Buddha surveys Nha Trang
from his commanding position on a small hill north of the city.
Click on Buddha above for a dramatic close-up view of the statue.
Click on Buddha above for a dramatic close-up view of the statue.
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Buddha was positioned on this particular hill so that he could be seen from miles away. |
These
decorative dragons undulated down both sides of the steps leading up to Buddha. |
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east from the hill, the South China Sea was clearly visible in the distance. |
Looking
down into the village, it is easy to understand why opposing units could run each other off the hill. |
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Because of it's location and commanding view of the city, "Buddha
Hill" became a strategic location for both the allies and enemy forces. During
the 1968 Tet observance, NVA and VC units overran the hill and occupied
it for a brief period of time. Mounting a counter attack, South Vietnamese
units with their A-502 advisors recaptured
the hill. It may be difficult to believe that a war was occurring in this place that seems better suited as a vacation desination. However, these pictures were taken within days of the battle described above. Click on Buddha for a spectacular picture of the statue. |
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Special Forces - The Silent Professionals |
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United States Army Special Forces
Detachment A-502.
