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Marines Special Forces: Protecting Building Te in a Perilous Mission

Ernest J. Gaines

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In the annals of military history, few missions have been as daring and perilous as the Marines Special Forces' defense of Building Te in the Battle of Hue during the Vietnam War. This gripping narrative recounts the true story of these brave warriors as they fought against overwhelming odds to protect a critical position and save countless lives.

Marines Special Forces Defending Building Te Marines (Special Forces: Protecting Building Te)

Marines (Special Forces: Protecting Building Te)

The Mission

In January 1968, the communist forces of North Vietnam launched the Tet Offensive, a surprise attack on major cities throughout South Vietnam. In the ancient city of Hue, one of the key targets was Building Te, a heavily fortified complex that housed the Hue City Police Headquarters and other government offices.

Recognizing the strategic importance of Building Te, the Marines Special Forces were tasked with defending it at all costs. Led by Captain Steven Pless, a highly decorated veteran, the Marines prepared for the inevitable assault.

The Assault

On January 31st, the enemy forces struck with a vengeance. Wave after wave of North Vietnamese soldiers stormed the building, determined to overrun the Marines' position. The fighting was intense and brutal, with both sides suffering heavy casualties.

Despite the overwhelming odds, the Marines held their ground. They fought with unwavering determination, using every weapon at their disposal. They called in artillery support, fired machine guns, and threw grenades, repelling the enemy attacks time and time again.

Marines Fighting Off Enemy Forces Marines (Special Forces: Protecting Building Te) — Marines fighting off enemy forces during the defense of Building Te

Close Quarters Combat

As the battle raged, the fighting became increasingly desperate. The enemy forces infiltrated the building, engaging in close-quarters combat with the Marines. The Marines fought fiercely, room by room, clearing the building of enemy soldiers.

One of the most harrowing moments came when the enemy detonated a satchel charge in the basement of the building. The explosion caused a partial collapse, trapping several Marines. Captain Pless, disregarding his own safety, rushed into the rubble to rescue his men.

The Siege

After days of intense fighting, the Marines had successfully repelled the enemy assault. However, they remained trapped inside Building Te, surrounded by enemy forces. The Marines knew that they could not hold out indefinitely, but they refused to surrender.

For weeks, the Marines endured a grueling siege. They were constantly under fire, with limited supplies of food, water, and ammunition. They faced starvation, dehydration, and disease. But they never gave up hope.

Marines Under Siege In Building Te Marines (Special Forces: Protecting Building Te)

The Rescue

On March 2nd, a relief force of Marines and Army soldiers finally arrived to break the siege. The Marines in Building Te had endured 25 days of relentless fighting and unimaginable hardships, but they had emerged victorious.

The defense of Building Te was a testament to the bravery, determination, and resilience of the Marines Special Forces. Their heroic actions saved countless lives and played a crucial role in the eventual victory in the Battle of Hue.

Honoring the Heroes

The Marines who fought in Building Te were awarded the Presidential Unit Citation for their extraordinary heroism. Captain Pless received the Navy Cross, the second highest military decoration, for his leadership and bravery.

The story of the Marines Special Forces' defense of Building Te continues to inspire generations of service members. It is a reminder of the indomitable spirit of the Marines and the sacrifices they have made in defense of our nation.

Marines (Special Forces: Protecting, Building, Te)

by Jack Montana

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