March 23, 2002

William Shakespeare

In doing the research which provides the basis for the information set forth in this paper, I ran across a statement made by Lt. Gen. Phillip J. Ford, Eighth Air Force Commander, wherein he said,

“I’ve heard it said that it’s the warrior, not the reporter,

who has given us the freedom of the press. It’s the

Warrior, not the poet, who has given us the freedom of

speech. It’s the warrior, not the lawyer, who has given

us the right to a fair trial. It’s the warrior who salutes the

flag, serves under the flag, and whose coffin is draped by

the flag. But most importantly, it’s the warrior who gives

us courage, faith and hope for today and for tomorrow.”

It is with great respect for each member of Marine Air Base Squadron-12, Launch and Recovery Section, and their faithful service during Vietnam, that I am frequently reminded of “Honor, Duty, Country.” I invite each of you to read, ponder, and enjoy the material thatI have accumulated, and present to you in this summary of the Marine Corps records that I have mentioned above.

OVERVIEW

With the dawn of January, 1967, the Marine Corps Command implemented the re-orientation of Marine Forces and commenced the revised application of the Marine Corps in I Corps. This plan called for the re-orientation of the ARVN forces effort to shift their resources into Revolutionary Development tasks. By the end of January, 1967, four ARVN Battalions were committed to the Revolutionary Development Program in Quang Nam (Danang) Province, with two Battalions engaged in the program in each of the other four provinces of I Corps. These units were, in the main, undergoing Revolutionary Development training and conducting less counter guerilla operations. Meanwhile, Marine Corps Forces began their deployment to the hinterlands of the country to assume functions previously discharged by the ARVN. This new commitment has limited further the Marines’ flexibility for the prosecution of offensive operations. The Marine Corps was now engaged over a front that extended some 200 miles from Khe Sanh near the DMZ to Duc Pho, in southern Quang Ngai Province. The enemies’ efforts to increase their emphasize on guerilla warfare, which began in late 1966, continued through January, 1967.

1967 saw the commencement of the Combined Action Companies, later renamed as Combined Action Platoons (CAP), which integrated Popular Forces and U.S. Marine Infantry. These units continued their effectiveness in training local security forces in support of Revolutionary Development. The Marine Corps identified the 1967 goals as follows:

Neutralize the VC/NVA base areas in the first ten priority groups;

Begin to inflict losses on the VC/NVA forces at a rate that exceeds their input;

Open 100% and secure 50% of the roads essential to friendly operations;

Open 65% of the railroads and secure those segments in the National Priority Areas; and,

Increase the percentage of the population living in secure areas from 56.8% to 66%, and secure 800 additional hamlets.

In addition, the goal was to increase the Combined Action Platoons in I Corps to a total of 114 during 1967. This was especially important with regard to Chu Lai, as emphasis in the Chu Lai Tactical Area of Responsibility (TAOR) required significant resources to accomplish the Marine Corps Command goals and objectives for 1967.

In January 1967, MAG-12 participated in operations Desoto, Sierra, Chinoo, Tuskaloosa and Prairie. MAG‑12 aircraft flew 2,480 combat sorties and expended 2,304 tons of ordinance against enemy forces, an average of 75 tons per day. There were 2,137 enlisted and 242 officers in MAG‑12. On January 6th, 14th, and, 15th, 1967 three A-4E/A-4F fighter aircraft were lost in combat.

On January 13, enemy forces of the 60^th VC, from the 70^th Company of the 409^th Sapper Battalion, assaulted the perimeter of the Chu Lai Air Base employing small arms and automatic weapons fire, supported by 82 millimeter mortar fire and rifle grenades. Their effort was repulsed, costing the VC 17 confirmed killed along with 7 prisoners and 14 weapons captures. Marine casualties were 5 wounded.

During January, Marine Divisional units in the Chu Lai area conducted 7,143 small unit counter guerilla operations. These operations included 5,115 patrols, 1,959 ambushes and 79 Company size search and destroy operations. This total was 4,316 greater than those conducted during the month of January, 1966. Chu Lai Air Base had, during January 1967, 4 Marine Attack Squadrons (74 A-4); 3 Marine Fighter/Attack Squadrons (42 F-4); and, 2 Marine Aircraft Maintenance Squadrons (4 TF-9J, 2 C-117).

The Marine Corps estimate of enemy forces within the Chu Lai TAOR, defined as being located within a 25-mile radius of the base facility, consisted of 2 Regimental Headquarters; 10 Battalions; and, 12 Companies for a total strength of 6,500 enemy personnel.

MABS-12 Commanding Officer was Lt Col. Ralph D. Wallace, Executive Officer was Major William W. Campbell. Major Jimmie L. Dillon was the Base Operations Officer. There were 815 enlisted and 30 officer marines in MABS-12.

On January 19th, at 0200 hours two (2) Vietcong prisoners escaped from the detention facility next to the MABS-12 bomb dump, they were not located or found.

Starting January 26^th, the MABS-12 combat commitments were greatly increased, with bomb assembly, napalm, and munitions belting crews working 18 hours per day to meet Squadron demands. VMA-121 Green Knights tail letters “VK” had arrived at MAG-12 Chu Lai in late December 1966, and were flying 20 A-4C and A-4E Skyhawks from MAG-12 East Runway facility. Also on station were VMA-211 "Wake Island Avengers “CF”, VMA-214 Black Sheep “WE”, VMA-224 Bengals “WK”, VMA 311 Tomcats “WL” - (20 A-4E=s) and H&MS-12 “Outlaws” flying Forward Air Control with 4 TA-4F aircraft. VMA-121 was the seventh A-4 Skyhawk Squadron to fly combat missions from Chu Lai since 1965.

During January, MABS-12 aircraft expended the following ordinance:

(1) 2.75" Rockets (19 shot) 250 pods

(2) 5.00" Rockets (4 shot) 32 pods

(3) 20mm 65,071 Rounds

(4) Napalm 531

(5) JATO 114

(6) Bombs

(A) 250lb LD 3,516

(B) 500lb LD 5,406

(D) 1000lb LD 25

The amount of fuel (JP-4) dispensed from 1-30 January 1967 was 1,832,218 gallons. The East Runway, Parallel Taxiway, and Crosswind Runway were completely refurbished.

Crash Crew responded to the following emergencies:

(1) Blown tires 3

(2) Aircraft Aborted 1

(3) Ordinance on Runway 3

(4) Aircraft low fuel status 1

(5) Structural fires 5

(6) Aircraft off runway 3

(7) Wash Downs 4

(8) Helicopter Crash 1

(9) Unsafe Gear 1

(10) Broken Fuel Lines 4

(11) Aircraft Over in Arresting Gear 1

Launch & Recovery Section: The Catapult continued to remain inoperative during January. The installation is 100% complete. Final functional checks have not been completed due to the condition of the crosswind runway. Two sets of M-21 arresting gear are down due to lack of spare parts. No other major items were reported.

No data was provided for arrested aircraft for January, 1967.

Launch and Recovery personnel arriving at Chu Lai MABS-12 in January were: Douglas Axberg (01/11/67); James S. Baker (01/11/67); Bruce N. Benton (01/11/67); Arthur J. Brand (01/16/67); Steven B. Brooks (01/11/67); William Carey (01/13/67); Mervin R. Cole (01/13/67); Harold V. Geritz (01/13/67); David Grottenthaler (01/11/67);David A. Prendergast (01/17/67); Thomas L. Roloff (01/13/67); Leonard K. Squire (01/13/67).

In Feb., 1967, MAG-12 participated in operations Desoto; Prairie II; Prairie III;

Chinook; Chinook II; Early, and Beacon Hill. MAG‑12 aircraft flew 2,134 combat sorties and expended 2,483 tons of ordinance against enemy forces, an average of 89 tons per day. There were 1,989 enlisted and 182 offices in MAG‑12. On February 3, 1967 VMA 223 Bulldogs (WP) set a one-day, 59 sortie record for the Skyhawk, during which they flew a mix of A-4Cs and A-4Es.

On February 20th, and 27th, 1967 two A-4E aircraft were lost in combat, including the death of Major H. J. Alwan. Skyhawk Squadrons on station were VMA 121 “VK”, VMA 211 “CF”, VMA 214 “WE”,; VMA 224 “WK”, VMA 311 “WL” and H&MS-12.

The Marine Corps estimate of enemy forces within the Chu Lai TAOR, defined as being located within 25 miles of the base facility, consisted of 2 Regimental Headquarters, 10 Battalions, 13 Companies, for a total enemy force estimate of 6,700.

MABS-12 Commanding Officer was LtCol. Ralph D. Wallace, Executive Officer was Major William W. Campbell. Major Jimmie L. Dillon was Base Operations Officer.

Most notable was the February 27, 1967 attack on Da Nang Air Base by NVA Forces, including the launching of 50 140MM Soviet Rockets, with a range of 9,000 meters (5.57 ,miles), into the base.

The rocket attack at Da Nang was the first time that 140MM Rockets were used in Vietnam.

There were 820 enlisted and 29 officer marines in MABS-12.

During February, MABS-12 aircraft expended the following ordinance:

(1) 2.75" Rockets (19 shot) 191 pods

(2) 5.00" Rockets (4 shot) 2 pods

(3) 20mm 80,560 Rounds

(4) Napalm 830

(5) Bombs

(A) 250lb LD 8,969

(B) 500lb LD 4,930

The amount of fuel (JP-4) dispensed from 1-28 February was 2,302,311 gallons. An overhauled M-2 arresting gear was received from Japan. Resurfacing has been completed between 3300' and 3400' on Runway 32 East.

Crash Crew responded to the following emergencies:

(1) Wash Downs 18

(2) Blown Tires 4

(3) Ordinance on Runway 6

(4) Unsafe Gear 2

(5) Engine Fire (A-4E) 1

(6) Loss of Brakes 3

(7) Smoke in Cockpit 2

(8) Fuel Leaks (TAFDS) 6

Launch and Recovery: The Catapult continues to remain inoperative during February. The installation is 100% completed. Final functional checks have not been completed due to the condition of the crosswind runway. One set of M-21 gear is down due to lack of spare parts. One set of M-2 engines numbered 3 and 4 were received from overhaul in Japan on February 8^th and February 11^th. Two M-21 Engine absorbers, numbers 110 and 112, shipped to Japan for repair on February 18^th via air.

Total arrested landings were:

A-4E A-4C

(A) M-2 (29 & 30) 61 5

(B) M-2 (21 & 22) 156 4

Take offs and landings from the East & Crosswind Runways:

A-4 TRANS HELO F-4 T&G OTHER

East Runway 3,872 61 0 0 0 639

Crosswind 0 0 0 0 0 0

Airfreight Section was transferred to MAG-13

Launch and Recovery personnel departing Chu Lai in February were: Jack T. Corragio (02/00/67); Ronald Fields (02/03/67); Woodrow W. Wilson (02/28/67); Robert L. Norris (02/23/67); Richard R. Randall (02/22/67); Alvin V. Wilder (02/15/67)

March 1967, MAG-12 participated in operations Desoto, Prairie II, Prairie III, Chinook, Chinook II, Early and Beacon Hill.

MAG‑12 flew 2,764 combat sorties and expended 2,533 tons of ordinance against enemy forces, an average of 85 tons per day.

On March 6, 1967 MAG‑12 was mortared by 60 rounds of 82mm mortar fire, the majority of which landed in the MABS-12 Enlisted living areas. Eight Purple Hearts were awarded.

There were 2,276 enlisted men and 232 officers in MAG‑12. On March 15th, one A-4E fighter aircraft was shot down, pilot rescued. On March 17th, one A-4C fighter aircraft was lost during combat operations. Captain R.B. Beale was killed.

Skyhawk Squadrons on station were: VMA 121 “VK”, VMA 211 CF, VMA 224 WK, VMA 214 “WE” and VMA 311 “WL” rotated to Japan during March. On March 31, 1967, the first A-6 Squadron, VMA(AW) 533 “ED” Hawks arrived at MAG-12. VMA-211 “CF” departed Chu Lai Air Base on March 31, 1967 commencing its trans-pacific flight to the Continental United States. Marine aircraft on station at Chu Lai Air Base consisted of 3 Marine Attack Squadrons (57 A-4); 1 Marine All-Weather Attack Squadron (12 A-6A); 3 Marine Fighter/Attack Squadrons (42 F-4); and, 3 Marine Aircraft Maintenance Squadrons (4 TF-9J).

The Marine Corps estimate of enemy forces within the Chu Lai TAOR, defined as being located within a 25 mile radius of the base facility, consisted of 2 Regimental Headquarters; 9 Battalions; and, 14 Companies for a total strength of 4,800 enemy personnel. The 40^th and 90^th Battalions, 1^st VC Regiment moved outside the 25-mile perimeter radius. The 70^th Company of the 409^th Sapper Battalion and the RQ-23 Battalion shifted into the 25 mile perimeter radius of Chu Lai.

MABS-12 Commanding Officer was LtCol. Ralph D. Wallace, Executive Officer was Major William W. Campbell, Major Jimmie L. Dillon was the Base Operations Officer. There were 833 enlisted and 28 officer marines in MABS-12.

During March, MABS-12 aircraft expended the following ordinance:

(1) 2.75" Rockets (19 shot) 365 pods

(2) 5.00" Rockets (4 shot) 59 pods

(3) 20mm 89,945 Rounds

(4) Napalm 1,841

(5) Bombs

(A) 250lb LD 13,458

(B) 500lb LD 12,458

The amount of fuel (JP-4) dispensed in March was 2,333,539 gallons. Four more 10,000 gallon fuel tanks were put in at the tank farm #1 complex. This increased the fuel storage capacity by 100, 000 gallons. Repair of the Crosswind Runway in the vicinity of CE-1-3 Catapult dolly system commenced.

Crash Crew responded to the following emergencies:

(1) Unsafe Gear 3

(2) Smoke in Cockpit 1

(3) Loss of brakes 3

(4) Blown Tires 4

(5) Aircraft off Taxiway 1

(6) Aircraft Leaking Fuel 3

(7) Fuel Leaks (TAFDS) 6

(8) Wash Downs 19

(9) Ordinance on Runway 6

(10) Structural Fires 2

(11) Rough Running Engines 2

(12) Aborted Takeoffs 2

(13) Aircraft Towed off Runway 2

Launch and Recovery: The catapult is in an “Up” status but is inoperative due to the condition of the Crosswind Runway. There were no Catapult Launches during March. The following work on the CE 1-3 Catapult has been completed:

(A) Adjusted Repulse Switch March 20^th

(B) Replaced Compensator Over-Load March 27^th

Relay

On Brake System

Total arrested landings were:

A-4E A-4C

(A) M-2 (29 & 30) 68 31

(B) M-2 (21 & 22) 57 2

Take offs and landings from East & Crosswind Runways:

A-4 TRANS HELO F-4 T&G OTHER

East Runway 4,134 55 0 0 16 696

Crosswind 0 0 0 0 0 0

Launch and Recovery personnel departing Chu Lai MABS-12 in March was: Gary W. Mull (03/11/67)

April 1967, MAG-12 participated in operations Prairie III, Prairie IV, Desoto, Boone, Big Horn, Shawne, Union Humboldt and Canyon. MAG‑12 flew 2,682 combat sorties and expended 3,498 tons of ordinance against enemy forces, an average of 116 tons per day. There were 2,403 enlisted men and 224 officers in MAG‑12.

On April 12, 1967, 30 to 40 rounds of mortar fire were launched against Chu Lai, with mortar rounds landing in the aircraft areas, killing two Marines and wounding 45.

On April 12, 1967 Captain W. Clayton III was killed, when his A-4E received enemy fire, exploded, and crashed.

Skyhawk Squadrons on station were: VMA 121 “VK”, VMA 224 “WK”. The A-6 Squadron, VMA(AW) 533 “ED”, flew their first mission on April 1, 1967. On April 27, 1967 the U. S. Army Task Force “Oregon” established their Headquarters at Chu Lai to begin the preparation and transition for arrival of the “American Division”, which will, by September 1967, assume primary responsibility for the Chu Lai “Tactical Area of Responsibility” (TAOR); including 1 U.S. Army Aviation Company (28 helicopters) deployed at the Chu Lai Air Base, East Runway.

The Marine Corps estimate of enemy forces within the Chu Lai TAOR, defined as being located within a 25 mile radius of the base facility, consisted of 1 Regimental Headquarters; 10 Battalions; 13 Companies, for a total enemy force estimate of 4,800. Marine Corps estimates of enemy forces within the Chu Lai TAOR, defined as being located with a 25-mile radius of the base facility, decreased by 900 enemy personnel due to several major adjustments. This difference is attributed to the shift of the 1^st VC Regiment, minus its 70^th Battalion, to a location outside the 25-mile perimeter. Additionally, the K-51 Company shifted outside of the Chu Lai 25 mile perimeter. The 2^nd NVA Division’s Rear Headquarters is now within the 25 mile Chu Lai perimeter, for a total enemy force estimate of 4,800.

MABS-12 Commanding Officer was LtCol. Ralph D. Wallace, Executive Officer was Major Forest G. Dawson. Major Jimmie L. Dillon was Base Operations Officer. Captain Michael J. Vipperman reported to MABS-12 as the Launch & Recovery Officer. There were 820 enlisted and 29 officers marines in MABS-12.

During April, MABS-12 aircraft expended the following ordinance:

(1) 2.75" Rockets (19 shot) 331 pods

(2) 5.00" Rockets (4 shot) 15 pods

(3) 20mm 68,336 Rounds

(4) Napalm 1,319

(5) Bombs

(A) 250lb LD 10,226

(B) 500lb LD 25,204

The amount of fuel (JP-4) dispensed for April was 2,615,559 gallons. Ten (10) additional 10,000 gallon fuel tanks were installed. Group Guard assumed the defensive positions at the Southern edge of the MAG-12, Chu Lai Complex V. There were 62 MABS-12 marines assigned to build and man 21 bunkers, 6 listening posts, and 1 tower. Guard provided security for Sector IV along the beach, and northern perimeter. Guard personnel provided security for Med Cap runs to Tam Ky and Bihn Son. Guard personnel built and manned 9 bunkers alone the northern perimeter of Sector IV. Guard provided security personnel to man Tower 41 on the northern perimeter (Next to the Catapult). MAG-12 Guard personnel stood a total of 61,752 hours in the defense of the MAG-12 Chu Lai complex, manning a total of 39 bunkers, 3 towers, 2 roadblocks, and 6 listening posts. Repair of the Crosswind Runway in the vicinity of the CE-1-3 Catapult Dolly System has been completed. Repaired 40 feet of the East Runway at the 3,200' marker. Certification of the CE-1-3 Catapult continues.

Crash Crew responded to the following emergencies:

(1) Tail Fire (A-4) 1

(2) Overheated Engine 1

(3) Unsafe Gear 1

(4) Aircraft off Taxiway 1

(5) Loss of Brakes 4

(6) Fuel Leaks (Aircraft) 1

(7) Fuel Leaks (TAFDS) 4

(8) Ordinance on runway 1

(9) Blown Tire 7

(10) Wash Downs 11

(11) Structure Fires (Ordinance Bunker) 1

Launch and Recovery: The Catapult continues to remain inoperative during April. The installation is 100% complete and the Catapult is currently being prepared for operation and certification. Two sets of M-2 arresting gear are being maintained on the East Runway. One set of M-21 arresting gear has been re-installed on the East End of the Crosswind Runway to be used as abort gear for Catapult operations.

Total arrested landings were:

A-4E A-6A

(A) M-2 (29 & 30) 333 1

(B) M-2 (21 & 22) 28

Take offs and landings from East & Crosswind Runways:

A-4 F-4 TRANS HELO OTHER

East Runway 3,581 0 0 0 694

Crosswind 0 0 0 0 0

Launch and Recovery personnel departing Chu Lai MABS-12 in April were: Robert H. Bohnke (04/26/67); Robert S. Boileau (04/26/67); Richard M. Cripps (04/25/67) William A. Davis (02/25/67); Joseph C. Dearing (04/30/67); James E. Dwyer (04/25/67); Walter T. Egger (04/28/67); Stanley J. Gluza (04/26/67); Robert L. Gschwind (04/24/67); Danny W. Harrington (04/26/67); Dennis W. Harrington (04/26/67); Charles W. Johnson (04/25/67); David Miller (04/25/67); John J. Miller (04/26/67); Alan H. Noll (04/25/67); Charles R. Riggle (04/25/67); Robert A. Scherer (04/26/67); Richard T. Smith (04/25/67); David E. Tilford (04/26/67); Robert D. Westenberger (04/31/67); and, Gary D. Wolfe (04/26/67).

May 1967, MAG-12 participated in operations Prairie IV; Khe Sahn Area; Shawnee; Union; Hickory; Crockett; Beaver Cage; Beacon Hill; and, Choctaw. MAG-12 flew 3,741 combat sorties and expended 6,016 tons of ordinance against enemy forces, an average of 194 tons per day. There were 2,254 enlisted men and 207 offices in MAG‑12.

On May 10, 1967 Major R.L. Snyder was killed when his A-4E fighter aircraft was shot down by a Soviet Missile.

On May 30, 1967 1st Lt. M.W. Thoennes was shot down, pilot not recovered, MIA.

Skyhawk Squadrons on station were: Squadrons VMA 121 “VK”, VMA 223 “WP” and VMA 224 “WK”. A-6 Squadron VMA(AW) 533 “ED” remained on station. The Skyhawk Squadrons initiated “Hot Pad” alerts at Chu Lai, during which rotating sections of armed aircraft awaited scramble calls with pilots in their cockpits and engines turning over.

A comparison of the April and May enemy force totals shows an increase of 900 enemy personnel and other minor order of battle adjustments in the estimated strength of the units. The May total reflects the addition of the 120th and 48^th Battalions which are now considered to be within the Chu Lai 25-mile perimeter radius.

MABS-12 Commanding Officer was LtCol. Ralph D. Wallace, replaced by Major Forest G. Dawson, Executive Officer was Major Forest G. Dawson, replaced by Major Harold L. Jackson. Major Robert B. Booher was the Base Operations Officer. Captain Michael J. Vipperman was the Launch & Recovery Officer. There were 763 enlisted and 26 officer marines in MABS-12.

During May, MABS-12 aircraft expended the following ordinance:

(1) 2.75" Rockets 741 pods

(2) 5.00" Rockets 61 pods

(3) 20mm 169,857 Rounds

(4) Napalm 3,606

(5) Bombs

(A) 250lb LD 9,895

(B) 500lb LD 18,836

(D) 1000lb LD 37

The amount of fuel (JP-4) dispensed for May was 2,995,633 gallons. One 10,000 lb. fuel tank was installed at the ordinance napalm assembly area. U.S. Army assumed control of the south TAFDS fuel tank farm. Group Guard stood 61,380 hours of watch in defense of Sectors IV, V, and VI. Provided security for Chaplain trips to Tam Ky. Provided security escorts for EOD teams to bomb disposal areas off base. Provided security guards for Tower 41 on the northern perimeter of Sub-Sector IV. All bunkers in the vicinity of S-3 were inspected and repaired, with one additional bunker being constructed. Protective bunkers were constructed at the Crash Crew area. Helicopter pads on the East Field Runway area were completed. Functional checkout of the CE-1-3 was completed.

Crash Crew responded to the following emergencies:

(1) Tail Fire (A4) 1

(2) Unsafe Gear 1

(3) Aircraft off Taxiway 4

(4) Loss of Brakes 3

(5) Fuel Leaks (Aircraft) 4

(6) Fuel Leaks (TAFDS) 4

(7) Ordinance on Runway 4

(8) Blown Tire 10

(9) Wash Downs 25

(10) Structural Fires 4

(11) Aircraft off Runway 2

(12) Battle Damage 2

(13) Flight-Line Fire 1

Launch and Recovery: Five Dolly Launches were accomplished on the CE-1-3 Catapult. Functional checkout of the CE-1-3 Catapult was completed. Catapult launches are expected to commence upon arrival of the Certification Team from NAEL (SI) Philadelphia, PA.

The 20,000^th MOREST (M-2) landing was accomplished on the East Runway. Two sets of M-2 Mobile Arresting Gear are being maintained on the East Runway. One set of M-2 gear is undergoing a 1000 arrest check and overhaul. Two sets of M-21 arresting gear are installed on the Crosswind Runway. The set on the East End of the Crosswind Runway is in an up status and is awaiting a taxi test. The West End gear is currently being prepared for operation.

Total arrested landings were:

A-4-E A4-C A-6A

(A) M-2 (3 & 4) 573 0 5

(B) M-2 (29 & 30) 350 0 0

(D) M-21 (122 & 164) 0 0 0

(E) M-21 (112 & 111) 0 0 0

Take offs and landings from East & Crosswind Runways:

A-4 F-4 HELO TRANS OTHER

East Runway 4,872 0 0 95 336

Crosswind 0 0 0 0 0

Launch and Recovery personnel departing Chu Lai MABS-12 in May were: Richard D. Althouse (04/11/67); Earl F. Belcher (05/28/67); Tom Blair, Jr. (05/07/67); Michael A. Burke (05/30/67); Carmichael W. Callahan (05/13/67); Garrett Desnuisseaux (05/25/67); Richard A. Garrett (05/21/67); Michael J. Gartner (05/28/67); Dennis D. Goodnoe (05/23/67); Richard K. Hackmann (05/21/67); Leon Tom Turner (05/07/67); Frank J. Warzocha (05/21/67);

June 1967, MAG-12 participated in operations Arizona; Choctaw; Cimmeron; Union II; Adair; Calhoun; and, Beacon Torch. MAG‑12 flew 2,664 combat sorties and expended 4,549 ton or ordinance against enemy forces, an average of 151 tons per day. There were 2,190 enlisted men and 202 officers in MAG‑12. On June 24, MAG‑12 launched a strike against an anti‑aircraft complex (SPINNER) launching 30 fighter aircraft in 2 1/2 minutes. On June 21, Captain W.L. McClesky crashed in his A-4E fighter aircraft, he was rescued alive. Skyhawk Squadrons on station were: VMA 223 “WP”, VMA 224 “WK”, and VMA 311 “WL” returned from Japan. VMA 121 “VK” arrived from Japan on June 3^rd. A-6 Squadron VMA(AW) 533 “ED” remained on station.

A comparison of May and June order of battle shows a decrease of 400 enemy personnel. This difference reflects the relocation of the 2^nd NVA Division forward Headquarters and the GK 33 Battalion to a position outside of the Chu Lai 25 mile perimeter radius. The Marine Corps estimate of enemy forces within the Chu Lai TAOR, defined as being located within a 25 mile radius of the base facility, remained unchanged from May.

MABS-12 Commanding Officer was Major Forest G. Dawson, Executive Officer was Major Harold L. Jackson. Major Robert B. Booher was the Base Operations Officer. Captain Michael J. Vipperman was the Launch & Recovery Section Officer. There were 713 enlisted and 25 officer marines in MABS-12. The 1^st Sentry Dog Platoon, 3^rd Military Police Battalion arrived at Chu Lai. Twenty MABS-12 Marines extended their overseas tours during June. One Hundred Thirty Four (134) Guard personnel received training with the XM16E1 rifle. Guard escorted three (3) EOD convoys to dispose of ordinance off base. Guard escorted the Chaplain to Bihn Son and Tam Ky. MABS-12 Guard personnel stood a total of 65,910 hours of watch in defense of the MAG-12 complex.

During June, MABS-12 aircraft expended the following ordinance:

(1) 2.75" Rockets (19 shot) 849 pods

(2) 5.00" Rockets (4 shot) 22 pods

(3) 22mm 55,010 Rounds

(4) Napalm 6,388

(5) Bombs

(A) 250lb LD 8,880

(B) 500lb LD 18,709

(D) 1000lb LD 0

The amount of fuel (JP-4) dispensed during June was 2,253,764 gallons.

Crash Crew responded to the following emergencies:

(1) Tail Fire 2

(2) Aircraft off Taxiway 2

(3) Fuel Leaks (Aircraft) 3

(4) Fuel Leaks (TADS) 1

(5) Ordinance on Runway 2

(6) Blown Tire 15

(7) Wash Downs 22

(8) Structural Fires 4

(9) Aircraft off Runway 2

(10) Battle Damage 1

Launch and Recovery: Training was commenced with Catapult hook-up practice of A-4 type aircraft and five (5) MAG-13 7011s and one F-4 aircraft furnished to the Catapult Section for training purposes for 60 days TAD. A-4 and F-4 type aircraft Catapult hook-up training was conduced on a daily basis. The Catapult Instrumentation Team arrived from CONUS and Catapult Instrumentation and Certification is expected to commence July 3, 1967. The Catapult has become functionally checked out and is now considered to be in an operational status. Two sets of M-2 Mobile Arresting Gear are being maintained at the 1,500 foot mark of each end of the East Runway. Two sets of M-21 Arresting Gear Cable Sweep Pads are being installed on the Crosswind Runway and one set of M-2 arresting gear on the North end, East Runway.

Total arrested landings were:

A4E A6A

(A) M-2 (3 & 4) 404 1

(B) M-2 (21 & 22) 3 0

Take offs and landings from East & Crosswind Runways:

A-4 F-4 HELLO TRANS OTHER

East Runway 1,515 0 0 0 200

Crosswind 0 0 0 0 0

Launch and Recovery personnel departing Chu Lai MABS-12 in June were: Robert C. Gray (06/04/67); Bruce A. Moyer (06/05/67); George W. Owings (06/12/67); Daniel P. Rogers (06/03/67); Richard A. Sweet (06/09/67);

July 1967, MAG-12 participated in operations Ardmore, Beacon Guide, Bear Chain, Bolder, Buffalo, Cimmaron, Crockett, Cumberland, Dragon Head, Fremont, Hickory II, Hickory III, Kingfisher, Pecos and Sheridan. MAG‑12 flew 3,304 combat sorties and expended 5,469 tons of ordinance against enemy forces, an average of 176 tons per day. There were 2,149 enlisted and 190 officers in MAG‑12.

On July 24, Captain J. G. Burns ejected from his A-4E fighter aircraft during "launch" due to engine failure. The aircraft crashed at the end of the West End of the Crosswind Runway. The pilot ejected successfully, and landed on the runway.

There were 8,646 helicopter operations from the East Runway Helicopter Pads at Chu Lai Marine Air Base in July. On July 4th there was a "friendly" fire event in the MABS‑12 enlisted living area involving marines firing live ammunition between the living huts. The situation was resolved when non-involved marines were sent in to "take custody" of those marines firing their weapons at each other. Skyhawks Squadrons on station were: VMA 121.

On July 6, 1967 VMA 311 “WL” pilot, Major Ralph E. Brubaker’s A-4 was shot down by a SA-2 SAM missile near the DMZ.

The Marine Corps estimate of enemy forces within the Chu Lai TAOR, defined as being located within a 25 mile radius of the base facility, consisted of 2 Regimental Headquarters; 12 Infantry Battalions; and, 1 Support Battalion, for a total strength of 6,940 enemy personnel. MABS-12 Commanding Officer was Major Forest G. Dawson, Executive Officer was Major Harold L. Jackson. Captain Michael J. Vipperman was the Launch & Recovery Section Officer. There were 666 enlisted and 24 officer marines in MABS-12. Guard personnel escorted three (3) EOD convoys to destroy munitions off base, one escort to Bihn Son and one escort to Tam Ky. Guard was augmented with 64 MABS-12 personnel. Guard personnel stood approximately 65,000 hours of watch in defense of the MAG-12 containment and aircraft operations.

During July, MABS-12 aircraft expended the following ordinance:

(1) 2.75" Rockets (19 shot) 718 pods

(2) 5.00" Rockets (4 shot) 94 pods

(3) 20mm 112,305

(4) Napalm 2,472

(5) Bombs

(A) 250lb LD 11,443

(B) 500lb LD 20,152

(D) 1000lb HD 1,009

(E) 1000lb SAP 2

(F) CBU 63

The amount of fuel (JP-4) dispensed during July was 1,932,380 gallons.

Since July 15, the CE-1-3 Catapult, newly positioned on the Cross Wind Runway at Chu Lai, has launched 66 A-4E Skyhawks, 56 of these at gross weights of 22,000 pounds. Use of the CE-1-3, coupled with the M-21 arresting gear, will ensure that there is no degradation of launch or recovery operations during the monsoon season. The CE-1-3, powered by two modified J-79 jet engines, enables a fully combat loaded A-4 to become airborne within 1,000 feet, without ordinance load restrictions. With a well trained crew, aircraft can be launched every 90 seconds, and only two minutes are required to clear the runway for the recovery of aircraft.

The records that were provided for MABS-12 July 1967 did not include any documentation or information regarding Crash Crew.

August 1967, MAG-12 participated in operations Ardmore, Cumberland, Dragon Head IV, Fremont, Hickory III, Hood River, Kingfisher and Pike. MAG‑12 flew 2,631 combat sorties and expended 4,676 tons of ordinance against enemy forces, an average of 150 tons per day. There were 2,148 enlisted men and 185 officers in MAG‑12.

On Aug. 8th, 1967 a CIA aircraft crashed during takeoff and crashed into a trailer near the runway, killing Eugen Kerigan. On August 13th, Captain W.R. Penegar was killed when his A-4E fighter aircraft crashed and burned. In steering his aircraft way from populated areas, Captain Penegar did not eject and was killed upon impact. The crash was within sight of the airfield. On Aug. 27th, two A-6 bomber aircraft pilots from VMA(AW) 533, LtCol. V.H. Bacik and Captain R.G. Boggs, were killed when their aircraft went down during an attack run in North Vietnam. Pilots not recovered. On Aug. 28th, Major C.F Wallace was shot down in his A-4E fighter aircraft during a bombing run. On Aug. 11th, 1st Lt. K.H. Berube was killed when his A-4E fighter aircraft crashed due to enemy fire, and disintegrated upon impact.

There were 13,716 helicopter operations from the East Runway Helicopter Pads at Chu Lai Marine Air Base in August 1967. Skyhawk Squadrons on station were: VMA 211 “CF,; VMA 223 “WP” and VMA 311 “WL”. The A-6 Squadron VMA(AW) 533 “ED” remained on station.

The Marine Corps estimate of enemy forces within the Chu Lai TAOR, defined as being located within a 25 mile radius of the base facility, consisted of 2 Regimental Headquarters; 15 Infantry Battalions; 4 Support Battalions; and, the newly confirmed 10^th NVA Anti-Aircraft Battalion located near Ba To, for a total strength of 9,357 enemy personnel.

MABS-12 Commanding Officer was Major Forest G. Dawson, Executive Officer was Major Harold L. Jackson. Captain Michael J. Vipperman was the Launch and Recovery Section Officer. There were 667 enlisted and 22 officer marines in MABS-12. Group Guard commenced the rebuilding of all perimeter defensive bunkers. Guard escorted EOD convoy to ordinance disposal area off base, and escorted MedCap trips to Ly Tyn and Tam Ky. Guard responded to, and provided security for, the crash site in Sam Kai Village on August 13, 1967 for Captain Penegar’s A-4E. MABS-12 Guard personnel stood a total of approximately 60,000 hours of watch in defense of the MAG-12 complex. Fifteen permanent Guard personnel were transferred to Marine Corps Division Units.