About this Unit
The FLC Gun Trucks were an innovative and vital component of U.S. Marine Corps logistics operations during the Vietnam War. FLC (Force Logistics Command) Gun Trucks were standard cargo vehicles, such as 2½-ton or 5-ton trucks, modified with armor plating and mounted machine guns—often M60s or .50-caliber Brownings—to protect convoys from ambushes along dangerous supply routes. These ad-hoc gun trucks were crewed by determined Marines who provided mobile firepower and rapid response against Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army attacks, especially during convoy operations to areas like Da Nang and Chu Lai. The FLC Gun Trucks exemplified Marine adaptability and played a crucial role in ensuring the safe delivery of supplies and personnel throughout I Corps in South Vietnam.
Historical Facts
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Origin of FLC Gun Trucks: The Fleet Logistics Command (FLC) gun trucks were specially modified vehicles used by the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War to protect convoys from ambushes and attacks along dangerous supply routes.
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Improvised Armor: Marine mechanics and crews often reinforced their trucks with sandbags, steel plating, and salvaged armor to provide protection against small arms fire and mines.
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Creative Nicknames: Many FLC gun trucks were given colorful and intimidating names like "The Untouchable," "The Executioner," and "The King Cobra," which were often painted boldly on the vehicles.
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Heavy Firepower: These trucks were typically armed with a mix of .50 caliber machine guns, M60 machine guns, and sometimes even mounted grenade launchers, making them formidable against enemy ambushes.
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Marine Ingenuity: The customization and adaptation of gun trucks were mostly done in the field, relying on the ingenuity and resourcefulness of Marine mechanics and crew members.
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Critical Convoy Protection: FLC gun trucks played a vital role in safeguarding supply convoys, which were lifelines for remote bases and fire support locations under constant threat from Viet Cong and NVA forces.
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Combat Proven: There are numerous accounts of FLC gun trucks repelling enemy ambushes and saving countless lives, earning them a reputation for bravery and effectiveness among Marine and Army convoys alike.
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Vietnam-Specific Modifications: Unlike Army gun trucks, Marine FLC variants often used 2.5-ton or 5-ton trucks, adapted to the challenging terrain and specific mission needs of the I Corps tactical zone.
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Brotherhood and Pride: Serving on a gun truck was dangerous and fostered a strong sense of camaraderie among the crews, who took great pride in their vehicles and their mission.
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Legacy and Remembrance: Surviving FLC gun trucks and their crews are honored at reunions, in museums, and through veterans’ organizations, with stories and memorabilia preserving their legacy for future generations.
