Operation Starlite, conducted from August 18 to 24, 1965, was the first major offensive by U.S. Marines during the Vietnam War. Based on intelligence about an imminent Viet Cong attack on the Chu Lai Air Base, the Marines launched a preemptive strike against the 1st Viet Cong Regiment near Van Tuong, approximately 15 miles south of Chu Lai. The operation involved a coordinated assault using ground forces, helicopter insertions, and amphibious landings. Despite facing strong resistance, the Marines inflicted significant casualties on the Viet Cong, with U.S. reports citing 614 enemy killed and nine captured, while U.S. forces suffered 45 fatalities. Both sides claimed victory, but the operation demonstrated the U.S. military’s capability to conduct large-scale offensive operations in Vietnam.

Learn More:

• Casualty Summary: Defense Casualty Analysis System
• Operation Starlite Documentary (Full): Marines.mil, 2015
• Operation Starlite Documentary Trailer: Marines.mil, 2015
• Operation Starlite: Wikipedia Entry
• The First Fight: USMCU.edu
• Vietnam War: National Archives

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