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Phase Line Green: Experience the Epic Battle for Hue in 1968

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In the annals of the Vietnam War, the Battle for Hue stands as one of the most intense and consequential engagements. For 26 grueling days in February and March 1968, American and South Vietnamese forces fought tooth and nail to retake the ancient city of Hue from the relentless North Vietnamese Army (NVA) and Viet Cong (VC).

In his gripping and meticulously researched book, "Phase Line Green: The Battle for Hue 1968," esteemed historian John Prados transports readers to the front lines of this legendary battle. Through vivid accounts, firsthand testimonies, and a wealth of archival materials, Prados paints a vivid tapestry of the horrors, heroism, and profound impact of this pivotal conflict.

Phase Line Green: The Battle for Hue, 1968

by Nicholas Warr

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1165 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	274 pages

The Setting: Hue, the Forbidden City

Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, held deep cultural and historical significance. Its ancient walls and sprawling citadel once housed the Nguyễn Dynasty, the last ruling family of imperial Vietnam. In 1968, Hue was a populous city of over 100,000 inhabitants, strategically located near the northern bFree Download with North Vietnam.

Aerial View Of Hue City In 1968 During The Battle Phase Line Green: The Battle For Hue 1968

The Outbreak of the Tet Offensive

On January 30, 1968, the NVA and VC launched the Tet Offensive, a surprise attack on major cities and towns across South Vietnam. Hue was one of the primary targets, and on February 3, the city fell to the communists. The American and South Vietnamese forces were caught off guard and forced into a desperate retreat.

Phase Line Green: The American Counteroffensive

In response to the loss of Hue, the U.S. Army launched Operation Hue City, a massive counteroffensive to retake the city. The operation was divided into three phases, with the first phase dubbed "Phase Line Green." The objective of Phase Line Green was to establish a defensive line on the southern outskirts of Hue, preventing the communists from reinforcing their position inside the city.

The lead elements of the American 1st Cavalry Division and the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) 1st Division arrived on the outskirts of Hue on February 12. They encountered fierce resistance from the NVA and VC, who had prepared strong defensive positions in the surrounding hamlets and rice paddies.

For the next 11 days, the American and South Vietnamese forces fought a bloody battle of attrition. The fighting was characterized by intense urban combat, with house-to-house fighting and bitter close-quarters engagements. The communists used the city's complex terrain and civilian population as cover, making it difficult for the Americans to identify and engage enemy positions.

American Soldiers Engage In Street Fighting During The Battle For Hue Phase Line Green: The Battle For Hue 1968

The Fall of the Citadel

On February 23, the American forces launched a major assault on the Hue Citadel, the ancient heart of the city. The fighting in the citadel was exceptionally fierce, with both sides suffering heavy casualties. After days of intense fighting, the Americans finally captured the citadel on February 25.

The fall of the citadel marked a turning point in the battle. The communists had lost their key stronghold, and their resistance began to crumble. By March 1, the Americans had completely retaken Hue, driving the NVA and VC out of the city.

American Soldiers Battle For Control Of The Hue Citadel Phase Line Green: The Battle For Hue 1968

Aftermath and Legacy

The Battle for Hue was one of the costliest and bloodiest battles of the Vietnam War. American and South Vietnamese forces suffered over 3,000 casualties, while the NVA and VC lost an estimated 5,000-10,000 troops. The city of Hue was devastated, with much of its historic architecture and infrastructure destroyed.

The Battle for Hue had a profound impact on the course of the Vietnam War. It demonstrated the resilience and determination of the American and South Vietnamese forces, who were able to withstand the communist onslaught and ultimately retake the city.

Aftermath Of The Battle For Hue In 1968 Phase Line Green: The Battle For Hue 1968

A Masterful Account

In "Phase Line Green," John Prados provides a comprehensive and deeply immersive account of the Battle for Hue. He draws upon a wealth of firsthand accounts, including interviews with American and Vietnamese veterans, as well as archival materials from both sides of the conflict.

Prados' writing is both authoritative and accessible, painting a vivid and unforgettable portrait of the battle's horrors, heroism, and profound impact. Through his meticulous research and engaging narrative style, Prados not only informs but also compels, offering readers a deeper understanding of this critical chapter in American history.

"Phase Line Green: The Battle for Hue 1968" is an essential read for anyone interested in the Vietnam War, military history, or the enduring human spirit. John Prados' masterful account transports readers to the front lines of this epic battle, providing a gripping and thought-provoking examination of one of the most significant and transformative conflicts of the 20th century.

Free Download your copy of "Phase Line Green" today and experience the Battle for Hue like never before.

Phase Line Green: The Battle for Hue, 1968

by Nicholas Warr

4.7 out of 5