Co. D, 4:9 Inf, Vietnam

• Nickname - "Manchu": The 4th Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, including Company D, carried the nickname "Manchu," a legacy from the regiment’s service in the Boxer Rebellion in China (1900). Their motto was "Keep Up the Fire!" • Assigned to the 25th Infantry Division: During the Vietnam War, Co. D, 4/9th Inf ("Manchu") served as part of the 25th Infantry Division, a major U.S. Army formation in the conflict. • Cu Chi Base Camp: The Manchu battalion was based at the infamous Cu Chi base camp, known for its elaborate Viet Cong tunnel complexes and heavy fighting. • Operation Junction City: In early 1967, Co. D participated in Operation Junction City, one of the largest airborne operations of the war, targeting enemy strongholds in War Zone C. • Battle of Fire Support Base Gold ("Attack at Soui Tre"): Elements of the 4/9th, including Co. D, played a role in the defense and relief of FSB Gold during a massive Viet Cong/NVA assault on March 21, 1967. • Tet Offensive Action: During the Tet Offensive in 1968, Co. D and the Manchus were involved in heavy fighting as the enemy attacked major cities and bases in South Vietnam. • Riverine Operations: The 4/9th conducted joint operations with the Mobile Riverine Force, patrolling the waterways and engaging the enemy in the Mekong Delta's challenging terrain. • Distinguished Service: Soldiers from Co. D, 4/9th Inf earned numerous awards for valor, including Silver Stars and Bronze Stars, for their actions in Vietnam. • Heavy Casualties: The Manchu battalion, including Company D, suffered some of the highest casualty rates in the 25th Infantry Division, with hundreds killed and wounded during their Vietnam deployment. • Legacy and Reunions: Veterans of Co. D, 4/9th Inf maintain a strong brotherhood today, holding regular reunions and keeping the history and memory of their service alive through organizations and websites.