First Battle at Khe Sanh Begins

The Khe Sanh combat base is adjacent to a principal Communist infiltration route in western Quang Tri Province, South Vietnam. A battle erupts near the base when elements of the 3d Marine Division assault a series of enemy-controlled hills that dominate the approaches into the area. The 1st Marine Aircraft Wing provides air support, along with U.S. Air Force B-52s. The battle lasts until May 11. In one of the bloodiest actions of the war, the Marines temporarily clear the hills overlooking the combat base. 
 
Throughout 1967 the Marines defending I Corps engage Communist forces in larger and more frequent battles than in previous years. Khe Sanh takes on increasing importance as North Vietnam builds up its forces in the region. U.S. commanders continue to insist upon holding it, and the North Vietnamese continue to harass and isolate the garrison into 1968.¹