Death in the Highlands: The Siege of Special Forces Camp Plei Me

In 1965, the North Vietnamese Army launched a major campaign against American forces at Plei Me camp in the Central Highlands. The U.S. choppered in a relief force of elite soldiers from Project Delta and dropped an unprecedented million pounds of munitions. The camp held out, but operations in the area continued, leading to the Battle of Ia Drang, the first major battle between the U.S. Army and North Vietnamese regulars.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 15 November 2020
Publisher: Stackpole Books

In the autumn of 1965, the North Vietnamese Army initiated its inaugural significant campaign against American forces, deploying a formidable force of 4,000 men to target the U.S. Special Forces camp situated in the Central Highlands at Plei Me. This camp was home to a dozen green berets who were diligently training a few hundred South Vietnamese troops. In response, the United States mobilized a relief force of elite soldiers from Project Delta, led by the legendary Chargin Charlie Beckwith. This relief force was deployed by helicopter and dropped an unprecedented million pounds of munitions mere yards from the camp's perimeter. Despite the valiant efforts of the camp's defenders, the North Vietnamese Army managed to breach the perimeter and initiate a fierce assault.

The Battle of Ia Drang, which unfolded within weeks, marked the first major encounter between the U.S. Army and North Vietnamese regulars. Author Saliba, through meticulous archival research and engaging interviews with veterans, delves into the detailed account of the battle for Plei Me camp. He provides a vivid and empathetic portrayal of the events, capturing the human dimensions of the conflict. Additionally, Saliba offers insightful analysis of the strategic context, highlighting how this clash laid the groundwork for the subsequent Battle of Ia Drang.

The North Vietnamese Army's relentless onslaught and the valiant defense of the Plei Me camp showcased the intensity and complexity of the Vietnam War. This battle not only demonstrated the bravery and resilience of the American troops but also showcased the strategic importance of the Central Highlands region in the larger conflict. The lessons learned from the Battle of Ia Drang would go on to shape the tactics and strategies employed by both sides in the years to come.

Weight: 534g
Dimension: 235 x 191 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780811738811