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prove critical because the VC most likely had set up an ambush for your exit from the ambush site-- There was no panic-- these disciplined Marines waited until the signal was given to move out . You decided to move the unit rapidly forward-- toward the sound of the mortar rounds leaving the tube—and toward the first ‘marker round’ that had been fired—-as you do --the next round drops almost on top of the position you just vacated--you and your unit are moving fast--thru the underbrush, in column--still a disciplined, silent, exit from the danger zone---up ahead you can hear the VC moving their equipment--confused because you’re moving directly toward them--they didn’t expect that--they thought you would hunker down or move backward--probably into an ambush they had set up----you caught them off guard--you can imagine they’re packing the mortars up and moving out--away from where you’re headed. Not wanting to move into an ambush situation of unknown size, you move the unit to the right --past the sounds of VC moving their equipment--you head back to the Company HQ— stopping to check that all members of the squad are present and accounted for— three/four miles North----you contact company HQ to let them know you’re on the way back but you will hold up outside the company perimeter to avoid the possibility of friendly fire—( 1. Bn. Sit Rep. 1/29/1966 ). www.records of war )
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