The team of PFC Jeffery B. Watt, PF Interpreter CPL Le Van Muon and other MP's yet identified were conducting a daytime recon along the Dong Nai River in the Battalion Tactical Area of Responsibility (TAOR) when they began receiving small arms sniper fire from the jungle ahead of them. At the same time on the river, a B Company Boston Whaler patrol boat operated by SP/4 Larry Culver PFC Dan Dattola, and Andres "Lippy" Berzino also started receiving sniper fire from the jungle covered bank of the river.

   The patrol started a sweep in the direction of the sniper fire and immediately received incoming Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) fire from the VC ambush position.

     The MP's engaged the enemy position and called in to Tactical Operation Command (TOC) for immediate air support.

SP/4 Culver

PFC Berzino

   The VC then directed their RPG fire towards their intended targets, five barges that were traveling north on the Dong Nai River.

     The first two ammunition barges were struck by RPG fire and exploded showering the area with burning shrapnel and debris. The MPs continued directing their fire at the VC position and were soon assisted by two Huey Cobra helicopter gun ships that arrived to support them.

    Once the fire fight ended one VC body was recovered and there were indications that two others may have been killed or wounded. There were no allied casualties.