Existing comment:
Firebase:
To establish some control over the diverse terrain of Vietnam, the U.S. military created the fire support base (FSB). Constructed on hills and ridges, firebase artillery provided support for infantry maneuvering within range of its cannon. The firebase also acted as an advance operations location for infantry and recon teams. Firebases allowed combat units to effectively shorten their range of operations and engage the enemy more frequently. Firebase artillery also provided harassment and interdiction fire on trails suspected of being frequented by the enemy.
Typically, a firebase contained a battery of 105mm or 155mm howitzers, mortars, and infantry. Some had long-range 175mm cannon, and, occasionally, an attack helicopter squadron. Estimates suggest that over 1,200 American firebases were situated in I Corps alone. |