DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE
HEADQUARTERS 377TH COMBAT SUPPORT GROUP (PACAF)
APO SAN FRANCISCO 96307
MAR 9, 1968
REPLY TO:
ATTN OF: Base Security Police
SUBJECT: Combat Operations After Actions Report (RCS: MACV J3-32)(U)
TO:
7th Air Force (IGS)
1. (U) Type Operation: Mortar, rocket, automatic/small arms, and ground attacks against Tan Son Nhut Air Base and the Tan Son Nhut Sensitive Area.
2. (U) Dates of Operation: 0320 hours, 31 January 1968 through 2100 hours, 31 January 1968. Small arms/automatic weapons fire and probing actions on various parts of the perimeter continued through 9 February 1968.
3. (U) Location: Tan Son Nhut Air Base, RVN, and the adjacent Tan Son Nhut Sensitive Area. The major ground penetration was centered from the 049 Bunker to the 051 Gate on the west perimeter. Enemy ground penetration attempts were also conducted at O.F. 10 (Gate 10, Southeast Perimeter) and MACV Annex (Adjacent to Gate 10).
4. (U) Command and Control Headquarters: Joint Defense Operations Center Tan Son Nhut Sensitive Area.
5. (U) Unit Commanders Engaged in Operations:
a. Lt Colonel Luu Kim Cuong Comdr., 33rd VNAF Wing (Comdr.,
TSN Sensitive Area)
b. Major Phung Van Chieu Comdr., TSN
Sensitive Point and Dep Comdr., TSN Sensitive Area
c. Colonel Farley E. Peebles Comdr., 377th Combat
Support Gp
d. Colonel Luther J. Miller
Senior Advisor AFAT #1, 33rd Wing
e. Lt Col Bernard L. Garred Jr. Senior Advisor TSN Sensitive Area
f. Lt Col Billy J. Carter
Comdr, 377th Security Police Sq.
g. Lt Col Peter P. Borowski Comdr, MACV
Annex
h. Major Ronald K. Kollhoff Comdr, Armed
Helicopter Plt, 120th Aviation Company
6. (U) Units Engaged:
a. 2nd Services Battalion (ARVN)
b. 8th Airborne Battalion (ARVN)
c. 53rd Regional Force Battalion (ARVN)
d. 1st Marine Battalion (ARVN)
e. 4th Marine Battalion(ARVN)
f. 377th Security Police Squadron
g. Task Force 35
h. Task Force Peter
i. A Troop, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment
j. 3rd Squadron, 4th Cavalry, 25th Infantry Division
k. 1st Battalion, 18th INF, 1st Infantry Division
l. 2nd Battalion, 27th INF, 25th Infantry Division
m. 2nd Battalion, 327th Regiment, 101st Division
n. 1st Battalion, 27th Regiment, 25th Infantry Division
o. 1 Platoon Armed Helicopters - 120th Aviation Company
p. 3 Counter Mortar Radar Sites
q. Provisional Battle Group - (Hong Tong Tay Depot Area)
r. 1 Platoon 105mm - ARVN Artillery (TSN) - JDOC
s. 1 Platoon 155mm - ARVN Artillery (Co Loa) - JDOC
t. 1 Composite Rifle Company, 33rd VNAF Wing Defense Control Group - JDOC
u. 1 Tank Platoon, 33rd VNAF Wing Defense Control Group - JDOC
v. Miscellaneous R.F. and P.F. Elements throughout TSNSA - JDOC
w. 150 USAF Augmentees to 377th Security Police Squadron (Law Enforcement Section
for escort of personnel from Saigon Area).
x. VNAF and 7th AF TACC
y. 1 Battery 105mm, 25th INF Division
z. A Troop, 1st Squadron, 4th Cavalry Division
aa. Tan Son Nhut Sensitive Area Advisory Team
7. (C) Intelligence:
a. Pre-attack Intelligence:
(1) Intelligence reports plus raw information received by JDOC 30 days prior to the attack indicated to this level of command that some kind of enemy action would occur during the TET holiday season. The intelligence estimate of the situation gave the enemy a
capability of mounting a large scale rocket or mortar attack plus a ground attack with a
strength of not more than a reinforced battalion. A training exercise was written
on 24 January 1968 and distributed to the Commanders concerned for appraisal and subsequent
implementation on the night of 26-27 January 1968. The exercise was designed to test the capabilities of all security forces assigned to the TSN Sensitive Area. The 0-51 Gate, considered the most vulnerable point of the perimeter and the anticipated enemy avenue of approach from the Cambodian border was selected as the practice enemy point of penetration. Practice condition YELLOW was initiated at 0025 hours, 27 January 1968. Exercise TET was conducted, including a commanders' critique at 0500 hours at the JDOC Command Post.
(2) The intelligence situation for the days immediately preceding the attack
remained relatively unchanged from the normal. There was no significant input of
information indicating that an enemy attack on Tan Son Nhut was imminent.
Intelligence collection agencies identified no significant changes of the location, posture, or strength of the enemy forces in the area.
(3) At 1020 hours, 30 January 1968, the Commander, 377th Security Police Squadron,
declared Security Alert Condition Grey in effect for his unit in reaction to the increased
enemy activity during the TET Truce and the decrease of the Vietnamese Defense Force units due
to the holidays.
(4) At 1732 hours, 30 January 1968, the 377th Security Police Squadron was placed in Security Alert Condition RED (Option I) by order of the Commander, Seventh Air Force.
The Joint Defense Operations Center (JDOC) tried to confirm the unilateral Air Force
Security Condition RED (Option I) through U.S. Army channels with negative results. All forces within the TSNSA remained in Security Alert Condition White except the 377th
Security Police Squadron and Task Force 35, which were in Condition RED, and all other TSN
Defense Forces which were in Condition YELLOW.
b. Post-attack Intelligence Information: The following information has been collected from numerous intelligence sources, including Seventh Air Force, MACV, and agencies directly supporting the Tan Son Nhut Sensitive Area.
(1) The attack on Tan Son Nhut Air Base was an integral part of the enemy offensive against the Gia Dinh Province and the government of the Republic of South Vietnam.
(2) It has been asserted that plans for the attack of Tan Son Nhut were formulated
and discussed by the Viet Cong cadre as early as 22 December 1967. In subsequent
meetings, the attack was planned for the period preceding the TET holidays.
(3) Intelligence sources reflect that an estimated nine enemy battalions were in the greater Saigon Area, and at least seven of them were involved in the attack on Tan Son Nhut Air Base. The enemy battalions in the greater Saigon area were augmented and supported by approximately twelve identified companies or larger-size elements of the 5th Division of the North Vietnamese Army.
(4) Although all units involved in the attack on Tan Son Nhut Air Base have not been clearly identified, specific actions of the enemy and the designations of the attacking units have been established. The roles of enemy units and their identities are discussed below:
(a) Unidentified elements of the enemy directed automatic weapons fire onto the
installation in the direction of the POL Storage Area and the C-130 Parking Area.
This fire came from an off base position on the east end of the airfield near the runway
approaches.
(b) Heavy pressure from enemy elements of the C-10 Sapper Battalion and the 2nd
Local Force Battalion was exerted on the Joint General Staff Headquarters, located adjacent to
the southeast perimeter of the installation, and a subsequent penetration by these units was
made through the southeast perimeter fence of JGS.
(c) Heavy small arms fire was directed towards Gate #2 by unconfirmed enemy
elements. These elements were probably assigned to the 2nd Local Force Battalion and the C-10 Sapper Battalion.
(d) Enemy elements, probably from the 6th Local Force Battalion and the C-10 Sapper
Battalion, assaulted the south entry control point of the MACV Annex, approximately 250 meters
southeast of the base perimeter fence. This enemy force is estimated to have been a
reinforced company (200+).
(e) Enemy forces estimated at four reinforced battalions mounted an offensive
against the west perimeter of Tan Son Nhut Air Base. The units involved and their
probable tactical deployment are indicated below. The three principal,
battalion-size units were positioned in column at the time of the assault.
1. Elements of the C-10 Sapper Battalion approached the fence line via Lambretta taxi on National Highway #1. The sapper elements dismounted the vehicle and detonated what is believed to have been a Bangalore Torpedo on the fence line. The explosion opened a section of the outer perimeter fence, and the breach was used continuously by the enemy forces for entry onto the installation. The same elements of the C-10 Sapper Battalion remained with the initial assault force and penetrated the perimeter. The staging area of the sapper element was in the vicinity of Phu Cuong Village, approximately fifteen Kilometers north of Tan Son Nhut Air Base.
2. The 267th Viet Cong Battalion (Main Force) composed of approximately 25 per cent NVA, was the lead battalion and the major assault force in the penetration of the west perimeter. This battalion, like all of the attacking battalions, had a strength of 450 to 500 men. Members of this unit made the deepest penetration into the installation. Its staging area was approximately six Kilometers south of Due Hoa Village, approximately eighteen Kilometers west of the base.
3. The 16th Battalion, Viet Cong (Main Force) AKA D-16 (NVA), was the second unit in line of the assaulting forces. Numerous KIA from this unit were identified
inside and immediately outside the perimeter fence. It is probable that this battalion
was co-located with or at least in close proximity to the 267th Battalion identified in
paragraph (a) above, since the delineation of their lines could not be clearly identified and
their dead were co-mingled. The greatest proportion of this unit was NVA.
4. The 269th Viet Cong Battalion (Main Force) was the rear unit in line. It's bivouac area prior to the attack was in the immediate area of Duc Hoa. This unit was engaged from its eastern and southern flank by elements of the 53rd Regional Forces Battalion prior to their arrival at the perimeter fence.
5. The 90th Battalion of the 1st NVA (Cover Number KB-604) Regiment was located in the VINATEXCO factory northwest of the breached perimeter fence. This battalion had 12 mortar positions to the immediate north, west and south of the factory and probably rendered support fire to the assault forces often referred to by interrogated prisoners. This unit sustained 170(+) KIA primarily during the air attack on the factory during the day of 31 January 1968. It has been reported by Vietnamese intelligence sources that among the many casualties in the factory there were 7 NVA pilots and 15 NVA aircraft technicians.
6. Supporting elements of these battalions or elements of other unidentified
battalions provided supporting artillery fire for the attacking hostile ground forces.
8. (C) Security Police Status:
a. The total Security Police assigned strength at the time of the hostilities was 890 personnel. Of this total, 75 personnel, or eight percent of the assigned strength, were TDY, R & R, hospital, or emergency leave status or awaiting completion of in-country training. (The TDY personnel included approximately fifty men assigned to three detachments at remote sites.) The present for duty (PFD) strength was 815 personnel, 56 percent (457) of which were physically on post at the time of the attack. As a result of being placed on Red Alert at 1730 hours, 30 January 1968, eight 13 man Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) were formed, equipped, and readied for immediate response in the event of attack. This totaled 104 men, or 13 percent of the PFD strength. The 262 remaining Security Police Personnel, or 32 per cent of the PFD strength, were armed and billeted in the squadron barracks for immediate recall.
b. Upon implementation of Condition RED (Option I), three platoons of U.S. Army
personnel (Task Force 35) were alerted and placed on five-minute standby status as
augmentation reserve forces for the 377th Security Police Squadron. These platoons,
composed of 30 men each, were immediately placed under the operational control of the
Commander, 377th Security Police Squadron, in accordance with published and approved base
defense plans.
c. In accordance with existing procedures, the squadron was divided into two
flights. The night flight, which was on duty at the time of the attack, consisted
of two officers and 446 airmen. Manning was as follows:
(1) Security Flight
(a) Supervision
1. Flight Commander (1st Lt) 1
2. Assistant Flight Commander 1
3. Joint Defense Operations Center 3 (Liaison and Alternate
CSC)
4. Communicator/Plotter and Clerks 4
5. CSC Standard SAT's (2) 6
15 men
(b) Alpha Sector
1. Sector NCOIC 1
2. M-16 Bunkers 23
3. Tower Guards 12
4. Special Posts (Entry Controllers) 14
5. SAT's (2) 6
6. MLR M-60 Bunkers (2) 4
60 men
(c) Bravo Sector
1. Sector NCOIC 1
2. M-16 Bunkers 7
3. Tower Guards 6
4. Area Guards and Entry Controllers 24
5. SAT's (2) 9
6. MLR M-60 Bunker (4) 8
55 men
(d) Charlie Sector
1. Sector NCOIC 1
2. M-16 Bunkers 9
3. Special Posts and Entry Controllers 17
4. SATs (3) 6
5. MLR M-60 Bunker 2
35 men
(e) Delta Sector
1. Sector NCOIC 1
2. Entry Controllers and Revetment Guards 27
3. M-16 Bunkers 15
4. MLR M-60 Bunkers 8
5. SATs (2) 6
57 men
(f) Echo Sector
1. Sector NCOIC 1
2. 051 Bunker 5
3. Tower Guards 5
4. M-16 Bunkers 12
5. Revetment, Entry Control, and Special Posts 14
6. MLR M-60 Bunkers 3
7. SATs (2) 7
47 men
(g) Foxtrot Sector
1. Sector NCOIC 1
2. Tower Guards 2
3. MLR M-16 and M-60 Bunkers 4
4. SATs (2) 5
12 men
(h) Reserve SAT 12
TOTAL SECURITY FLIGHT 293
(2) K-9 Section
(a) NCOIC 1
(b) Supervisors 2
(c) Armed Patrol (SAT) 6
(d) Kennel Support 2
(e) Sentry Dog Team 47
TOTAL K-9 SECTION 58 men
(3) Law Enforcement Flight
(a) Flight Commander and Assistant 2
(b) Desk Sergeant, Desk Clerk, and Communicator 4
(c) Patrols (4) and Joint Patrols (2) 12
(d) Entry Controllers (Gates) 15
(e) Entry Controllers, Cantonment Areas, and Special Posts 29
(f) Seventh Air Force Compound Security Guards 12
(g) Quick Reaction Team 13
(h) Customs and Terminal Security 8
TOTAL LAW ENFORCEMENT 101
(4) Others
(a) Weapons Systems Security Operations Officer 1
(b) Armory 4
TOTAL OTHERS 5
TOTAL ON DUTY 457
(5) Eight 13 man Quick Reaction Teams 104
(6) Reserve Security Policemen 254
(7) Three platoons U.S. Army Reserve
(Task Force 35)(30 men each.)
2 Platoons, 69th Signal Battalion
1 Platoon, 53rd Trans Battalion 90
TOTAL U.S. Security Forces: 905
(377th Security Police Squadron and
Task Force 35 which was under the
operational control of 377th Security
Police Sq)
9. (C) Execution: -See Battle Description Atch #1
10. (C) Results:
a. Enemy Losses: The enemy forces sustained 157 KIA (body count) within
the base perimeter, and nine POW's were taken by the friendly forces within the same area.
Immediately outside the perimeter fence, 267 enemy bodies were counted until the
counting action was terminated due to more pressing operational requirements. All
of these enemy KIA and POW were probably sustained by the C-10 Sapper Unit, 267th Battalion,
16th Battalion, and the 90th Battalion all of which were identified in paragraph 7b(4)(e)
above. The 269th Battalion all of which were identified in paragraph 7b(4)(e)
above, which was in ground contact with the 53rd Regional Force Battalion with supporting
Light Fire Team dispatched to their area by JDOC, suffered 286 KIA (US confirmed V.C. body
count). Friendly elements (2nd Services Battalion and Task Force Peter) operating
in the O.F. 10 (Gate 10) area accounted for 82+ enemy dead (body count). The total enemy
body count, including the 170+ KIA referred to in para 7b(4)(e)5 above, was 962+.
b. Friendly Casualties:
U.S. Forces
Vietnamese Forces
KIA KIA
USAF - 4 (Security Police)
VNAF - 5
U.S. Army - 19
ARVN/RF - 27
WIA WIA
USAF - 11 (Security Police)
VNAF - 12
U.S. Army - 75
ARVN/RF - 67
TOTAL FRIENDLY KIA - 55
TOTAL FRIENDLY WIA - 163
c. A total of 145 weapons were captured on the installation, 43 of which were crew
served. Figures for the off-base collection of weapons are not available.
d. Aircraft Damage:
U.S. Aircraft:
Type Lightly Damaged Destroyed Total
AC-47 (USAF) 9 0 9
C-47 (USAF) 1 0 1
C-54 (USAF) 1 0 1
C-117 (USN)
2
0 2
VNAF: None damaged or destroyed.
e. Structural Damage:
(1) 4 Conexes of paint burned (Total Loss)
(2) 1 Trailer Van burned (Total Loss)
(3) 1 Trailer House burned (Total Loss)
(4) 1 Shed roof damaged (Repairable)
(5) Approximately 400 ft of electrical power cable to a communications complex was
damaged by a grass fire (Repairable)
(6) Approximately 50 perimeters lights (Repairable)
f. Runway Damage: A 3' x 1' x 3" hole on the edge of the runway was
inflicted by ordnance impact. The runway remained operational and the damage was
repaired the same day.
g. Enemy Ordnance Collection:
(1) The following ordnance was collected on the installation:
(a) 22 VC booby traps (locally fabricated)
(b) 8 VC DHB claymore mines
(c) 12 VC DH 10 claymore mines
(d) 37 Chicom B40 rocket mortars
(e) 84 Chicom B-40 rockets
(f) 38 USSR PG-7 rockets
(g) 103 Chicom RKC-3TG grenades
(h) 95 VC stick grenades
(i) 40 VC home made grenades
(j) 13 VC plastic explosive charges
(k) 142 Chicom TNT blocks
(l) 17 VC demo kits - satchel charges
(m) 12,000 rds Chicom 7.62 intermediate ammo
(n) 2,000 rds Chicom 7.62 rimmed ammo
(o) 5 US 81mm mortars, HE
(p) 45 US M26 grenades
(q) 15 US 81mm mortars, illuminating
(r) 65 US 40mm grenades
(s) 19 claymore mines
(t) 5 US 57mm recoilless rifle rds
(U) 47 rds US 50 cal ammo
(2) USAF Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) units, collecting ordnance off the
installation in the immediate vicinity of the west perimeter fence, detonated a pile of enemy
ordnance estimated to have a high explosive yield of approximately 100 pounds.
11. (C) Follow-up Action: Periodic small arms fire,
harassment fire, and enemy movement around the installation continued through to the rocket
attack on Tan Son Nhut Air Base 18 February 1968. On 10 separate occasions in the
four days following the prepenatration, Security Alert Teams (SATs) of this organization made
direct contact with enemy positions firing small arms and automatic weapons onto the
installation. Two engagements resulted in secondary explosions of the enemy
positions. Friendly forces operating outside the installation made frequent
contacts with the enemy near the base. These contacts varied in size, but were all
part of the total enemy offensive on Tan Son Nhut and the Saigon area. As of 23 February
1968, 5,519 enemy were KIA (body count) in the greater Saigon area. Sweeping, clearing,
and rescuring operations by friendly forces are in effect to this date (4 March 1968).
The actions of the enemy clearly substantiate the contention that they have no intention
of withdrawing from the area and allowing the installation to revert to its previously secure
status. This evaluation is further supported by the fact that post-attack
intelligence revealed that the Viet Cong attack forces had no plan for withdrawal of their
units.
12. (C) Lessons Learned: The concept that Tan Son Nhut Air
Base can be penetrated only by small sapper units and that the enemy has the capability to
launch only small scale operations in the Tan Son Nhut vicinity became obsolete with the 31
January 1968 attack and the TET Offensive, and a new type of enemy threat was encountered.
A major re-evaluation of present base defense procedures and principles has become
an immediate necessity.
a. Security Police personnel and augmentees (TF-35) were well-supervised and
well-trained in fire control and discipline and in basic tactics, but were neither equipped
nor trained well enough to effectively counter a regiment-size enemy assault.
Consideration should be given to Base Security Police receiving more infantry type training
prior to assignment in Southeast Asia. Emphasis should be placed on crew served and
heavy weapons, assault tactics, and deployment procedures. Existing Air Force
training in the ZI and in Southeast Asia is not sufficient to enable Security Police forces to
effectively counter forces of this size, equipped as they were.
b. Current concepts of base defense and protection of USAF resources as established
by higher headquarter's directives should be reviewed. In our opinion too much
emphasis is placed on the close-in protection of resources. With the weapons
available to the enemy, close-in guards are useless. Security forces must be moved
from the revetments and other restricted areas to the perimeter, where they can effectively
engage the enemy. Further, we must have the capability to respond with properly
equipped reaction forces. In conjunction with this, the existing defense alignment of the
installation must be re-evaluated and changed in light of the new enemy tactics encountered.
c. Reaction forces were able to respond quickly and halt the enemy advance.
This was primarily due to the base defense posture at the time of the attack.
Had the Security condition been anything other than RED (Option I) or YELLOW, reaction forces
would have had to contain the enemy further inside the interior of the base, probably at much
greater loss in lives and USAF resources. It is recommended that a larger standby
reaction force be utilized in place of the 12 man Reserve Security Alert Team (RSAT).
A fifty man reaction force properly equipped with the same immediate response capability
as RSAT would more realistically enable Security Police personnel to halt the enemy at an
acceptable distance from priority resources.
d. A free fire zone/clear area must be established around the perimeter of the
base. If free fire zones/clear areas had been established the enemy would not have
had easy access to the perimeter fence and much of the small arms activity would not have
taken place. These zones would also have prevented the enemy from setting up crew served
weapon positions and ammunition supply areas adjacent to the base perimeter.
Recommend that the free fire zone be extended at least 1,000 meters around the perimeter.
e. Medical personnel should be more readily available to the Security Police.
Their training, manning and employment should be such that they would be capable of
immediate support to the base defense operation. Entry of medical personnel into
the affected area and subsequent evacuation of wounded became an acute problem during the
battle. If medical personnel are to continue to be employed in this theater of
operation, independent of base defense forces, they must establish and maintain a close
liaison with the Security Police to insure that they are fully aware of the positioning of all
defensive units and routes of entry into all areas. In addition, medical personnel
must receive sufficient combat training to enable them to effectively perform under hostile
fire.
f. A more stringent control of weapons issue to non-defensive force personnel is
immediately required. Many of these personnel hampered the Security Police effort and on
some occasions were nearly mistaken for hostile forces. Personnel should be
instructed to take cover, and weapons should not be issued until Security Condition RED
(Option II) is declared.
g. It has been determined from battlefield reports that at the point of penetration
some personnel of the 2nd Services Battalion (ARVN) deserted their static defense posts.
Reasons for the desertion have not been established, but an investigation is being
conducted by the Vietnamese authorities. From these reports, it is apparent that
there is need for closer coordination between Vietnamese and U.S. Forces involved in the
combined defense of an installation. All indications point to an absolute need for
the co-manning of defensive positions throughout the perimeter.
h. Local intelligence data available to the base defense forces was entirely void
of information pertinent to enemy plans and movements in the immediate area.
Defense force personnel must assume that future intelligence reports have questionable
validity. They must maintain a posture that will render them totally prepared for
an attack at any time, regardless of intelligence indicators.
i. The most significant lesson learned from the attack, and the one which requires
the most immediate attention, is the need for more and better equipment. Heavier
weapons are urgently needed to effectively combat penetrating forces.
(1) XM-148 Grenade launchers proved to be difficult to operate under combat
conditions. Their use is extremely limited during the hours of darkness as their
design requires a special sighting device which is useless during darkness.
Recommend we consider bringing M-79 Grenade Launchers back into the Air Force inventory, and
its wide variety of ordnance (HE, illumination, canister, white phosphorous, etc.) be obtained
for maximum utilization. As an alternate solution, recommend the sighting mechanism
of the XM-148 be corrected immediately to allow for effective night-time employment.
(2) Mortars should be considered for direct support illumination and for direct HE
fire against attacking ground forces and enemy support fire positions.
(3) Recoilless rifles would have been of great assistance in destroying positions
adjacent the West perimeter and inside the 051 Bunker. The counter attack would
have been started much earlier and completed at less cost to friendly forces if reaction
forces had been able to suppress and destroy enemy crew-served positions.
(4) Some type of rocket launcher is a must. The Army has in its
inventory a light anti-tank weapon (LAW) which is considered ideal for destroying reinforced
enemy positions. The LAW could be carried as part of a Security Alert Team's
equipment. The weapon is easily operated and the launcher is disposable after use.
It's incorporation into the Security Police inventory would be an immediate and
noteworthy improvement.
(5) In conjunction with the need for heavier weapons and increased fire power, the
safe transportation of this equipment and personnel is a must. Armored personnel
carriers (APCs) are considered the most appropriate vehicle for this transportation.
These vehicles can be utilized for transportation to the affected area, heavy weapons support
fire, and evacuation of injured. Although neither this nor any other vehicle will
provide total-safety for the personnel, it will provide protection from small arms and small
caliber automatic weapons fire.
(6) It was evident during the attack that the present communications system
employed by Security Police personnel was completely unsatisfactory. There is a strong
need for more powerful portable units, able to receive all units involved in the defense
operation. This would alleviate the problem of units cutting each other out because
they did not receive other units transmitting. Power sources which can sustain
operational requirements over an extended period of time are necessary for these radio units.
Had the installation been subjected to more than one penetration, multi-channel
(more than two) radios would have been required to successfully contain and destroy the
attacking forces.
(7) Direct communications with supporting units (LFTs, AC-47s, Flare Ships, etc.)
is an immediate requirement. This capability is essential for effective direct
control of supporting units on the scene by in-place Security Police supervisory personnel.
During the initial phases of the battle, requests for and direction of specific
support fire had to be relayed from on-scene positions through Security Police radio channels
to JDOC, which relayed the requests and directions to the supporting units. The
resulting time lag made the supporting fire less effective than it would have been if direct
communications had been available.
J. The above lessons learned of course apply to operations in SEA. We do
not intend to imply that these recommendations would apply Air Force wide.
(This Page is Unclassified)
13. (U) Security Classification: This report is classified
Confidential&nbsjp;/ NOFORN because it reflects detailed information relative to damage
of U.S. resources resulting from enemy attack and describes counter measures employed by free
world forces in response to enemy actions. Reproduction of this document in whole
or in part by recipients is authorized on an as needed basis.
FOR THE COMMANDER
BILLY J. CARTER, Lt Col, USAF 2 Atch
Chief, Security Police 1. Battle Discription
2. Glossary
(This Page is Unclassified)
BATTLE DESCRIPTION
1. On the nights of 30-31 January 1968, all security forces were in condition
Yellow with the exception of the 377th Security Police Squadron, which was in Condition Red.
2. At approximately 2100 hours, 30 January 1968, the 53rd Airfield Security
Battalion (RF) received intelligence information from JDOC that approximately 80 Viet Cong
were moving west to east at the vicinity of the village of Xom Go Mayh coordinates XS754964.
The battalion immediately organized a twenty man patrol and moved on a large sweep
from coordinates XS774939 to XS776934 to XS7639146. The patrol then moved to
XS773948 and set up an ambush (Approximately 2345 hours). At 0145 hours the patrol,
having seen nothing that would indicate the movement of troops, moved to vicinity coordinates
XS771950 and then returned to the Battalion CP, two kilometers west of the TSN base perimeter.
3. At 0300 hours, JDOC was informed that the US Embassy and the Saigon Radio
Station were under attack. At 0305 hours JDOC was notified that the Vietnamese Joint
General Staff (JGS) Compound was under attack. Condition Red was put into affect
and all commanders reported to JDOC. At approximately 0320 hours, the guard in
Tower #16 (ESE corner of the installation) reported observing small arms fire directed at the
POL area from an off base position. A Sector Primary Security Alert Team and a CSC
Standard SAT were dispatched. (The situation was monitored on the scene by the
Operations Officer and the Flight Commander) Quick Reaction Teams (QRT's) and Task Force 35
(Army Reserve Augmentation Forces) were briefed and dispatch to pre-designated rendezvous
points.
4. At approximately 0320 hours, Gate #2, (ESE perimeter of the base near J.G.S)
reported small arms, fire into their location from off base positions. A Sector SAT
was dispatched.
5. At approximately 0327 hours, a Security Alert Team reported that heavy small
arms and automatic weapons fire was being received off the east perimeter and directed at the
POL area. (This report was received at JDOC from both U.S. and VN guard positions).
6. At approximately 0330 hours, 31 January 1968 the guards on the northern bunker
of 53rd RF Bn Compound gave the alarm that several hundred man were moving west to east
approximately 400 meters north of the CP. Approximately five minutes later, the
guards reported hearing the sound of automatic weapons fire from the direction of the airfield.
At approximately 0330 hours, Tan Son Nhut Sensitive Area placed a helicopter Light
Fire Team under the control of the 53rd Bn, 3rd Co. The LFT was directed to
strafe the area where the enemy troops were concentrated.
7. At approximately 0333 hours, the 051 bunker (E-6, Southwest perimeter fence
line) reported that grenades and mortar rounds were being fired towards the western perimeter,
but were falling short. A Sector SAT (E-1), a CSC Standard SAT (C-2), and the
Reserve Sat (RSAT) were dispatched. (This report was received at JDOC thru both U.S.
and VN guard positions).
8. At approximately 0334 hours, E-6 reported that he observed approximately
twenty-five individuals east of the first tree line, approximately 100 meters off the west
perimeter fence line, directing small arms and automatic weapons fire towards the west
perimeter. Fire was returned by static friendly positions and responding units.
9. At approximately 0340 hours, the 0-51 Bunker reported that they had been hit by
a mortar or rocket and that mortar or rocket rounds were landing on base. CSC
dispatched an ambulance to the 0-51 Bunker to evacuate the wounded. The ambulance
however, was unable to reach the bunker due to the heavy enemy fire.
10. At approximately 0344 hours, the 051 Bunker reported the west perimeter fence
was being breached near the 0-51 Gate (75 meters north of the 051 Bunker) and that enemy
forces were coming onto the base. The Echo QRT and two platoons of Task Force 35
were dispatched to the area and deployed as the initial blocking force.
11. At approximately 0345 hours, two additional QRTs were dispatched and deployed
along with the Echo QRT and the two platoons of Task Force 35. These units were
deployed parallel to and approximately 100 meters north of Taxiway W-6 to preclude further
enemy infiltration to the East.
12. At approximately 0347 hours, Echo Sector SAT reported the Echo Main Line of
Resistance (MLR) was taking mortars or rockets.
13. At approximately 0355 hours, an explosive round, possibly a 40mm grenade,
landed adjacent to the operations building of the 2nd Services Battalion located near Gate #10
(OF 10) approximately 300 meters South of the POL Storage Area. Within 2 or 3
minutes heavy enemy small arms, automatic weapons fire, and RPG-2 rocket fire was being
directed at the friendly positions all along the Gate #10 Area.
14. At approximately 0359 hours, Tower A, (southwest perimeter fence, fifty meters
east of the 0-51 Gate) reported that hostile forces were mounting an assault south of his
tower and that a light fire team was making contact with the enemy in the fields west of the
base.
15. At approximately 0410 hours, in the vicinity of coordinates XS783954 the
previously dispatched 53/13 R.F. Company patrol engaged what was then believed to be an enemy
platoon. The patrol exchanged fire with the enemy for approximately five minutes
and, due to the enemy's obvious effort to surround the unit, they withdrew south approximately
200 meters and called in a LFT for assistance. The LFT strafed the area with MG and
rocket fire. A subsequent search of the area revealed 5 VC KIA at the location of
the fire-fight and 65 VC KIA (Body count) in the field surrounding the scene. It is
believed that this unit was the reinforcing elements for the attack on the airfield.
After disengaging with no friendly losses the unit moved back to the Battalion CP for
resupply of ammunition.
16. At approximately 0412 hours, CSC contacted the Joint Defense Operations Center
(JDOC) for light fire team support on base, but was refused because the enemy forces were too
close to friendly positions and the choppers could not distinguish between friendly and
hostile positions.
17. At approximately 0415 hours, the 2nd Services Battalion Commander committed one
platoon of his reaction forces with two U.S. Advisors to the 051 Gate Area. When
the platoon arrived within 100 meters of the 051 Bunker (VN) it began to receive enemy fire
from that bunker. A member of the platoon was dispatched in an attempt to determine
whether the bunker was friendly or enemy. The soldier was wounded by small arms
from the bunker and the remainder of the platoon immediately engaged the position.
The enemy then turned the captured ARVN 57MM Recoilless Rifle onto the friendly position,
fired two rounds and injured one U.S. Advisor and one member of the platoon.
18. At approximately 0422 hours, sector SAT (E-1) reported that they were pinned
down about twenty meters Southwest of the 051 Bunker by heavy enemy small arms and automatic
weapons fire.
19. Enemy pressure continued around the entire perimeter with hostile mortar or
rocket rounds, small arms and automatic weapons fire, and physical probes at various locations.
One QRT and one SAT were deployed at the 055 Gate (extreme north end of the base)
to reinforce ARVN personnel deployed in that area. One QRT and two SATs were
deployed at the northeast section of the POL Storage Area in reaction to intensified enemy
fire in that area. One QRT was deployed at Gate #1 and Gate #2 (south perimeter of
the base and Main Gate area) in reaction to enemy fire that was being directed into these
positions from off-base sites. The third and uncommitted platoon of Task Force 35
was held in reserve at JDOC. An additional QRT was held in reserve in the eastern
quadrant of the base in support of the heavily engaged units on the east and southeast
perimeter. One QRT was deployed in support of ARVN personnel defending the 0-56
Gate (0-58 Bunker, northeast perimeter) which was receiving intense enemy fire from off-base
positions. One rifle company (Task Force Peter) from MACV Annex was deployed on the
southern flank of Gate #10 in response to the ground assault on MACV Annex and Gate #10 that
was well in progress.
20. At approximately 0500 hours, Major Chieu (VNAF), the TSNSA Deputy Commander,
arrived at Tango 3 with three light tanks and began firing into the enemy positions near the
0-51 Gate. Within fifteen minutes, two of the three tanks were destroyed by RPG-2
or RPG-7 rockets and the third was forced to withdraw to the east near the Old RMK Area.
Major Chieu was wounded by one of the rocket explosions and evacuated.
21. At this point, an estimated reinforced battalion of enemy forces had penetrated
the western perimeter and was maneuvering to flank the blocking forces in the area.
22. At approximately 0515 hours, several units in the blocking positions were
running out of ammunition and requests for resupply were made. Resupply was
accomplished by Security Police and Advisory Team personnel. The friendly units
continued their intense small arms and automatic weapons fire into the enemy positions,
causing heavy enemy casualties.
23. At approximately 0523 hours, TSN artillery received clearance to fire HE rounds
into the enemy position west of the perimeter. At this time, 2nd Services Battalion
81mm mortars were also cleared to fire and engage the enemy outside the perimeter fence.
The fire of both elements was directed to seal off the enemy penetration from west of
highway 1.
24. At approximately 0529 hours, enemy troops were sighted by Tower #1 near the
Alpha/Echo Sector line. CSC dispatched a Sector SAT and two QRTs to deploy on a
line east and west, north of runway 25-L, to block any further enemy movement to the north.
At this point, the enemy had penetrated approximately 600 meters into the base in
an area approximately 300 meters wide.
25. At approximately 0545 hours, the Senior Advisor Capital Military District
advised the Senior Advisor TSNSA that Gen Ware was in command of all U.S. Forces in the CMD.
Gen Ware immediately placed C Troop, 3rd Squadron, 4th Cav, under operational
control of TSNSA. He further stated that the unit was enroute to assist and would
be on the TSN Advisory Team command radio frequency.
26. At approximately 0551 hours, Tower #1 reported friendly units were making
contact with enemy positions west of the base.
27. The 53rd R.F. Bn, upon returning to its camp, was advised that several hundred
VC were moving west to east approximately 600 to 800 meters north of the Bn CP. The
order to open fire from both northern CP Bunkers was given.
28. At approximately 0558 hours, two companies of the 8th Vietnamese Airborne
Battalion arrived in the area of penetration to reinforce the blocking line and prepare for a
counterattack.
29. At approximately 0603 hours, Tower #1 reported some of the enemy were
withdrawing through a break in the perimeter fence south of the 0-51 Gate.
30. At approximately 0624 hours, the entire blocking force was subjected to an
intense enemy rocket and mortar barrage.
31. At approximately 0630 hours, C Troop, 3rd Squadron, 4th Cav (less one platoon)
arrived in the area after fighting its way down Highway #1 from its base camp at Cu Chi, 20
miles NNW of TSN. They were employed in a flanking movement from the north and
attacked the enemy assault force just outside the perimeter. This attack enabled
the defense units countering the penetration to mount an internal counterattack.
32. At approximately 0635 hours, the counterattack began, with the two companies of
Vietnamese Airborne in conjunction with U.S. military units located south, north, and east of
the enemy positions. The initial drive met fierce resistance after advancing
approximately 100 meters, and the Base Joint Defense Team was forced to hold and call in more
support from artillery and the light fire teams.
33. From approximately 0635 hours to approximately 0730 hours, posts in Alpha,
(northwest thru northeast) Bravo (East) and Foxtrot (South) Sectors reported small arms and
automatic weapons fire coming onto the base. The counterattack moved slowly toward
the west perimeter as the advancing friendly troops were pinned down frequently by heavy enemy
fire.
34. At approximately 0645 hours, the 53rd R.F. Company reported that a VC Battalion
had taken over the village of Tau Phu located at coordinates XS793854 and had surrounded the
company CP located at XS794928. The 531 company commander, took a patrol out to
check VC positions. He was subsequently killed, and the Viet Cong hung his body in
front of the CP and cremated it. At approximately 0645 hours an element of 53rd R.F.
Battalion moved out of the CP to the northwestern edge of the village of Ba Queo vicinity
XS782946, less than 500 meters SSW of the 051 Bunker, and broke up what is believed to have
been a reinforced two-company assault team. (A subsequent search of the area
revealed 169 enemy bodies at coordinates XS785954).
35. At approximately 0715 hours, the 53/3 R.F Company reported being surrounded by
a large VC force. Assistance was requested and a LFT was allocated by JDOC.
After three passes by the LFT the enemy withdrew northeast. A subsequent
search of that area revealed 7 enemy KIA. It is believed that the enemy suffered
more losses at this location at this time. Forty VC KIA were found approximately
200 meters north of this location. All had been hidden and stripped of all
equipment.
36. At approximately 0730 hours, the remaining platoon of C Troop, 3rd Squadron,
4th Cav, arrived on the scene and was directed to enter the base through the O-55 Gate and
proceed to the O-51 Gate in order to relieve the pressure on C Troop, which was intensively
engaged.
37. At approximately 0725 hours, the defensive lines received a heavy concentration
of enemy fire under which the enemy started another assault on the friendly counterattack line.
They were unsuccessful. Heavy enemy fire followed this re-assault,
which is now believed to have been utilized to cover the withdrawal of their wounded and part
of the main force which
38. At approximately 0759 hours, Tower #1 reported mortar rounds were falling into
the southern portion of the Airborne area. This action probably relates directly to
the purpose mentioned in paragraph 38 above.
39. B Troop, 3rd Squadron, 4th Cav, plus an artillery battery from the 25th Inf
Division arrived at the scene of the battle. They attacked the enemy flank from the
north with all units on line just outside of the base perimeter. This action
relieved the pressure of the penetration and completely occupied the enemy exploitation force.
40. During this time, with support from the Cav units and their artillery and
constant fire support from Light Fire Teams, the counterattacking forces slowly gained
momentum. As a result of this action, Tower #1 reported more enemy were trying to
withdraw through the breach in the perimeter fence between the 0-51 Bunker and 0-51 Gate.
41. At approximately 0930 hours, the U.S. units on the north flank of the
counterattack line successfully occupied the area from just south of the 0-51 Gate, north
along the west perimeter. The units continued to draw small arms, automatic weapons,
and rocket fire from the enemy positions just off the west perimeter for several hours.
42. The VN Airborne unit on the south flank of the counterattacking force continued
to take heavy casualties and again started falling back. The 0-51 Bunker, in the
possession of the enemy since early in the morning, was directing heavy small arms and
automatic weapons fire into the southern flank.
43. At approximately 1000 hours, the Airborne unit withdrew to just north of Tower
#3 and set up their defensive positions while the U.S. tanks from the 3/4 Cav and LFT
attempted to knock out the 0-51 Bunker.
44. At approximately 1015 hours, one of the LFTs was reported shot down on the
vast perimeter between the 0-52 and 0-52A Bunkers. Three LFTs were downed in the
vicinity of the vast perimeter during the morning battle.
45. At approximately 1210 hours, the 0-51 Bunker was successfully assaulted and
neutralized by 377th Security Police Personnel after several attempts had previously failed.
This was the last area inside the base perimeter held by the enemy.
During this time, several sweeps were made within the area to the north to insure that no
living enemy remained within the perimeter.
46. At approximately 1217 hours, the breach was closed and the perimeter was
secured. Hostile fire was received from the enemy positions off the west end of the
base for several hours.
47. Throughout the eight hour battle on the vast perimeter, heavy fighting
continued at Gate #10 and MACV Annex. At approximately 1300 hours, these other
areas were declared secured and a VC body count of 82+ was accredited.
48. At approximately 1400 hours, the 8th Airborne Battalion, (ARVN) the 1st Marine
Bn (ARVN), and 4th Marine Battalion (ARVN) were committed by JDOC to attack and clear the
depot area of Hong Tong Tay (adjacent to the NNE perimeter fence), which was under siege by
heavy Viet Cong forces. The 8th Airborne Battalion was halted in the built up area
southeast of Gate #10 approximately 500 meters from the base by intensive enemy fire.
The lot and 4th Marine Battalions continued the attack and secured the VN Armor Compound
and the Co Loa Artillery Compound located in the Hong Tang Tay Area. Heavy enemy
resistance was encountered which forced the three battalions to set up defensive positions
just prior to nightfall.
49. The 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment, 1st Division, was placed under the
operational control of TSNSA. An attack plan was issued by JDOC placing the 3/4 Cav,
the 53rd RF Battalion, and the reinforced base perimeter in blocking roles, with the 1/18th
Inf Bn attacking the enemy in a north westerly direction. This action was designed
to force the enemy's main body to disperse into the blocking forces. The enemy
broke contact just before dark. The enemy had withdrawn to the southwest into Ba
Queo and toward Phu Tho Hoa. FACs engaged the enemy with artillery fire whenever
possible. The 3/4 Cav reported that it was receiving heavy small arms fire at a
heavy rate from the VINATEXCO Factory. Clearance for a air strike was obtained and
the first strike was conducted by the 33rd VNAF Wing. Subsequent strikes by F-100's
resulted in 95% destruction of the factory. Secondary explosions occurred.
Over 170 VC body count was accredited and a large weapons cache was located in and
around the factory.
50. A Troop, 1st Squadron, 4th Cav, 1st Division, the 2nd Battalion, 27th Regiment,
25th Inf Division, and the 2nd Battalion, 327th Regiment, 101st Airborne were placed under the
operational control of TSNSA and the following defensive positions were established against
the threat of another enemy attack. The positions were established in addition to
the re-established and reinforced defensive perimeter posture of the primary defense forces:
a. The 2/327/101st Airborne (less I company) - blocking position behind
the 0-51 Gate area of penetration.
b. The 1/18/1st Division (less I company) - placed in reserve in the
southwest section of the base near the 25-L runway.
c. The 2/27/25th Inf Division (less 1 company) - mobilized by the 377th
Combat Support Group as a rapid reaction force stationed at the U.S. Army Heliport (southwest
section of the base).
d. The 3/4 Cav, 25th Inf Division with one company of the 2/27/25th Inf Division attached - positioned to the immediate south of the 0-56 Gate (058 Bunker) as a rapid reaction force against the enemy threat from the northwest.
e. One company of the 2/327/101st and one company of the 1/18/1st Division placed
in perimeter defense around MACV Headquarters. Disposition of the above elements
was completed by 2100 hours. The base was considered secured at this time.
At 2215 hours, Lt Col Coung resumed command of all Vietnamese forces and Colonel Thebeau
with elements of headquarters, 2nd Brigade, 1st Inf Division, assumed command of all U.S. Army
Forces by order of Major General Ware, Commander) II Field Force Forward.
THIS PAGE IS UNCLASSIFIED
BATTLE ACRONYM'S
JDOC - Joint Defense Operation Center
ARVN - Army Republic Of Vietnam
TSNSA - Tan Son Nhut Sensitive Area
TSN - Tan Son Nhut
O.F. - Perimeter Post Identifier
VNAF - Vietnamese Air Force
R.F. - Regional Forces
P.F. - Popular Forces
AFAT - Air Force Advisory Team
Task Force 35 - US Army Augmentation Forces From MACV Annex to 377th Security Police
Squadron
Task Force Peter - US Army Augmentation Forces from MACV Annex In Support of MACV
Compound
TACC - Tactical Air Control Center
A.K.A. - Also Known As
QRT - Quick Reaction Team
SAT - Security Alert Team
RSAT - Reserve Security Alert Team
L.F.T. - Light Fire Team
J.G.S. - Joint General Staff (South Vietnamese High Command)
C.P. - Command Post
CSC - Central Security Control
M.G. - Machine Gun
R.P.G. - Rocket Propelled Grenade
H.E. - High Explosive
Group - 4
Downgraded at 3 year intervals
Declassified after 12 years
(This Page is Unclassified)
Name: Chris Godfrey, Oct 15, 2004
Email:
URL:
Comments: Dear Sir,
I have visited (first time) your Tan Son Nhut Association web site. Very nice, and I read the After Action section which presented the after-actions report of the Tet Offensive against TSNAB with respect to the 377th SPS.
There is one noted mistake with regards to the staffing of the Security section make-up for the evening before the attack. The CSC make-up consisted of three (3) SATs, Golf-1, 2 and 3, and not only two SATs. Somehow Golf-3 was not identified as such in this report. Golf-3 was formed by direction of Captain DeNisio and Lt Grover the evening before the attack and was comprised of a Sgt (from CSC) and 2 Airmen (pulled from two sectors). Golf-3 had tactical responsibility of the outer perimeter road East end, including the POL area, C-130 parking area and north to the 056 gate. In the official after-actions report it is noted that the initial enemy in-coming fire was from the East perimeter and directed towards the C-130 ramp area. That is correct, but the radio notification to CSC was transmitted at about 0320 hours, and was transmitted by Golf-3. Several minutes later Capt DeNisio and Lt Grover arrived at Golf-3's location on the outer perimeter road. Lt Grover instructed Golf-3 to remain in position and engage the enemy as necessary. Following this they drove West towards the 051 gate as radio traffic identified a major ground assualt at that location.
Having read the after-actions report (I have my own [onion skin] copy), I noticed no mention of a Golf 3 SAT. Rather, I believe that reference was made to a sector SAT regarding the initial enemy weapons fire. And that is a shame .... however, the Security Alert Desk Blotter from CSC does reflect "Golf 3" in one entry.
It may appear that I know a lot about the Tet Offensive as do many others of my brothers who were there. However, my knowledge about Golf-3 is first hand as I was the G-3 Leader, Sgt Chris Godfrey. And yes, the day before the actual attack I was performing my assigned duty as Chief Clerk for "C" Flt Scty. After the 54 hour battle I returned to my (CSC) position which included supervising the three main towers and the early posting team, plus being the driver/RTO for the "C" Flt Scty Comdr (Lt) and Chief (MSgt), and a short stint as a map plotter in JDOC and Liaison to the 25th Infantry Division's Crater Analysis team during the numerous rocket attacks following Tet.
I'm glad to have found your TSNA web site. Thank you for your work on this.
Chris Godfrey
"C" Flt Scty, 377th SPS, 1967-1970
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