - Recon team 4 reports two VN team members ill. Recon team received OPORD
and made aerial recon of assigned RZ. Recon team 4 extracted without incident
due to illness of two VN team members. CO, Co C, 5th SFGA infiltrated into Task
Force 13 area to coordinate for a new command and control element. Ranger Co 5
sighted two VC thought to be guards for a larger unit, following an airstrike
five persons dressed in black and armed with unidentified weapons seen moving
out of area of airstrike. Recon team 7 infiltrated without incident into
assigned RZ at last light. Search for MIA WO Wrobleski continued.
ggg. 06
June - Recon team 7 made contact with two VC took them under fire killing
both. There were no friendly casualties.
Team attempted to continue mission, however reports numerous enemy throughout
area. Airstrike placed in vicinity of team silencing small arms fire. Team
extracted with light small arms fire in area. Ranger Co 5 made contact
withestimated squad. One enemy KIA, remainder of squad broke contact. There
were no friendly casualties. Ranger Co 5 sighted 1 person carrying rifle and a
rucksack. When fired upon, the individual dropped the rucksack and ran. Ranger
Co picked the rucksack
up
to return to FOB. Roadrunner platoon received OPORD. Recon team 11 received
OPORD. Extracted CO, Co C, 5th SFGA without incident. Committed elements report
no further enemy sightings or contact. Search for WO Wrobleski continued.
hhh. 07
June - Ranger Co 5 extracted. Scattered small arms fire received during
extraction with two helicopters receiving hits. Gunships and TAC AIR expended
on the area with unknown results. Recon team 11 made aerial recon of assigned
RZ. Roadrunner Platoon conducted an aerial recon of assigned RA. Recon team 11
did not infiltrate due to primary LZ being unsuitable and received SA/AW fire
on alternate. Committed elements report negative enemy contact or sightings.
Search for MIA WO Wrobleski continued.
iii. 08
June - Task Force 13 resupplied without incident. Three CIDG and two LLDB
extracted due to non-combat injuries and illnesses. Recon Team 11 received
OPORD for new RZ. Roadrunner Platoon conducted briefback and inserted into
assigned RZ without incident. Committed elements report negative enemy contact
or sightings. Search for MIA WO Wrobleski continued.
jjj. 09
June - Roadrunner Section received fire from 3 VC in a fortified position. VC
withdrew when Roadrunner Platoon returned fire, no friendly casualties.
Medevaced 1USSF personnel from Task Force 13 due to kidney infection. Medevac
conducted without incident. Team 11 mission canceled due to adverse weather
conditions preventing aerial reconnaissance of RZ. Search for MIA WO Wrobleski
continued.
kkk. 10
June - Task Force 13 and Roadrunner Platoon report negative enemy contact or
sightings. Search for MIA WO Wrobleski continued.
lll. 11
June - Task Force 13 extracted without incident due to completion of
mission. Roadrunner Platoon destroyed one
30 man hut, no further contact or sightings. Search for MIA WO Wrobleski
continued.
mmm. 12
June - Roadrunner Platoon extracted. SA/AW fire received during extraction, TAC
AIR expended on area with unknown results. Unit preparing for return to base.
nnn. 13
June - Preparation for return to base. Exit briefing presented to CG 3d MARDIV
and Staff. GEN Lam, CG, 1st Corps presented VN awards to members of PROJECT
DELTA.
ooo. 14
June - Exit briefing to CG, III MAF and STAFF.
ppp. 15
June - First elements departed HUE-PHU BAI for base.
qqq. 16
June - 0305H last elements closed base.
6. (C) PROBLEM AREAS AND RECOMMENDATIONS:
a. The
nearest landing strip to the FOB was the HUE-PHU BAI Airfield, which dictated
the dislocation of the air elements from the FOB. This posed problems in
control, coordination and reaction time. To solve this problem, US Navy Seabees
constructed a landing strip adjacent to the FOB. Such skills and equipment are
normally not available, therefore, every effort will be directed to the
co-location of the air elements and the FOB.
b. The
distance between the area of operations and the FOB made air radio relay
necessary in order to maintain communications with committed elements. Except
in emergencies, the air radio relay aircraft were not available at night.
PROJECT DELTA should have an air radio relay aircraft and at least two crews
attached to it during operations. When possible, ground relay stations will be
co-located with other friendly units.
c. The
FM frequencies assigned to this unit were also utilized by other US and VN
elements. This caused stations to
override one another disrupting transmissions. Frequent changes had to be made
to find the least utilized channels, additional frequencies were obtained from
Signal Company, 5th SFGA. Due to the type of operation PROJECT DELTA con-ducts,
additional attention should be given to the selection of FM frequencies for its
use.
d. Recommend
that the CAR-15 be the basic weapon for all members of this unit. The size,
fire-power and ease of handling make it the best available weapon for units
engaged in recon-naissance and personnel involved with frequent operations
dealing with aircraft. At the present time, this unit has initiated requests
for the issuance of the CAR-15 to its members.
e.
Preparation and Planning of Operation:
(1) Inadequate
lead-time caused inadequate collection of available reference material. For instance, requests for aerial photography
requires at least 2 weeks. The same applies to Red Haze coverage. On the other
hand, adequate advance knowledge of new AO and mission alone does not solve the
problem, because requests for aerial photography coverage or Red Haze will not
be accepted unless the requesting unit is in receipt of a deployment or
operations order.
(2) Recommendations:
It is recommended that higher headquarters notify S-2/3 planning staff of this
unit at earliest possible date of new AO and mission. A minimum of 1 week
should serve as a guideline. This would enable the Intelligence Section to
collect all available information of the new AO, analyze this information
thoroughly, and use it as a basis for operational planning. In addition, all
requests for imagery could then be submitted so that results would be available
at the beginning of an operation rather than in the middle or towards the end
of the operation.
f. Hand-held
Aerial Photography:
(1) Since
this unit is usually operating in denied areas of which very little concrete
intelligence is known, reconnaissance zones and routes to be taken by
reconnaissance teams, are normally selected by visual reconnaissance using
attached aircraft and analysis of available photo coverage. Past experience has
shown that aerial photo coverage available of any given area is usually very
limited and in most casesoutdated so that its actual value to this unit is
rather limited. For this reason, a system of taking aerial photos using hand
held commercial cameras and attached aircraft such as FAC and helicopters, was
used by this unit during this operation for the first time and with outstanding
results. The advantage of this system lies in its selectivity, timeliness, and
flexibility. Using this system, an area is first covered by
visual
observation and then photos are taken of points of interest. In the case of
reconnaissance zones for teams, pictures of landing zones and danger areas,
etc. can be taken and analyzed prior to insertion of team. In the case of
landing zones, this method has contributed to pinpointing potential hazards to
landing helicopters and teams by showing tree stumps and other helicopter
obstacles on LZs which were not visible to the naked eye during visual
reconnaissance.
(2) Recommendations:
It is recommended that this unit be issued at least one additional camera
(PENTAX SPOTMATIC) with one 200mm lens, and one 500mm lens. In addition and in
order to make this unit completely self-supporting, a field photolab operated
by a trained photo technician, as well as a trained photo interpreter should be
assigned to this unit during operations. The availability at FOB of a photolab
would insure processing of film without unnecessary delay.
(1) All
information collected by DELTA assets is reported as raw unprocessed
information
to OPCON Hqs and 7-8 additional addressees including MACV J2/3 in daily SITREPS
and SPOTREPS (via RTT) and Debriefing Reports (Via courier). This unit is a collection unit and is neither
staffed nor equipped to analyze and process every piece of information
collected. The use of Form 1396, short format or long format, and distribution
thereof to only one addressee creates a complete duplication of effort. In
addition, based on the amount of raw information collected, this procedure
would amount to an average of 250-300 IRs per 30 days which greatly exceeds the
administrative capability of this detachment.
(2)
Recommendations: It is recommended that a
decision be made and clear instructions be given regarding reporting procedures
used by this unit to avoid unnecessary duplication. In regards to this, it is
recommended that this section be allowed to continue disseminating information
of intelligence value through daily SITREPS and SPOTREPS to all addresses and
that additional users be included in the addressee list as the need arises. It
is further recommended that the use of Form 1396 (Intelligence Report) be
discontinued.
7. (C) TIPS OF THE TRADE:
a. During a night extraction under the light of aircraft flares, it
was discovered that a signal mirror could be utilized to signal friendly aircraft.
Pilots reported that the emission of reflected light was strong and more than
adequate for signaling purposes. An important advantage over other lights is
that the signal is directional and light is not cast in all directions.
b. An
experiment was conducted with an aerial observer utilizing the Star Light scope
from an 0-1E aircraft during late evening flights. Flying at an altitude of
1000' to 1500' above the ground objects were very distinguishable. The success
of this experiment culminated in the sighting and eventual destruction of one
enemy truck by TAC AIR. The only limitations noted was the inadequacy of light
necessary to fly by at low altitudes.
c. In
major areas of interest there were seldom adequate landing zones for
helicopters. This necessitated the use of marginal landing zones. In some
instances, teams were able to rappel into their reconnaissance zones, however
at higher altitudes this was a last resort due to the constant threat of the
helicopters losing power. Often it was necessary to insert reconnaissance
elements outside of their assigned reconnaissance zones. This necessitated
teams to be committed for seven day periods instead of the normal five days.
d.
Numerous times Roadrunner teams had to be extracted early due to team members
being sick. This is thought to be a leadership problem within the committed
elements. To rectify this, steps were taken to utilize LLDB NCOs as team
leaders of indigenous teams in future operations. Final permission to utilize
LLDB NCO's as Roadrunner team leaders is to be granted CG, LLDB High Command in
near future.
8. (C)
ANALYSIS:
a. During
the conduct of operation 5-67, 47 missions were conducted as follows:
(1) Delta Recon Teams: 20
(2) Delta Roadrunners: 18
(3) Airborne Rangers: 9
(4) Task Force 13: 1
b. Operational
Summary:
(1) Enemy
sightings: See Incl 2, Intelligence
(2) Enemy
Losses:
(a) KIA:
17 (Does not include "Killed by Air")
(b) WIA:
Unknown
(c) POW:
None
(d) KBA:
29
(e) Detainees:
None
(f) Weapons
CIA: 1 French BAR, 1 MAT-49 SMG, 1 SKS, 5 MAS-36
(g) Other Equipment CIA: 2
mimeograph machines, 100 knives, 500 lbs. of food,
assorted documents and
medicines.
(3)
Delta Losses:
USSF
VNSF RNGR RR 281st USMC
(a) KIA: 1 3 1
(b) WIA: 5 2 5 2 1
(c) MIA: 1 1
(d) WPNS: 1
(e) EQUIP: 2-HT1 3 UH-1D 2 CH-46
1 UH-1C
9.(C)
INTELLIGENCE SUMMARY:
a. A
total of 48 reconnaissance and search and destroy operations conducted by
PROJECT DELTA in combination with continuous aerial reconnaissance within the
assigned area of operations (ASHAU Valley and adjacent areas) established the
following:
(1) Route
922 entering RVN from LAOS at the northern end of the ASHAU Valley and Route
548 running southeast through the ASHAU Valley are connected and have been
improved to accommodate heavy truck traffic along their entire length to the
southernmost portion of the ASHAU Valley. Evidence of truck traffic and road
repair work has been reported daily in addition to six incidents of actual
truck sightings along this route. Movement of material and incidents of actual
truck sightings along this route. Movement of material and supplies by truck is
believed to be in a southeasterly direction throughout the ASHAU Valley, with
empty truck returned in a northwesterly direction along the same route towards
Base Area 61 in LAOS for reloading. A possible transfer point of terminal for
supplies arriving fromLAOS through the ASHAU Valley for continued movement by
porters or pack animals in a southerly direction towards Base Area 607 in LAOS
or in a southeasterly direction is believed to be located to the immediate east
of the southern end of the ASHAU Valley. Movement by truck from LAOS through
the ASHAU
Valley
is believed to be accomplished in three stages: First stage - from Base Area
611 in LAOS west into the northern end of the ASHAU Valley. Second
stage-southeast along Route 548 to vicinity of A LUOI. Third stage - from A
LUOI southeast to the southern end of the ASHAU Valley. This conclusion is
based on the following facts: 1) Enemy uses road only at night or during
inclement weather. 2) Road is under constant interdiction by friendly air
making continuous and fast movement along the road virtually impossible. The
location of enemy concentrations appears to substantiate these conclusions.
(2) As
of the end of this reporting period (13 June 67) the following concentrations
of enemy activity have been established: 1) The northern end of the ASHAU
Valley, including surrounding high ground. 2) The southern end of the A SHAU
Valley, with concentration of activity mainly in vicinity of YC5480. 3) The
rolling hills area wets of A LUOI (YD3800). 4) Valley areas approximately 5-8
kilometers east of TA BAT (YC4295). 5) Along the RAO NAI River Valley between
80 and 90 east-west grid lines (YC) east of the ASHAU Valley. 6) The mountain
and valley area immediatelysouthwest of the confluence of the RAO NAI and RAO
NHO Rivers at YD5203.
Areas
1 and 2 appear to contain the main facilities for movement of supplies by truck
through the ASHAU Valley, to include ground and air defense systems and
security and labor forces. Areas 3, 4, 5, and 6 are believed to be mainly food
producing areas secured by predominantly local VC units of platoon and possibly
company size, composed for the most part of Montagnards led by VCMF and NVA
cadre. It is further believed that these units have the additional mission of
securing possible avenues of approach into the ASHAU Valley, provide early
warning for enemy units in the ASHAU Valley, and assist regular enemy forces in
the defense of the ASHAU
against
ground and air attacks, to include friendly reconnaissance efforts. As far as
actual identifications of enemy units is concerned, only one documented
indication of the presence of the 559th Transportation Division (NVA) believed
to be based in Base AREA 611 in LAOS, was found in the ASHAU Valley area. A possible continuation of the infiltration
route through the ASHAU Valley seems to originate in base area 607 leading east
across the LAOS-SVN border and then continuing east and southeast deeper into
South Vietnam. Several well-used trails were found in the border area. The area extending south of the confluence of
the KHE TRA VE and SONG HUU
TRACH
Rivers (YD674000) for approximately 7 kilometers is believed to contain
administration and rest areas for enemy units deployed farther north in the
hills on both sides of the SONG HUU TRACH River vicinity YD690130 and YD740060.
(3) Weapons
employed by the enemy reported range from bolt action rifles, submachine guns,
light machine guns, AK-47s, to heavy machine guns such as .50 Caliber and
12.7mm AA weapons. The presence of the 37mm or larger AA Weapons is not yet confirmed
in the ASHAU Valley.
(4) During
the reporting period, approximately ninety incidents of ground fire, mostly
automatic (12 of which were heavy caliber) were encountered. They were
concentrated in both ends of the valley and west of A LUOI.
(5)
Enemy action against reconnaissance teams consisted of defending likely LZs and
of immediate attempts to surround teams to force extraction.
(6) No
evidence of infiltration routes exiting the ASHAU Valley to the northeast into
Base Area 114 or east towards HUE/PHU BAI was found. Route 547 connecting the
ASHAU Valley with HUE does not show signs of being used as an infiltration
route.
s/James
Asente
JAMES ASENTE
Major,
Infantry
Commanding
6 Incl:
1
- Operational Overlay [Omitted]
2
- Intelligence
3
- Resume of Ranger Operations
4
- Aviation Support (281st AHC)
5
- Tactical Air Support (USAF TACP)
6
- Logistics
Appendix
1. (Tactical Air Overlay) to Incl #5 [Omitted]
Appendix
1. (Intelligence Overlay) to Incl #2 [Omitted]
Appendix
2. (Trail Complex Overlay) to Incl #2 [Omitted]
Appendix
3. (Enemy Installations) to Incl #2
DISTRIBUTION:
1 - CO, 5th SFGA, Nha Trang
1 - CO, Co E (Prov), 5th SFGA, Nha Trang
1 - CO, 281st (AHC), Nha Trang
1 - ALO 5th SFGA, Nha Trang
1
- CG III MAF, ATTN: G-2, Da Nang
1
- CO, Det B-55, 5th SFGA, Saigon
1
- CG 3d MARDIV, ATTN: G-2, Phu Bai
1
- J2, MACV, Saigon
1 - J3, MACV, Saigon