The first US Navy ship deployed to defend Da Nang the location of an important airfield and deep-water port was the USS Stoddard, which opened fire on 18 July 1965 as the first warship in the Vietnam War. During this critical phase at the beginning of the war, the Stoddard worked unusually closely with the Marines and an underwater demolition team stationed in Da Nang. Together, they carried out high-risk missions, exploiting the windows of opportunity identified by the Marines and the UDT. Radar technician John Calder recounts his journey from radar training to deployment aboard the Stoddard, the challenges of naval warfare, and his decision to volunteer for a second tour of duty as the conflict escalated. He reflects on the rigorous training that prepared him for combat, the pride of attending the Naval Gunfire Support Training School, and the honour of working with Marine observers in Da Nang. Both a personal memoir and a tribute to the professionalism of the US Navy, this book offers a rare first-hand perspective on the early naval operations of the Vietnam War.
Author
Calder, John F.
Title
Fire for Effect
Details
English text, 20 illustrations an maps. 304 pages.
State
new
Subtitle
USS Stoddard and the U.S. Navy’s First Shots of the Vietnam War
