About this Unit
The **Combined Action Program (CAP) Marines** were a unique unit formed by the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, beginning in 1965. Their mission was to integrate small groups of Marines with local South Vietnamese Popular Forces in rural villages, providing both military training and security against Viet Cong insurgents. CAP Marines not only engaged in combat operations but also worked to win the "hearts and minds" of the local population through civic action and community engagement. The program was considered innovative for its emphasis on counterinsurgency and partnership, and it left a lasting legacy on U.S. military doctrine regarding irregular warfare.
Historical Facts
• Combined Action Program (CAP) Origin: The CAP Marines were part of the U.S. Marine Corps Combined Action Program during the Vietnam War, which began in 1965 as a counterinsurgency initiative to embed Marine squads with Vietnamese Popular Forces in rural villages.
• Small Unit Structure: Each Combined Action Platoon (CAP) typically consisted of about 13 Marine riflemen, a Navy Corpsman, and a Vietnamese Popular Forces platoon, fostering close cooperation and cultural exchange.
• Village Defense: The primary mission of CAP Marines was to protect Vietnamese villages from Viet Cong infiltration, build local trust, and conduct civic action projects, rather than search-and-destroy operations.
• Hearts and Minds: CAP Marines engaged in numerous "hearts and minds" initiatives—providing medical aid, building infrastructure, and teaching English—to strengthen the relationship between U.S. forces and Vietnamese civilians.
• High Casualty Rate: Due to their isolated positions and constant exposure to the enemy, CAP Marines suffered one of the highest per capita casualty rates of any Marine unit in Vietnam.
• Language and Culture: Many CAP Marines learned basic Vietnamese and local customs, which increased their effectiveness and sometimes allowed for friendships or even adoptions by Vietnamese families.
• CAP Motto: The unofficial motto of the Combined Action Program was “Protect the People,” reflecting their dual military and humanitarian mission.
• Legendary Defense: In 1969, CAP 1-4-4 in Phu Loc District successfully defended their village against a major Viet Cong assault, reportedly killing over 50 enemy fighters with minimal Marine and PF casualties.
• Decorated Service: CAP Marines received numerous awards for valor, including the Navy Cross and Silver Star, highlighting their bravery under fire in isolated and dangerous conditions.
• Lasting Legacy: The CAP model was later studied by military strategists as an early example of effective counterinsurgency and community engagement, influencing future U.S. military doctrine in Iraq and Afghanistan.
