Plei Trap Valley - Light Resistance

The combined force expected armed ground NVA reaction. However, resistance was light. The CSF Company in the south on the road had two equal-sized contacts while Task Force North had none of significance. Undoubtedly, the preparation of the area and the air cover provided throughout the operation discouraged the NVA. Surprise was another factor. Neither the US Army nor the ARVN had operated in strength west of the two firebases, and the insertion of a formidable ground force was probably not expected. In any event, although the NVA undoubtedly watched the entire operation, the enemy made no serious attempt to interfere.

The CSF companies, still accompanied by their US engineers, were extracted on 30 November, and the remaining US infantry-engineer elements were lifted out on 2 December. The two firebases were closed by 5 December.

The destruction of the bridges, ford sites, craters, and fortifications presented no serious engineering problems and were largely routine. However, the major abatis did require some additional thought. Since the trees were huge, and without exception dead or dying, and since they were typical highlands mahogany of unsymmetrical and varying cross sections, they were not vulnerable to the standard explosive charge formula. The formula was modified to recognize the reduced charge required to fell a dead, sapless tree.