Criteria The Bronze Star Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces of the United States in a combat theater, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding ac... The Bronze Star Medal may be awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces of the United States in a combat theater, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service not involving aerial flight. MoreHide
Criteria The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service in the U.S. ... The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service in the U.S. Marine Corps while on active duty for a specified period of time. MoreHide
Criteria The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service in the U.S. ... The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service in the U.S. Marine Corps while on active duty for a specified period of time. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal may be awarded to service members who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievem... The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal may be awarded to service members who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement or meritorious service (but not of sufficient nature to warrant a higher decoration). MoreHide
Best Moment
Work my own schedule for the next 12 months and do a lot of skin diving off he coral reefs
Chain of Command
Duty Assignment was Club manager at Camp Onna Pt, 3rdReconBn
Other Memories
Upon arrival at Kadena AB was greeted by a Marine Maj and asked what I wanted to do. It was either Career Planner or Club Manager. Since the Career Planner assignment was only one of my duties I decided to become a Club Manager and be on my own for the next 12 months. So I was TAD from H&SCo, 2/4 and was assigned to HQSVCBn
Criteria This ribbon is awarded to officers and enlisted personnel of the Navy, Naval Reserve, Marine Corps, and Marine Corps Reserve for 12 months consecutive or accumulated duty at overseas shore-based duty ... This ribbon is awarded to officers and enlisted personnel of the Navy, Naval Reserve, Marine Corps, and Marine Corps Reserve for 12 months consecutive or accumulated duty at overseas shore-based duty stations. Each Service has distinct criteria that delineates eligibility; Navy personnel assigned to Marine Corps units follow Marine Corps policy, and vice-versa. MoreHide
Description
1975-1977; MB "B" Co SepGd, USNAS, Cubi Pt, Philippines
Criteria This ribbon is awarded to officers and enlisted personnel of the Navy, Naval Reserve, Marine Corps, and Marine Corps Reserve for 12 months consecutive or accumulated duty at overseas shore-based duty ... This ribbon is awarded to officers and enlisted personnel of the Navy, Naval Reserve, Marine Corps, and Marine Corps Reserve for 12 months consecutive or accumulated duty at overseas shore-based duty stations. Each Service has distinct criteria that delineates eligibility; Navy personnel assigned to Marine Corps units follow Marine Corps policy, and vice-versa. MoreHide
Best Friends
TAD,MCRD Rifle & Pistol Team SSgt Pool, SSgt Enriquez, Sgt. Bell and Sgt. Mars
Worst Moment
Returning back to the drill field to face the repercussion of LtCol, Tompson. Placed on remedial PT until I made first class again. Never made Series Gunny for my lack of loyalty to the Cmd
Criteria The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service in the U.S. ... The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service in the U.S. Marine Corps while on active duty for a specified period of time. MoreHide
Comments
Awarded while assigned to Co"A" HQSVCBn, MCB, S.D.Butler, Okinawa
Criteria This ribbon is awarded to officers and enlisted personnel of the Navy, Naval Reserve, Marine Corps, and Marine Corps Reserve for 12 months consecutive or accumulated duty at overseas shore-based duty ... This ribbon is awarded to officers and enlisted personnel of the Navy, Naval Reserve, Marine Corps, and Marine Corps Reserve for 12 months consecutive or accumulated duty at overseas shore-based duty stations. Each Service has distinct criteria that delineates eligibility; Navy personnel assigned to Marine Corps units follow Marine Corps policy, and vice-versa. MoreHide
Criteria This ribbon is awarded to officers and enlisted personnel of the Navy, Naval Reserve, Marine Corps, and Marine Corps Reserve for 12 months consecutive or accumulated duty at overseas shore-based duty ... This ribbon is awarded to officers and enlisted personnel of the Navy, Naval Reserve, Marine Corps, and Marine Corps Reserve for 12 months consecutive or accumulated duty at overseas shore-based duty stations. Each Service has distinct criteria that delineates eligibility; Navy personnel assigned to Marine Corps units follow Marine Corps policy, and vice-versa. MoreHide
Criteria The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service in the U.S. ... The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service in the U.S. Marine Corps while on active duty for a specified period of time. MoreHide
Comments
Awarded while assigned at RTR, MCRD, San Diego, CA
1971
Marine Corps Drill Instructor Ribbon
Criteria Marines possessing the 8511 MOS who have served in an 8511 billet are eligible to receive the Marine Corps Drill Instructor Ribbon. In addition, Marines in the following billets are eligible to receiv... Marines possessing the 8511 MOS who have served in an 8511 billet are eligible to receive the Marine Corps Drill Instructor Ribbon. In addition, Marines in the following billets are eligible to receive this award: Recruiting Training Battalion (Commanding Officer, Executive Officer, S-3, and Sergeant-Major; Officer Candidate Company (Commanding Officer, Executive Officer, First Sergeant/Company Gunnery Sergeant, and Platoon Commanders) MoreHide
Best Friends
Lt Champe, Sgt Ott, SSgt Chamberlain, and the rest I forgot their name
Best Moment
Being associated with the best professional Marines I have ever served with in 22yrs.
Worst Moment
My argument with the CO Maj Simmons on how I preceived to fight this war. I didn't win.#%&*
Chain of Command
1stForceReconCo CO; Maj Roger E. Simmons
Other Memories
After several tours in 'Nam and numerous helicopter flights. My best friend Lt Champe was klled in civilian life doing what he loved best. Working with the LAPD helicopter medevac unit. His chopper crashed & burned...He died instantly. God Bless!!
Best Friends
Lt Champe Sgt Ott Lcpl Carr? And my Team who I forgot their names-Forgive me
Best Moment
Everyday with the finest bunch of Marines
Worst Moment
surrounded about 10-1
Chain of Command
Maj Simmons CO
Other Memories
Going Stateside on two good feet
1969 - 1970
Navy Unit Commendation
Criteria The Navy Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself by outstanding heroism in action against an enemy (but not suff... The Navy Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself by outstanding heroism in action against an enemy (but not sufficiently to justify the award of the Presidential Unit Citation). It may also be awarded to a unit that distinguishes itself by extremely meritorious service not involving combat (but in support of military operations), which renders that unit outstanding when compared to other units performing similar service. MoreHide
Best Friends
My stay with ReconBn was short. I joined in Feb, '69 and for the next 30 days underwent rubber boat trng etc. A call for volunteers for 1stForcRecon came down & I jumped for it and the rest is history. My Brother, Jim Griffith was In ReconBn earlier on around 65-66 in Chu Lai. at the time I was with 2/9 in Quang Tri. So this is my reason to join Recon to out do his exploits.
Criteria The Combat Action Ribbon is a personal decoration awarded to members of the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard (when operating under the control of the Navy) in the grade of captain (or colonel in th... The Combat Action Ribbon is a personal decoration awarded to members of the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard (when operating under the control of the Navy) in the grade of captain (or colonel in the Marine Corps) and below who have actively participated in ground or surface combat. (World War II and Korea War service rate one ribbon for each period only) MoreHide
Criteria The Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself under combat or noncombat conditions by either valorous ... The Meritorious Unit Commendation may be awarded by the Secretary of the Navy to any unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that distinguishes itself under combat or noncombat conditions by either valorous or meritorious achievement which renders that unit outstanding compared to other units performing similar service, but not sufficient to justify the award of the Navy Unit Commendation. MoreHide
Criteria The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspa... The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspace; or, for any period of service during the same time period in Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia or the air spaces thereover and in direct support of operations in Vietnam. MoreHide
Comments
Participated in ReconOps with 1stForceReconCo in the An Hoa TAOR
Criteria The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspa... The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspace; or, for any period of service during the same time period in Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia or the air spaces thereover and in direct support of operations in Vietnam. MoreHide
Comments
Participated in Recon Ops in support of III MAF in ICTZ, (I Corps Tactical Zone)
Criteria This ribbon is awarded to officers and enlisted personnel of the Navy, Naval Reserve, Marine Corps, and Marine Corps Reserve for 12 months consecutive or accumulated duty at overseas shore-based duty ... This ribbon is awarded to officers and enlisted personnel of the Navy, Naval Reserve, Marine Corps, and Marine Corps Reserve for 12 months consecutive or accumulated duty at overseas shore-based duty stations. Each Service has distinct criteria that delineates eligibility; Navy personnel assigned to Marine Corps units follow Marine Corps policy, and vice-versa. MoreHide
Description This campaign was from 9 June to 31 October 1969. During the summer and fall of 1969, conduct of operations was increasingly turned over to Vietnamese, US troops withdrew in greater numbers amid reaffThis campaign was from 9 June to 31 October 1969. During the summer and fall of 1969, conduct of operations was increasingly turned over to Vietnamese, US troops withdrew in greater numbers amid reaffirmations of support for the Republic of South Vietnam government. President Nixon announced the reduction of the U.S. military presence in South Vietnam which would be demonstrated initially by the withdrawal of 25,000 troops by 31 August 1969.
American troop strength had peaked at 543,400 in April 1969 but dropped to 505,500 by mid October. More scattered than before, enemy attacks were concentrated on South Vietnamese positions. U.S. combat deaths were down in the early fall as American units switched to small unit actions. The trend was not constant, however, because U.S. troops deaths which had fallen well below l00 a week in the fall, rose above 100 later in the year.... More
Memories '69-Participated in ReconOps with 1stForceReconCo in An Hoa TOAR '69- Participated in Recon Ops in su'69-Participated in ReconOps with 1stForceReconCo in An Hoa TOAR '69- Participated in Recon Ops in support of IIIMAF in ICTZ... More
Criteria The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service in the U.S. ... The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service in the U.S. Marine Corps while on active duty for a specified period of time. MoreHide
Criteria The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or aft... The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or after December 7, 1941. MoreHide
Criteria The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspa... The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspace; or, for any period of service during the same time period in Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia or the air spaces thereover and in direct support of operations in Vietnam. MoreHide
Criteria Awarded by the Vietnam Government to military personnel who have accomplished deeds of valor or displayed heroic conduct while fighting the enemy and have been cited individually at the regiment, brig... Awarded by the Vietnam Government to military personnel who have accomplished deeds of valor or displayed heroic conduct while fighting the enemy and have been cited individually at the regiment, brigade, division, corps, or armed forces level. MoreHide
Best Friends
After 47-48 years I forgot all my members of our gun section. I had no bad memories. My gun section was some of the best fellow Marines and buddies i served with.
Worst Moment
The event that sadden me most when I went back to conus for emergency leave and my gun section was ambushed south of DaNang supporting Hotel Co. The RVNs abandon their fort and went to DaNang to support their Political leaders and the VC had taken over the fort and all it's weapons and ammo. As the gun crew was in position and just holding a round in the gun tube when an RPG hit the tube, killing the gunner and A/gunner instantly. One other gun crew member was wounded as well. I was enroute back to my unit when I was told of the bad news. I never forgiven myself for abandoning my gun crew.
Other Memories
I had two other brothers in Vietnam both months apart from rotating back to conus. Sgt Jim Griffith, in Chu Lai and Cpl Ken Griffith in DaNang comm. I was at Phu Bai or Quang Tri in latter '66. My older brother Sgt Jim Griffith and i had a chance to fly a hop back-in-forth to visit each other.
Description This campaign was from 1 July 1966 to 31 May 1967. United States operations after 1 July 1966 were a continuation of the earlier counteroffensive campaign. Recognizing the interdependence of politicalThis campaign was from 1 July 1966 to 31 May 1967. United States operations after 1 July 1966 were a continuation of the earlier counteroffensive campaign. Recognizing the interdependence of political, economic, sociological, and military factors, the Joint Chiefs of Staff declared that American military objectives should be to cause North Vietnam to cease its control and support of the insurgency in South Vietnam and Laos, to assist South Vietnam in defeating Viet Cong and North Vietnamese forces in South Vietnam, and to assist South Vietnam in pacification extending governmental control over its territory.
North Vietnam continued to build its own forces inside South Vietnam. At first this was done by continued infiltration by sea and along the Ho Chi Minh trail and then, in early 1966, through the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). U.S. air elements received permission to conduct reconnaissance bombing raids, and tactical air strikes into North Vietnam just north of the DMZ, but ground forces were denied authority to conduct reconnaissance patrols in the northern portion of the DMZ and inside North Vietnam. Confined to South Vietnamese territory U.S. ground forces fought a war of attrition against the enemy, relying for a time on body counts as one standard indicator for measuring successful progress for winning the war.
During 1966 there were eighteen major operations, the most successful of these being Operation WHITE WING (MASHER). During this operation, the 1st Cavalry Division, Korean units, and ARVN forces cleared the northern half of Binh Dinh Province on the central coast. In the process they decimated a division, later designated the North Vietnamese 3d Division. The U.S. 3d Marine Division was moved into the area of the two northern provinces and in concert with South Vietnamese Army and other Marine Corps units, conducted Operation HASTINGS against enemy infiltrators across the DMZ.
The largest sweep of 1966 took place northwest of Saigon in Operation ATTLEBORO, involving 22,000 American and South Vietnamese troops pitted against the VC 9th Division and a NVA regiment. The Allies defeated the enemy and, in what became a frequent occurrence, forced him back to his havens in Cambodia or Laos.
By 31 December 1966, U.S. military personnel in South Vietnam numbered 385,300. Enemy forces also increased substantially, so that for the same period, total enemy strength was in excess of 282,000 in addition to an estimated 80,000 political cadres. By 30 June 1967, total U.S. forces in SVN had risen to 448,800, but enemy strength had increased as well.
On 8 January U.S. and South Vietnamese troops launched separate drives against two major VC strongholds in South Vietnam-in the so-called "Iron Triangle" about 25 miles northwest of Saigon. For years this area had been under development as a VC logistics base and headquarters to control enemy activity in and around Saigon. The Allies captured huge caches of rice and other foodstuffs, destroyed a mammoth system of tunnels, and seized documents of considerable intelligence value.
In February, the same U.S. forces that had cleared the "Iron Triangle", were committed with other units in the largest allied operation of the war to date, JUNCTION CITY. Over 22 U.S. and four ARVN battalions engaged the enemy, killing 2,728. After clearing this area, the Allies constructed three airfields; erected a bridge and fortified two camps in which CIDG garrisons remained as the other allied forces withdrew.
... More
People You Remember
Sgt Don Griffith, Da Nang, Vietnam
Description Operation Prairie (August 3 – January 31, 1967) was a military operation in northern South Vietnam. Its job was to eliminating North Vietnamese Army forces south of the DMZ.
1st Battalion, 3rd MarineOperation Prairie (August 3 – January 31, 1967) was a military operation in northern South Vietnam. Its job was to eliminating North Vietnamese Army forces south of the DMZ.
1st Battalion, 3rd Marines, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marines, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 3rd Battalion, 4th Marines, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marines and 1st and 3rd Battalions, 26th Marines search and destroy operation against the 324B NVA Division in the hills at Con Thien/Gio Linh areas south of the DMZ at Mutter's Ridge, the Razorback, Hill 400, Hill 484 and The Rockpile.
During August, 2nd Battalion 4th Marines, 3rd Battalion 4th Marines and other units saw heavy fighting with the NVA 324B division. Prairie was a string of battles that was fought in the foothills south of the DMZ. The Commander of E Company 2nd Battalion 4th Marines, Capt. Howard V. Lee was awarded the Medal of Honor for his outstanding bravery during this operation.... More
1966
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1967
Combat Action Ribbon
Criteria The Combat Action Ribbon is a personal decoration awarded to members of the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard (when operating under the control of the Navy) in the grade of captain (or colonel in th... The Combat Action Ribbon is a personal decoration awarded to members of the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard (when operating under the control of the Navy) in the grade of captain (or colonel in the Marine Corps) and below who have actively participated in ground or surface combat. (World War II and Korea War service rate one ribbon for each period only) MoreHide
Criteria The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspa... The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspace; or, for any period of service during the same time period in Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia or the air spaces thereover and in direct support of operations in Vietnam. MoreHide
Criteria The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspa... The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspace; or, for any period of service during the same time period in Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia or the air spaces thereover and in direct support of operations in Vietnam. MoreHide
Criteria The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspa... The Vietnam Service Medal was awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who served at any time between July 4, 1965, and March 28, 1973, in Vietnam or its contiguous waters or airspace; or, for any period of service during the same time period in Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia or the air spaces thereover and in direct support of operations in Vietnam. MoreHide
Comments
Participated in Opertions against Guerilla Forces
1966
Vietnam Gallantry Cross Individual Citation
Criteria Awarded by the Vietnam Government to military personnel who have accomplished deeds of valor or displayed heroic conduct while fighting the enemy and have been cited individually at the regiment, brig... Awarded by the Vietnam Government to military personnel who have accomplished deeds of valor or displayed heroic conduct while fighting the enemy and have been cited individually at the regiment, brigade, division, corps, or armed forces level. MoreHide
Criteria The Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross Colors) was authorized to be worn by units individually cited for service in military operations in support of the government of Sout... The Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross Colors) was authorized to be worn by units individually cited for service in military operations in support of the government of South Vietnam. The actions cited are for the same services that would have resulted in the award of a Valorous Unit Citation by the Army or a Navy Unit Citation. MoreHide
Description Description Pending
1966
Vietnam Civil Actions Unit Citation
Criteria
The unit citation of the Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Medal was awarded certain units by the Vietnamese government for meritorious service during the period 1 March 1961 to 28 March 1974.
Criteria This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who: 1. Served for 6 months in South Vietnam during the period 1 Mar 61 and 28 Mar 73; or 2. Served outside the geographical l... This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who: 1. Served for 6 months in South Vietnam during the period 1 Mar 61 and 28 Mar 73; or 2. Served outside the geographical limits of South Vietnam and contributed direct combat support to the RVN Armed Forces for an aggregate of six months. Only members of the Armed Forces of the United States who meet the criteria established for the AFEM (Vietnam) or Vietnam Service Medal during the period of service required are considered to have contributed direct combat support to the RVN Armed Forces; or 3. Did not complete the length of service required in item (1) or (2) above, but who, during wartime, were: a. Wounded by the enemy (in a military action); b. Captured by the enemy during action or in the line of duty, but later rescued or released; or c. Killed in action or in the line of duty; or 4. Were assigned in Vietnam on 28 Jan 73, and who served a minimum of 60 calendar days in Vietnam during the period 29 Jan 73 to 28 Mar 73. MoreHide
Criteria This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who: 1. Served for 6 months in South Vietnam during the period 1 Mar 61 and 28 Mar 73; or 2. Served outside the geographical l... This medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who: 1. Served for 6 months in South Vietnam during the period 1 Mar 61 and 28 Mar 73; or 2. Served outside the geographical limits of South Vietnam and contributed direct combat support to the RVN Armed Forces for an aggregate of six months. Only members of the Armed Forces of the United States who meet the criteria established for the AFEM (Vietnam) or Vietnam Service Medal during the period of service required are considered to have contributed direct combat support to the RVN Armed Forces; or 3. Did not complete the length of service required in item (1) or (2) above, but who, during wartime, were: a. Wounded by the enemy (in a military action); b. Captured by the enemy during action or in the line of duty, but later rescued or released; or c. Killed in action or in the line of duty; or 4. Were assigned in Vietnam on 28 Jan 73, and who served a minimum of 60 calendar days in Vietnam during the period 29 Jan 73 to 28 Mar 73. MoreHide
Description During June 1966, three Marine infantry regiments (eight battalions) were based in areas surrounding Da Nang, located roughly, in the center of the I Corps Tactical Zone. Major General Wood B. Kyle coDuring June 1966, three Marine infantry regiments (eight battalions) were based in areas surrounding Da Nang, located roughly, in the center of the I Corps Tactical Zone. Major General Wood B. Kyle commanded the Third Marine Division.
The First Marine Regiment, commanded by Colonel Bryan B. Mitchell, arrived at Da Nang from Chu Lai and was assigned to the eastern flank.
The 3d Marines, under the command of Col Harold A. Hayes, was placed west of the Yen River, south of Da Nang.
The 9th Marines, fresh from Golden Fleece operations (protecting locally grown rice) and County Fairs (pacification operations), was commanded by Col Edwin H. Simmons.
The regiment's area of operation covered 257 square miles and consisted of 27 villages, 150 hamlets and more than 88,000 civilians. Included in this zone of responsibility was the An Hoa industrial complex.
As the 9th Marines patrolled, contact with the enemy increased. Intense but short encounters were common. The Viet Cong would "hit and git."
The three regiments would join in Operation Liberty, which began on June 7, 1966.
The Viet Cong had grown daring. They were part of the R-20 battalion. During late May, Lieutenant Colonel William F. Doehler's 1st Bn, 9th Marines made contact with the enemy near the Yen River. Companies A and C (1/9), accompanied by M-48 tanks and supported by air and artillery, responded.
During the daylong battle, 53 enemy were killed, probably more. However, bodies had "disappeared," and a body count could not be made. Doehler lost a dozen Marines killed, and another 31 were wounded.
Col Simmons realized that his regiment's significant contacts with the enemy were all initiated by the VC. They picked the time and place to battle the Marines. During May, the 9th Marines killed 270 while suffering 75 dead and 328 wounded. More than half of the Marine casualties were caused by enemy mines and booby traps.
Col Simmons rearranged the enemy's schedule. His Marines would perform more search and clear operations, including cordons and searches of every hamlet in the zone.
As the Marines began Operation Liberty, LtCol Van D. "Ding Dong" Bell Jr. (1/1) and his command group climbed aboard three Ontos. South of the Marble Mountain Air Facility, Bell's vehicle ran out of gas. The area was definitely "unfriendly," and soon enemy rounds were impacting into the zone temporarily occupied by LtCol Bell's command section.
Bell ordered reinforcements from his Co B, supported by amtracs and tanks. The armored vehicles roared and rolled to the rescue, and 11 VC bodies and a number of weapons were later found.
As Operation Liberty progressed, the enemy remained concealed, using sniper fire and mines against the advancing and probing Marines. Captain Carl Reckewell's F/2/9 patrolled unknowingly into a large enemy minefield near the La Tho River. Two Marines were killed; 21 were wounded.
As those casualties were being evacuated, another four or five explosions occurred. The adjacent elephant grass caught fire, but there were no other casualties there. The "Fox" Co Marines were withdrawn from the minefield, and Marine artillery pounded the vacated area. Numerous secondary explosions were heard and observed.
Operation Liberty was not one of the "big" operations, but it did clear the area south of Da Nang of organized enemy resistance, and two weeks later, Marine engineers celebrated the opening of "Liberty Road" which wandered south from Da Nang to the industrial complex of An Hoa.... More
People You Remember
H&SCo, 81FO, 2/9 Later Section Leader. Worked with Hotel/Gulf Co most of the time
Description Jul 7 – Aug 3; 1st Battalion, 3rd Marines, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 3rd Battalion 4th Marines, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 3rd Battalion, 9th Marines, 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines, 1st Battalion, 1sJul 7 – Aug 3; 1st Battalion, 3rd Marines, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, 3rd Battalion 4th Marines, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 3rd Battalion, 9th Marines, 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines and 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines and ARVN operation against the NVA 324B Division in the Cam Lo area near the DMZ.
This was in support of Operation Nathan Hale of the 1st Cavalry Division and 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division vicinity of Dong Tre and Tuy Hòa, Phú Yên Province.... More
Memories
My brother Sgt James Griffith visiting me up north. He was attached with 1stReconBn, Chu Lai
Description Jul 4 – Oct 27; 1st Battalion, 3rd Marines, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marines, 1st Battalion, 9th Marines, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marines and 3rd Battalion, 9th Marines search and desJul 4 – Oct 27; 1st Battalion, 3rd Marines, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marines, 1st Battalion, 9th Marines, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marines and 3rd Battalion, 9th Marines search and destroy and security operation for the An Hoa industrial complex in the Quảng Nam Province.
Operation MACON began when two VC companies ambushed one Marine company on a routine search and clear mission NE of An Hoa. An Hoa was to be the site of an industrial complex and was politically important to the GVN and hence the military. By the end of the day, III MAF developed the operation that normally consisted of a single battalion-size force but for a few days had five battalions.
There were three phases to the operation which finally concluded on 27 October. The operation claimed 507 enemy KIA versus 24 US KIAs and 172 WIAs.... More
Criteria The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service in the U.S. ... The Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal is awarded on a selective basis to enlisted members in the Regular Marine Corps or Marine Corps Reserve to recognize good behavior and faithful service in the U.S. Marine Corps while on active duty for a specified period of time. MoreHide
Worst Moment
Chasing a young deer down the mountain side with my Kabar and over shot the trail and was flying through the air like a down hill skier on a 40-50 foot drop-off. Tore up my ass, palms of my hands...but no broken bones.
Other Memories
I was TAD to SERE training only not an Instructor
Criteria This ribbon is awarded to officers and enlisted personnel of the Navy, Naval Reserve, Marine Corps, and Marine Corps Reserve for 12 months consecutive or accumulated duty at overseas shore-based duty ... This ribbon is awarded to officers and enlisted personnel of the Navy, Naval Reserve, Marine Corps, and Marine Corps Reserve for 12 months consecutive or accumulated duty at overseas shore-based duty stations. Each Service has distinct criteria that delineates eligibility; Navy personnel assigned to Marine Corps units follow Marine Corps policy, and vice-versa. MoreHide
Description
1961-1963, MB Security Gd, USNB, Subic Bay, Philippines
Criteria This ribbon is awarded to officers and enlisted personnel of the Navy, Naval Reserve, Marine Corps, and Marine Corps Reserve for 12 months consecutive or accumulated duty at overseas shore-based duty ... This ribbon is awarded to officers and enlisted personnel of the Navy, Naval Reserve, Marine Corps, and Marine Corps Reserve for 12 months consecutive or accumulated duty at overseas shore-based duty stations. Each Service has distinct criteria that delineates eligibility; Navy personnel assigned to Marine Corps units follow Marine Corps policy, and vice-versa. MoreHide
Description
1959-1960;MB Security Guard,Subic Bay, USNB, Philippines
Instructors
1stLt. M.N. McCarthy, Series Officer
T/Sgt. D. Brown, Series NCO
M/Sgt. J. H. Filback, CDI
S/Sgt. L. C. Brown, SDI
S/Sgt. F. W. Lukasiewicz, JDI
Sgt. D. E. Kennedy, JDI
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who, after July 1, 1958, participate in specified United States operations or those in direct support of the United Natio... The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal is awarded to members of the Armed Forces who, after July 1, 1958, participate in specified United States operations or those in direct support of the United Nations or friendly foreign nations MoreHide
MSgt Shores, 1stSgt Tomlinson, GySgt Tipton, Capt Frank Duggan and many who I forgot their names
Serving with the Best Damn CO in the Marine Corps. Maj Robert Nunnally
Col Robert Nunnally died of Leukemia in 2009
Did three tours in the PI;
(1) Jun'59-Nov'60- MB, Subic
(2) Sep'61-Aug'63-MB, Subic
(3) Sep'75-Sep'77-MB, BCo, Cubi Pt