With binoculars we were able to observe a larger than platoon sized unit of uniformed NVA troops a short distance from our gun position at Hill 65. We knew that if we called for a fire mission, it would be given to the shorter ranged Marine howitzers. We were able to get immediate clearance for a 175mm direct fire registration. Part of the fuzes were set on delay to obtain a resulting bouncing air bursts. The FDC worksheet that we kept documents the firing data, the minimum 175mm charge (Charge 1), HE, delay fuze, and enemy KIA. The 25 rounds of 175mm direct fire was impressive and deadly. We do not know whether the results of the "registration" were ever officially reported. However, the 175mm gun crews will always remember the registration and the results achieved. |