This week marks the Battle of Ia Drang Valley 48th anniversary in The Vietnam War. Today, November 18th marks the end of the battle that cemented the concept of “body count” by the American military leadership. 79 Americans and over 1,000 NVA troops were killed in this battle.
One of the most enduring photographs of this battle captures the US 3rd Brigade 1st Air Cavalry and helicopter pilot Bruce Crandall. Crandall flew for 14 consecutive hours between landing zone Xray and U.S. Army firebase Falcon delivering ammunition and evacuating wounded Americans. Crandall was awarded the Medal of Honor for his acts of intrepidity.
3 replies on “Battle of Ia Drang Valley 48th anniversary”
Does anyone know whether the anyone in the US or Vietnam is planning any sort of on-site remembrance/memorial for the 50th anniversary of the Battle of the Ia Drang Valley during mid November 2015? Any POCs?
Hello, I am French and and I retire in Phnom Penh. I tried to go on-site 2 years ago with my Land Cruiser, coming from Cambodia. I reach the Ia Drang, was stopped and detained 48h in Dien Bien Phung 725 military camp. So, the key is to secure authorisations for this event. This has to be done at least in Pleiku, and likely in Hanoi. Thanks to let me know if you are allowed to do that through a vet channel and if you are planning to come to Pleiku at this time. I would be happy to do it again.
Thanks for the note. I haven’t received any other replies to my post. But, have not given up. I am investigating other channels, as well. If I hear of anything being planned, I will let you know ASAP. I practice law in Tokyo and visit SEA occasionally. Cheers.