53 years ago today, Operation Starlite began — the first major U.S. ground battle of the Vietnam War. | U.S. Marine Corps

On this day in 1965, Operation Starlite came to an end. It was the first regimental-sized battle of the Vietnam War. Fifty-four American lives were lost in the week-long battle. Before Starlite, the enemy had no appreciation of how the Marines could apply power from the sea. After Starlite, they never again positioned another large unit near the coast. Semper Fidelis, Marines. | U.S. Marine Corps

On this day in 1965, 5,500 Devil Dogs launch Operation Starlite, the first major U.S. ground battle of the Vietnam War. | We Are The Mighty