The Battles of FSB Coral and FSB Balmoral

Australia's Largest Vietnam Battle

Members of 102 Field Battery at Fire Support Base Coral

In January 1968, the North Vietnamese Forces launched the Tet Offensive. They suffered server casualties during the opening phases of this attack and to replenish their forces, they required uninterrupted infiltration routes. Obviously, Western Forces, including Australians, didn't want this to happen. So in May troops from 1RAR, with Australian and New Zealand artillery, were sent out to establish Fire Support Base Coral. The Vietnamese forces hit Coral before the defenders were properly prepared and an epic battle ensued. Shortly after that, 3RAR went further afield to establish Fire Support Base Balmoral. They also came under heavy attack. Between them, these twin battles would become Australia's most intense and most costly battle of the Vietnam War.  


patreon.com/user?u=46029761

Locations of Coral and Balmoral

Layout out of Fire Support Base Coral

Layout of Fire Support Base Balmoral

102 Battery at FSB Coral

Fire Support Base Coral from the air the day after the first battle.

A 1RAR patrol going through the wire at Fire Support Base Coral.

3RAR troops taking a breather at Fire Support Base Balmoral.

An Iroquois waiting to evacuate 3RAR wounded from Fire Support Base Balmoral.