Project CHECO Southeast Asia Report. Second Defense of LIMA Site 36
Abstract
Lima Site 36 (LS-36), a staging site for JOLLY GREEN Search and Rescue (SAR) operations in Northeastern Laos, and an aerial resupply point for friendly guerrillas, had been hotly contested for more than a year because of its proximity to the strategic Plaine des Jarres, its domination of Route 6, and its value to government air operations, Site 36 continued to be a focal point for harassment and terrorist activities by Pathet Lao and North Vietnamese forces. North Vietnamese troops had overrun the site on 17-18 February 1966, but had been so mauled by air strikes that they were unable to occupy it until several days later. The leader of the Meo tribesmen, Gen. Vang Pao, and his guerrilla forces, were able, however, to recover the camp from the communists on 25 May 1966. They have held it since that time. The CHECO Special Report entitled "Defense of Lima Site 36" (published 25 May 1966) outlined the air efforts to deny this small but strategic post to the enemy. Although unsuccessful in preventing the enemy's overrunning Site 36, the close air support efforts permitted withdrawal of our troops and destruction of materiel prior to occupation by the communists. This attack of 17-19 February 1966, inflicted heavy losses on the enemy and "left little for them to exploit." Subsequent reports tended to confirm that "although the communists had won the field, they may have lost the battle." This report, "Second Defense of Lima Site 36," ends on a more satisfactory note with the successful defense of the outpost, infliction of heavy losses, and defeat of the attacking Communist forces. Both reports illustrate classic examples of the application of close air support in a hostile environment.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 28, 1967
- Accession Number
- ADA485053
Entities
People
- Melvin F. Porter
Organizations
- Pacific Air Forces