Base RIPCORD. This is a story of over-confidence, arrogance, and revenge on the part of Military Assistance Command Vietnam in Saigon, coupled with an under-strength U.S. force sent to face an enemy who outnumbers them ten to one. RIPCORD was the final large unit battle in the waning days of the Vietnam War for the United States. The troops were expected to face a massive enemy presence, have minimal or no casualties, and receive limited ordinance and support, while vanquishing a highly motivated and well supplied enemy. In the jargon of the boonie rats of the day - "f**king typical". RIPCORD is also the story of the senseless waste of young American lives, as was Hamburger Hill before it. Nevertheless, it recognizes the extreme heroism of the lowly infantry grunt, average age 18-years-old, who was expected to complete an overwhelming task. RIPCORD...a little known battle with an all too predictable outcome. Collects Vietnam Journal: Series 2 issues 11-15.