December, 1967*
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Da Nang TAOR*
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After Swift there was a change in Marine unit deployment. Action around the DMZ was heating up and more manpower was needed. Parts of the 1st Cavalry Division were moved north to Chu Lai and attached to the Americal Division, which took over responsibility for the Que Son Valley.*
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The 5th Marines was moved north to Da Nang, replacing the 1st Marines which reinforced the DMZ. The 5th Marines was responsible for maintaining security, implementing government pacification programs, and guarding the 12-mile "Rocket Belt" (the farthest distance from which enemy rockets could reach Da Nang).*
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Your assignment today is to sweep the marshy area south of Da Nang, clearing out any VC, looking for supply caches and artillery emplacements. You'll have some river boats and LVTAs for support, as well as South Korean Marines. Watch out for mines and booby traps. If you do find any rocket batteries it will be a nice bonus. You're a short-timer now, nearing the end of your "tour of duty". Good luck.*
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Epilogue*
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This is a hypothetical engagement, though probably typical, of the 5th Marines as they patrolled the Da Nang TAOR in the latter months of 1967.*
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