The Battle that Changed the War in Vietnam - Ia Drang Campaign (original) (raw)

Overview

A Vietnamese military maxim states:

He who controls the Central Highlands controls South Vietnam

In late October ’65, a large North Vietnamese force attacked the Plei Me Special Forces Camp. Troops of the 1st Brigade were sent into the battle. After the enemy was repulsed, the 3rd Brigade replaced the 1st Brigade in early November.

After three days of patrolling without contact, Hal Moore’s 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry, was ordered to air assault the Ia Drang Valley on Nov 14.

His mission: Find and kill the enemy.