DECLASSIFIED





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

                                                                                                                                            Copy__of __Copies
                                                                                                                                            3/MDH/src
                                                                                                                                            5750
                                                                                                                                            0301-68
                                                                                                                                            3 Nov 1968

[MARKED OUT]

From:     Commanding Officer
To:            Commanding General, 1st Marine Division  (Rein), FMF
                     c/o FPO, San Francisco, 96602

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

Ref:          (a)   MCO 5750.1
                    (b)   FMFPac 5750.8
                    (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












                                                                                                              [MARKED OUT]

DECLASSIFIED          
DECLASSIFIED




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

[MARKED OUT]

COMMAND CHRONOLOGY

1 October 1968 to 31 October 1968

INDEX

                              Part I - Organizational 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 Oct 1968
          1st Marine Division  (Rein), FMF

SUBORDINATE UNITS

H&S Company                                                              Captain R.A. DOYLE 1-8Oct68
                                                                                               Captain J.K. MARLATT 9-27Oct68
                                                                                               Major B.E. DAVIDSON 28-31Oct68
Company "A"                                                               Captain B.R. MONTGOMERY 1-31Oct68
Company "B"                                                               Captain D.G. HENDERSON 1-12Oct68
                                                                                               Captain R.A. DOYLE 13-31Oct68
Company "C"                                                               Captain R.T. HOPKINS 1-31Oct68
Company "A", 1st AT Bn                                     1stLt G.B. SEARCH 1-25Oct68
                                                                                               Captain F.P. BRISENO 26-31Oct68

2.    Location

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

3.    Staff Officers

Battalion Executive Officer                                 Major R.H. GRAHAM 22-31Oct68
Battalion Adjutant                                                     1stLt C.S. SCHURING 1-3Oct68
                                                                                             Captain I.F. WALDVOGEL 4-31Oct68
Battalion S-2 Officer                                              1stLt W.D. DARBY 1-31Oct68
Battalion S-3 Officer                                              Major J.T. GARCIA 1-5Oct68
                                                                                             Captain J.B. TERPAK 6-31Oct68
Battalion S-4 Officer                                              Major J.K. MARLATT 1-8Oct68
                                                                                             1stLt R. C. HOLLITZ 9-27Oct68
                                                                                             Captain J.K. MARLATT 28-31Oct68

4.    Average Monthly Strength
                    USMC                      USN
          OFF             ENL   OFF       ENL
          46                    785          1             17



                                                                                                                        ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                        [MARKED OUT]

DECLASSIFIED

[1]
DECLASSIFIED




[MARKED OUT]

5.    The total strength of the First Tank Battalion as of 31 October
1968:

                              MARINE                                                  NAVY
                    OFF                      ENL                           OFF              ENL
                       48                       777                                   1                     17

6.    The battalion anticipates the following losses during November:

                              MARINE                                                  NAVY
                    OFF                      ENL                          OFF              ENL
                        3                         32                                  0                      0

7.    Shortages in particular MOS's:

                                                  M/L                                        T/C                                        C/H

1316                                          9                                             8                                             5

2149                                        12                                           10                                             9

2151                                         8                                             7                                              3

2311                                         8                                             8                                              6

3041                                     20                                           14                                            11

3051                                     10                                           14                                             7

3371                                        19                                           24                                           15














                                                                                                                        ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                        [MARKED OUT]

DECLASSIFIED

[2]
DECLASSIFIED





[MARKED OUT]


PERSONNEL AND ADMINISTRATION

1.   Personnel.   During the month of October six officers were dropped
while nine were joined.   The Battalion is short two of 03 officers in
Company "A", 1st Antitank Battalion.

2.   Administration.   There were no significant developments in
administration.

3.   Promotions.   The following promotions were effected.

                                        To PFC          2
                                        To LCPL     3  (1 Meritorious and 1 Meritorius Combat)
                                        To CPL      40  (2 Meritorious)
                                        To SGT          4  (3 Meritorious)

4.    Awards.        The following award recommendations were submitted:

                                        2 Bronze Star Medals
                                   11 Navy Achievement Medals
                                     4 Navy Commendation Medals

                                    The following awards were presented:

                                        2 Bronze Star Medals
                                    10 Purple Heart Medals
                                        4 Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry Medals

5.    Battalion Legal report for the month:

          a.   Special     Court Martial - 1
          b.   Summary Court Martial - 1
          c.   Informal Investigations - 10
          d.   Accidental Deaths - 0

6.    Other losses:   One Humanitarian Transfer

7.    The following R&R quotas were allocated for this battalion during
October:

          a.    In Country
                    China Beach - 25

          b.    Out of Country
                    Hawaii - 13
                    Australia - 9
                    Kuala Lumpur - 1
                    Singapore - 4
                    Penang - 5
                                                                                                                        ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                        [MARKED OUT]

DECLASSIFIED

[3]
DECLASSIFIED





CONFIDENTIAL

                    Okinawa - 4
                    Manila - 1
                    Tokyo - 10
                    Taipei - 8
                    Hong Kong - 8
                    Bangkok - 11

8.    Officers Joined

          RANK                              MOS                              NUMBER

          MAJOR                        1802                                        1
          MAJOR                        0302                                        1
          CAPTAIN                     0130                                        1
          CAPTAIN                     2502                                        1
          CAPTAIN                     0302                                        1
          1STLT                           1802                                        1
          2NDLT                          0301                                        1
          2NDLT                          1301                                        1
          CWO-2                          2010                                        1

2.    Officers Dropped

          RANK                    MOS          NUMBER                    REASON

          CAPTAIN            1802                    1                                MACV Headquarters
          1STLT                    0302                    1                                Tk Hq Bn
          1STLT                    0302                    1                                Rotation
          1STLT                    0302                    1                                Rotation
          1STLT                    0302                    1                                Rotation
          1STLT                    1802                    1                                By SR, S.D. BUTLER

10.   Enlisted Joined

                              E-8          E-7          E-6          E-5          E-4          E-3          E-2

1811                      0             1              3              0             1              3            13
3???                      0             0              1              0             0              0              0
0141                      0             0              0              0             0              0              1
0353                      0             0              0              0             0              0              4
2???                      0             0              0              1             0              0              0
2511                      0             0              0              0             1              0              0
2149                      0             1              0              0             0              0              0

11.   Enlisted Dropped

                              E-8          E-7          E-6          E-5          E-4          E-3          E-2

1811                      0              2             1              1              5              ?            5
2149                      0              2             1              0              0              0            0

                                                                                                              ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                              CONFIDENTIAL

DECLASSIFIED

[4]
                                                         
DECLASSIFIED





CONFIDENTIAL

                              E-8          E-7          E-6          E-5          E-4          E-3          E-2

1391                      0             0              0              1             0              0              0
0141                      0             0              0              1             1              0              0
0353                      0             0              0              0             3              0              0
2141                      0             0              0              1             1              0              2
3516                      0             0              0              0             3              0              0
2111                      0             0              0              0             1              0              0
2533                      0             0              0              0             0              0              0
3051                      0             0              0              1             1              0              0
0351                      0             0              0              0             0              2              0
3041                      0             0              1              0             1              0              0
1316                      0             0              0              0             1              0              0
2143                      0             0              0              1             0              0              0
9999                      1             0              0              0             0              0              0
3531                      0             0              0              0             0              1              0
0311                      0             0              0              0             1              0              0

12.   Extensions for the month of October 1968

          NUMBER OF MONTHS          NUMBER OF          NUMBER OF THREE
                          1968                             SIX MONTHS                    MONTHS         

                                 813                                                  37                                                  1

Summay

          This battalion encountered no major difficulties in personnel
administration for the month.   During October the S-1 office processed
one emergency leave and 9 special leaves.














                                                                                                                                  ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                                  CONFIDENTIAL

DECLASSIFIED

[5]
DECLASSIFIED



PART II

NARRATIVE SUMMARY


[COVER PAGE]


DECLASSIFIED
DECLASSIFIED




[MARKED OUT]

INTELLIGENCE

1.    Weather

          During the month of October, there was a total of 39.01 inches
of rainfall.   This is compared to te past 27 year average of 23.3
inches.   A total of 13 inches of rainfall was recorded in one 24
hour period.   The highest recorded rainfall for a 24 hour period
previously had been 11 inches.

          The high mean temperature for October was 83 degrees, while the
low was 73 degrees.   This is exactly equal to the 33 year average of
83 degrees and 73 degrees.

2.    Mine and RPG Incidents

          During the month of October, there were a total of four mine
incidents involving elements of the 1st Tank Battalion:  three tanks
(C-31, B-51 and A-12), and one M54A2C attached to Company C.  The
incidents resulted in one USMC WIA med-evac,  and two USMC WIA non-evac.

          There were three RPG firings reported during October;  however,
no rounds struck or caused any damage to 1st Tank Battalion vehicles.

3.    Summary and Analysis

          Because of the large amount of rainfall during October, tracked
vehicle movement was greatly hampered.   Various roads and bridges were
washed out, and many as yet have not been fully reconstructed.   Rain-
fall is expected to diminish somewhat during the month of November
with resultant increased trafficability.

          The rainfall during October also restricted enemy movement.   It
is believed that the enemy has been forced to devote most of his time
to protecting his supplies from damage caused by the monsoon weather.
With the anticipated reduction in rainfall, the enemy can be expected
to increase his movements and activities.

          Few low level agent reports have been received for processing
by the S-2.   The few reports that have been received however, indicate
possible future attacks on Da Nang City, Hoa Vang and Hieu Duc District
Headquarters.   No firm evaluation of these reports has been possible,
as yet.






                                                                                                                        ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                        CONFIDENTIAL

DECLASSFIEID

[6]
DECLASSIFIED




CONFIDENTIAL

OPERATIONS AND TRAINING

1.    Operations

          Although tank movement was greatly restricted by entensive rain-
fall during the month of October, the 1st Tank Battalion continued to
support the 2nd Brigade, ROK Marine Corps and the infantry regiments
of the 1st Marine Division.   Tanks of the battalion participated in
four major operations and numerous small units operations, while
providing security for road convoys, bridges and reinforcing perimeter
defenses.   Tanks within the division Area of Responsibility as well
as within the Southern Sector Defense Command continued their role
as direct counter mortar and rocket fire.   Tanks and Ontos continued
to provide mobility and fire power to reaction forces throughout the
division.

          Company A  (-)  (Rein) remained in direct support of the 26th Marines
with their company command post co-located with that of the 1st
Battalion 26th Marines.   The 2nd Platoon continued to provide security
for Namo Bridge and provided counter mortar and rocket fire from Hill
190.   The 3rd Platoon remained in direct support of the 3rd Battalion
26th Marines, firing numerous H&I and aerial observer controlled fire
missions.

          Company B  (Rein) remained in support of the 5th and 7th Marines with
two platoons in support of each regiment.   During October, tanks of
Company B participated in operations Mameluke Thrust, Henderson Hill
and Maui Peak.   Company B was assigned operational control over the
SLF tank platoon from SLF 2/7 to provide greater tank support to
Operation Maui Peak.   In addition to the aforementioned major opera-
tions, Company B took part in numerous small unit operations as well
as provided security for road sweeps and convoys.   Company B's Command
Post remained co-located with that of the 7th Marines.

          Company C  (Rein) remained in direct support of the 1st Marines.
The Company Command Post was co-located with that of the 2nd Battalion
1st Marines.   The 1st Platoon remained in support of the 1st Battalion
1st Marines and at month's end remained on 2-hour standby to support
1/1 in the Dai Loc Pass area.   The 2nd Platoon remained at the 2nd
ROKMC Brigade Command Post and participated in several small unit
operations.   The 3rd Platoon supported the 2nd Battalion 1st Marines,
providing road sweep security, perimeter defense and participated in
Operation Garrard Bay.

          Company A  (Rein), 1st Anti-Tank Battalion remained within the
Southern Sector Defense Command providing security for the Song Cau
Do and Song Tuy Loan Bridges together with infantry elements of the
1st and 7th Marines, respectively.   One heavy section of Ontos
remained in support of elements of the 1st Marines at the Song Cau Do

                                                                                                              ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                              CONFIDENTIAL


DECLASSIFIED

[7]

          
DECLASSIFIED



CONFIDENTIAL

Bridge and a light section of Ontos supported elements of the
7th Marines on the Song Tuy Loan Bridge.   Company A 1st AT Bn remained
responsible for OP Panther and the Three Finger Combat Outpost
within the Southern Sector Defense Command.   One platoon from Company
A remained in support of the I Corps Quick Reaction Mobile Task
Force, Task Force Kilo.   Throughout the month of October, Company A
was reinforced by one Ontos platoon from SLF 2/7 placed under
the operational control of 1st Tank Battalion.

2.    Task Organization

          The task organization of the 1st Tank Battalion as of 31 October
is:

          Company A  (-)  (Rein):   D/S 26th Marine Regiment

          Company B  (Rein):   2 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 of 2nd ROKMC Brigade

          Company A  (Rein):   1st Antitank Bn:   CoA  (-)  G/S 1st MarDiv
                                                                                                    1 plt D/S Task Force Kilo
                                                                                                    Heavy Section D/S 3/1
                                                                                                    Light Section D/S 1/7
                                                                                                    1 plt OPCON 1st Tank Bn

3.    Battalion CP Ground Actions

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

4.    Ammunition Expenditures.

          Total ammunition expended during October by the 1st Tank
Battalion is as follows:

                                                                      90mm

                                        HE          APERS-T          CANNISTER          WP          HEAT

DIRECT                    996              144                              1                        160                    9

INDIRECT                0                 0                              0                           0                    0

TOTAL                      996              144                              1                        160                    9




                                                                                                                        ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                        CONFIDENTIAL


DECLASSIFIED

[8]
DECLASSIFIED




CONFIDENTIAL

                                        106mm                                                            SMALL ARMS

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

DIRECT                    6                    7              2                       15,700                              13,866

INDIRECT             0                    0              0                              FLAME TANK FUEL

TOTAL                      6                    7              2                                        5,460 gallons

5.    Statistical Results

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

VC/NVA KIA

          TANK OPERATIONS...................35

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

VC/NVA CAPTURED

          TANK OPERATIONS...................1

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

VCS

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

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

USMC KIA

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

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

USMC WIA

          TANK OPERATIONS

                    MED-EVAC............................1

                    NON-EVAC............................2


                                                                                                                        ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                        CONFIDENTIAL



DECLASSIFIED

[9]
                    
DECLASSIFIED




CONFIDENTIAL

          SSDC  OPERATONS
                    
                    MED-EVAC...........................0

                    NON-EVAC...........................2

WEAPONS CAPTURED

          TANK OPERATIONS.................1

          SSDC  OPERATIONS.................1

                              1 AK 47

                              1 Bangalore Torpedo

EQUIPMENT AND DOCUMENTS CAPTURED

          TANK OPERATIONS

                    782 Gear and assorted personal effects

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

6.    Training.   Training of 1st Tank Battalion personnel during the
month of October centered mainly on General Military Subject, MOS
Training, and Weapons Safety.   Subjects pertaining to opertions in
a combat enviroment in the Republic of Vietnam were emphasized.
Subjects covered in the weekly Battalion Officers and Staff NCO School
were Field Expedient Tank Recovery, Supply Responsibilities of the
Small Unit Commander, Anti-Mechanzied Plan for the 1st Marine Division,
and Fitness Reports.

7.    Summary.   Although mobility of the tanks and Ontos of the 1st Tank
Battalion was greatly reduced durin most of October due to the
extensive amount of rainfall, tanks and Ontos continued to support
the regiments of the 1st Marine Division with accurate firepower.
Increased emphasis was placed on the employment of tanks in an indirect
fire role when observers are available and in an indirect fire role for
H&I missions utilizing map coordinates when observation is not possible.
Aggressive efforts were made to locate and develope suitable firing
positions which could be used to exploit the long range accuracy of
the tanks for overwatching fire in support of infantry sweeps and
for sniping in free-fire zones at targets of opportunity.   Further
exploration of these roles will continue.



                                                                                                                        ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                        CONFIDENTIAL


DECLASSIFIED

[10]
          
DECLASSIFIED



[MARKED OUT]

SOUTHERN SECTOR DEFENSE COMMAND

1.     General Summary.

          Southern Sector activities continued to be coordinated, initiated
and controlled by the Commanding Officer, 1st Tank Battalion.   During
the month 1066 activities were conducted by SSDC tenant units;  these
activities included patrols, ambushes, LP's, OP's, and COP's.

          OP's Hawk, Panther, Tiger and Bear continued to provide early
warning.    Tanks from H&S Company located at OP's Tiger and Panther
provided direct counter-mortar and rocket fire capabilities.

          Defensive positions at OP Panther and the Three Fingers Combat
Outpost were improved with the installation of th enew E-8 CS Launcher
and the reinforcement of bunkers and tactical wire.   Throughout the
month enemy activity increased around the Three Fingers Combat Outpost.
Continued enemy probing of the Three Fingers Combat Outpost has dem-
onstrated the outpost's value in interdicting the enemy's routes of
communication and advance.

          Employing the assets of Company A, 1st Antitank Battalion and the
provisional SSDC infantry platoons as a potentian delaying force,
the SSDC continued to be capable of delaying or denying an enemy pen-
etration from the west into the vital installaions within the Southern
Sector as well as within the Da Nang area.

2.     Significant Events.

012100H Oct 1968      OP Hank at  (AT974703) observed movement in wire and
                                                  one trip flare was set off.   OP personnel fired 50
                                                  rounds M16, 6 rounds of M-79, and 1 M-26.   Search of area
                                                  at first light revealed negative results.

040205H Oct 1968      Company C, 7th Eng received six  (6) to seven  (7) mortar
                                                  rounds in and around the CP.   Personnel fell out to
                                                  defend the berm and after thirty  (30)  minutes were
                                                  secured.   No casualties.

062245H Oct 1968      A H&S Company squad size ambush from the 1st Tank Bn
                                                  located at  (AT993724) observed two individuals running
                                                  from a treeline towad the defensive wire of Bulk
                                                  Fuel Company.   Ambush received three  (3)  rounds of
                                                  small arms fire and one  (1)  grenade.   Two  (2) USMC
                                                  WIA  (non-evac).

072340H Oct 1968      Plt size OP at  (AT972713)  from the Hoa Cam Training
                                                  Center received grenades.   OP returned fire with small
                                                  arms.   Negative results.

072345H Oct 1968      A squad size OP from Co A, 1st AT Bn located at
                                                  (AT968707) received small arms fire.   Returned fire
                                                  with small arms and grenades.   Negative Results.

                                                                                                                        ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                        CONFIDENTIAL

DECLASSIFIED

[11]

DECLASSIFIED



CONFIDENTIAL

092215H Oct 1968       An LP from Co A, 1st AT Bn received small arms fire
                                                  and grenades.   Six  (6)  VC were sighted.   All LP's
                                                  were withdrawn to the Three Fingers COP and returned
                                                  fire with M16 and M26 grenades.   Negative results.

262229H Oct 1968       Personnel at the Three Finger COP observed approx-
                                                  imately 16 VC in area.   COP received small arms fire,
                                                  grenades and possible M-79.   E8 CS gas dispenser em-
                                                  ployed against suspected enemy positions.    Enemy
                                                  broke contact after fire was returned.    Negative
                                                  results.   Dispenser functioned effectively with good
                                                  coverage.

281045H Oct 1968      A squad size patrol from Co A, 1st AT Bn, found one  (1)
                                                  Bangalore Torpedo at (AT941716).   Bangalore Torpedo
                                                  destroyed by EOD.
















                                                                                                                                  ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                                  CONFIDENTIAL


DECLASSIFIED

[12]
DECLASSIFIED



CONFIDENTIAL

LOGISTICS

1.    Critical Table of Equipment Shortages as of 31 October 1968

          FSN                              Nomenclature                                                                                          Qty

6115-295-2389               Gen 7.5 KW,  60  CPS  K  C  KAN  9.4                                        2

6115-228-5815               Gen Set PE 75                                                                                             1

5820-892-0868               Radio Set AN/VRC 12                                                                          10

5805-257-3602               Switch Board Telephone SB/22/PT                                                  1

4940-014-0496               High Pressure Cleaning Unit                                                              1

2320-077-1632               Trk Tank Fuel Servicer M49                                                             1

1040-339-1615               Mixing Transfer Unit M5                                                                   1

2350-973-4085               Rifle Self Propelled FT 106mm M50A1                                        1

2350-895-9154               Tank Combat Full Tracked M48A3                                              2

2320-835-8713               Recovery Vehicle Full Tracked M51                                            1

1005-605-7710               Gun, Machine 7.62mm M60                                                               1

2330-732-8227               Trailer 1/4T M100                                                                                    1

6230-857-0583               Floodlight Trailer Mounted                                                                 1

5805-543-0012               Telephone Set TA-312/PT                                                                      8

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

6130-635-1653               Power Supply PP-388A/U                                                                       1

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

6625-930-0935               Test Kit MK 992/VRC 12                                                                      9

8415-926-9992               Helmet CVC                                                                                                44

2.    Tracked Vehicles Received.   During October, five M48A3 tanks
were received from the R&E Program.   These vehicles temporarily
reduced the overall tank deadline rate.


                                                                                                              ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                              CONFIDENTIAL


DECLASSIFIED

[13]
DECLASSIFIED


CONFIDENTIAL

3.    Motor Transport Status

                                                                                                                                Repairs

Item                                                            Auth          OH   OR   2d Echelon   3d Echelon

TRK, Cargo M34A2C                        3               3          3          

Trk, Cargo M37                                    6               6          4                                          2

Trk, Amb M718                                     2              1           1

Trk, Tank, Fuel M49C                       0               1          1

Trk, Tank, Fuel M49A2C                8               6          6

Trk, Cargo M54A2C                         38             38     36                    1                    1

Trk, Utility, M151A1                         25             25     24                    1

Trk, Wrecker M543A2C                     3               3          3

Trlr, Water M107                                 10              10     10

Radio Set, NA/MRC 83/87               3                3       1                                         2

Radio Set, AN/MRC 109/110           7                7          5                2

High Pressure Cleaning Unit             4                3          3

Trailer, Lube                                              5                5          3                2

Truck, Shop Van                                        1                1          1

4.    Projects.   The following projects were completed during the
month of October:

          a.   A barbed wire barrier was installed betweem the 1st Tank
Battalion cantonment and the POL storage area.

          b.   A new 13,000 gallon water tank replaced a 4,000 gallon tank
at the catonment messhall.

          c.   Protective trenches were dug at selected locations through-
out the cantonment.

          d.   A cantonment painting project was inaugurated.

          e.   Perimeter defensive positions were improved.

          f.   Cantonment drainage project was completed.

                                                                                                                        ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                        CONFIDENTIAL


DECLASSIFIED

[14]          
DECLASSIFIED


CONFIDENTIAL

5.    Concessions.   The cantonment had no change in concession status.

6.    Maintenance.   The major problem area in maintenance continued
to be the consistent lack of parts required to repair tracked ve-
hicles.   A detailed analysis of those factors which contributed
to the continuing high rate of combat deadline of assigned tracked
vehicles was conducted during October.   The study incluled:

          a.   Detailed analysis of tracked vehicle deadline reports for
six months  (March - August 1968, inclusive).

          b.   Study, reconciliation, and analysis of the inventory control
data recorded on stock record and inventory control card, NAVMC 708,
for those repair parts and components which are authorized for
stockage by this organization and which, through non-availability,
caused the combat deadline of one or more tracked vehicles for
72 hours or more during period analyzed.

          c.   Comparison  and analysis of transaction documents which
reflect the availability of replacements items under the Direct
Exchange  (DX)  Program during the period 29 July - 30 September 1968,
inclusive.

          d.   Comparison of the list of deadline repair parts and com-
ponents developed during the analysis discussed in paragraph 6.b.
above, with an insurance items list approved by Commanding
Officer of the 1st Tank Battalion on 6 September 1968.

          e.   The study revealed the following lack of critical repair
parts and components.

                                                                                             Quantity                                 Echelon
                                                                         End         Veh Dead-                          Auth to
          FSN                 Nomeclature     Item          line 6 Mon    ARMD    Stock   

2520-066-3954     Transmission,   M50A1              7                      1               3d
                                        Hydraulic

2520-678-4164      Final Drive      M48A3              8                       1              3d
                                        Assemby

2805-050-7998      Engine               M50A1               17                    3               3d

3805-695-6237      Engine               M51                      4                       1              3d

2815-064-6270      Engine               M48A3               34                     6              3d

2820-774-8353      Transmission, M48A3               18                     3             3d
                                         Crossdrive


                                                                                                                        ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                        CONFIDENTIAL


DECLASSIFIED

[15]

DECLASSIFIED


CONFIDENTIAL

                                                                                                    Quantity                              Echelon
                                                                                End           Veh Dead-                        Auth to
             FSN                Nomenclature    Item          line 7 Mon   AMRD   Stock    

*2910-765-9594     Fuel Pump             M48A3             13                    2            3d  (DX)
                                         Assembly

*2930-830-6660     Generator             M48A3             10                    2            3d  (DX)

*2930-960-9278     Regulator             M50A1              21                 4            3d  (DX)

*2530-699-9067     Arm, Front,          M48A3               11                 2            3d  (DX)
                                          Left
*2d echelon Direct Exchange repair parts and components stocked at
1st Force Service Regiment Shop Stores for exchange.   Installation
and removal is accomplished at 2d echelon.

          The study also revealed that the inadequacy of the DX Program
and the unrealism of the 15 day leadtime required to be used in
computing inventory control data.   Should the 10 critical items listed
above be readily available and the DX program improved or eliminated,
however, the 1st Tank Battalion would promptly attain and consistently
maintain a C-1 status notwithstanding the effect of unrealistic
leadtime and present T/E deficiencies.   If a significant increase in
mine damage were encountered, temporary reductions in readiness
category could occur.

7.    Significant Problem Areas

          a.   Inner Tubes.   This organization continued to be faced with a
shortage of inner tubes and was forced to remove tubes from some
trailer tires, in addition to going without spare tires in order to
keep prime movers on the road.   Tubes could not be repaired as hot
patches had not been received since April 1968.   Six boxes of hot
patches have been on priority 02 requisition since 10 June 1968.

          b.   Requisitioning.   During October a significant number of
duplicate requisitions were required to be submitted on documents for
which status had been received from Force Logistic Command.   In
addition, duplicate requisitions were submitted to Force Logistic
Command for items marked BA, M8 and local delivery when the item had not,
in fact, been received.

          c.   Deep Water Fording Kits.   Seventy-three tracked vehicle ford-
ing kits continued on priority 02 requisitions.   Without fording kits,
this Battalion remained severely limited in its ability to carry out
amphibious operations.


                                                                                                              ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                              CONFIDENTIAL


DECLASSIFIED

[16]
DECLASSIFIED


CONFIDENTIAL

          d.   Linkage Assembly.   Lack of linkage assemblies and .50 cal-
iber machine gun back plates prevented the replacement of sky mounted
machine guns with proper cupola installation.   Required parts remained
on priority 02 requisition.

          e.   R & D Coded Items.   The shortage of R & D items constantly
deadline combat essential equipment in excess of 72 hours.   The
stock of R & D items apparently is insuficient to meet the demand.

8.    Significant Events

          a.   Camouflage Jungle Utility Uniform.   During October  an intitial
quantity of camouflage utility uniforms was enthusiastically received.
Although distribution has been, of  necessity, limited to a relatively
few individuals;  preliminary indications are that the camouflage jungle
utility uniform will be an improvement over the present green jungle
utility.

          b.   Submerged Tank.   The following account is included within the
command chronology as an item of interest and as a lesson learned.

                    (1)   During Octoer an M48A3 tank became mire in a river bed,
and due to a flash flood the water rose so rapidly that extraction could
not be accomplished for two weeks.    During the interim period sediment
accumlated around the tank, completely surrounding it up to the level
of the support rollers.   The water level remained at antenna tip height
during the period.

                    (2)   When the water receded to range finder level, recovery
efforts commenced.   The first step in the extraction procedure was to
dig away a portion of the mud surrounding the tank.   The digging was
greatly hampered by the depth of the water.   The initial estimate of
total resistance was 135 tons.   Rigging was erected for a four to
one mechanical advantage which provided a pulling line force of 180
tons.

                    (3)   During the initial attempt to extract the tank, the main
winch cable snapped.   Rigging was then erected for six to one advantage
and a pulling line force of 270 tons was obtained.   As an additional air
in extracting the tank, seven two-pound blocks of C-4 explosive were
positioned in the mud along the sides and rear of the tank with four
pound blocks in front of both tracks.   As the explosives were detonated
a simultaneous attempt was made to extract the tank by winching.   This
effort resulted in the tank moving only four feet before it once again
became mired by the deep mud.

                    (4)   C-4 was again placed around the tank and exploded, followed
immediately by another extraction attempt.   The tank moved four to five
feet before it was again mired.   The procedure was repeated until the
mire tank was finally extracted to firm ground.


                                                                                                                        ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                        CONFIDENTIAL


DECLASSIFIED

[17]
DECLASSIFIED



CONFIDENTIAL

                    (5)   Manual removal of the mud would have required many hours
of digging.   The use of explosives in carefull calculated amounts
and placed in strategic locations enabled the tank to be successfully
extracted in seven hours.   It is notes, however, that the rule-of-thumb
of triple vehicle weight for turret depth mire was found to be grossly
inadequate for rigging purposes.


























                                                                                                                        ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                        CONFIDENTIAL


DECLASSIFIED

[18]
DECLASSIFIED


CONFIDENTIAL

COMMUNICATION - ELECTRONICS

1.    Projects Completed

          A five pair telephone cable was installed from the alternate COC
to bunkers 7, 8, 9, and 10 to facilitate telephone communication and
provide individual lines to those bunkers.   A twenty-five pair telephone
cable was buried from terminal fram #1 to the alternate COC parallelling
telephone line entering COC to provide duplicate local telephone capa-
bility in both COC bunkers.

          A courtesy inspection of Co "A" 1st AT Bn was performed and a rating
of satisfactory was awarded by the inspection team.

2.    Projects Pending

          The installation of new fifty pair cables is still pending.   The
completion date depends upon the cable crew from 7th Comm Bn completing
cut over from their terminal frame to 1st Tank Battalion terminal frame
#1.

          "Q" service of electronics equipment in the tanks of the gun companies
is being performed with a completion target  date of 20 Dec 1968.

3.    Message Summary.   During the month of October the First Tank Battalion
Communication Center processed 1575 incoming and 117 outgoing messages.

4.    Summary

          The foregoing remarks are a portion of a planned program which will,
when completed, enhance the communication facility of First Tank Battalion.

          The First Marine Division CEO, Colonel C. G. DAHL, visited the First
Tank Battalion Communications Officer on a Staff Visit on 31 Oct 1968.














                                                                                                                        ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                        CONFIDENTIAL


DECLASSIFIED

[19]

DECLASSIFIED



CONFIDENTIAL

MEDICAL

1.    Sick Call and Immunizations.   There were 621 Sick Call visits during
the month of October.   Four hundred and ninty-four immunizations and 47
tuberculin skin tests were administered.

2.    WIA, KIA, and Non-effectives.   There were 30 men on the Sick List
during October.   Eight of these were carried over from the previous month.
Of the 22 admitted to the Sick List during October, 11 were medical ill-
nesses, nine were non-hostile injuries.   There were 11 men evacuated out
of country:  six with medical illnesses, four with non-hostile injuries,
and one with hostile injuries.   Total man-days lost to the battalion sec-
ondary to illness or injury were 196.

3.    Venereal Diseases.   There were four cases of venereal disease diagnosed
and treated, all of which were contracted in the DaNang area.

4.    Inspections and Personnel.   The 2nd Quarter Long Range Training Pro-
gram continued.   MEDCAP for the hamlets of Cam Hoa and Phuoc Thai contin-
ued.















                                                                                                                        ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                        CONFIDENTIAL


DECLASSIFIED

[20]


DECLASSIFED



CONFIDENTIAL

CIVIC ACTION

1.    Med Caps.   The Med Cap Aid Station was open 10 days during October
and treated a total of 148 Vietnamese.   Two Med Caps were held in Cam
Hoa  (1)  and a total of 85 Vietnamese were treated.   Med Cap was held at
Phuoc Thai and 55 Vietnamese were treated.

2.    Psychological Operations.   Psychological Operations leaflets were
distributed daily.   An Armed Propaganda Team from First Marine Division
G-5 operated in Cam Hoa  (1), Cam Hoa  (2),  and Phuoc Thai.   Movies were
shown three times during the month for the people of Phong Bac Hamlet.
There were 16 incidents of turn-ins of hand grenades and small arms amm-
unition under the Voluntary Informant Program  (VIP).

3.   Materials and Goods Distributed.   During October the following mat-
erials were distributed:

          a.   10,200 pounds of swill

          b.   300 Bars of Soap

          c.   54 Bags of rolled Wheat

          d.   69 Bags of C. S. M.

          e.   40 Cases of Salad Oil

4.     Summary

          a.   During October, daily support of the pig farms in Phong Bac
Hamlet was continued.   Due to road conditions, however, daily trips to
the Pig Breeding Farm were discontinued during the last two weeks in
the month.

          b.   Solatium Payments were made as follows:

                    (1)   24,000$VN to a woman who lost her parents, brothers, and
sisters in a gunnery training incident involving C Co. 1st Tank Bn.

                    (2)   4,000$VN to a woman who was injured in an accident involv-
ing C Co. 1st Tank Bn.

                    (3)   2,000$VN to a woman who was injured in an accident involv-
ing H&S Co. 1st Tank Bn.





                                                                                                                        ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                        CONFIDENTIAL


DECLASSIFIED

[21]
DECLASSIFIED




PART III

SEQUENTIAL LISTING OF SIGNIFICANT EVENTS



[COVER PAGE]


DECLASSIFIED
DECLASSIFIED




CONFIDENTIAL

SEQUENTIAL LISTING OF SIGNIFICANT EVENTS

031800H Oct 1968      Two tanks from Co. B, supporting Co. C 1/5 at
                                                  (AT902502), observed three  (3) NVA in an open rice
                                                  paddy at  (AT916504).   Tanks fired 90mm.   Area not
                                                  searched.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 04 Oct 1968, Entry 12

041600H Oct 1968      C-31, while escorting C-22 and C-35 from KMC
                                                  position, struck a mine at  (BT072702).   Moderate
                                                  damage to the tank.   One  (1)  friendly USMC WIA
                                                  (non-evac)

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 04 Oct 1968, Entry 12

051700H Oct 1968      A tank from Co. B, while enroute to Hill 52,
                                                  struck a mine at  (AT824555).   The size of the
                                                  mine was estimated to be between 50 to 60 pounds.
                                                  This mine incident resulted in extensive damage
                                                  to the left side of the tank.   The tank was towed
                                                  to Hill 52.   One  (1)  friendly USMC WIA  (non-evac).

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 05 Oct 1968, Entry 11

061430H Oct 1968      An Ontos from 3rd Plt. Co A 5th AT Bn, OPCON to
                                                  1st Tank Bn while being employed in driver train-
                                                  ing, overturned pinning two  (2)  USMC under the
                                                  vehicle at  (AT975707).   A tank VTR, ambulance and
                                                  Med-Evac helicopter were called.    This action
                                                  resulted in one  (1)  USMC killed and one  (1)  USMC
                                                  seriously injured.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 03 Oct 1968, Late Entry 1

071245H Oct 1968      A tank from Co B, while escorting a convo enroute
                                                  to Hill 52, fell through a bridge at  (AT868573).
                                                  The vehicle was recovered and towed to Hill 52.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 07 Oct 1968, Entry 13

071600H Oct 1968      Two tanks from SLF Plt., OPCON to Co B 1st
                                                  Tk Bn, while in support of a unit from 1/5 at
                                                  (ZC208569), received RPG and AR fire from  (ZC188561).
                                                  Tank returned fire with 90mm and .50 cal result-
                                                  ing in three  (3)  NVA KIA.

                                                  Ref:   S-3 Journal, 07 Oct 1968, Entry 14



                                                                                                                        ENCLOSURE  (1)
                                                                                                                        CONFIDENTIAL


DECLASSIFIED

[22]