March 1966 First Tanks: Commanding Officer: LtCol Albert W. Snell Operations Officer: Maj J.G. Collier Logistics Officer: Maj R.E.B. Palmer

Battalion Locations and Operations Summary: The Bn was prepping, staging, and loading on to USS Winston, USS Vernon County, USS Whetstone, and USS Cavalier at White Beach, Okinawa for transport to Chu Lai, .

From 12 to 18 March, 1966, the Battalion staged supplies at , Okinawa. From 18 to 20 March, 1966, staging was at White Beach on an around the clock operation. 21 March through 23 March, 1966, found the Battalion loading aboard 2 ships, USS CAVALIER (APA-37) and USS WHETSTONE. The rear echelon loaded aboard the USS WINSTON on 25 March, 1966, and sailed 26 March and the ISS VERNON COUNTY on 27 March and departed Okinawa, 28 March to rejoin the Battalion. During the latter part of the reporting period the Battalion landed and established the Battalion CO on Hill 43 vicinity (BT 571041) within the Chu Lai Enclave. While H&S Company established the new CP, unloading of the USS CAVALIER continued. Cargo and equipment sustained minimum damage and loss, estimated to be less than 1%. Immediately upon arriving ashore liaison was made with Companies A and B and action was taken to prepare to support these units and assume opcon as of 29 March and adcon as of 1 April 66. 2 Mar 66- End of Battalion Command Post and logistical Exercise. 11 Mar 66- BLT 3/4 was activated for operation, detaching Third Plt. (Rein), Co A, Third TkBn 19 Mar 66, Advance Party departed from Okinawa aboard USS COLONIAL (LSD-18) 21 Mar 66- First Tank Battalion (-) , began loading aboard USS CAVALIER (APA-37) 23 Mar 66- Advance Party arrived at Chu Lai Enclave. 23 Mar 66- First Tank Battalion (-), departed from Okinawa. 27 Mar 66- First Tank Battalion (-), arrived in RVN. 28 Mar 66- First Tank Battalion (-) CP was established vic. (BT 571041)

29 Mar 66- As of 1500 regained opcon of Companies A and B

Foundation Comment: March 2015 Comments: From our knothole it was about time the First Tank Battalion finally got it together and came to the war. Actual, at first we thought it would be over by the time we saw the REMF's from Camp Pendleton. "B" Company Capt Allan Lamb C.O. had his company on the ground in Chu Lai since August of 1965 (i.e., 6-7 months) providing airfield security, supporting the 7th Marines and had been involved in the largest amphibious assault since Korea - Operation Starlite - being awarded the Silver Star for bravery and credited with a basket full of enemy KIAs. Refer to the August '65 Third Tanks CC's to get an abbreviated report of "B" First Tanks’ work in Chu Lai. H&S C.O.: Capt H.J.L. Reid Location and Operations Summary: Same as BL&OS above.

C.O. Company “A”: Capt J.D. Sparks Location and Operations Summary: D/S 1st Marines, Chu Lai. Tanks were credited with preventing the V.C. from over running the air field and causing damage to the air craft Company A (a) 1Mar-28Mar66, attached to Third Tank Battalion, 3rd MarDiv, in D/S, 1st Marines. 29Mar-31Mar66, Reverted to opcon of 1st Tank Bn, 1st MarDiv, and placed in D/S of 1st Marines.

C.O. Company “B”: Capt E.E. Stith Location and Operations Summary: D/S 7th Marines, Chu Lai. Tanks supported infantry routine patrols and provided defensive positions security.

Company B (a) 1Mar-28Mar66, attached to 3rd Tank Bn, 3rd MarDiv, in D/S, 7th Marines. 29Mar-31Mar66, Reverted to opcon of 1st Tank Bn, 1st MarDiv and placed in D/S of 7th Marines.

C.O. Company “C”: Capt (UNK) Location and Operations Summary : Attached to 5th Marines. Tanks supported routine infantry patrolling, road security, and bolstered defensive positions. Company C (a) 1Mar-31Mar66, attached to 5th Marines.

March 1967 First Tanks: Commanding Officer: LtCol R.M. Taylor Operations Officers: Capt’s F.U. Salas & C.E. Brabec Logistics Officer: Maj D.B. Crudup Battalion Locations and Operations Summary: Da Nang (AT 998722) The Battalion C.O. takes command of Sothern Sector, 1st MarDiv Rear. Battalion units participated in Operations Lafayette, Gulf, Yuba, and Desoto. Company “A” was OpCon to Task Force X-Ray. Flame Tanks provide on-call support to defoliate and burn out enemy tunnels and bunkers

Foundation Comment: Col R.M. Taylor - nickname "Rough House" - was a legend among Tankers gained by his leadership in the . Then-Capt Salas is now a retired Marine Colonel and his son, Brian, is an active duty Marine. The battalion has moved up to Da Nang and is on its way to the fight along the DMZ. Each of the operations listed below will be covered in more detail in The Book. This is accomplished by going to the supported infantry battalions' command chronologies and digging out what little may be reported there. More often than not, the Tankers and Ontos crewmen receive scant notice - let alone praise - for their work.

Stay tuned for more on Operations Lafayette, Gulf, Yuba, and DeSoto.

Capt Weigand, C.O. "C" Company was in a good fight and was the recipient of the Silver Star for his bravery during this period. Since there is no S-1 Annex to the CC, that fact is not known to the casual reader. Battalion Locations and Operations Summary: Danang – (AT 998722)

The Battalion C.O. takes command of Sothern Sector, 1st Division Rear. Battalion units participated in Operations Lafayette, Gulf, Yuba, and Desoto. Company “A” was Opcon to Task Force X-Ray. Flame Tanks provide on-call support to defoliate and burn out enemy tunnels and bunkers

I. OPERATIONS

1. Operation Lafayette. The 1st and 2nd Platoons of Company C participated in Operation Lafayette in support of the 1st Battalion 1st Marines during the period 26 February 1967 to 7 March 1967, in the 1st Marines sector of the Division TAOR. 2. Operation Gulf. The 2d Platoon of Company B participated in Operation Gulf in support of the 2d Battalion, 4th marines during the period 4-8 March 1967 in the 4th Marines sector of the Division TAOR. 3. Operation Yuba. The 3rd Platoon and 2d Section Flame tanks of Company B participated in Operation Yuba during the period 11-12 March 1967 in the 4th Marines sector of the Division TAOR. 4. Operation DeSoto. The 3rd Platoon, Company A is participating in Operation DeSoto in support of the 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines. 5. Task Force X-Ray. Company A remains in Opcon of Task Force X- Ray for the period 1-31 March 1967. The 3rd Platoon commenced their present support-mission by an over-the-beach landing on 16 March 1967. The second platoon remains under the Chu Lai Airfield Defense Command in support of the defense of the Chu Lai Airfield Complex. The 2d platoon supports the 1st Battalion, 7th Marines during the period March 1967 in the Binn-Son and Ly-Tin provinces of the RVN. 6. Ground Based Defoliant Report. During the month of March flame tanks assigned to the gun companies fired a total of 4800 gallons of napalm mix. Majority of napalm shot was to eliminate cover and concealment that would be advantageous to the enemy. Remainder of napalm shot was for clearing areas of fire and into enemy caves and tunnels etc. The flame tank has proven its worth and capabilities if utilized in its primary role.

Foundation Comment: The Command Chronology from which this abstract is taken is but 3 pages with no details beyond which is shown here. 7. Company B (Rein), 3rd Tank Bn. FMF. Assumed Opcon, Company B (Rein) 3rd Tank Battalion, as of 0100, 23 March 1967, administrative control remained with parent organization. 8. Southern Sector Division Rear Area. At 0800 on 21 March 1967 the Commanding Officer, 1st Tank Battalion, assumed command of the Southern Sector, Division Rear Area, relieving the Battalion Commander, 3rd Tank Battalion. As Commander, Southern Sector, Division Rear Area the following action were initiated or responded to:

H&S C.O.: Capt J.C. Winther Location and Operations Summary: Danang – (AT 988722) Provided C.P. security.

C.O. Company “A”: Capt J.H. Cowan Location and Operations Summary: Chu Lai – (AT 515040) Operation DeSoto in support of 3/7. Conducted road sweeps, blocking positions, bridge security.

C.O. Company “B”: Capt L.E. Cherico Location and Operations Summary: Danang –(AT 945763) Operation Gulf support of G/2/4. Conducted convoy security, bridge security, road sweeps.

C.O. Company “C”: Capt P.S. Weigand Location and Operations Summary: Danang –(AT 074658) Operation Lafayette support of 1/1. Operated south of Marble Mountain supporting infantry-size battalion and company size search and clear operations.

March 1968 First Tanks: Commanding Officer: LtCol V.J. Gentile Operations Officer: Maj D.R. Dickey Logistics Officer: Maj J.A. Schuyler Location & Operations: Da Nang (AY 977723) During the month of March the 1st Tank Battalion participated in one major operation, Operation Ford. All units of Company A (-) (Rein) were in general support and the 1st and 2nd Platoons of Company A (Rein), 1st Antitank Battalion were in direct support. The operation was concluded on 20 March. The task organization for the 1st Tank Battalion (Rein) is as follows: Company A (-)(Rein): D/S Task Force X-Ray (Phu Bai) Company B (Rein): D/S 7th Marines (DaNang) Company B (Rein), 5th Tank Bn: D/S 27th Marines (DaNang) 3rd Platoon: G/S 1st Mar Div (DaNang) Company C (-)(Rein): G/S 1st Mar Div (DaNang) 1st Platoon: D/S 3rd Bn., 27th Mar (DaNang) 2nd Platoon: D/S 2nd Brigade ROKMC (Hoi An) Company A (Rein), 1st AT Bn: D/S Task Force X-Ray (Phu Bai)

H&S C.O.: Maj L.A. Gildersleeve Location and Operations Summary: (AT 997723) Conducted foot patrols in front of C.P. and cantonment .

C.O. Company “A” (-) (Rein): Capt C.R. Casey Location and Operations Summary: (YD 8151665) Phu Bai/Gia Le area in D/S of Task Force X-Ray. Elements provide bridge security until relieved by elements of 5th Tanks.

Company A (-)(Rein) is located in the Phu Bai/Gia Le area where they are in direct support of Task Force X-Ray. The 1st Platoon remained as security for the Song Cau Do and Song Tuy Loan Bridges in the Southern Sector Defense Command AOR until 24 March when they were relieved by 3rd Platoon, Company B, 5th Tank Battalion. The 1st Platoon is now in general support of the Division and constitutes a portion of the Division reserve. On 23 March, the Company Headquarters of Company A (-)(Rein), 1st Tank Battalion (Rein) moved its location from DaNang to Phu Bai so that is could better support the platoons at that location.

C.O.’s Company “B” (-): Capt’s R.E. Roemer & G.J. Murdock Location and Operations Summary: (AT 962621) Provided fire support for infantry, road sweeps, search and destroy ops, and C.P. security.

Several tanks from Company B (Rein) provided fire support for infantry operations during the month. The tanks were limited in movement because of wet rice paddies. Other operations were primarily involved with reaction forces for infantry and CAP units, security for road sweeps, support of search and destroy operations and security for command posts.

C.O. Company “C” (-) (Rein): R.D. Gunselman Location and Operations Summary: (AT 062622) Danang & Hoi An. In D/S 0f 3/27 and 2nd ROK in Hoi An area.

Company C (-)(Rein) remains in direct support of 3rd Battalion, 27th Marines and the 2nd ROK Brigade in the Hoi An area. The 3rd Platoon remains attached to Company B, 1st Tank Battalion and is located at An Hoa.

C.O. Company “A” (Rein), 1st AT Bn: 1st Lt V.C. Davis Location and Operations Summary: (YD 816165) Remains in D/S of Task Force X-Ray at Gia Le. Company A (Rein), 1st Antitank Battalion, remains in direct support of Task Force X-Ray with headquarters at Gia Le. The 3rd Platoon is in direct support of the Phu Bai Defense Command. On 22 March, the 1st Platoon, Company B, 5th Antitank Battalion was transferred to A Co, 1st Antitank Battalion for duty in the Phu Bai area. C.O. Company “B” (Rein), 5th TK Bn: Capt D. Morris Location and Operations Summary: (AT 997723) Danang D/S of 1 and 2/27.

Company B (Rein), 5th Tank Battalion was joined by 1st Tank Battalion on 13 March. The Company received an intensive training program and on 29 March the 1st and 2nd Platoons moved to 27th Marines in direct support of 1/27 and 2/27. The headquarters group remains at 1st Tank Battalion CP.

Foundation Comment: The 5th Tanks have arrived and joined the 1st Tanks. March 1969 The Command Chronology for this period is barely (to not) legible. First Tanks: Commanding Officer: LtCol M.C. Ashley, Jr Executive Officer: Maj R.H. Graham Operations Officer: Maj J.B. Terpak Logistics Officer: Maj D.R. Sparks Location and Operations Summary: CP (AT 997723) During the month of March tanks and Ontos of the 1st Tank Battalion maintained a high state of combat readiness due to the increasing threat of further enemy initiated activity. Although further large scale enemy attacks did not occur, the 1st Tank Battalion remained ready at a moment’s notice to combat the enemy offensive wherever it might arise within the Area of Responsibility. Tanks and Ontos continued to support the infantry regiments of the 1st Marine Division, the 2nd Brigade Republic of Korea, Marine Corps, and the 51st RVN Regiment by providing road sweeps and convoy security, bridge security, counter rocket and mortar fire, cantonment defense, as well as providing mobility, fire power and shock effect for combined tank infantry search and destroy and search and clear operations. Besides fulfilling our combat commitments, the proposed cadre of one tank company (Company A)1st Anti Tank Battalion received the undivided attention of the Battalion stood ready to carry out its task as by KYY MAP and the 1st Marine Division. Unable to read much of the document.

H&S Company C.O.’s : Maj F.OP. Briseno & Capt J.K. Location and Operations: CP (AT 997723) Provided HQ CP defense by manning nightly perimeter bunkers, providing forward LP's, and active patrolling outside the wire.

C.O. Company “A” (-)(Rein): Capt B.R. Montgomery Location and Operations Summary: CP (AT 936782) Company A (-)(Rein) continued to provide tank support to the 26th Marines. The company command post remained co-located with the 1st Battalion, 26th Marines. During March the majority of Company A’s tank assets remained OPCON to Companies B and C in order to fill commitments with the 1st and 7th Marines respectively. However tanks and Ontos from BLT 1/26(OPCON to Company A, 1st Tank Battalion as of 281900 Jan 1969) continued to provide security for Namo Bridge as well as counter rocket and mortar fire from Hill 190. Numerous H&I fire missions were fired from Hill 190 by tanks on suspected and known enemy firing areas located in the vicinity of Elephant Valley as well as on routes of advance and egress into the DaNang area. Effective 200800H March 1969, those tanks and Ontos reported back to BLT 1/26 for further operations. To alleviate this situation and further strengthen the tanks and Ontos assets of the 26th Marines on 20 March the 1st Tank Battalion assumed OPCON of the 3rd Platoon, Company A, 5th Tank Battalion and the 1st Platoon, Company A, 5th Antitank Battalion and placed them in direct support of the 26th Marines.

C.O.’s Company “B” (Rein): Capt's M.P. Sams & K.W. Zitz Location and Operations Summary: CP (AT 962621) Company B (Rein) continued to provide two tank platoons in direct support of the 7th Marines and three platoons in direct support of the 5th Marines. The company command post remained co- located with that of the 7th Marines Regimental CP in Hill 55. The 1st Platoon remained on Hill 37 in direct support of the 1st Battalion, 7th Marines where they provided added fire power for the perimeter defense and as road sweep and convoy security. On 30 March a light section of tanks from the 1st Platoon moved out in support of Operation Oklahoma by providing convoy security from Hill 37 to Hills 65 and 52, as well as providing direct and indirect fire capabilities from positions on Hill 65. The 3rd Platoon of Company B, light section of tanks from the 2nd Platoon of Company, continued to provide direct support for the 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines, and during March assumed direct support for the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines. In the Ko Basin and the 5th Marine Area of Responsibility, the 2nd and 4th Platoons of Company B along with the 2nd Platoon, Company A, 5th Tank Battalion (OPCON to the 1st Tank Battalion as of 25 March 1969) primarily continued to provide security for the multitude of convoys traveling between Phu Loc (6) and An Hoa. On 19 March a light section of tanks from BLT 3/26 in support of the 1st Battalion, 5th Marines proved its worth when the Battalion CP located at Phu Loc (6) was attacked by an enemy force estimated at between 150 and 200. The value of the fire power provided by the tanks was undeniable in finally repelling the enemy’s onslaught which counted more than 40 KIA.

C.O.’s Company “C” (Rein): 1stLt T.G. Roberts & Capt T.H. Merrell Location and Operations Summary: CP (BT 078663)

Company C (Rein) during March continued to provide for the platoons in direct support of the 1st Marines and one platoon in support of the 2nd Brigade ROKMC. The company command post remained co-located with the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines. The 2nd Platoon provided tank support for numerous Korean Marine operations in the vicinity of Dion as well as security for the Hoi An Airfield and the Brigade C. The 1st and 3rd Platoons in the remained at the Company CP where they carried on mobile operation in the vicinity of Man uan, the Phong Ko’s Cam and Tu Cau. Although enemy activity was relatively light the combined operations kept the (Unable to read the text)

C.O. Company “A” (Rein), 1st AT Bn: 1stLt J.J. Banning Location and Operations Summary: CP (AT997723)

Company A (Rein), 1st Antitank Battalion remained within the Sothern Sector Defense Command and continued to be primarily tasked with Bridge and Combat Outpost security as well as providing direct support to the Quick Reaction Mobile Task Force, Task Force Kilo. A heavy section of Ontos supported elements of 3/1 and 1/1 as security for the Song Cau Bridge while a light section of Ontos support elements of 3/7 on the Cobb Bridge. On a continuing basis Ontos support Company F, 2/7 and Company A 1/1 in nightly patrol activities of the Koc Van District. On 26 March, Company A, 1st Antitank Battalion placed control of all combat outposts and observation posts under their control within the Southern Sector to the H&S Company, 1st Tank Battalion.

March 1970 First Tanks: Commanding Officers: Maj's J.J. Louder & G.E. Berbaum Executive Officer: Maj G.E. Berbaum & Unassigned Operations Officer: Capt A.E. Burns III Logistics Officers: Maj's G.E. Berbaum & Capt A.E. Burns Location and Operations Summary: Da Nang (AT 997723) 1. Operations. During the month of March the 1st Tank Battalion remained in a standdown status. All efforts were directed toward completion of embarkation preparations, staging vehicles, and loading of ships. 2. Task Organization. As of 15 march the 1st Tank Battalion, less Company C, detached, was embarked aboard U.S. Navy ships and enroute to CONUS. 3. Battalion CP Ground Action. During the first four days of March 1st Battalion, 5th Marines effected a phased relief of 1st Tank Battalion local security forces and assumed responsibility for defense of the battalion CP. 4. Ammunition Expenditures. No ammunition was expended by the battalion during March.

H&S C.O.’s: Maj H.G. Duncan & Capt W.D. Isenhour Location and Operations Summary: Da Nang (AT 997723) Same as Bn CP. Provided HQ CP security. e. H&S Company completed staging of tanks, wheeled vehicles, and equipment at the Bridge Ramp, Ferry Landing and Deepwater Pier staging areas on 14 March and all personnel moved to the staging areas that evening. On 15 March the company embarked aboard USS Dubuque (LPD-8) and departed Vietnam.

C.O. Company “A”: 1stLt K.R. Stone Location and Operations Summary: CP (AT 997723)

a. Company A remained in a cadre status. On 4 March on M-51 VTR was received from Company A, 5th Tank Battalion, eliminating a long standing table of equipment deficiency. Staging of all tracked vehicles at the Bridge Ramp staging area was completed on 5 March. The company embarked aboard USS Dubuque (LPD-8) and departed Vietnam 15 March.

C.O. Company “B” (Rein): 1stLt P.H. McMath Location and Operations Summary: CP (AT 997723)

b. Company B completed movement to the 1st Tank Battalion CP and commenced full standdown on 1 March. Ten of the company’s tanks participated in the 1st Tank Battalion change of command ceremony on 7 March. Movement of tracked vehicles to the Bridge Ramp staging area commenced on 9 March and was completed on 10 March. On 11 March the company embarked aboard USS Vancouver (LPD-2) and departed Vietnam.

C.O. Company “C” (Rein): Capt R.L. Needham Location and Operations Summary: CP (AT 997723)

c. Company C (Rein), detached, remained in support of the 1st Marine Division and the 2nd ROK Marine Brigade.

C.O. Company “A” (-) 5th Tank Bn: 1stLt C.S. Certain Location and Operations Summary: CP (AT 997723)

d. Company A (-), 5th Tank Battalion completed movement of its 14 gun tanks to the Bridge Ramp staging area on 4 March. After passing the agricultural inspection the tanks were invoiced to FLC for shipment to 3rd Service Battalion on Okinawa. The company’s M- 51 VTR was also transferred to Company A, 1st Tank battalion on 4 March. Personnel and the remaining equipment were embarked aboard USS Thomaston (LSD-28) on 10 March and departed Vietnam on 11 March. The company will be deactivated after arrival in CONUS. Foundation Comment: Seems as though these boys just got here! They’ve done a great job and they're ready to go back to sunny southern - Camp Pendleton. With lots of memories - not all of which were happy.

March 1966 First Antitanks: Commanding Officer: LtCol W. Moore Executive Officer: Maj R.E. Harris Operations Officer: Maj A.J. Eagan Logistics Officer: Maj J.J. Keefe Location & Operations Summary: Camp Hansen, Okinawa to Chu Lai, RVN

Foundation Comment: As with the tanks, Ontos battalion subordinate units had been fighting in Vietnam several months before their respective Bns’ C.P. was to join them and provide them the support needed to sustain operations. Keep in mind that communications at that time - nearly 5 decades ago - was nowhere near what we have today. Reports and messages were hand written for starters. When converted to documents. with many "addees" up and done the chain-of-command, that were then to be forwarded. Typing was done on mechanical typewriters and reproduced on ditto paper mechanically. This accomplished often by a Marine not usually skilled much above the "hunt and peck" level. Add to this the constant mobility of all the units, personnel, and the "office": a field desk, sitting on the bare ground, semi-functioning "Remington", with a tent overhead seldom shielding from the sand, wind, dust, sounds, rain, and incoming.

a. The 1st Antitank Battalion moved from a training status at Comp Hansen, Okinawa to counterinsurgency operations in the Chu Lai Combat Base, Republic of Vietnam during the period covered by this report. b. On 1 March 1966, the following task organization were re- activated, and elements of the 1st Antitank Battalion were attached to them as listed below: (1) RLT-5 Company B (-), 1st Antitank Battalion (Company Headquarters only) (2) BLT- 2/5 2nd Plt (Rein), Company B, 1st Antitank Battalion c. The 3rd Platoon (Rein), Company B, 3rd Antitank Battalion, which had been refurbished and trained by this Battalion on Okinawa for a two month period.

H&S Company C.O.: Capt J.W. Schroeder Location & Operations: Camp Hansen, Okinawa to Chu Lai, RVN

No report

C.O. Company “A”, 1st AT Bn: Capt G.R. Van Horn Location: Camp Hansen, Okinawa

C.O. Company “B”, 1st AT Bn: Capt J.E. Felker Location & Operations: Camp Pendleton, CA

C.O. Company “C” 1st AT Bn (-): 1stLt/Capt W.F. Snyder Location & Operations: Chu Lai, RVN 28 Feb 1966

March 1966 Third Tanks Note: This CC has an S-1 Personnel Annex. Most CC's do not. The MarCorHistDiv cannot explain why the S-1 Annexes are routinely omitted lest it be privacy concerns at that period of time. Commanding Officer: LtCol M.L. Raphael Executive Officer: Maj J.G. Doss, Jr. Operations Officer: Maj A.W. Lamb Logistics Officer: Maj F.W. Coates Location & Operations Summary: Da Nang (AT 989708) INTELLIGENCE The Viet Cong, during March 1966, continued to employ large mines (50-75 lbs) to combat the proven effectiveness of tanks in the Da Nang enclave. As in previous months their efforts to destroy the M48A3 proved unsuccessful. However, in four instances tanks were damaged to varying degrees. The incidents in which tanks hit mines were as follows: 1. 11 March 1966 at 1130H a tank detonated a mine at coordinates (BT 067633), which resulted in moderate damage to the tank. The mine was rigged with a pressure-type detonating device. The mine probably contained between 40 and 50 pounds of TNT. It left a crater 4 feet in diameter and 3 feet deep. 2. 13 March 1966 at 0700H a tank detonated a mine at coordinates (BT 100620). The mine was rigged with a pressure detonating device which was destroyed by the explosion. The tank sustained only moderate damage from the blast which yielded a hole 5 feet in diameter and 3 feet deep. This mine probably contained about 50 pounds of TNT. 3. On 28 March 1966 at 2045H a tank hit a mine at coordinates (AT 950600). The mine consisted of 50 pounds of black powder and created a crater 8 feet in diameter and 4 feet deep. The tank sustained moderate damage to the suspension system. 4. On 29 March 1966 at 0950H a tank detonated a mine at coordinates (BT 087619). The mine consisted of approximately 40-50 pounds of TNT. A crater 8 feet in diameter and 5 feet deep resulted from the explosion. The tank sustained moderate damage. The Viet Cong continued to place mines at points of channelization and in roads and tracks either frequently or recently used by tracked vehicles. Although numerous reports have credited the Viet Cong with an increased anti-tank capability in the form of RPG-2 (B-40) rocket launchers, no tanks from the 3d Tank Battalion have encountered these weapons during the reporting period. Foundation Comment: This is the first time that the Intelligence Report has appeared in the Abstracts. This inclusion is based on a few suggestions and requests from our readers. And, while the Civic Action Program of the Third Tank Battalion was one of the best and could be reported on, there has been no request for those reports. 1510 30Mar66 CPL H.L. WHALEY 1907395 and LCPL M. COLEMAN 2103372 drowned in the field South of DaNang when the tank they were in submerged while crossing a stream. Letters of condolence sent.

TANK COMBAT OPERATIONS The 3d Tank Battalion continued to provide tank combat support for the 3d Marine Division. Company A (-)(Rein), remained in support of 3d Marines. The tanks are employed on strong points on the MLR, road blocks on the MSR and Route #1, and provided the 3d Marines with a mobile reserve force. The tanks employed on the forward strong points are also used for long range H&I fires. As the dry weather continued to improve trafficability in the 3d Marines TAOR, Company A increased its patrol action. Company B (Rein) remained in direct support of the 9th Marines and continued to have the majority of tank offensive action and enemy contact. Elements of the company participated in 11 armored patrols, 17 search and clear, and search and destroy operations, and operated twice as a mobile reserve. These actions resulted in 46 enemy contacts for a total of 15 VC KIA and one VCC. Both Companies A and B employed flame tanks. They were utilized to clear fields of fire and destroy sources of cover and concealment. Some flame missions were fired at night as a show of force and to exploit the inherent psychological effect of flame. Company C (-)(Rein), remained in support of the 4th Marines and displaced to the Phu Bai enclave with the regiment. The Company Headquarters joined the 3d Platoon, Company A, which was attached to the 2d Battalion, 1st Marines in Phu Bai. This platoon was redesignated as the 1st Platoon, Company C. The old 3d Platoon, Company A, returned to Phu Bai with BLT 3/4 upon completion of their deployment as SLF. This platoon was redesignated the 3d Platoon, Company C. The 2d Platoon, Company C, displaced from Da Nang to Phu Bai to join the company.

COMMAND AND CONTROL At the close of this reporting period command and control requirements were reduced by detachment of Companies A and B, 1st Tank Battalion. 3d Tank Battalion no longer exercises any control over these companies. Companies A and B, 3d Tank Battalion, continued in direct support of the 3d and 9th infantry regiments in the Da Nang Enclave. Company C, attached to 4th Marines, displaced from the Chu Lai Enclave to Hue-Phu Bai with that regiment. Operational control of the majority of available tanks continued to be exercised by supported infantry units. 3d Tank Battalion retained control of the Headquarters Tank Section and the 3d Platoon of Company A (formerly the 1st Platoon of Company C). This platoon, presently supporting the 3d Battalion, 3d Marines, is retained under Tank Battalion control to provide flexibility in filling requests for tank support. With the battalion reduced to three gun companies, control has become more centralized. Supervision and direction of the detached company employed in the Hue-Phu Bai Enclave are exercised through daily communication, periodic reports, and frequent staff visits.

H&S Company C.O.: Capt A.E. Lee Location & Operations Summary: Da Nang (AT 989708) SPECIAL OPERATIONS During the month of March, H&S Company conducted 13 security patrols and 2 ambushes in the vicinity of the 3d Tank Battalion Command Post. The battalion participated in providing night security for an engineer well drilling team south of the CP on the Cau Do River. The provisional infantry platoon maintained on standby was employed for a 7 day period in the 3/9 area of Marble Mountain to augment their defensive effort. Initial action was taken in the organization of a combine action platoon to increase security of the Hoa Tho Village Headquarters and Phong Bac School. A squad (-) of H&S Company, 3d Tank Battalion, was committed to reinforce the undermanned Popular Force unit assigned that security mission. Plans are being finalized to implement the formal organization of the combined action platoon in accordance with the provisions of Division Order 04900.1.

Foundation Comment: "Special Operations" were those conducted by the H&S Company personnel. They were not tank operations, per se, but rather operations by Tankers and H&S Company personnel adjacent to the C.P.

C.O. Company “A”: Capt J.J. Sucha Location: Da Nang (AT 946762)

Company A continued to support 3d Marines. Primary employment consisted of occupying strong points on the MLR, maintaining blocking positions on the MSR and Route 1 and participating in planning and employment of a mobile reserve force. Forward positions have been selected and occupied to provide H&I fires as required.

C.O. Company “B”: Capt W.A. Coomes Location: Da Nang (AT 067719)

C.O. Company “C”: Capt E.L. Erickson Location: Phu Bai (YD 879152)

C.O. Company "A", 1st Tanks: 1stLt J.D. Sparks Location: Chu Lai (BT 533080)

C.O. Company "B", 1st Tanks: Capt H.A. Bertrand, Jr. Location: Chu Lai (BT 548060)

March 1967 Third Tanks Commanding Officers: Maj’s J.R. Norton & V.L. Sylvester Executive Officer: Maj E.R. Larson Operations Officer: Maj E.L. Tunget Logistics Officer: Maj J.P. Schultz Location & Operations Summary: DaNang (AT 989708) Intelligence On Operation “Prairie” II and III in Quang Tri Province and Operation Chinook II in Thua Thien Province (Companies “A” and “C”) there were 26 incidents, 17 VC/NVA initiated: nine small arms exchanges, 11 mortar attacks, three anti-tank weapon attacks directed against tanks and three anti-tank mining incidents. Enemy losses during these engagements were 13 VC KIA (confirmed) and two VC KIA (probable). Within the Southern Sector, 1st Marine Division Rear Area Defense (Bn Cmd Grp and H&S Co) from 1 march 1967 through 21 march 1967 there were 10 incidents, one VC initiated: seven small arms exchanges and three grenade incidents. Enemy losses during these engagements were two VC KIA (confirmed), three VC KIA (probable), and one VC WIA (confirmed). Within the Phu Bai TAOR (Bn Cmd Grp and H&S Co) 24 March 1967 through 31 march 1967 there were no incidents. OPERATIONS AND TRAINING During the month of March 1967, a number of command post displacements within the battalion were ordered to be executed and operational control changes were affected. On 24 March 1967, the Battalion Command Group and Headquarters and Service Company (-) displaced from the Danang TAOR to the Gia Le encampment area in the Phu Bai TAOR via “Rough-Rider” convoy. The Battalion Command Post closed at 241000H March 1967 in the Danang RAOR: operational control of 3d Tank Battalion (-) passed from 1st Marine Division to 3d Marine Division at 241230H March 1967 upon crossing the 1st Marine Division/3d Marine Division boundary. The Battalion Command Post opened in the Phu Bai TAOR at 241630H March 1967 in the vicinity of (YD 836153). Company “B” (Rein), 3d Tank Battalion, was placed under the operational control of 1st Tank Battalion at 230900H March 1967 and remained in the Danang TAOR to continue tank combat operations in support of the . At 290800H March 1967, operational control of the 1st Platoon and the Flame Tank Section of Company “C” passed to Company “A” in the Dong Ha TAOR, vicinity of (YD 538322). To coordinate the tank combat operations of the 2d and 3d Platoons, Company “C”, in direct support of elements of the 4th Marine Regimen, the remainder of the headquarters of Company “C” (-) will displace from Dong Ha to the vicinity of the Battalion Command Post (YD 836153) as transportation becomes available. The headquarters of Company “A” (Rein), less the Company Command Group, was ordered to displace from Camp Carroll (YD 061545) to Dong Ha (YD 235589) into the current Company “C” (-) Command Post when the remainder of Company “C” (-) displaces. The Forward Operating Group (Det, H&S Company) was ordered to remain at Dong Ha temporarily to continue providing maintenance and logistical support for Company “A”(Rein). Administrative control of 3d Tank Battalion remained with 3d Marine Division during the month. The following support assignments were effective during March 1967: Company “A”(Rein) D/S 3d Marine Regiment (Dong Ha) Company “B”(Rein) D/S 9th Marine Regiment (Danang) Company “C”(Rein) D/S 4th Marine Regiment (Dong Ha and Phu Bai) Tank combat operations continued on an active level during the month. Terrain has been increasingly trafficable and operations have expanded in all TAOR’s. Tank missions during the month included combined tank-infantry reconnaissance in force patrols, search and destroy sweeps, direct and indirect harassing and interdicting fires to rein-force artillery units and augmentation of perimeter defenses of vital installations. These operations accounted for 60 VC/NVA KIA (confirmed) and 25 VC/NVA KIA (probable) through tank fire. In addition, tank fire destroyed three boats, resulting in one secondary explosion, and numerous house and bunkers while firing in support of sweeping infantry. Ammunition expenditures for the month were 4,497 rounds 90mm, 53,000 rounds caliber .30, and 2,990 rounds caliber .50. The following attachments/detachments and relocations of tank platoons occurred during the month. 1 March 1967: The tank platoon attached to BLT 3/9 landed at Dong Ha and was assigned to Company “A” as the 2d Platoon. 5 March 1967: The platoon from Company “A” which was assigned to BLT 2/3 departed RVN for Okinawa.

H&S Company C.O.: 2ndLt A.W. Hauser Location & Operations Summary: DaNang (AT 989708) & Phu Bai

C.O. Company “A”: Capt A.W. Facklam Jr. Location & Operations Summary: Dong Ha (YD 061545)

C.O. Company “B”: 1stLt D.B. Garner Location & Operations Summary: Da Nang (AT 962611)

C.O. Company “C”: 1stLt L.B. Herman Location & Operations Summary: Dong Ha (YD 234582) March 1968 Third Tanks Commanding Officer: LtCol K.J. Fontenot, Jr. Executive Officers: Maj's B.M. MacLaren & J.C. Duff Operations Officer: Maj C.J. Samuelsen Logistics Officer: Maj R.E. Finney Location & Operations Summary: Phu Bai Foundation Comment: During the month of March 1968 the entire battalion was heavily engaged in at least 4 major operations. Operation Scotland. The 2nd and 3d Platoons, Company A, 3d Anti- Tank Battalion and the 3d Platoon, Company B, 3d Tank Battalion participated in this operation in support of the 26th Marine Regiment. These units at the Khe Sanh withstood heavy enemy bombardment throughout the month. Support rendered included fires at enemy artillery positions, bunkers and troop movement. Operation Lancaster. Tanks of Company B supported the 2nd and 3d Battalions, 1st Marine Regiment, the 2nd and 3d Battalions, 9th Marine Regiment and 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment in this operation in the CALU-Rockpile-Camp Carroll area. Support rendered included road sweep escort, 90mm fire at enemy sniper, mortar, artillery and automatic weapons positions, storage areas and FO positions and 90mm and machine gun fire at enemy troops and in support of friendly maneuver. . Tanks of Company A and 3d Platoon Company C, 3d Tank Battalion and Ontos of the 1st Platoon Company A, 3d Anti-Tank Battalion participated in this operation in support of the 12th Marine Regiment, the 1st, 2nd, and 3d Battalions, 4th Marine Regiment, the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment and the 3d Battalion, 3d Marine Regiment. Support provided included road sweep escort, assault of enemy positions and fires at enemy artillery and mortar positions, bunkers, troop movement, assembly areas, recoilless rifle and on convoy. In addition, tanks were provided to the Base Reaction Force for defense of the Dong Ha Combat Base. On 12 March three tanks went on an operation with the 2nd ARVN Regiment and engaged an enemy force entrenched in bunkers. Operation Napoleon/Saline. Two tanks of Company C participated in this operation in support of the 1st Amphibian Tractor Battalion and elements of the 3d Marine Regiment. Support included participation in perimeter defense and patrols throughout the AO. Task Force Robbie continued in existence throughout the month and 11 M48A3 tanks and 4 M67 flame tanks of the Battalion are included in the unit. These tanks assumed defensive positions around the Cau Do Bridge, the Cam Lo District Headquarters, the C-2 position and at the Task Force Command Post at C-3. In addition they participated in a sweep to recover bodies outside of C-3 and conducted road marches to the Dong Ha Combat Base and the Quang Tri Combat Base.

H&S Company C.O.: 2ndLt J.E. Georgaklis Location & Operations Summary: Phu Bai & Quang Tri HQ CP security, active patrolling, and Reaction Force.

C.O. Company “A”: Capt O.L. Sale Location & Operations Summary: Dong Ha

C.O. Company “B”: Capt C.W. Reinke Location & Operations Summary: Camp J.J. Carroll

C.O. Company “C”: Capt W.J. O'Buch Location & Operations Summary: Quang Tri C.O. Company “A”, 3dAtBn: Capt J.O. Lea Location & Operations Summary: Khe Sanh No Report

Foundation Comment: Throughout this reporting period each company expended an enormous amount of rounds - 100s of 90mm and a commensurate amount of small arms . 30/.50cal. In nearly every case it was reported "Results unknown".

March 1969 Third Tanks Commanding Officer: LtCol J. Sleger Executive Officer: Maj J.P. Souders Operations Officers: Maj's W.A. Grubbs & H.L. Bauknight Logistics Officer: Maj's W.A. Grubbs Location & Operations Summary: Quang Tri During the month of march, there was a marked increase in mining incidents involving tanks. A total of sixteen mining incidents occurring which involved fourteen tanks (one of which hit two mines) and one VTR. The incidents are listed below: Vehicle Location Approximate Size Damage A13 Marketplace (YD 1372) UNK light to suspension A41 YD 057565 30 pounds heavy to suspension B15 YD 224683 30-40 pounds heavy to suspension F22 YD 235688 30-40 pounds light to suspension B13 YD 224683 30-40 pounds heavy to suspension C32 YD 267488 UNK light to suspension B33 YD 196739 UNK light to suspension B23 Oceanview CP(YD 2975) 10 pounds light to suspension A25 YD 089616 50-60 pounds heavy to suspension B42 YD 187741 UNK heavy to suspension B35 YD 153727 UNK heavy to suspension B43 YD 165744 UNK light to suspension B32 YD 156723 UNK light to suspension B13 YD 166724 UNK light to suspension B11 YD 169724 UNK light to suspension A12 YD 077638 UNK light to suspension

2. ALPHA COMMAND GROUP On 20 March 1969, the 3d Tank Battalion Alpha Command Group was activated and moved to the field in conjunction with an operation involving elements of 3d Battalion, 3d Marines and Company A, 3d Tank Battalion. The Alpha Group Command Group remained deployed for two days, retaining tactical control of the Battalion from the field. During the month of March, the Tank Battalion was employed as follows: 3d Tank Battalion G/S 3d Marine Div. 1-31 March Company A D/S 3d Mar Regt. 1-19 March D/S 1st Bn, 9th Mar Regt. 19-31 March Platoon D/S 1st/5th USA 1-4 March Company B D/S 3d Mar Regt. 1-7 March D/S 2nd ARVN Regt. 8-31 March Section D/S 1st AmTrac Bn 13-31 March Company C G/S 3d Mar Div 1-31 March Platoon D/S Task Force Hotel 1-4 March Section D/S 1st AmTrac Bn 1-12 March Platoon D/S 3d Mar Regt. 22-30 March Company A, 3d At Bn G/S 3d Mar Div 1-31 March Platoon D/S 3d Mar Regt. 1-31 March APC Platoon D/S 3d Mar Regt. 1-18 March D/S 1st Bn. 9th Mar 19-31 March

H&S Company C.O.: Capt C.C. Hatcher Location & Operations Summary: Quang Tri

C.O. Company “A” (Rein): Capt R.J. Patterson Location & Operations Summary: Dong Ha/ 4. COMPANY A (REIN) On 3 March 1969, Company A (-) commenced to move its CP from Con Thien to Vandegrift Combat Base. The company remained in direct support of the 3d Marine Regiment and maintained liaison with the 4th Marine Regiment, prepared to support their operations. Company A (-)(Rein) completed the move to Vandegrift Combat Base on 4 March 1969, while one platoon remained at Con Thien in support of the 1st Bde, 5th Inf Div (Mech). On 5 March the platoon joined the company at Vandegrift Combat Base, Company A operated from Vandegrift conducting security for road sweeps and search and clear operation with the infantry. On 19 March the company (-) moved to the Cam Lo area for operations with I/3/3 north of Cam Lo in the vicinity of coordinates (YD 0860). This operation lasted three days and the tanks were credited with three (3) NVA (confirmed) and the capture of a Chinese machine gun, one AK-47, one SKS rifle and miscellaneous NVA 782 gear. Upon conclusion of the operation, the company (-) returned to Vandegrift Combat Base. On 25 March, two platoons of Company A were moved to the Con Thien C-2 area in support of 1st Bn, 9th Marines. During the latter part of the month a heavy section of tanks from Company A replaced the platoon from Company C in the Mai Loc TAOR. As the month closed, Company A continued operations from Con Thien, C2 and the Mai Loc TAOR in support of the 1st Bn, 9th Marines.

C.O. Company “B”: Capt J.T. Miller Location & Operations Summary: Vinh Dai

5. COMPANY B (REIN) Company B continued operating in support of the 3d Marine Regiment until 5 March 1969, when the company (-) displaced to A2, Gio Linh area, in support of the 2nd ARVN Regiment. On 13 March, the company replaced a section of tanks from Company C at Oceanview in direct support of the 1st AmTrac Bn. Company B continued operating from A2 throughout the month, conducting numerous sweeps to the north and northwest of that position. On 23 March, the company (-) provided a blocking force for elements of the 2nd ARVN Regiment on a sweep. On this operation, the ARVN were credited with killing fifty-four (54) NVA. The following day, while the Company B Retriever was going to the aid of a mined tank west of A2, it hit a mine and subsequently was attacked by an estimated NVA Platoon. The Retriever commander distinguished himself by defending his wounded crewmen and damaged vehicle until reinforcements arrived. He was credited with personally killing seven (7) NVA. A sweep of the area disclosed many drag marks and further disclosed three (3) AK-47 rifles, one (1) SKS rifle, two pair of binoculars and miscellaneous 782 gear. As the month closed, Company B (-) remained in direct support of the 2nd ARVN Regiment with one section of tanks operating from Oceanview in direct support of the 1st AmTrac Bn. That which follows is another entry provided by Peter Ritch. See February 1969 CC Ab’s for additional articles from Pete. 5.) Command Chronology notation: 23 March 1969 - B21 sinking in quicksand at grid 281759. All equipment evacuated off vehicle. 1st Amtrac has recovery vehicle on the way to the position. B43 & 41 dispatched from A2 to recovery site. B21 recovered & moved to Dong Ha. The rest of the story: On March 23, 1969, 2nd Platoon, Bravo Company was sent to relieve two 3rd Platoon B Co. tanks at the Oceanview Combat Base. B-21 arrived at Oceanview under the command of a brand new 2nd Lt. He was shown the Oceanview perimeter, gun placements and tank slots and briefed on operational procedures. B-21 then accompanied the two 3rd Platoon, B Co. tanks south to the Cua Viet base camp. As we ran south in the tide line, B-21 radioed that he wanted to check out the area to our west just beyond the sand dunes. I recommended that he remain along the tide line. He asked that we run parallel to him and drove over the dune and headed south. The Bravo Co 3rd platoon tanks continued toward Cua Viet and we could see B-21’s radio antenna running parallel to us, behind the dunes. Suddenly, B-21 radioed that he was stuck and then he said that he was sinking. The Bravo 3rd platoon tanks came to the top of the dunes to see the B-21 tank crew and their equipment evacuated from the tank along with the grunts who had been riding on the tank, standing on the dunes. The only evidence of B-21 was the two radio antenna’s sticking out of the quick sand. I do not remember an Amtrac being involved but the Bravo 3rd platoon tanks were ordered to return to Cua Viet. I never did find out what happened to the B-21 or the boot 2nd Lt. 6.) Command Chronology notation - (There were two reports of this action (24 March 1969) in the CCs- the summary report and the S-2 report- both are listed below). Summary report - Co. B (REIN) in support of the second ARVN Regiment…the following day (24 March) while the company retriever was going to the aid of a mined tank west of A2, it hit a mine and subsequently was attacked by an estimated NVA platoon. The retriever commander distinguished himself by defending his wounded crew men and damaged vehicle until reinforcements arrived. He was credited with killing seven (7) NVA. A sweep of the area disclosed many drag marks and further disclosed three (3) AK-47 rifles, one (1) SKS rifle, two pair of binoculars and miscellaneous 782 gear. S-2 report - 24 March 1969, B Co., on a sweep with elements of the 2nd ARVN Regiment, had two (2) tanks and a retriever detonate A/T mines. When the retriever hit the mine, it came under ground attack by an estimated NVA platoon. Results were two (2) friendly KIA, two (2) friendly WIA, seven (7) NVA (confirmed) KIA and weapons & equipment captured. The rest of the story: The above operation was a series of patrols along the demilitarized zone (DMZ), east of Gio Lin and was intended to curtail the flow of NVA infiltrating across the DMZ. A U. S. Army Major was the liaison officer with the 2nd ARVN Regiment and three tanks (B-35, B-?? & B-??) from Bravo Co., 3rd Tank Battalion, . We operated out of the “A-2” combat base and patrolled an area approximately three kilometers (clicks) east of A-2 along the DMZ. On March 24, 1969, the tanks and a company of ARVN grunts had completed a sweep of the area and were returning to A-2 when B-35 hit a mine. I requested that the U. S. Army liaison officer direct the ARVN to set up perimeter security while the tank crew repaired the damage. He replied that he would have the ARVN set up the security. B-3? & B-3? remained nearby providing tank security. The ARVN infantry unit marched past us as if we weren’t even there. As the end of the ARVN column neared our position, I again requested ARVN perimeter security and again, the Army liaison officer acknowledged my request. He said that he would get the ARVN to set up a perimeter immediately. I told him the ARVN column was almost out of sight and that no perimeter security had been established. The crew of the stricken tank completed repairing the track without any ARVN infantry support and our three tanks headed toward A-2. As our tank column limped west B-3? hit a mine. Again, the tank crew began repairing the track and the only security was provided by our other two tanks. In the meantime the Bravo Co. tank retriever had been dispatched from Vinh Dai to meet us at Route 1 that was just south of Gio Lin. Staff Sergeant Harold Reinsche was in command of the retriever and with his four crewmen he awaited our arrival at Route 1. When our tank hit the second mine, Staff Sgt. Reinsche radioed that he was coming west to our assistance. As the retriever headed to our position, Sgt Reinsche told us that he had just passed the end of the ARVN infantry column marching east. None of the Bravo Company vehicles had any ground security and as we finished the repairs on B3? we heard an explosion and saw a plume of black smoke about 100 yards to our east, just over a small rise. Sgt. Reinsche informed us that the retriever had hit a mine and his crew had dismounted to repair the damage. We then heard small arms fire and Reinsche radioed that they had been ambushed. I dispatched B-35 (the tank commander (TC) was Cpl. Claude Vargo and his driver was Pfc. Robert Mendez) to the retrievers position. I stayed on the radio with Cpl Vargo and Sgt Reinsche. At one point Sgt. Reinsche told me that he was the only crewman left and he was running out of ammunition. Sgt. Vargo radioed that he had the retriever in sight and was delivering .30 cal and .50 cal machinegun fire all around the area surrounding the retriever. Then the fire from the NVA ceased. By this time B-3? was repaired and we moved to the retrievers position as quickly as we could. It was dusk so I ordered all four vehicles to button up and to shot at anything that moved. We had “Spooky” flare ships overhead that provided us with “daylight” conditions throughout the night. All of the TC’s (Sgt. Vargo, Sgt. Reinsche, Sgt Bosko and me) remained in radio contact until day break. We arranged for a medevac chopper to arrive at first light. At dawn a Marine infantry platoon arrived and set up perimeter security. Our KIAs (L/Cpl Robert Mark Walkley and Cpl John Micheal Foster) along with our two WIAs (Craig M. Ammon and name unknown) were medevaced. There were seven NVA KIAs surrounding the retriever and one NVA KIA lying on the top of the retriever. All of the enemy dead were killed by Sgt. Reinsche, who exhausted all of the ammunition from the .50 cal machinegun, an M-79 grenade launcher and his .45 cal pistol. A search of the area surrounding the retriever resulted in the capture of a good amount of NVA equipment and multiple blood trails. Once the vehicles were repaired, we drove west to Route 1. The retriever returned to Bravo Company Headquarters and the three (3) Bravo 3rd Platoon tanks, returned to A-2 combat base. I went directly to the Army liaison officers command bunker and proceeded to chew him up one side and down the other. The Army major was absolutely silent. I guess he had never been chewed out by a second lieutenant before. As I went outside of his bunker I threw up. For their heroism Staff Sergeant Reinsche was awarded the Navy Cross medal and Sgt. Walkley was awarded the Silver Star medal. C.O. Company “C”: Capt W.K. Hoyt, Jr. Location & Operations Summary: Quang Tri 6. COMPANY C (REIN) Company C (-) remained in general support of the 3d Marine Division with one section of tanks in direct support of the 1st AmTrac Bn at Oceanview and one platoon in direct support of Task Force Hotel at Vandegrift Combat Base. Throughout the month, the company continued providing night road security for Route #1 between Dong Ha Combat Base and Quang Tri Combat Base and continued supporting the 3d Recon Battalion, making Recon inserts in the Quang Tri Combat Base AO. On 5 March, Company C deployed one platoon to the Mai Loc TAOR in support of the 3d Bn, 3d Marines. The platoon, acting as part of a reaction force on 9 March 1969, was instrumental in killing twenty-one (21) NVA and capturing fifteen (15) AK-47’s and thirty- seven (37) packs. On 15 March, a section of tanks from Company A, under the operational control of Company C, and the APC Platoon, operating near Hill 37 coordinates (YD 088578), killed five (5) NVA, destroyed one 82mm mortar, captured five (5) rifles and one complete RPG. On 28 and 30 March, Company C was relieved at Mai Loc and in the vicinity of Hill 37 coordinates (YD 088578) by Company A. The Company returned to Quang Tri Combat Base in preparation for compliance with the provisions of III MAF.

C.O. Company “A, 3rd AT's”: 1stLts S.B. Hunt, Jr. Location & Operations Summary: Quang Tri 7. COMPANY A, 3d AT BATTALION At the beginning of the month, the Ontos Company had two platoons assigned in general support of the 3d Marine Division and one platoon in direct support of the 3d Marine Regiment. The company continued providing security for road sweeps and fire support and security for fire support bases in the western portion of the Division AO. From 21 March until 30 March 1969, a section of Ontos participated in the Maine Crag operation with the 3d Marine Regiment. The Ontos were stripped of their guns and helilifted into the Maine Crag AO. After remounting the guns, they provided fire support and anti-mechanized protection for the infantry operating in vicinity of Route 926. To deceive the enemy as to the type vehicle being lifted in, the Ontos were fitted with plywood dozer blades prior to the lift. As the month closed, the Ontos Company commenced movement of all vehicles to Dong Ha Combat Base in preparation for compliance with the provisions of III MAF. f. Airlift of 2 M50A1 Ontos from Vandegrift Combat Base to LZ Passport in support of operation MAINE CRAG.

March 1966 Third Antitanks Commanding Officer: LtCol B.H. Heflin Executive Officer: Maj E.H. Graham Operations Officers: Maj's O.R. Edmondson & E.R. Larson Logistics Officer: Capt K.E. Sharff Location & Operations Summary: (Da Nang TAOR)

C.O. H&S Company: 1stLt J.T Mathews Location & Operations Summary: (Da Nang TAOR)

C.O.’s Company “A"(Rein): Capt's K.E. Sharff & S.R. Stewart Location & Operations Summary: (Da Nang TAOR) a. The company remains in direct support of the 1st Marine Regiment. The 3d platoon, Co A, 1stATBn was joined by this company as of 1 March. b. Headquarters Platoon continues in support of the gun platoons providing maintenance, logistical and administrative support. At 080530 a wrecker, MRC-36 and a M-37 with 8 Marines as armed security departed the company CP and proceeded to (BT 398149) to retrieve one Ontos, which had mechanical trouble. The Ontos was towed to the company area and repaired. c. 1st Platoon continues in direct support of the 1st Battalion, 4th Marines manning defensive positions along the MLR at (BT 5209) and (BT 5210). During this reporting period the platoon did not participate in any operation. d. 2nd Platoon on 1 March reverted to the direct support of the 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines with defensive positions on Hill 69 complex. At 010715H the light section escorted one platoon from Co G, 2nd Bn, 4th Marines to (BT 431109) and then to (BT 431108). At 1100H the light section escorted the platoon back to their positions and returned to Hill 69 complex. At 071830 the light section escorted Co E, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines to (BT 398149). At 2000 B-25 received 3 rounds of small arms fire. Due to mechanical difficulty the Ontos was unable to return fire. No damage was received. The vehicle was towed into the company CP the next morning and repaired. The other Ontos proceeded back to Hill 69. e. 3d Platoon Co A, 1stATBn, was joined on the rolls on 1 March. They remained in direct support of the 3d Battalion, 1st Marines. No operations were conducted.

C.O. Company “B”(-)(Rein): Capt R.F. Lanphier Location & Operations Summary: (Hue Phu Bai TAOR) CoB 3dATBn(Rein), 3dMarDiv(Rein) FMF Capt R.F. LANPHIER, Commanding

Plt Plt Cmdr MC Enl Navy Enl COORD HQ GySgt VALUNAS 23 2 YD 894143 2nd 1stLt NOONAN 21 0 YD 894143 3d Sgt KENNEDY 17 0 YD 894143

1. Operations a. The company remains in direct support of the 4th Marine Regiment. b. Headquarters Platoon embarked aboard the AKA 105 USS SKAGIT on 24 March and departed the Chu Lai enclave 25 March and arrived Phu Bai the evening of 25 March. Initial offloading began 1730 and Headquarters arrived at the company CP at 0930 26 March. Temporary camp construction was completed by 29 March. The company with two gun platoons are billeted in 3 strongback GP Tents and 6 GP Tents. Minor damage was incurred by the motor transport vehicles during embarkation. c. 2nd Platoon is located in the company area and supports the 2nd Bn, 1st Marines. The heavy and light section alternate on nightly bases defensive positions along the M.L.R. The positions are (YD 878154) (YD 883153) (YD 889153) (YD 878113) (YD 878117) (YD 880120) d. 3d Platoon is located in the company area and supports the 3d Bn, 4th Marines. One Ontos is deadline for an engine replacement. The platoon has remained in the company conducting routine maintenance.

C.O. Company “C”(Rein): Capt F. Firing Location & Operations Summary: (Da Nang TAOR) 1. OPERATIONS a. The general disposition of the Company remained unchanged; 1st platoon with 2/9, 2nd platoon with 3/9, 4th platoon with 3/3, and the 3rd platoon augmenting the 1st and 4th platoons. There was very little action for this reporting period.

C.O. Company “C”(Rein) 1st ATBn: Capt C.F. Snyder Location & Operations Summary: (Chu Lai TAOR) March 1967 Third Antitanks Commanding Officer: LtCol C.R. Casey Executive Officer: Maj C.R. Stiffler Operations Officer: Capt J.S. Sucha Logistics Officers: Capt D.C. Satcher Location & Operations Summary: (Da Nang TAOR) SEQUENTIAL LISTING OF SIGNIFICANT EVENTS 1. COMBAT MISSION ASSIGNED. a. Direct support of Marine infantry, by providing direct and indirect fire support H&I fires, and CP security. b. Engineer road sweep security. c. Convoy escort. 2. SIGNIFICANT OPERATIONS CONDUCTED. a. Company “A” was in support of the 3d Marines on III. b. Company “B” was in support of the 4th Marines on operation Chinook II. c. Company “C” was in support of the 9th Marines. 6. COMMAND RELATIONS. a. Battalion and H&S Company 1 March to 16 March OPCON to 1st Marine Division. ADCON to 3d Marine Division. 17 March to 31 March OPCON ADCON 3d Marine Division. b. Company “A” direct support of 3d Marine Regiment; OPCON ADCON 3d Marine Division. c. Company “B” direct support 4th Marine Regiment; OPCON ADCON 3d Marine Division. d. Company “C” direct support 9th Marine Regiment. OPCON 1st Marine Division. ADCON 3d Marine Division.

C.O. H&S Company: 2dLt C.P. Wager Location & Operations Summary: (Da Nang TAOR & Phu Bai) 1. H&S Company. The Company remained in the Battalion CO (AT 989711) Danang TAOR from the 1st through 15th. On the 16th the Battalion CP and H&S Company moved to the Phu Bai TAOR. The Battalion and H&S Company came under operational control of 3d MarDiv. The Battalion CP was established at (YD 82551535). H&S Company remained in the Battalion CO throughout the rest of the month. During the month of March, the reaction force conducted nineteen (19) night patrol/ ambushes and eleven (11) daylight patrols in the 3d AT Bn AOR at Danang. The Reaction force also conducted twelve (12) night patrol/ambushes and four (4) daylight patrols in the 3d AT Bn AOR in the Phu Bai TAOR at Phu Bai. This force was also called upon by Smokeroom at act as a block force in a combined unit operation three (3) times during the month. Reinforced triple strand of concertina wire was placed around the outer perimeter of the new CP. Seven (7) machine gun emplacements were build pending receipt bunker material for permanent placement. Twenty one (21) claymore mines have been placed in the perimeter defense plus one hundred trip flares. Seventy-two (72) more trip flares are in the process of being installed. One 91) daylight 100% alert exercise was conducted by the Battalion. All seven (7) bunkers stand 50% alert during the hours of darkness. Two (2) daylight observation posts are manned from daylight to dark. The Company is in process of sand bagging all living quarters with a 360 degree wall of sandbags 36 inches high. This project is approximately 50% completed. This project will continue until completed.

C.O. Company “A”: Capt R. Hastings Location & Operations Summary: (Da Nang TAOR) 2. COMPANY “A”. During the month of March Company “A” continued to support the 3rd Marines in Operation Prairie II and III. Sections of the platoons were deployed with “M” CO 3/3, “K” Co 3/3 and “L” Co 3/9. During the Viet Cong mortar attacks on Camp Carroll (6-7 March) 4 tents received shrapnel holes and one Marine was WIA. The GIO LINH area was reconnoitered for Ontos employment and on 25 March a light Section was deployed there. During the month a total of 746 rounds were fired as H&I, 92 rounds in direct support, 60 rounds registered and 50 rounds for recon by fire with unknown results. A MedCap was conducted in the Hamlet of Phon Xe. Treated 86 Vietnamese for various ailments.

C.O. Company “B”: 1stLt R.F. Pinion Location & Operations Summary: (Phu Bai TAOR) 3. COMPANY “B”. This Company remained in support of the 4th marines and Operation Chinook II. The platoons have been conducting patrols in support of infantry units around their perimeters. Cross country trafficability has improved to an excellent condition in all areas. A total of 932 rounds of H&I were fired and 6 rounds direct fire in support of infantry units- Results unknown. a. During the reporting period the company continued in support of the 4th Marines. A total of 334 rounds were fired, 328 rounds as H&I with unknown results, and 6 rounds as direct fire. A Heavy Section from the 1st and 2nd Platoon are deployed nightly on the perimeter and three of the vehicles are firing H&I. A Light Section has been conducting patrols in conjunction with the infantry a thousand meters from the perimeter.

C.O. Company “C”(Rein): Capt S.T. Flynn Location & Operations Summary: (Da Nang TAOR) 1. OPERATIONS a. The general disposition of the Company was 1st Platoon D/S of 2/26 @ 2/4. 2nd Platoon D/S of 2/4. 3rd Platoon D/S of 1/26. The Company CP was forward of Hill 55. 4. Company “C”. The Company is in support of 2/26 and 2/4 (1st platoon), 2/4 (2nd platoon) and 1/26 (3rd platoon). During the month the Company fired a total of 57 rounds 106mm at targets spotted while on patrol with infantry units. 6 KIA’s (C) and 12 KIA’s (P) with one (1) boat sunk. On 29 March an O.C. and driver were WIA while conducting a road trafficability check. The two Marines triggered an unknown type explosive device while walking in front of the Ontos.

Foundation Comment: The Ontos Companies reported in great detail the most important activities their respective organizations. These reports were incorporated into the battalion CCs as written. The detail shows not only the company C.O.s but the platoon leaders as well. The description of each units action almost writes its own story. Should a former Ontos Marine come forward we would be pleased to build a very good story exclusively to the very fine outfit.