Cordon and Search Operation at Phuoc Hoa Long Feb 1969

During Operation Quintus Thrust, 5RAR was tasked to conduct a Cordon and Search of the Village of Hoa Long.

Phuoc Hoa Long, nestled under the southern perimeter of the Nui Dat base was often infiltrated by Viet Cong guerrillas on re-supply and propaganda missions. An extensive political and military communist infrastructure was also known to exist among the 5,100 villagers.

Captain David Wilkins, Adjutant, Battalion Headquarters is seen directing villagers toward the screening area. The villagers were surprisingly calm, accepting and compliant.