About this Unit
The 3rd Marine Amphibious Force (3rd MAF) was a major United States Marine Corps command during the Vietnam War, established in 1965. Headquartered in Da Nang, South Vietnam, 3rd MAF was responsible for all Marine operations in the I Corps Tactical Zone, the northernmost region of South Vietnam. The unit comprised the 1st and 3rd Marine Divisions, the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, and supporting elements, conducting combat operations, base defense, and civil affairs missions. 3rd MAF played a critical role in major campaigns such as the Battle of Khe Sanh and the defense of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) until its deactivation in 1971.
Historical Facts
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Formation and Meaning: The 3rd Marine Amphibious Force (3rd MAF) was a major Marine Corps command during the Vietnam War, formed in 1965. The term “Amphibious Force” signifies its capacity to conduct operations from sea to land.
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Largest Marine Command in Vietnam: At its peak, 3rd MAF had over 100,000 Marines and attached Naval personnel, making it the largest Marine command ever deployed in combat at that time.
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Area of Responsibility: 3rd MAF was responsible for all Marine Corps operations in the I Corps Tactical Zone, the northernmost region of South Vietnam bordering North Vietnam and Laos.
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Key Subordinate Units: The force included the 1st and 3rd Marine Divisions, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, and the 1st Force Service Regiment, making it a powerful combined arms organization.
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Operation Starlite: In August 1965, 3rd MAF conducted Operation Starlite, the first major U.S. offensive ground action of the Vietnam War, which was deemed a significant victory against the Viet Cong.
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Battle of Khe Sanh: 3rd MAF units, especially the 26th Marines, played a major role in the 1968 siege of Khe Sanh, one of the most famous battles of the Vietnam War.
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Tet Offensive Response: During the 1968 Tet Offensive, 3rd MAF units defended key positions like Da Nang, Hue, and Con Thien, helping to blunt the massive North Vietnamese assault.
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Combined Operations: 3rd MAF worked closely with South Vietnamese Marines, Korean Marine units, and Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) forces in joint operations and advisory roles.
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Humanitarian Efforts: In addition to combat, 3rd MAF participated in civic action programs, building schools, wells, and providing medical care to Vietnamese civilians.
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Legacy and Redesignation: After Vietnam, the 3rd Marine Amphibious Force was redesignated as the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Force (3rd MEF) in 1988, continuing its legacy of rapid response and amphibious warfare in the Pacific.
