VIETNAM FIRE MISSION: Fighting with the 1st 155mm Gun Battery (Self-Propelled), USMC

Recounts Larry Hilton's experiences as a Marine artilleryman in Vietnam. Explains that artillery units, while typically thought of as being behind the lines, were often directly targeted during the Vietnam War, where there were no front lines. Describes the initial confusion among Marines in 1965, as many had no knowledge of Vietnam before being abruptly deployed there. Marines who had been stationed in the Pacific were quickly shipped to Vietnam, with some arriving without their proper gear. The deployment to Vietnam, especially in the early stages, caused frustration for those whose service was extended. Contains 150 mono illustrations.