US Navy FAR EAST CRUISE 1968 Vietnam War Patch

Description: Vietnam war in-country embroidered patch measures approximately 3.7" by 2.2", used condition. A valuable addition to your Vietnam war military memorabilia collection. During the Vietnam War, U.S. Navy ships frequently undertook Far East cruises, which involved deployments to the Western Pacific (WestPac) and operations in the waters off Vietnam. These cruises were part of the U.S. Seventh Fleet's efforts to support military operations in Vietnam and maintain a significant naval presence in the region. Here's an overview of a typical Far East cruise in 1968, focusing on the Vietnam War:Overview of a Far East Cruise in 1968 Deployment and Operations:Duration: A typical Far East cruise lasted about six to nine months. Ships would depart from their home ports on the West Coast of the United States or Hawaii and head to the Western Pacific.Tasks: The primary tasks included providing naval gunfire support, conducting carrier air strikes, engaging in anti-submarine warfare, and supporting amphibious operations. Major Naval Units Involved:Aircraft Carriers: Carriers such as USS Enterprise (CVN-65), USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63), and USS Constellation (CV-64) played crucial roles. They conducted air operations, striking enemy targets in North and South Vietnam.Destroyers and Cruisers: These ships provided naval gunfire support to ground forces, bombarding enemy positions and supply lines.Amphibious Assault Ships: Supported Marine and Army operations by delivering troops, equipment, and providing medical facilities.Key Components of the Cruise Carrier Task Forces:Carrier task forces were central to naval operations in the Vietnam War. These task forces included not only the carriers themselves but also a variety of support ships, such as destroyers, cruisers, and supply vessels.Air Operations: Aircraft from these carriers conducted sorties against North Vietnamese targets, providing close air support to ground troops, interdiction, and reconnaissance missions. Naval Gunfire Support:Destroyers and cruisers provided critical shore bombardment capabilities. They targeted Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army positions, supply routes, and fortifications.Operation Sea Dragon: These operations focused on disrupting North Vietnamese logistics by targeting vessels and infrastructure along the coast. Amphibious Operations:Amphibious assault ships and Marine Expeditionary Units (MEUs) conducted operations along the coast and river deltas of South Vietnam, including major operations like the Tet Offensive and various riverine patrols in the Mekong Delta. Logistical and Support Roles:Replenishment ships ensured that task forces remained operational by providing fuel, ammunition, and supplies while at sea.Hospital ships like the USS Sanctuary (AH-17) and USS Repose (AH-16) provided medical care to wounded personnel.Specific Operations and Engagements in 1968 Tet Offensive:The Tet Offensive, launched by the North Vietnamese in January 1968, saw significant naval involvement. Carrier-based aircraft provided crucial support to U.S. and ARVN forces responding to widespread attacks.Naval gunfire support helped repel attacks in coastal cities and along major rivers. Khe Sanh and Hue:During the Battle of Khe Sanh, naval aviation and gunfire support were vital in maintaining the siege and supplying the besieged garrison.In the Battle of Hue, naval forces provided air support and artillery bombardment to retake the city. Operation Rolling Thunder:This sustained bombing campaign against North Vietnam saw extensive involvement from carrier-based aircraft. The goal was to reduce North Vietnam's ability to wage war by targeting industrial and military infrastructure.Life on Board Daily Routine:Sailors and marines had a structured daily routine, including watchstanding, drills, maintenance, and training exercises.Leisure activities included movie nights, mail calls, and recreational sports when off duty. Challenges:Extended deployments meant long periods away from family and home, leading to challenges in maintaining morale.Harsh weather conditions, especially during the monsoon season, and the constant threat of enemy action, added to the stress and difficulties of service.Conclusion The Far East cruises undertaken by the U.S. Navy in 1968 were integral to the Vietnam War effort, providing essential air, naval gunfire, and logistical support to U.S. and allied forces. These cruises demonstrated the Navy's capability to project power and sustain prolonged operations far from home bases, contributing significantly to the overall military strategy in Vietnam. Worldwide combined shipment is welcome to save you money. Please visit my EAZYCOLLECTIBLES Store for more great war items. Froo www.froo.com | Froo Cross Sell, Free Cross Sell, Cross promote, eBay Marketing, eBay listing Apps, eBay Apps, eBay Application

Price: 12.99 USD

Location: Westminster, California

End Time: 2024-12-22T14:01:16.000Z

Shipping Cost: 1 USD