Description: Your browser does not support JavaScript. To view this page, enable JavaScript if it is disabled or upgrade your browser. Vintage original Vietnam war machine-embroidered patch, size is 1.25" by 3". For any unsatisfactory reason, item can be returned within 30 days for full refund of purchase price (less S&H fee). During the Vietnam War, the U.S. 5th Special Forces Group (5th SFG) played a crucial role in conducting unconventional warfare, special reconnaissance, and direct-action missions. Within the 5th SFG, the Military Assistance Command, Vietnam – Studies and Observations Group (MACV-SOG) was a highly secretive and elite unit responsible for some of the most daring and high-risk operations. One of the many reconnaissance teams (RT) under MACV-SOG was RT COBRA, which operated under Command and Control North (CCN).Overview of the 5th Special Forces GroupFormation and Mission Establishment:The 5th Special Forces Group was activated on September 21, 1961, and was stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Primary Mission:The group was tasked with unconventional warfare, direct action, counter-insurgency, and special reconnaissance missions in support of U.S. military objectives in Vietnam.MACV-SOG: An OverviewFormation and Structure Establishment:MACV-SOG was established in January 1964 to conduct covert operations in Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and North Vietnam. Components:The unit was divided into three main operational commands: Command and Control North (CCN), Command and Control Central (CCC), and Command and Control South (CCS), each responsible for different areas of operations.RT COBRA: Reconnaissance Team under CCNRole and Operations Team Composition:Reconnaissance teams like RT COBRA typically consisted of a small group of U.S. Special Forces personnel and indigenous Montagnard, Nung, or Vietnamese mercenaries. Primary Missions:RT COBRA's missions included deep reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, direct action raids, prisoner snatches, and interdiction operations in enemy-controlled territory. Area of Operations:Operating under CCN, RT COBRA primarily conducted missions in North Vietnam, Laos, and the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ).Specific Operations Insertion Methods:Insertion methods for RT COBRA included helicopter insertions, parachute drops, and overland infiltration, often under the cover of night to maintain the element of surprise. Challenges:Missions were extremely hazardous due to the high level of enemy presence, challenging terrain, and the need for absolute secrecy. Teams often faced heavy enemy engagement and had to rely on their training, stealth, and adaptability to survive and complete their objectives. Extraction:Extractions were equally dangerous and often involved helicopters braving enemy fire to retrieve the team. In many cases, air support from gunships and fast movers (fighter jets) was essential to cover the extraction.Legacy and ImpactEffectiveness Intelligence Gathering:RT COBRA and other MACV-SOG teams provided critical intelligence that influenced U.S. military operations and strategies. Their reconnaissance missions helped to identify enemy movements, supply routes, and base camps. Direct Action:The direct action raids conducted by these teams disrupted enemy operations, destroyed supply caches, and captured or killed key enemy personnel.Heroism and Sacrifice Recognition:The bravery and effectiveness of the men who served in units like RT COBRA have been recognized through numerous awards and commendations, including Medals of Honor, Distinguished Service Crosses, Silver Stars, and Purple Hearts. Casualties:The nature of their missions meant that MACV-SOG teams often suffered heavy casualties. Many operators were killed, captured, or listed as missing in action during the war.Summary RT COBRA, operating under Command and Control North (CCN) of MACV-SOG, was one of the elite reconnaissance teams that undertook some of the most challenging and perilous missions during the Vietnam War. These teams, composed of U.S. Special Forces personnel and indigenous soldiers, played a critical role in gathering intelligence, conducting direct action operations, and disrupting enemy activities in heavily contested areas. Their legacy is marked by extraordinary bravery, significant contributions to the war effort, and the high cost of their daring missions. We gladly combine your winning items for a reduced postage fee. Please email us for a quote. For more selection, please visit our eBay store. Thanks !
Price: 8.95 USD
Location: Midway City, California
End Time: 2025-02-01T18:09:57.000Z
Shipping Cost: 0.95 USD
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Item Specifics
Restocking Fee: 20%
Return shipping will be paid by: Seller
All returns accepted: Returns Accepted
Item must be returned within: 30 Days
Refund will be given as: Money Back
Conflict: Vietnam (1961-75)
Country of Manufacture: Vietnam
Theme: Militaria
Original/Reproduction: Original
Country/Region of Manufacture: Vietnam
Modified Item: No