Operation STARLITE
August 17, 1965
In one of the first large American offensive operations of the war, elements of the U.S. 7th, 4th, and 3d Marines begin an amphibious and helicopter assault against the 1st Viet Cong Regiment in central Vietnam. It is known as Operation STARLITE and is part of the Marines’ change in primary mission from base defense toward offensive action. STARLITE lasts until August 24. The Marines, partly supported by fire from U.S. Navy vessels near the coast, inflict heavy casualties on a large enemy force in heavy fighting around Van Tuong, approximately 12 miles south of Chu Lai.
STARLITE is the first battle of American troops against a large main force Viet Cong unit. The U.S. force kills at least 614 enemy troops and suffers 45 Marines killed and 203 wounded.(1)