About this Unit
NSA Danang (Naval Support Activity Danang) was a vital United States Navy logistics and support unit established during the Vietnam War. Activated in 1965, NSA Danang provided essential supply, maintenance, transportation, and medical services to U.S. and allied forces operating in the I Corps Tactical Zone of northern South Vietnam. The unit managed one of the busiest ports in the world at its peak, handling thousands of tons of cargo monthly and supporting riverine, coastal, and ground operations. NSA Danang played a crucial role in sustaining combat operations until the American drawdown, eventually ceasing operations in 1972 as U.S. forces withdrew from Vietnam.
Historical Facts
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NSA Danang Stands for "Naval Support Activity Danang": NSA Danang was a major United States Navy logistics and support base located in Da Nang, South Vietnam, during the Vietnam War.
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Key Logistics Hub: Established in 1965, NSA Danang quickly became the largest over-the-shore supply operation of its kind in the world, supporting U.S. Marine and Army operations in I Corps Tactical Zone.
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Seabee Engineering Marvels: U.S. Navy Seabees constructed piers, warehouses, roads, and airfields at a rapid pace, often under enemy fire, transforming Da Nang into a modern port facility.
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Unprecedented Growth: The base expanded from a handful of personnel to over 6,000 Navy men and women by 1969, reflecting the escalation of American involvement in Vietnam.
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Vital Supply Lines: NSA Danang handled more than 200,000 tons of cargo monthly at its peak, including ammunition, fuel, vehicles, and rations for tens of thousands of troops.
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Harbor Defense Stories: The base was a frequent target of enemy rocket and sapper attacks, leading to dramatic defenses and reinforcement of perimeter security.
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Red Beach and Deep Water Pier: NSA Danang constructed "Deep Water Pier Complex," which allowed deep-draft ships to offload supplies directly, revolutionizing logistics in the region.
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Medical Support: NSA Danang supported the massive U.S. Naval Hospital at China Beach, treating thousands of wounded American and allied personnel during the war.
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Operation Frequent Wind: In 1975, as South Vietnam collapsed, NSA Danang played a role in the evacuation of U.S. and Vietnamese personnel, including dramatic helicopter and ship rescues.
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Legacy: After U.S. withdrawal, much of NSA Danang's infrastructure was repurposed by the Vietnamese military, and remnants of the base can still be seen in modern Da Nang today.
