Vietnam War Operations

Historic photos capture Marines in action during operations in Vietnam, including destroy rice, patrol duties, and military ceremonies, reflecting their bravery and dedication.

Assistant Secretary of the Navy John Warner, Secretary of Defense Melvin Laird, and Dr Norman Vincent Peale attend a ceremony in 1969. This photo captures the moment when 1st Lieutenant Charles L. Lowder receives a Silver Star in Vietnam on August 27, 1969. Credit: Sgt John K. Mullins, DEFENSE DEPT. PHOTO (MARINE CORPS)

A Marine destroys rice in a Viet Cong storehouse discovered during Operation Trailblazer. The photograph was taken on October 23, 1965, by LCpl. Costello during the Vietnam War. The image shows captured weapons and bunkers at the scene. DEFENSE DEPT. PHOTO (MARINE CORPS) A801080 mee 127 GVB-66.

Marines from Company "F", 2nd Bn., 4th Marines maintain vigilance at their M-60 machine gun near Con Thien in Vietnam. This photo captures the dedication of soldiers as they keep a watchful eye during an early morning patrol. Photo taken on February 13, 1968, by Cpl L. Brown.

Assistant Secretary of the Navy John Warner, Secretary of Defense Melvin Laird, and Dr Norman Vincent Peale attend a ceremony in 1969. This photo captures the moment when 1st Lieutenant Charles L. Lowder receives a Silver Star in Vietnam on August 27, 1969. Credit: Sgt John K. Mullins, DEFENSE DEPT. PHOTO (MARINE CORPS)

October 9, 1965 - Lance Corporal Mike J. Gilleip and Private First Class Hamilton, along with an Army of the Republic of Vietnam interpreter, are seen questioning a farmer and his wife about Viet Cong activities near the village of Le Thi Cham in the Danang area. Image taken during military activities in Vietnam.

In this photograph taken on September 11, 1966, during Operation Fresno in Vietnam, Marines from A Company of the 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment can be seen loading medical evacuees onto a HU-1E helicopter. The evacuation was prompted by an apparent booby trap incident that resulted in seven individuals being injured. This photo was captured by Cpl. Gaspard and is a Defense Department photograph from the Marine Corps publication.

Colonel H.L. Wilkerson, the Commanding Officer of 1st Marine Regiment, shakes hands with an unidentified Army Brigadier General as Brigadier General Haig from the National Security Council stands in the center. This photo was taken on January 28, 1970, during the Vietnam War. (Caption reference: GVB-274)

"Marines inspecting 150,000th artillery round before firing - July 11, 1967, Vietnam. In the photograph, GySgt B.L. Ovens, LeCol L.R. Roper (CO-1stEn-40th Artillery), Capt J.L. Crosby (CO-ABtry-40th Artillery), and Col W.R. Morrison (CO 12th Mar) are seen examining the round. Defense Department photo taken by Marine Corps."

Second Lieutenant Fallon directs his men to fire at targets shortly following the capture of an NVA Command Post on December 25, 1969. The photograph was taken by LCpl R.L. Pearson during operations conducted by the 1st MarDiv in Vietnam. Image courtesy of the Defense Department and the Marine Corps, reference number A372847.

US Marines of the 9th Marine Expeditionary Brigade land on the beach at Da Nang, Vietnam in March 1965. The image captures beach activity during the landing. This photo was taken by the US Navy and is a Defense Department photo (Marine Corps).

LCpl Howard E. Yates, aged 18, from the 2nd Squad, 1st Plt., is seen providing security for Col. Harrell's helicopter as it lands in the LZ. The photograph was taken on December 25, 1969, during the Vietnam War. It was captured by LCpl R.L. Pearson and is part of the 323 - Security, Sentry - Guards and Military Police series. Defense Department Photo (Marine Corps) pd A372850.

Secretary of Defense, Robert S. McNamara, inspecting Marine Air Group 11 (MAG-11) during a visit in Vietnam on July 11, 1967. Also present are Vice President Hubert Humphrey, General William Westmoreland, and Senator Harry F. Byrd. This photograph was taken by D.E. Brodale and is part of the official Defense Department collection.

November 19, 1965 - at III MAF Danang, Vietnam, Azmy Captain Harry E. Jackson from I Corps PMO (Seattle, Wash.) inspects Corporal Jerome Lucky (Philadelphia, Pa.), one of the reliefs before going on post. This inter-service inspection is a regular part of the routine alongside patrols and security watches. Defense Department Photo (Marine Corps) A186189.

Lieutenant J. J. Clair III, Commander of 2nd Platoon, India Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, directs his unit in a banana grove during the Vietnam War. This photograph was taken in 1968 by Cpl. R. J. DelVecchio and is part of the collection of American military activities during the war.

"Cpl. Gifford T. Foley, presented with Silver Star by Lt. Gen. Henry W. Buse, Jr. at Vandergrift Base on April 26, 1969. Assistant Secretary of the Navy John Warner, Secretary of Defense Melvin Laird, and Dr. Norman Vincent Peale also present. Photo by LCpl C.E. Woodruff. Defense Department photo (Marine Corps)."

Sgt. Andrew R. Robinson, from Chicago, is presented the Silver Star Medal by Brigadier General Edwin H. Simmons during an awards ceremony on August 20, 1970. Sgt. Robinson, serving in M Company, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marines in the Combined Unit Pacification Program, was recognized for his bravery and performance under fire while with Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines in August 1969. The photograph was taken by Sgt. R. W. Nelson.

Marines from "K" Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, seek cover as the Viet Cong engage in heavy automatic fire on the first day of Operation Desota. This photograph was taken on January 27, 1967, by LCpl Curry during the patrols conducted by the 1st Marine Division in Vietnam.

Marines from "L" Co. assisting "I" Co. in evacuating wounded soldiers during Operation Hastings on July 21, 1966. The image shows the joint efforts of the Third Battalion, Fifth Regiment to provide medical care and evacuation. Image taken by SSgt R.E. Wilson, DEFENSE DEPT. PHOTO (MARINE CORPS), Vietnam, 21Ju166.

Marine rifleman keeps watch as a Viet Cong soldier approaches their position during Operation Adair, on June 24, 1967. This photograph, taken by SSgt Broussard, captures the intense combat faced by the troops from Hike Co. Third Battalion, Fifth Regiment, 10 miles South of Tam Ky, Vietnam. Defense Dept. Photo (Marine Corps).

General Leonard F. Chapman Jr., awards Meritorious Unit Award to 1st Lieutenant John D. Lenihan at An Hoa combat base, Vietnam. This photograph captures the officers and officials during the Vietnam War, particularly highlighting the recognition given for outstanding service to Company "D" 1st Bn., 5th Marines. (Source: DEFENSE DEPT. PHOTO (MARINE CORPS) pd A193471 127 GVB-276)

Lieutenant Colonel H. L. Johnson (left) takes over as the new Commanding Officer of the 3rd Battalion, Fifth Marines during change of command ceremonies in Vietnam on August 17, 1970. He is joined by Lieutenant Colonel J. S. Geston, the outgoing Commanding Officer. This photograph was taken by Sgt R. W. Nelson, and is part of the US Defense Department's collection.

American Marines, stationed with the 1st Battalion, 7th Marines in Vietnam, come across a Vietnamese village that had been recently vacated by the communist insurgents. Some Marines remained in the village while the others pursued the enemy. Lance Corporal Larry B. Jonas and Lance Corporal W. D. Robinson are seen here carrying a villager to the road, where she will be transported to the Regimental Aid Station for treatment. Photographed on May 17, 1970.

A corpsman from "K" Company, 3rd Battalion, First Marine Regiment, risks his life to assist a wounded soldier during Operation Badger Tooth. The photograph, taken on January 11, 1968, captures the intense medical evacuation efforts amidst enemy fire in Vietnam. Caption references specific details like the unit name, date, photographer's name, and the official Defense Department photo designation.

Amarine Private First Class Richard C. Spaniol (Rochester, Minn.) observes the jungle for any indications of enemy presence during Operation Auburn, which was carried out south of Da Nang on December 28, 1967. He belongs to "I" Company, 3rd Battalion of the Fifth Marine Regiment. This photograph was taken by Sergeant Dickman, courtesy of the U.S. Defense Department (Marine Corps).

A Marine squad leader yells for his squad to move up during Operation Stockton on July 27, 1967. The operation took place approximately 10 miles west of DaNang during the Vietnam War. The Marines, from the 1st Battalion, Seventh Marine Regiment, were transported to the location by Sea Knight helicopters of the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing.

Major General Levis J. Fields is introduced to Staff Sergeant Marwick L. Keup by Lieutenant General Levis W. Walt during a Congressional tour in April 12, 1966. The photograph captures officers and officials, including Lyndon Johnson and Col P X Kelley, during a visit to Vietnam.

Private First Class Jerry Barnes, of the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, catches a few moments of sleep before a mission in Vietnam. Taken on April 15, 1966, this photograph captures the exhaustion and reality of life for American soldiers during the Vietnam War.

US Marine Corps helicopter squadron prepares for a reconnaissance mission during the Vietnam War. The image shows Marines from the 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion boarding Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron-262 Sea Knights at Quang Tri. The mission involves insertion into enemy territory in the northern I Corps. This photograph was taken by Corporal Mike Servais in 1968.

American soldier playing a game of volleyball against a Vietnamese team during the second annual Hue "Olympics" in Vietnam. The soldier identified as GySgt Clyde M. Satterfiold from H&MS-11, 1stMAW, 3rdMarDiv. This photograph was taken by the Defense Department (Marine Corps) and can be found in the GVB-3/7 section.

Lieutenant General Victor H. Krulak (2nd from left) and Major General Louis B. Robertshaw, Commanding General, ist MAN, are seen at a 1st Marine Aircraft Wing installation near Danang, Vietnam in September 1966. They are engaged in map reading and planning activities as part of military briefings during the Vietnam War.

A U.S. Marine assigned to G Company, 2/4, participates in Operation "Rush" in Vietnam on August 5, 1967. The operation took place near Hills #479 and #500, approximately 4,000 meters southwest of Phu Bai. This photograph was taken by LCpl W.R.Porter of the 3rd Marine Division.

Men of Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 12th Marines, clean the bore of a 105 howitzer in July 1969 during the Vietnam War. The photo, taken by Cpl. W.J. Carroll, is part of a series documenting American military activities during the conflict.

A Marine in Vietnam checks the M53 telescopic sight on his 42 inch mortar. This image was taken in 1969, location unknown. The Department of Defense captured this photo, showing a member of a marine unit in a negative field context. Photo credit: Marine Corps, A700631.

Commandant of the Marine Corps, General Wallace H. Greene, Jr., is seen talking with Captain Edward M. Weber, a bombardier navigator in the A64 Intruder jet aircraft of Marine All Weather Attack Squadron (WACAN)-242. The photo was taken during the Commandant's visit to the First Marine Air Wing facilities at Da Nang airfield on January 9, 1967. Also present are Major General Louis B. Robertshaw and Colonel Franklin C. Thomas. This image was taken by Staff Sergeant Bill Brown and is a Defense Department photograph.

Lieutenant General Victor H. Krulak congratulates Staff Sergeant Donald D. Nielson after awarding him the Navy Commendation Medal for his bravery in the field. Ceremony took place on September 3, 1966 in Vietnam. Photograph taken by Cpl. Ferriera, and is an official Defense Department photo from the Marine Corps archives.

Lieutenant Colonel Edison W. Miller, a former POW, being interviewed by a Marine Motion Picture Team during Operation Homecoming at Camp Pendleton, California on February 20, 1973. Lt. Col. Miller served as a pilot with Marine Aircraft Group-13 and was captured on October 13, 1967. DEFENSE DEPT. PHOTO (MARINE CORPS) ECC A900104

Engineers from "G" Co., Battalion Landing Team 2/4 search for mines during Operation Fortress Attack/Kentucky east of Quang Tri, Vietnam, on January 28, 1968. This image shows a group of military personnel using mine sweepers and disposal techniques. Photographed by SSgt Ashley, it is a 35mm negative from the 3rd MAF Vietnam.

Marines of the 2nd Battalion, 5th Regiment, attach a trailer to a Scaknight helicopter as part of Operation Prairie near the demilitarized zone in the Republic of Vietnam. The photo was taken on November 21, 1966, by LCpl. Cole, marking American military activities during the Vietnam War.

Colonel E. A. Wilcox assumes command of the 1st Marine Regiment in Vietnam on February 10, 1970. He replaced Colonel H. L. Wilkerson, who will now take a position within the III Marine Amphibious Force. Photographed by Corporal G. N. Zimmerman, this image is from the official collection of the Department of Defense (Marine Corps).

A Navy Corpsman attends to a wounded Marine as part of a medical evacuation in Vietnam, 1968. When combat begins, corpsmen are the first to rush to provide aid. This particular Corpsman is a member of the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines operating near Da Nang. If the injuries are severe, a Marine helicopter is called to evacuate the wounded to an inland hospital or a hospital ship in the South China Sea. DEFENSE DEPT. PHOTO (MARINE CORPS)

During the Vietnam War in January 1968, a corpsman from "K" Co., 3rd Bn., 1st Marine Regiment leads Marines as they transport a wounded comrade to a helicopter landing zone, intending to medically evacuate him to the USS Valley Forge for treatment. This photograph is under the Defense Department with the identification code GVB-243.

Lieutenant Colonel David F. Seiler assumes command of the 3rd Bn., 3rd Marine Regt. during a ceremony in Vietnam. The ceremony took place on September 16, 1969, and was attended by Assistant Secretary of the Navy John Warner, Secretary of Defense Melvin Laird, and Dr. Norman Vincent Peale. The photo shows Seiler accepting the colors from Fabian DesJardins, the battalion sergeant major.

Marine infantrymen observe the aftermath of an air strike south of the demilitarized zone in Vietnam on July 6, 1968. The Third Marines targeted a well entrenched North Vietnamese force near the village of Lai Ao, resulting in over 200 enemy casualties. This photo was taken by Sergeant J. Mellullough and is a Defense Department photograph (Marine Corps) with reference number A191645 127 GVB-37.

American Marine tankers repairing an M48 tank in Vietnam on May 20, 1968. The tank had encountered an enemy anti-tank mine near a hamlet during Operation Mameluke Thrust, 6 miles north of An Hoa. The photograph was taken by the Defense Department and is part of the Marine Corps collection, with the identification number: pd A374507 127 GVB-333.

Lieutenant General William K. Jones visits the 1st Marine Division during a ceremony at CUC O. The photograph, taken by Sgt O. L. Snodgrass on October 7, 1970, shows the general interacting with military personnel. This image is part of the collection of photographs documenting American military activities during the Vietnam War.

First-wave Marines from 1st Battalion, 7th Marines secure the landing zone in Antenna Valley. Sea Knight helicopters from Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 364 bring in the second wave of Marines, 25 miles southwest of Da Nang. The photo was taken on October 17, 1969, by Sgt M. Jenkins. (Defense Dept. photo, Marine Corps, A422521)

Marine Corps medics assist wounded comrades onto a medevac helicopter during Operation Hapoleon/Saline on May 23, 1968, near Dong Ha, Vietnam. The photograph, labeled 243, is part of the Medical category in the collection Photographs of American Military Activities during the Vietnam War. Image credit: LCpl Teacher HIE. Source: Defense Department, Marines.

A Marine student exercises caution, stepping over a trip wire during a training session on booby traps at the Mine Warfare School. This photograph, taken on January 27, 1968, captures the serious nature of Vietnam War military activities.

Marine machine gun crew from "g" Company 2/5 on Hill 170 with set up shots for "We Try Harder" story. Pictured from left to right: PFC J.L. Duckworth, Cpl H.T. Hudson, PFC D.O. McPherson. This photograph was taken on November 20, 1967 during Operation Essex, which was carried out by the 1st Marine Division in Vietnam, approximately 20 miles south of Daleng. The image was captured by Cpl Aker and is an official Defense Department photograph (Marine Corps) with the ID A371038.

Two marines stand guard over a captured Viet Cong suspect during Operation MONTGOMERY in Vietnam on May 13, 1966. The marines keep their weapons trained on the prisoner to ensure he is secure. This photograph was taken by Sgt. Salve of the U.S. Marine Corps. Defense Department Photo (Marine Corps) A369106.

Marine from the Seventh Marines participates in a sweep near Landing Zone Baldy in Vietnam on May 22, 1970. The Marine is seen carrying a captured AK-47 automatic weapon, along with his own M-16 rifle equipped with a fixed bayonet. Photograph taken by Cpl Pearson.

Marines from Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 4th Marines, move along a corridor east of Con Thien on January 22, 1966. This photograph captures the combat operations of the 3rd Marine Division during the Vietnam War. The image, captured by photographer Patterson, shows the Marines cautiously advancing on both sides of the road.

A member of the 3rd Division Marine awaits the arrival of a CH-53 Sea Stallion helicopter delivering supplies to the Con Thien combat base. The base, located just south of the Demilitarized Zone, regularly receives air deliveries of goods, both day and night, to support the Marines stationed there.

A captured Viet Cong soldier is being guarded by a Marine during an operation in Vietnam on June 8th, 1967. A Vietnamese Army interpreter can be seen studying papers found with the suspect. This image captures a moment of progress for the US forces as the end of the war approaches. Defense Department photo (Marine Corps).

Staff Sergeant Fred Johnson, Vietnam War instructor, meticulously inspects weapons and appearance of young NCO's during a leadership training course at FLC. This daily routine emphasizes the importance of maintaining high standards in personal and weapon readiness. A193633 127 GVB-32/

Private First Class Clairborne L. Shou from D Company takes a break during the Vietnam War. He is seen in the photograph with a sign stating he is a long way from home, indicating his displacement from Oakland, California. The photograph was taken in 1966 by ICpl. Linton.

Marines from "Delta" Company, First Battalion, Third Marines are seen deploying against a well-equipped enemy. The operation, called Operation Napoleon-Saling, took place in villages along the Cua Viet River, north of Dong Ha. This 35mm negative was captured by LCpl R.E.Stetson in 1968 during the Vietnam War.

"Change of command ceremony at Operation 'Cumberland' area, Vietnam. Major R.C. Bell, former CO of First Battalion, Fourth Regiment, passing the colors to the new CO, Lieutenant Colonel E.A. Deptula. Photograph taken on July 30, 1967 by LCpl Forter."

Marines from 2nd Platoon, B Company, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, quickly disembark from CH-46 helicopters as they land on the Landing Zone south of Khe Sanh during Operation Scotland II Nanking. This photograph was taken on October 6, 1968, by SSgt D.L. Shearer of the 3rdMarDiv in Vietnam.

A transport helicopter hovers with a bridge span over a stream near Quang Tri as Vietnamese servicemen and US Marines work together to place a new bridge. This bridge, built by members of the Third Marine Division, Third Motor Transport Battalion, showcases the cooperation between American servicemen and the people of South Vietnam. DEFENSE DEPT. PHOTO (MARINE CORPS) A801232

"Chaplain Lt. S. J. Habiby administers Holy Communion to Pfc Russall 3. Tanner during a field service held just south of the DMZ in Vietnam on February 8, 1968. This happened during Operation Kentucky, where the Fourth Marines of the Third Marine Division were engaged. Photo by Cpl L.P. Brown, Defense Department."

"Major General Lewis J. Fields and Major General Lam inspect Vietcong weapons captured during Operation Hot Springs, displayed at Quang Ngai. The officials are seen examining the weapons, as part of their duties during the Vietnam War."

Marines of the 26th Marine Regiment begin their search for the enemy and supplies after landing on the Batangan Peninsula in Quang Ngai Province during Operation Bold Mariner. The photograph captures the Marines moving through rocky terrain as they conduct their mission. Taken on January 13, 1969, during the Vietnam War.

Entertainers Mr. Don DeFore and Captain J. L. Cooper visit Hill #69, accompanied by the men of E Company, 2nd Battalion, 5th Regiment, on May 26, 1966. They observe the defensive positions at the location during their visit to the 1stMarDiv Vietnam. The photograph was taken by Ffe. Mincemoyer and is from the Defense Department's archive.

Marine Lance Corporal Arthur W. Young, age 19, of Detroit, Michigan, is seen moving along the shore in Quang Tri province during Operation Badger Tooth on January 11, 1968. Young is a member of "I" Company, Third Battalion, First Marine Regiment, and part of Special Landing Force "B" on USS Valley Forge.

Lieutenant Colonel V. D. Bell providing briefings to the company commanders of A & B Companies during Operation Virginia. This photograph captures a moment of strategic discussion and planning within the 3rd Marine Division in Vietnam. Photographer LCpl Mont Finnell, Jr. captured this image for the Defense Department.

U.S. Marines from the 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, conducting operations near An lloa, south of Da Nang, Vietnam on July 18, 1967. The Marines were transported into the Viet Cong occupied area by Sea Knight helicopters from Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron-165.

Marine Corp soldiers from Co, B 1st AT Ba are seen cleaning their Ontos tanks during Operation Datoto in Vietnam on February 21, 1967. This image captured the maintenance efforts of the troops as they prepared their vehicles for military activities. It is a Defense Department photo taken by Marine Corp photographer Cpl...Maintech. A369937.

A UH-34D helicopter, photographed in 1966 during the Vietnam War. The specific model is UE-340, involved in a medical evacuation mission. It flies in close formation with a Bell UH-1 gunship from Marine Observation Squadron-6, Marine Aircraft Group 36. The gunship provides necessary firepower while the UH-34D delivers medical supplies and evacuates casualties. Defense Department photo by Sgt. Hathamy. Marine Corps.

"Sniper team from the 1st Marine Division in Vietnam engages in training and operational activities. Pictured are PFC Ruben D. William and PFC Larry L. Mock, members of the 2nd Platoon Sniper Security. The photo was taken on January 14, 1970, and is part of a series documenting American military actions during the Vietnam War."

Title: Resupply Operation in Vietnam during the Vietnam War Caption: A CH-46 Sea Knight transport helicopter, assigned to the Karine Medium Helicopter Squadron-165, lifts off from the An Hoa helicopter supply pad in Da Nang, Vietnam. It carries an external load of supplies and ammunition to resupply U.S. Marines engaged in Operation Taylor/Common. Another helicopter can be seen in the background preparing to pick up its own external load. This photograph was taken by SSgt Jim Nims and is part of the collection of American military activities during the Vietnam War.

A CH-46 helicopter extracting medical personnel and wounded soldiers from Landing Zone Baldy, Vietnam. This April 8, 1970 photograph captures a crucial moment in military activities during the Vietnam War. The helicopter is preparing to transport the medevacs to Da Nang for further medical assistance.

1. Marines from the 2nd Battalion, 5th Regiment engaged in combat during Operation New Castle. 2. The operation took place on March 26, 1967. 3. An IN2 (information network) provided support to the Marines. 4. The Marines faced intense Viet Cong fire during the operation. 5. The photograph was taken by LCpl MoClory. 6. The Department of Defense authorized the release of the photo. 7. The photo is marked with the identification A369959. 8. The Marines displayed bravery and determination in challenging conditions. 9. This image captures the intensity and danger of warfare during the Vietnam war.

Marine vehicles loading ammunition and supplies at a supply point in Chu Lai, Vietnam, May 1965. The image shows the process of gear being loaded and unloaded for distribution to their forward positions. Photo taken by L.D. Choate for the US Defense Department (Marine Corps). A184229 127 GVB -328 USMC 225078.

A CH-53 helicopter sits on the ground at a P.O.L. (Petroleum, Oil, and Lubricants) point at Kha Sanh during the Vietnam War. The photograph, taken in February 1971 by SPS Jack Rockoff, shows helicopter 127 GVB-2/9. It is a 70mm negative with the reference AVGC-0623-8/AGA71. The image is a Defense Department Photo.

A relief column of Ninth Marine Regiment soldiers arrive at Con Thien to replace other members of the regiment in Combat. The photograph was taken on October 7, 1967, during the Vietnam War. The image is a black and white 35mm negative captured by Cpl W.A. Forter, and it is part of the Defense Department's collection.

Gen Leonard F Chapman and Lt Col Edward L. Lewis, along with other officers and officials, view the terrain surrounding Combined Action Program 2-5-2 during August 1969. Major Alfred Moore, Commanding Officer of Combined Action Company 5, was also present. This photograph was taken during the Vietnam War.

Marine Corps Corpsmen from "B" Co., First Battalion, Seventh Marines provide medical attention to a wounded Marine during Operation Rio Blanco. This photograph, taken on November 21, 1966, showcases the dedication of US personnel in providing medical care during the Vietnam War.

Troops of 1 Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, preparing to board a helicopter during a sweep on Operation Prairie near the demilitarized zone. This photograph was taken on November 27, 1966, during the Vietnam War. It is part of the 3rd Marine Division's activities in Vietnam. The image was captured by 8gt. MeVeigh and is a part of the Defense Department's photograph collection. The photo is labeled as A188070 127 GVB-138.

A Marine CH-53 helicopter transports the first 105 millimeter howitzer into Fire Support Base Bird in Vietnam. The photograph, taken on September 5, 1968, shows an American military activity during the Vietnam War.

"A Marine 1st Lt. carefully scans the terrain in Vietnam for signs of enemy activity during the Vietnam war. He and his recon team from the 1st Reconnaissance Bn. were transported to their patrol area by a CH-46D Sea Knight helicopter from Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 263."

Lieutenant Colonel Taylor handing over the battalion colors to Major Thomas Kelly during a change of command ceremony for the 3rd Battalion, 9th Marines in 1966. This photo was taken by the Defense Department and is a part of the Marine Corps archive.

Members of the Sniper Team of Second Platoon, 3rd Battalion, 26 Marines, First Class Ruben D. Williams and Larry L. Mock, prepare for action in Blephant Valley, located 8 miles Northwest of Danang, during combat operations on January 14, 1970. This photograph captures their readiness and dedication to their mission.

Major General Raymond G. Davis, commanding general of the Third Marine Division during the Vietnam War, fires the "Georgia Fireball," a 175mm artillery piece, for the first time during a ceremony at the Rockpile on March 24, 1969. The gun was recently acquired by his command and was named after the general's home state. This photograph was taken by Cpl Pat Schackmann.

Marines of the 1st Battalion, 5th Marines conducting a search and destroy mission 26 miles southwest of Dalang, Republic of Vietnam on November 17, 1969. This photograph, taken by Cpl LaBrecque, captures the Marines in combat during the Vietnam War.

U.S. Marines rushing to provide immediate assistance to crew members and passengers after a C-123 aircraft was damaged at Khe Sanh on March 1, 1968. This photograph captures the intense moments right after the impact. Taken by Hale for the Defense Department, it shows the crucial role Marines played during the Vietnam War.

Major General Keith B. McCutcheon being promoted to a two-star general by Major General Levis W. Walt during a ceremony at the III Marine Amphibious Force (III MAF) headquarters in Vietnam on January 22, 1966. The event was attended by military personnel, and the promotion was recognized by the Department of Defense.

Lieutenant General Willias K. Jones, Commanding General FMIPac, visits Landing Zone Baldy during his tour of the Let Marine Division TAOR on July 16, 1970. He greets Popular Forces Troops attached to Company A, 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, Combined Unit Specification Program. Captain Van Riper, Commanding Officer of Company A, is pictured in the background. The photograph is a Defense Department photo taken by SSgt H.S. Merriman.

USS Tripoli LPH-10 seen on September 4, 1967. Marine Captain Bruce F. McMillan from Walnut Crook, Calif., pilots a helicopter gunship to the dack of the USS Tripoli. The helicopter is returning from an air control mission during Operation Belt Drive, on August 29, as part of the Vietnam War.

Marines prepare to assault a fortified village during Operation Badger Tooth in Vietnam on January 11, 1968. The photo captures a moment of tension as the Marines take a short pause before continuing their assault. This image was taken by Cpl Wolfe and is from the collection of photographs depicting American military activities during the Vietnam War.

Operation PIRANHA - A refueling point established for three helicopter squadrons participating in the operation. Bulk fuel is being supplied to ensure continuous air support. The photograph was taken in September 1965 by Sgt. J. McCullough during the Vietnam War. Credit: DEFENSE DEPT. PHOTO (MARINE CS) A185259 P 2.

Marine riflemen conducting Operation DOUBLE EAGLE II search for Viet Cong in Vietnam in 1966. Helicopters UH-34 from Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (4)-263 take off after deploying the Marines into the battle area. This photograph is taken by Pfc. L. F. Dixon. (Image: DEFENSE DEPT. PHOTO, MARINE CORPS, A186763)

"Gen Leonard F Chapman, Commandant of the Marine Corps (right), is greeted by Lieutenant General Herman Nickerson Jr., Commanding general of III MAF Marine Amphibious Force (left), and Master Gunnery Sergeant W.F. Bryan, upon the Commandant's arrival at Danang Air Base on January 8 for a three-day tour of Marine activities in I Corps."

LCpl Philip Hamer, a Marine Division Information Services Reporter, navigates through dense jungle pickets on Operation "Cortes" alongside the 3rd Battalion Sch Marine Regiment. This photograph was taken by Sgt. G. R. Gaspard on December 11, 1966, during the Vietnam War. Caption: Sgt. LCpl Philip Hamer on Operation "Cortes" in Vietnam.

A Marine from the 1st Marine Division helps Vietnamese refugee family settle into temporary quarters at Camp Tulega in Camp Pendleton, CA, on April 30, 1975. This photograph captures the arrival of the refugees to the Marine Corps Base, during the Vietnam War.

SSgt Ben T. Hammer, 25, from Evansville, Ind., is shown checking out a well for concealed weapons during Phase II of Operation Sierra in the Hamlet of Du Quang on December 18, 1966. Minutes before this photo, four VC were flushed out from a tunnel located just 2 meters behind the well.

ROK Marines in September 1967, during the Vietnam War. They are pictured riding along on a resupply mission to Hill Twenty-Six. The photograph was taken by Ryan, highlighting the involvement of the Republic of Korea in military activities in Vietnam.

American medics treat a Vietnamese baby while awaiting evacuation during Operation Prairie. Infected by conflict along the demilitarized zone, Vietnamese women and children were picked up by helicopters for their safety. This photograph was taken on September 23, 1966, by Corporal H. B. Call, attached to "B company, 1st Battalion, 26th Marines.

UH-34 helicopters from Marine Attack Squadron 222 (GVB-222) drop off C-rations and water supplies at a base camp in the mountains during Operation DOUBLE EAGLE in Vietnam, 1966. The helicopter seen here is leaving the area after the supply drop. Photograph taken by LCpl. J. Lewis. DEFENSE DEPT. PHOTO (MARINE CORPS) A186971 ZWA.

First Sgt. Glen C. Hill, of Marine Wing Communications Squadron 1, shows his transfer orders to his two sons, Sgt Stephen H111 and Ffc Terry A. Hill, both serving in Vietnam. The family reunited briefly at 1st Marine Aircraft Wing headquarters before First Sgt. Hill departed for home.

General Leonard F. Chapman Jr. visits MAG-16 during the Vietnam War. He is greeted by Corporal George E. Rush of 1st Force Recon Battalion. DefensopeMarine Corps271 veterans are seen in the background. This photograph was taken on January 10th, but the exact year is not specified.

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