This Day in History By Doug Miller
Working the River:
The Saigon River begins in Cambodia and flows 140 miles south. It empties into the Soai River in the city of Saigon. The river was a major infiltration route of the NVA-VC and runs through the heart of what was known as War Zone C and the “Iron Triangle”.
The “Triangle” was a well-protected safe haven that housed hospitals, training camps and operation centers of the enemy.
It was from this location that offensive operations against American forces were launched. One of our A.O.’s (area of operations) was to work the Saigon River with the United States Navy.
The PBR’s (patrol boat riverine) required security, so frequently we were assigned this mission. It was a very uncomfortable feeling occupying a boat or a small skiff moving along the river looking for enemy ambush sites.
When we located an area of concern, we conducted a recon-by fire or off loaded the boats and searched the area on foot. At night the PBR’s would pull in next to the riverbank and wait for the enemy to cross the river by sampan (small boat) or by floating across with their gear placed on a small inflatable rubber tube. When the boats took this position, they were vulnerable to attacks from the rear. We would set up in a horseshoe position and provide rear security.
Frequent contacts either by the boats or our rear security position occurred.
Original source found here.
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