The Republic of Korea (ROK) sent combat forces to South Vietnam in response to President Johnson's desire to have "more flags" supporting the war. The
ROK units in Vietnam included the Capital "Tiger" Division, the 9th "White Horse" Division, a marine brigade, and a regimental combat
team. The "Tiger" Division was deployed to Vietnam in October 1965 for combat operations in II Corps, serving in country until March 1973. It
consisted of one cavalry and two infantry regiments, three battalions of 105mm howitzers and one battalion of 155mm howitzers. The division participated
in the Bong Son campaign early in 1966. For most of the war, the Tiger and White Horse divisions had responsibility for protecting the II Corps coastal
area and keeping roads open, mainly from Phan Rang north over 150 miles to Qui Nhon.
ROK forces established themselves as well-trained, well-disciplined soldiers with high morale. They tolerated no opposition and were ruthless with
both enemy forces and the civilian population. They usually dealt harshly with prisoners and with civilians who were suspected of sympathizing with
the Vietcong or who violated the laws or regulations established by ROK commanders. Thieves, for example, were hung from meathooks. Some Americans
looked on ROK troops with respect, but critics viewed their severe methods not as truly pacifying an area, and surely not as "winning hearts and minds," but
as generating new supporters for the Vietcong.
And Other Vietnam War Short Stories
http://www.vietnamwar.net
