U.S. Army’s first major military operation of the Vietnam War begins 50 years ago this hour (Nov 14 1965)

1960s, Cold War, Vietnam War


Video: 'Inside Vietnam: Battle at Ia Drang'

(Sunday, November 14, 1965, 10:48 a.m. ICT; during the Vietnam War, part of the Indochina Wars and the Cold War) — The U.S. Army’s first major military operation of the Vietnam War began today with the start of the five-day Battle of Ia Drang.

The fighting between American troops and North Vietnamese forces ended on Nov. 18, 1965, with both sides claiming victory.