DECLASSIFIED



CONFIDENTIAL

322100H Dec 1968      Two tanks from Company C were ambushed at  (BD894662).
                                                  Tanks fired 90mm and MG's resulting in 10 enemy KIA.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 25 Dec 1968, Late Entry 1

231100H Dec 1968      A tank from Company A in support of ComanyD, 1/26
                                                  was requested to fire at an enemy machine gun and
                                                  sniper position at   (AT892831)  which was firing at
                                                  AMTRAC's moving up the river.   Tanks fired 90mm and
                                                  enemy firing ceased.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 24 Dec 1968, Late Entry 1

270830H Dec 1968     Two tanks from Company C at  (BT017570) received
                                                  mortar, B-40 rocket, automatic rifle and small arms
                                                  fire from  (BT017573).   Tanks returned fire with
                                                  unknow results.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 28 Dec 1968, Late Entry 1



DECLASSIFIED




HEADQUARTERS
1st Tank Battalion  (Rein)
1st Marine Division  (Rein),  FMF
FPO, San Francisco, California 96602

                                                                                                                                            Copy___of___Copies
                                                                                                                                            3/MDH/lev
                                                                                                                                            5750
                                                                                                                                            0301-68
                                                                                                                                            7 Jan 1969

[MARKED OUT]

From:          Commanding Officer
To:              Commanding General, 1st Marine Division (Rein),  FMF

Subj:            Command Chronology for the period of 1-31 December 1968.

Ref:             (a)   MCO P5750.1A
                       (b)   FMFPacO 5750.8A
                       (c)   DivO 5750>2

Encl:            (1)   First Tank Battalion Command Chronology

1.   In accordance with the provisions of references  (a),  (b),  and  (c),
enclosure  (1) is submitted.

2.   This letter is downgraded to unclassified upon removal of enclosure
(1).


                                                                                          [Signature]
                                                                                          M. C. ASHLEY, JR.















                                                                                                                                  CONFIDENTIAL


DECLASSIFIED
DECLASSIFIED





HEADQUARTERS
1st Tank Battalion  (Rein)
1st Marine Division  (Rein),  FMF
FPO, San Francisco, California 96602


[MARKED OUT]

COMMAND CHRONOLOGY

1 DECEMBER 1968 TO 31 DECEMBER 1968

INDEX

PART I - ORANIZATIONAL DATA

PART II - NARRATIVE SUMMARY

PART III - SEQUENTIAL LISTING OF SIGNIFICANT EVENTS

PART IV - SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS




















                                                                                                                                  [MARKED OUT]

DECLASSIFIED


DECLASSIFIED




PART I

ORGANIZATIONAL DATA


[COVER PAGE]


DECLASSIFIED
DECLASSIFIED




[MARKED OUT]

ORGANIZATIONAL DATA

1.    Designation                                                            Commander

          Headquarters                                                      LtCol M. C. ASHLEY, JR.
          1st Tank Battalion  (Rein)                          1-31 Dec 1968
          1st Marine Division  (Rein),  FMF

SUBORDINATE UNITS

H&S Company                                                              Captain M. P. SAMS 1-14Dec68
                                                                                               Major F. P. BRISENO 15-31Dec68
Company A                                                                      Captain B. R. MONTGOMERY 1-31Dec68
Company B                                                                      Captain R. A. DOYLE 1-14Dec68
                                                                                               Captain M. P. SAMS 15-31-Dec68
Company C                                                                      1stLt T. G. ROBERTS 1-31Dec68
Company A, 1st AT Bn                                            Major F. P. BRISENO 1-14Dec68
                                                                                               1stLt J. J. BANNING 15-31Dec68

2.    Location

          Headquarters                                                      (AT997723)
          H&S Company                                                    (AT997723)
          Company A                                                            (AT936782)
          Company B                                                            (AT962621)
          Company C                                                            (BT078663)
          Company A, 1st AT Bn                                 (AT997723)

3.    Staff Officers

          Battalion Executive Officer                        Major R. H. GRAHAM 1-31Dec68
          Battalion Adjutant                                            Captain I. F. WALDVOGEL 1-31Dec68
          Battalion S-2 Officer                                        1stLt W. D. DARBY 1-31Dec68
          Battalion S-3 Officer                                        Major J. B. TERPAK 1-31Dec68
          Battalion S-4 Officer                                        Major D. R. SPARKS 1-31Dec68
          Battalion S-5 Officer                                        Captain J. K. MARLATT 1-31Dec68

4.    Average Monthly Strength

                    USMC                              USN
          OFF              ENL          OFF          ENL
             45               727               1               18



                                                                                                                                  ENCLOSURE (1)
                                                                                                                                  [MARKED OUT]

DECLASSIFIED

[1]
DECLASSIFIED




CONFIDENTIAL

Personnel and Administration

1.    Status as of 312400 Dec 1968

          a.     Personnel losses and gain by MOS

                    (1)   Officer Dropped

                              Captain                    2010                    1
                              1stLt                        1802                    6

                    (2)   Officers Joined

                              CWO-3                    2010                    1

                    (3)    Enlisted Dropped

                              E-8          E-7          E-6          E-5          E-4          E-3          E-2/1          Total

0311                     0              0              0              0             0              0                 1                1
0353                     0              0              0              0             1              2                    0                3
0369                     0              0              2              0             0              0                  0               2
1341                     0              0              0              0             1              0                    0                1
1811                     0              0              4              3             8              9                11              35
2111                     0              0              0              1             1              0                    0                2
2141                     0              0              0              1             3              4                    1                9
2142                     0              0              0              1             0              0                  0                1
2143                     0              0              0              0             1              1                     1               3
2531                     0              0              0              0             1              1                     1               3
2533                     0              0              0              1             1              1                     0               3
2542                     0              0              0              0             2              0                     0               2
2841                     0              0              0              1             2              0                   0              3
3041                     0              0              0              1             1              0                     0               2
3371                     0              0              1              0             2              0                     0               3
3516                     0              0              0              0             2              0                     0               2
3531                     0              0              0              1             1              6                     1               9

Total                    0              0              7             10          27            24                    16             84

                    (4)    Enlisted Joined,

                              E-8          E-7          E-6          E-5          E-4          E-3          E-2/1          Total

0141                   0              0             0              0              0              0                1                1
0353                     0              0             0              0              0              1                 4                5
0369                     0              0             2              0              0              0                    0               2


                                                                                                                        ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                        CONFIDENTIAL


DECLASSIFIED

[2]
DECLASSIFIED




CONFIDENTIAL          E-8          E-7          E-6          E-5          E-4          E-3          E-2/1          Total

1345                                          0              0             0              0              0             0                1                 1
1811                                          0              0             1              2              0             2                3                    8
2141                                          0              0             1              0              0             0                0                    1
2149                                          0              0             2              0              0             0                0                    2
2511                                          0              0             0              0              0             0                2                  2
2531                                          0              0             0              0              0             1                1                    2
3371                                          0              0             0              1              0             1                9                11

Total                                         0              0             6              3              0             5               21               35

          b.    Personnel Shortages

                    (1)   Critical Shortages

                              MOS          M/L          T/O          O/H
                              0353              4               4               2

                    (2)   Staff NCO, MOS 1811

                              E-9          E-8          E-7          E-6          Total

T/O                       1              3             11           26               41
M/L                      0              4             11           19               34
O/H                       0              0               8           12              20

          c.   Awards.   The following awards recommendations were submitted:

                    1 Silver Star Medal
                    7 Bronze Star Medals
                    5 Navy Commendation Medals
                50 Navy Archievement Medals

                              The following awards were presented:

                    1 Bronze Star Medal
                    3 Navy Commendation Medals
                    7 Purple Hearts
                    3 Vietnamese Crosses of Gallantry

          d.    Rest and Recreation

                    Place                    Quota                    Used 

                    Hawaii                        13                       10
                    Australia                      9                         9
                    Kuala Lumpur           2                         0
                    Singapore                     1                         1
                    Penang                          2                         2

                                                                                                                                  ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                                  CONFIDENTIAL



DECLASSIFIED

[3]

DECLASSIFIED




CONFIDENTIAL

          Place                    Quota                    Used

          Okinawa                 3                              2
          Manila                      1                              1
          Tokyo                       4                              2
          Hong Kong           10                           9
          Taipei                        6                           6
          Bangkok               11                         11

          Total                        62                         53
          China Beach      20                         15
          e.    Battalion Legal Summarization
                    Special Court Martial - 0
                    Summary Court Martial - 0
                    Informal Investigations - 12
                    Accidential Deaths - 0
                    Non-Judicial Punishment - 12

          f.     Extension of Overseas Tour - December

                    Man Months                    Number                                   Number
                           1968                           6-Month Extensions          3-Month Extensions

                           1118                                                  27                                                  1
















                                                                                                                        ENCLOSURE   (1)
                                                                                                                        CONFIDENTIAL


DECLASSIFIED

[4]

DECLASSIFIED




CONFIDENTIAL

INTELLIGENCE

1.   Weather.   During the month of December weather conditions proved to
be highly favorable for the resumption of tank operations throughout the
1st Marine Division Area of Responsibility.   The mean high temperature
for the month was 81 degrees while the low was 71 degrees, compared with
the average of 76 and 68 degrees over the past 33 years.   Rainfall for
the month sharply decreased to 2.83 inches compared to a monthly average
of 8.7 inches over the past 27 years.   More than any other factor this
marked decrease in rainfall resulted in improved trafficability conditions
thereby allowing our tanks to resume mobile field operations.

2.    Mine and RPG Incidents.

          During the month of December the Battalion continued to be plagued
by mining incidents, although to a lesser extent than during recent months.
There were a total of three mine incidents which resulted in two WIA
non-evacuees.   Route 4, connecting Hills 37 and 55, continued to claim
a heavy toll of tanks from Company B operating in direct support of the
7th Marine Regiment.   Tank B52 within a ten day period struck two mines
no more than 500 meters apart.   During the past month there was one
RPG incident which resulted in minor damage to a tank from Company C
and one  (1) WIA non-evac.

          During the year 1968, vehicles from the 1st Tank Battalion detonated
a total of 67 mines ranging in size from 40 pounds to 250 pounds
resulting in one KIA and ?? WIA.   This is a significant decrease from
the 111 mining incidents which occured during 1967.

3.     Indications.

          During the month of December, enemy initiated activity was unus-
ually light within Southern Sector Defense Command.   On the night
of 21 December, OP Hawk manned by personnel and LVTH6's from the 1st
Armored Amphibian Company observed a small white boat floatig down the
Song Cau Do flying what appeared to be an NVA flag.   Fire was brought
to bear and the boat was destoyed.   A sweep the following morning
revealed numerous enemy propaganda leaflets and some debris.

          On the night of 23 December, OP's Panther and Hawk observed 10-12 rockets
being fired in the vicinity of the Bo Ban hamlets.   The enemy rocket
site was quickly brought under intensive and highly accurate direct fire
resulting in excellent coverage of the enemy target area.

          Based on enemy activity, during January 1968, there remains a high
probability of a new enemy offensive during January 1969.   The tenant
units within Southern Sector Defense Command remain in a high state
of readiness to delay or repulse any enemy attack upon the installations
within the Souther Sector and the Danang vital area ????

                                                                                                                        ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                        CONFIDENTIAL
DECLASSIFIED

[5]
DECLASSIFIED




CONFIDENTIAL

OPERATIONS AND TRAINING

1.    Operations

          With the significant decrease in rainfall during December and the
accompanying improvement in trafficability, tanks and Ontos of the 1st
Tank Battalion returned to the field to provide support for the infantry
regiments of the 1st MarineDivision and the 2nd Brigade, ROK Marine Corps.
Tanks participated in three major operations and numerous small unit
operations, provided convoy and road sweep security, and strengthened the
defensive positions of infantry units throughout the Division Area of
Responsibility.   Tanks continued to be employed on key terrain features
where their highly accurate direct fire capabilities were used to
interdict known enemy routes of advance and egress and to provide counter-
rocket fire.

          Company A  (-)  (Rein)  remained in direct support of the 26th Marines
with the Compay command post co-located with that of the 1st Battalion,
26th Marines.   Elements of the 2nd and 3rd Platooon continued to be
employed on Hill 190, providing counter-mortar and rocket fire, and at
Namo Bridge, providing bridge security.   The tanks located at Namo Bridge
aided by a 50-power starlight scope adn Ground Surveillance Radar fired
numerous direct fire missions at increasingly large enemy groups in the
AT9184 and AT9185 grid squares, thereby denying the enemy an accessible
route of advance into the northern Da Nang vital area.

          Company B  (Rein)  remained in direct support of the 5th and 7th Marine
regiments with three platoons in support of the 5th Marines and two in
support of the 7th Marines.   The Company command post remained co-located
with that of the 7th Marine Regiment with a forward command post co-
located with the 5th Marine Regiment.   The 1st and 3rd Platoons of
Company B remained in support of the 1st Battalion, 7th Marines and the
3rd Battalion, 7th Marines, respectively, and during December relocated
their command posts to Hill 37 and Hill 10.   Tanks from the 1st and 3rd
Platoon were used primarily for convoy and road sweep security and for
strengthening the defensive fortifications of their respective supported
battalions.   Due to the extensive amount of convoy traffic destined for
An Hoa and the 5th Marines, as well as the heavy committment for operation
Taylor Common, it was necessary for the 1st Tank Battalion to  provide
another tank platoon to support the 5th Marines.   On 26 December, the
tank platoon which returned from BLT 2/7 was placed under operational
control of Company B and displaced to the 5th Marines command post to
bolster their tank assets.   Tanks in the An Hoa Basin were extensively
employed during the month to provide security for convoys and road sweeps
and in support of infantry units involved in search and clear and
search and detroy operations.

          Company C  (Rein)  continued to be tasked with support of the 1st
Marine Regiment and the 2nd Brigade, ROK Marine Corps.   The Company
command post remained co-located with that of the 2nd Battalion, 1st
Marines.   The 1st platoon remained within the 1st Tank Battalion CP pre-

                                                                                                              ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                              CONFIDENTIAL

DECLASSIFIED

[6]
DECLASSIFIED




CONFIDENTIAL

paring for deployment with BLT 3/26, and on 22 December was placed under
operational control of BLT 3/26.   Tanks from the  2nd platoon provided
both direct and indirect fire support for operation Meade River and supported
numerous battalion and company size operations in the vicinity of Phuong Ho 1
and 2, Man Quan, and the Marble Mountain Area.   The 3rd Platoon, in direct
support of the 2nd the 2nd Brigade, ROK Marine Corps, remained constantly in
the field, providing valuable direct fire support for operation Victory
Dragon 6 and numerous company size operations.

          Company A  (Rein), 1st Anti-tank Battalion remaied within the South-
ern Sector Defense Command providing security for the Song Cau Do and
Cobb Bridges together with infantry elements of the 1st and 7th Marines,
respectively.   One heavy section of Ontos remained in support of the 1st
Marines at the Song Cau Do Bridge and a light section of Ontos supported
elements of the 7th Marines on the Cobb Bridge.   In addition to command
responsibility for OP Panther and the Thre Fingers Combat Outpost,
Company a, 1st AT Bn was tasked with command of OP Bear.   One platoon
from Company A remained in support of the I Corps Quick Reaction Mobile
Task Force, Task Force Kilo.

2.    Task Organization

          The task organization of the 1st Tank Battalion as of 31 December
was:

          Company A  (-)  (Rein):   D/S 26th Marine Regiment
          Company B  (Rein):   3 platoons D/S 5th Marine Regiment
                                                        2 platoons D/S 7th Marine Regiment
          Company C  (Rein):   D/S 1st Marine Regiment
                                                        1 platoon D/S 2nd Brigade, ROKMC
          Company A  (Rein), 1st Anti-tank Bn:   Co A (-) G/S 1st MarDiv
                                                                                                1 Plt D/S Task Force Kilo
                                                                                                Heavy Section D/S 3/1
                                                                                                Light   Section D/S 3/7

3.     Battalion CP Ground Actions

          The 1st Tank Battalin conducted 93 patrols and ambushes in the
Battalion Area of Responsibility within the Southern Sector Defense
Command.

4.     Ammunition Expenditures

          Total ammunition expended during December by the 1st Tank Battalion
was as follows:


                                                                                                                        ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                        CONFIDENTIAL

DECLASSIFIED

[7]
DECLASSIFIED



CONFIDENTIAL

                                                                                90mm

                                        HE          APERS-T          CANNISTER          WP          HEAT

DIRECT                748                    411                       183                      181             87
INDIRECT               0                        0                         0                          0              0
TOTAL                  748                    411                       183                      181             87

                                        106mm                                                            SMALL ARMS

                           APERS-T  HEP-T  HEAT          .30 Caliber MG   .50 Caliber MG

DIRECT                 70            131           7                       42,050                        5,375
INDIRECT              0               0           0
TOTAL                     70             131           7                              FLAME TANK FUEL

                                                                                                               43,560 Gallons

5.     Statistical Results

          The results of action involving the 1st Tank Battalion during December
are:

VC/NVA KIA

          TANK OPERATIONS......................62
          SSDC  OPERATIONS......................  0

VC/NVA CAPTURES

          TANK OPERATIONS...................... 1
          SSDC  OPERATIONS...................... 0

VCS
          TANK OPERATIONS......................42
          SSDC  OPERATIONS......................  0

USMC KIA

          TANK OPERATIONS...................... 0
          SSDC  OPERATIONS...................... 0

USMC WIA

          TANK OPERATIONS

                    MED-EVAC............................... 1
                    NON-EVAC................................ 2

                                                                                                                                  ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                                  COFIDENTIAL
DECLASSIFIED

[8]
DECLASSIFIED





CONFIDENTIAL

          SSDC  OPERATIONS

                    MED-EVAC.............................. 0
                    NON-EVAC............................... 0

WOUNDED NON-HOSTILE ACTION

          TANK OPERATIONS

                    MED-EVAC.............................. 5

WEAPONS CAPTURED

          TANK OPERATIONS:
          
          1 M-1                                                                                          6-82mm mortar rounds
          3 M-16                                                                                     2 RPG 2 rounds
          8 AK-47                                                                                   24 RPG 7 rounds
          6 SKS                                                                                       20 RPG 7 Boosters
          2 LAAW                                                                                   3 Bangalore Torpedos
          1 M-14                                                                                     305 rounds .30 cal
          2 Carbines                                                                             50 rounds .50 cal
          2-81mm mortar rounds                                                    1 .30 cal machine gun tripod
          1 M79                                                                                      5 anti-tank mines

          SSDC  OPERATIONS................... 1-140mm Rocket

EQUIPMENT AND DOCUMENT CAPTURED

          TANK OPERATIONS
                    ASSORTED 782 GEAR AND MEDICAL GEAR

          SSDC  OPERATIONS
                    NUMEROUS PROPAGANDA LEAFLETS

6.     Total for Year 1968 Combined 1st Tank Battalion, SSDC Operations

          VC/NVA KIA 701
          VC/NVA CAPTURED 48
          VCS   83
          USMC KIA   32
          USMC WIA
                    MED-EVAC.........................  111
                    NON-EVAC.......................... 115

7.     Training.   Training of 1st Tank Battalion personnel during the month
of December centered mainly on General Military Subjects, MOS Training,
and Weapons Safety.   Subjects pertaining to operations in a combat
enviroment in the Republic of Vietnam were emphasized.    Subjects covered
in the weekly Battalion Officers and Staff NCO School were Special
Munitions, Red Cross Activities in Vietnam and Individual Responsibility.
                                                                                                                        ENCLOSURE  (1)
DECLASSIFIED

[9]
DECLASSIFIED




CONFIDENTIAL

8.     Summary.   With the improvement in tank trafficability the
employment of tank in direct, close fire support of infantry units
continued to increase.   Tan continued their major role in direct counter
rocket and mortar fire as well as denying the enemy routes of access
into vital military and civilian installations.   Although prior to
December tanks were largely confined to an overwatching direct and
indirect fire support role due to the extensive rainfall, many valuable
lession were learned which should prove extremely valuable during 1969.
The 1st Tank Battalion looks forward with enthusiasm to 1969 and the
opportunity to again provide the infantry regiments of the 1st Marine
Division and the 2nd Brigade, ROK Marine Corps with our armor protected
mobile fire power.

















                                                                                                                        ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                        CONFIDENTIAL


DECLASSIFIED

[10]
DECLASSIFIED



PART II

NARRATIVE SUMMARY


[COVER PAGE]


DECLASSIFIED

DECLASSIFIED




CONFIDENTIAL

PERSONNEL AND ADMINISTRATION

1.    Personnel.   During the period of this report the personnel situation
remained relatively stable with a net loss of six officers and forty-
nine enlisted personnel.   In MOS 0302 a significant personnel shortage
does exist.   The Battalion has only 2 of the 4 MOS 0302 officers authorized
Company A, 1st Antitank Battalion.   This deficiency reduces the efficiency
of operations of the combat outposts/counter-rocket sites manned by this
Battalion in the Southern Sector Defense Command.   In addition to the
aforementioned shortage, there is a critical shortage of Staff Noncommissioned
Officers in MOS 1811  (Tank Crewmen).   The on-board strength of these
personnel is only  67  percent of authorized strength, and this
deficiency detracts from the organization's capability to provide needed
training and leadership of inexperienced tank crewmen joining the
Battalion from CONUS.

2.    Promotion.   Fourteen promotions were effected during December in the
grades of Private First Class through Corporal.    Four of these promotions
were attained through meritorious combat promotion.

3.    Awards.   Fourteen awards were presented to members of this command,
seven of which were Purple Heart Medals.   Sixty-three personnel were
recommended for personal awards including one Silver Star Medal and
seven Bronze Star Medals.

4.    Twenty in country and sixty-two out-of-country rest and recreation
quotas were received, and fifteen in country and fifty-three out-of-country
quotas were utilitized.

5.    Legal.   Twelve informal investigations were processed and twelve non-
judicial punishments were imposed during December.

6.    Tour Extensions.   Twenty-eight requests for overseas tour extensions
were submitted and approved.   The 1968 cumulative man-month total for
overseas tour extensions was 1118.

7.    Administration.   There were no significant difficulties encountered
in administration during December.   The Battalion Personnel Officer
processed three emergency leave and sixty-one special leave requests.








                                                                                                                        ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                        CONFIDENTIAL
DECLASSIFIED

[11]
DECLASSIFIED




CONFIDENTIAL

SOUTHERN SECTOR DEFENSE COMMAND

1.    General Summary.

          Southern Sector activities continued to be inititiated, coordinated,
and controlled by the Commanding Officer, 1st Tank Battalion.   During
December, activities conducted by SSDC tenants units included patrols,
ambushes, LP's, OP's and COP's.   During the month elements from the
3rd Battalion, 7th Marines assumed control of the Cobb Bridge and continued
to defend this key line of communication, reinforced by a light section
of Ontos from CoA, 1st AT Bn.    OP's Hawk, Panther, Tiger and Bear
continued to provide early warning of enemy infiltration into the
Southern Sector.   Company A, 1st AT Battalion assumed command from
Company C, 7th Engineer Battalion of OP Bear and began improvement of
defensive positions with the installation of German Barbed Concertina,
aircraft flares and the E-8 CS dispenser.   Counter-rocket and mortar
sites, OP Panther and OP Hawk again proved their worth in the early
morning hours of 23 December when the enemy launched a rocket attack
on Da Nang.   No sooner had the enemy launched his attack than tanks
from H&S Company, 1st Tank Battalion located at OP Panther and LVTH6's
from the 1st Armored Amphibian Company located at OP Hawk brought the
enemy launching sites under intensive and highly accurate direct fire.
An examination of the enemy launching sites the following day revealed
that the direct fire from the LVTH6's was on target and had, in fact,
destroyed one of the enemy rockets before it could be fired.   The
defensive installations within SSDC continue to provide the capability
of delaying or denying an enemy penetration from the west into vital
installations within the Southern Sector Defense Command and the Da Nang
vital area.














                                                                                                                        ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                        CONFIDENTIAL


DECLASSIFIED

[12]
DECLASSIFIED





CONFIDENTIAL

SOUTHERN SECTOR DEFENSE COMMAND

160500H Dec 1968     17 rounds of 82mm mortar impacted at  (AT971716).
                                                  Firing position believed to be  (AT964695),  One
                                                  (1)  Vietnamese civilian was wounded and taken
                                                  to Da Nang Hospital.

212310H Dec 1968     1st ALVT's OP at  (AT973704) fired 105mm at a small
                                                  boat flying an NVA flag at  (AT974698).   The boat was
                                                  destroyed.

230400H Dec 1968     OP Panther at  (AT968707) fired 90mm counter-rocket
                                                  fire at  (AT953692) the target was well covered with
                                                  unknown results.

230400H Dec 1968     OP Hawk at  (AT073704) fired 105mm counter-rocket
                                                  fire at  (AT953692).   Target saturated.   One 140mm
                                                  rocket destroyed.

230400H Dec 1968     Btry C 1st LAAM Bn at  (AT974737) received one  (1)
                                                  122mm rocket, causing no personnel casualties but
                                                  heavy damage to the mess hall.

230400H Dec 1968     ASP #1 compound received one  (1)  122mm rocket at
                                                  (AT988754).   No damage or casualties.

241100H Dec 1968     A Vietnamese boy led elements of Company I, 3/7
                                                  and company C, 7th Eng to a rocket located at
                                                  (AT963718).   Fuse and igniter has been removed and
                                                  the propellent expended.














                                                                                                                                  ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                                  CONFIDENTIAL



DECLASSIFIED

[13]
DECLASSIFIED





CONFIDENTIAL

LOGISTICS

1.    Table of Equipment Deficiencies.   During the month of December,
T/E deficiencies caused this Battalion to remain in category C-2 for
equipment and supplies on hand.   Notable deficiencies of mission
essential equipments are Helmets, CVC  (47);  Radio Sets AN/VRC-12
(10);  Filter Units, Gas Particulate M8A3  (28);  Recovery Vehicle, Full
Tracked M51  (1);  Searchlight, Xenon  (8);  Tank Combat, M48A3  (2);  and
Mixing Transfer Unit  (2).   The lack of those items is detrimental
to the accomplishment of the Battalion mission.

2.    Maintenance.   Three mining incidents;  submersion of one tank;
and insufficient available assets of hihg usage repair parts, compents,
and assemblies placed a heavy burden on the maintenance personnel of
the Battalion.   By a combination of hard work, initiative and imag-
ination, however, maintenance were able to provide a consis-
tent 88% availability rate for all combat essential equipment
possessed.

3.    Supply.   During December, the Battalion Supply Platoon prepared
approximately 41 requisitions and processed an average of 250 supply
advice cards daily.   During the month, a supply fill rate of 15
percent was attained.

4.    Cantonment Maintenance and Improvements.   Self-help maintenance
projects continued to improve the defenses, appearance and livability
of the cantonment.   Eleven SEA huts were painted to enhance the can-
tonment appearance and preserve the huts from deterioration from
environmental elements.   Plywood paneling was installed in the SNCO
and enlisted  portions of the messhall.   The Motor Transport Platoon
completed 11 additional protective revetments for Motor Transport
equipment using sand filled drums.

5.    Medical.   There were 264 immunization and 75 tuberculin skin
test administered, and 237 sick call visits made during the month of
December.   Nine men were on the sick list, 2 or whom were carried
over from the month of November.   Of the 9 men on the sick list, 1
was medical illness, 6 with non-hostile injuries, and 2 with hostile
injuries.   Total man-days lost to the Battalion from illness or injury
were 23.   There were 5 cases of venereal disease, and increase of 3
over November.   All cases were diagnosed and treated;  all cases were
contracted in the Da Nang Area.   MEDCAP in the hamlets of Cam Hoa
and Phuoc Thai continued.    Surveillance and preventive measures in the
Insect and Vector Control Programs were continued.   Personnel
changes during the month included the joining of a Hospital Corpsman
Second Class.



                                                                                                                        ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                        CONFIDENTIAL


DECLASSIFIED

[14]
DECLASSIFIED





CONFIDENTIAL

LOGISTICS

STATUS AS OF 312400 DEC 1968

1.    Table of Equipment Shortages.

          FSN                                NOMENCLATURE                                        SHORTAGES

1000-605-7710                    Gun Machine M60                                                        3

1040-987-9295                    Compressor, Reciprocating                                        1

2310-835-8686                    Trk Ambulance M718                                                   1

2320-835-8713                    Recovery Vehicle, M51                                              1

2320-763-1092                    Trk, Utility, M151A1                                                     1

2320-993-7522                    Trk, Cargo, 5T, M54A2C                                           2

2350-895-9154                    Tank, Combat, FT, M48A3                                        2

3655-174-0360                    Recharging Unit, CC2                                                   1

4240-691-1505                    Gas Particulate Unit, M8A2                                  28

4930-017-9167                    Lubrication and Servicing Unit                                1

5805-257-3602                    Switchboard, Telephone  SB-22/PT                      1

5820-082-3998                    Radio Set, AN/GRA 39A                                           1

5820-086-7536                    Radio Set, AN/GRC-125                                            2

5820-892-0839                    Radio Set, AN/VRC-12                                            10

6115-228-2815                    Generator, PE-75                                                            2

6115-295-2389                    Generator, 9.4 KVA                                                     2

6115-721-4525                    Generator, PU-482/U                                                    1

6130-635-1655                    Power Supply PP-388 A/U                                          1

6130-903-1163                    Battery Charger, PP-4567/U                                   1

6130-985-7899                    Power Supply, PP-2953/U                                          8

6230-857-0583                    Floodlight Set                                                                  1

6230-901-8639                    Searchlight Set, Xenon                                              8

6625-581-2036                    Multimeter, AN/URM-105                                     1
                                                                                                                                  ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                                  CONFIDENTIAL
DECLASSIFIED

[15]
DECLASSIFIED




CONFIDENTIAL

          FSN                                          NOMENCLATURE                                        QTY

6625-643-1030                              Ohnmeter, AM-214-/U                                        1
6625-930-0935                              Test Kit, MK-992/VRC-12                            9
6625-930-0936                              Test Kit, MK-992/PRC-25                               2
8414-926-9992                              Helmet CVC                                                        47

          b.    Major Table of Equipment Items Received.    None

          c.    Maintenance

                    (1)   Secondary Reparable Assets required to place tracked
                              vehicle in operational ready status.

          FSN                      NOMENCLATURE                    QTY          END ITEM

2520-066-3954          Transmission Hyd                              1             M50A1
2520-678-4164          Assy, Final Drive                               1             M48A3/M67A2
2815-064-6270          Engine                                                      6            M48A3/M67A2
2920-830-6660          Generator                                              2            M48A3/M67A2
2920-960-9278          Regulator, Voltage                          2             M50A1

                    (2)   Motor Transport Status
                                                                                                                            2d Echelon            3d Echelon
ITEM                                                  AUTH          OH          OR          NORS  NORM  NORS  NORM

Trk, Cargo M35A2C                       3                3              3
Trk, Cargo M37                                 6                6              4                    1                                                    1
Trk, Ambulance                                  2                1              1
Trk, Tank Fuel M49A2C              8                8              6                                        1                                1
Trk, Cargo M54A2C                      38              36            33                                     1                                2
Trk, Utility, M151A1                      25              24            23                                                                         1
Trk, Wrecker M543A2                    3                3              3
Trlr, Water M107                              10              10            10
Radio Set, AN/MRC-83                 2                2              2
Radio Set, AN/MRC-87                    1               1              1
Radio Set, AN/MRC 109/110      7               6              6
Trk, Van, M109                                    1               1           1
High Pressure Cleaning Unit          4               4              4
Trailer, Lube 250-455                        6               5             3                 2




                                                                                                                                            ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                                            CONFIDENTIAL


DECLASSIFIED

[16]
DECLASSIFIED





CONFIDENTIAL

COMMUNICATIONS-ELECTRONICS

1.    Projects Completed

          The unsightly overhead cable wire has been removed from the
Eastern portion of the cantonment.

          Quarterly inspections of H&S Co and Co A, 1t AT Bn were held,
with both companies being awarded a grade of satisfactory.

          Seven tanks which required "Q" services were provided this
maintenance during December.

2.    Projects Pending.   Quarterly service of all companies commences
with Company A during January.

3.    Message Summary.   During the month of December the 1st Tank
Battalion Communications Center processed 1200 incoming and 97
outgoing messages.

4.    Summary.   "Q" services were performed on the incoming and the
outgoing SLF platoons.















                                                                                                                                  ENCLOSURE (1)
                                                                                                                                  CONFIDENTIAL


DECLASSIFIED

[17]
DECLASSIFIED




CONFIDENTIAL

CIVIC ACTION

1.    Medical Civic Action Programs  (MEDCAP).   During the month of
December a total of four MEDCAP's were held in the hamlet of Cam Hoa
and four in the hamlet of Phuoc Thai.   A total of 200 Vietnamese were
treated during these MEDCAP's.   On 9 December, a child from Cam Hoa
who had been admitted to FLC Children's Hospital for corrective surgery
on a hare lip/cleft pallet died of pneumonia without having undergone
surgery.   The body of the child was returned to the parents at which
time building material was distributed to the villagers in solatium
for the child's death.   On 26 December, a child from Phouc Thai was
released from FLC Children's Hospital and returned to her village after
being treated successfully for a severe skin disease.

2.    Psychological Operations  (PSYOPS).   Movies were shown to the
people of Phong Bac Hamlet four times during the month of December.
A cultural drama team was requested to perform for the villagers of
Phong Bac and Cam Hoa hamlets;  however, it was necessary to postpone
the programs due to previous commitments.  PSYOPS leaflets, prepared
by the S-5, were distributed to the villagers of Cam Hoa and Phuoc
Thai on alternate days  and a successful aerial drop of PSYOPS leaflets
was made on the hamlet of Phuoc Thai.

3.    Material and Goods Distributed.   During December the following
Materials were distributed:

          a.   5200 pounds of swill  (To the Battalion Swine Breeding Farms)
          b.   257 bars of soap
          c.   1 truck load  (6X6) of lumber
          d.   50 pounds of clothing
          e.   2 cases of canned goods
          f.   27 bags of cement
          g.   3 woodworking kits
          h.   2 stone-mason kits
          i.   500 school kits
          j.   8 crosses to thee Priests and Nuns of St. Joseph's Catholic
               Orphanage  (Christmas gifts)
          k.   $100 to St. Joseph's Catholic Orphanage (Christmas gifts)

4.    Significant Events

          a.   During December two major Civic Action projects were initiate
in the hamlet of Phuoc Thai.   Intitial steps were taken for the est-
ablishment of a Farmers Cooperative Pig Farm and the construction of
a new hamlet well.

          b.   On 22 December, a highly successful Christmas party was held
at the 1st Tank Battalion cantonment for 380 children including 42
orphans from St. Joseph's Catholic Orphanage.   Gifts of toys and candy
were distributed to all chrildren and lunch was provided.
                                                                                                              ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                              CONFIDENTIAL

DECLASSIFIED

[18]
DECLASSIFIED





CONFIDENTIAL

          c.   On 24 December, as part of Christmas celebration, gifts of
toys and candy were distributed to some 465 chrildren of Cam Hoa and
Phuoc Thai hamlets.

          d.   Project submittal sheets to build a new two-room school in
Phouc Thai were submitted to Hoa Vang for approval.   Weekly checks
were made with Province on the pending Cam Hoa School project.

          e.   In order to provide a permanent facility for the holding of
regular weekly MEDCAP's,  a MEDCAP station was erected in the Phuoc
Thai hamlet.

          f.   During December the Civil Affairs Officer  (S-5)  attended a
COORDS Advisor Orientation Course of 4 days in Saigon.

          g.   During the latter part of December a voluntary drive was begun
in the 1st Tank Battalion cantonment for contributions to be given
to Vietnamese civilians during the TET Holidays.















                                                                                                                                  ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                                  CONFIDENTIAL



DECLASSIFIED

[19]
DECLASSIFIED




PART III

SEQUENTIAL LISTING OF SIGNIFICANT EVENTS

[COVER PAGE]



DECLASSIFIED
DECLASSIFIED




CONFIDENTIAL

OPERATIONS

1.    1st Tank Battalion

041600H Dec 1968     Two tanks from Company B  (AT924518) in support of
                                                  1/5 reacted to assist a convoy under fire from
                                                  (AT912517).   Tanks fired 90mm and MG's.   Action
                                                  resulted in seven  (7)  enemy KIA.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 04 Dec 1968, Entry 10

061715H Dec 1968      A tank from Co B in support of Company C, 1/5 at
                                                  (AT957525) received A/R fire from  (AT965516).   Tank
                                                  returned fire with 90mm and MG's.   Action resutlted
                                                  in three  (3)  enemy KIA.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 07 Dec 1968, Late Entry 1

091530H Dec 1968      Four tanks from Company C at  (BT122598) in support
                                                  of the 25th Company, ROK Marines fired 90mm and
                                                  MG's into suspected enemy position at  (BT126597).
                                                  Action resulted in 13 enemy KIA's and one  (1)  M-1,
                                                  two  (2)  M-16's, one  (1)  M-14 and one two  (2)  LAAW's
                                                  captured.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 10 Dec 1968, Entry 2

101325H Dec 1968     Two tanks from Company B in support of 1/5 at
                                                  (AT948525), received small arms fire from  (AT962522).
                                                  Tanks returned fire with 90mm and MG's.   Results
                                                  unknown.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 11 Dec 1968, Late Entry 1

111515H Dec 1968     Two tanks from Company C in support of Company E, 2/1
                                                  at  (BT095662) were taken under heavy automatic
                                                  weapons fire from  (BT099662).   Tanks returned fire with
                                                  90mm and MG's.   Action resulted in 20 enemy KIA.

111115H Dec 1968      A tank from Company B at  (AT937523) in support of
                                                  Company C, 1/5 fired 90mm at a suspected enemy
                                                  position at  (AT955532).   A search of the area
                                                  revealed three  (3)  enemy KIA.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 14 Dec 1968, Late Entry 1

131445H Dec 1968      A tank from Company B at  (AT956525) in support of
                                                  Company C, 1/5 fired 90mm at enemy troops at
                                                  (AT966528).   Action resulted in three  (3)  enemy KIA,
                                                  four  (4)  AK47's, two  (2)  carbines, assorted medical
                                                  and 782 gear, one  (1)  enemy captured and 42 detainees.

                                                                                                                        ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                        CONFIDENTIAL

DECLASSIFIED

[20]
DECLASSIFIED




CONFIDENTIAL

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 14 Dec 1968, Late Entry 2

150345H Dec 1968      A tank from Company A in support of Company A, 1/26
                                                  at  (AT922949), fired 90mm and MG's at enemy troops
                                                  at  (AT912856).   Unknown results.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 14 Dec 1968, Entry 4

151115H Dec 1968      A tank from Company B in support of Company C, 1/5
                                                  struck a mine at  (AT945525).   One  (1)  USMC WIA
                                                  non-evac, moderate damage to the tank.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 15 Dec 1968, Entry 12

152045H Dec 1968      A tank from Company A in support of Company D, 1/26
                                                  at  (AT899817) fired 90mm at enemy troops at  (AT908846).
                                                  Unknown results.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 16 Dec 1968, Entry 12

180820H Dec 1968      A tank from Company B in support of the 7th Marines
                                                  struck a mine at  (AT968596) resulting in moderate
                                                  damage to the vehicle.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 18 Dec 1968, Entry 6

18 Dec 1968                      Major General O. R. SIMPSON, prospective CG, 1st
                                                  MarDiv, visited 1st Tank Battalion accompanied by
                                                  Major General YOUNGDALE.   A command briefing was
                                                  provided.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 18 Dec 1968

182025H Dec 1968      A tank fro Compan A at  (AT922848) in support of 1/26
                                                  fired 90mm at enemy troops at  (AT917845).   Unknown
                                                  results.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 18 Dec 1968, Late Entry 1

191055H Dec 1968     Two tanks from Company C at  (BT028568)  in support
                                                  of ROK Marines received heavy automatic weapons fire
                                                  from  (BT022564).   Tanks returned fire with 90mm and
                                                  MG's.   Unknown results.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 19 Dec 1968, Entry 12

191445H Dec 1968      Two tanks from Company C in support of teh 3rd
                                                  Company ROK Marines at  (BT028568)  fired 90mm and MG's
                                                  at enemy troops assaulting their position from
                                                  (BT022564).

                                                  Ref:   S3 Journal, 20 Dec 1968, Late Entry 1
                                                                                                                                            ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                                            CONFIDENTIAL
DECLASSIFIED

[21]
DECLASSIFIED





CONFIDENTIAL

201935H Dec 1968     Two tanks from Company A in support of 1/26
                                                  at  (AT923845) fired 90mm at enemy troops at
                                                  (AT912848).   Unknown results.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 21 Dec 1968, Entry 5

211750H Dec 1968      Two tanks from Company C in support of the 3rd Co,
                                                  ROK Marines found 10 enemy bodies and a large
                                                  assortment of weapons at  (BT021562).

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 21 Dec 1968, Entry 15

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 22 Dec 1968, Entry 13

211415H Dec 1968      A tank from Company C in support of 2/1 at
                                                  (BT063621), became submerged to the turret ring in
                                                  a rice paddy.   Extraction was completed in 20 minutes
                                                  and the tank was towed to the Company CP for Post-
                                                  Submersion maintenance.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 22 Dec 1968, Late Entry 1

211335H Dec 1968     Two tanks from Company C in support of the 3rd
                                                  Company, ROK Marines at  (BT028568) received
                                                  automatic weapons and small arms fire from  (BT022564).
                                                  Tanks returned fire with 90mm.   Unknown results.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 22 Dec 1968, Late Entry 2

221130H Dec 1968      A tank from Company B in support of Company B, 1/5
                                                  at  (AT916514) fired 90mm into a suspected enemy
                                                  position at  (AT923493).   A search of the area
                                                  revealed one   (1)  enemy KIA.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 23 Dec 1968, Late Entry 1

221145H Dec 1968      A tank from Co B at  (AT918488) fired 90mm H&I at
                                                  (AT897486).   A search of the area revealed two  (2)
                                                  enemy KIA.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 23 Dec 1968, Late Entry 2

230100H Dec 1968      A tank from Company C at  (BT065644) received one
                                                  RPG hit from  (BT066636) which resulted in slight
                                                  damage to the tank and one  (1) USMC WIA non-evac.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 23 Dec 1968, Entry ?

                                                                                                                                  ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                                  CONFIDENTIAL

DECLASSIFIED

[22]
DECLASSIFIED



CONFIDENTIAL

322100H Dec 1968      Two tanks from Company C were ambushed at  (BD894662).
                                                  Tanks fired 90mm and MG's resulting in 10 enemy KIA.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 25 Dec 1968, Late Entry 1

231100H Dec 1968      A tank from Company A in support of ComanyD, 1/26
                                                  was requested to fire at an enemy machine gun and
                                                  sniper position at   (AT892831)  which was firing at
                                                  AMTRAC's moving up the river.   Tanks fired 90mm and
                                                  enemy firing ceased.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 24 Dec 1968, Late Entry 1

270830H Dec 1968     Two tanks from Company C at  (BT017570) received
                                                  mortar, B-40 rocket, automatic rifle and small arms
                                                  fire from  (BT017573).   Tanks returned fire with
                                                  unknow results.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 28 Dec 1968, Late Entry 1