PHOUC YEN – a village two miles northwest of Hue.

Congratulatory Messages 15 May 1968

With great pride and my own congratulations to all participating units, I pass on to the troopers of the 2nd Brigade these additional congratulatory messages on our operations at Phouc Yen, 28 April to 3 May 1968.

FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF VIETNAM“The resounding victory of Black Panther Company and elements of the 101st Airborne Division at 7 KM NW of Hue from the period of 29 April to 1 May 1968 has caused heavy casualties to the enemy in lives lost as well as in weapons captured. The whole enemy battalion was Hors De Combat. This brillian victory reflects highly the honor of the ARVN and Allied Forces. It is requested that the Commanding General of I Corps convey my wamest congratulations to all Commanders.”

President Nguyen Van TheiuLETTER OF TRANSMITTAL BY MG O.M. BARSANTI, CG, 101ST ABN DIV

1. It gives me extreme pleasure to forward this message, and to add my heartiest congratulations to those of President Nguyen Van Thieu.
2. The victory at Phouc Yen has now brought congratulations from the very highest levels of the Republic of Vietnam government. This action is recognized as a classic tactical example of swift concentration of force, complete encirclement, and relentless destruction of the enemy. It was indeed well done.
3. Please insure that this message is brought to the attention of all the troops who earned this high praise.

GENERAL WILLIAM C WESTMORELANDNow apparent that battle 6 KM NW of Hue on 29 April virtually annihilated enemy unit. Hearty congratulations to officers and men of A 1/501, B&D 2/501, and A 1/502 for this outstanding display of combat power – ALL THE WAY!

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