January 28, 1967*
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Operation Desoto*
Duc Pho, Quang Ngai Province, Vietnam.*
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Southern Quang Ngai province has long been dominated by the Viet Cong. While the ARVN maintain a presence, they mostly keep themselves confined to their bases. This has given the VC the opportunity to construct numerous fortifications throughout the area. Now, US Marines are being ordered to replace the ARVN units so they can be used elsewhere in pacification programs. Our orders are to engage the VC, and drive them out.*
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The Operation, named Desoto, began on January 27. The major units engaged are the 7th and 5th Marines. Our first job is to clear the area around Duc Pho which will be the 3rd Bn logistics base, including a heliport and observation post on Nui Dang. We expect the area to be occupied mainly by lightly armed provincial VC.*
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Mike company, it's time to kick some VC ass and take names!*
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Epilogue:*
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This battle is typical of the early days of Mike company's actions in Operation Desoto. Small scale firefights, a few casualties, a few enemy killed.*
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Welcome to the Nam.*





