Ambush in Phu Yen: The Sacrifice of Private Wesley W. Davis
It was believed that the enemy had set an ambush, waiting for the soldiers' return to the LZ, and one of the weapons used was thought to be a captured American M16 rifle.
September 28, 2024
Private Wesley W. Davis, an infantryman with 1st Platoon, B Company, 2nd Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, was killed in action on September 28, 1970. His unit had been conducting patrols 14 kilometers (8.4 miles) northwest of Dong Tre Airfield in Phu Yen Province, Vietnam. As they were returning to their landing zone (LZ) at approximately 10:38 AM, a hidden enemy force ambushed them from about 15 yards away. Davis was struck by gunfire, sustaining wounds to his head, chest, and leg.
It was believed that the enemy had set an ambush, waiting for the soldiers' return to the LZ, and one of the weapons used was thought to be a captured American M16 rifle. An urgent request for a medevac was made at 10:45 AM, and the helicopter arrived 45 minutes later, completing the evacuation by 11:35 AM. Tragically, Davis succumbed to his injuries about 25 minutes after being evacuated. He had been in Vietnam for only six weeks.
Following the ambush, a sweep of the area uncovered a trail leading east, where the retreating enemy had left behind a hat and sandal, providing clues to their hasty escape.