It officially opened in August of 1966, with four berths for deep draft (ocean going) vessels, four barge sites, two LST slips and one LCU slip.
To carry out its mission, the 71st Transportation Battalion, 4th Transportation Command, had five terminal service companies assigned; the 154th, 368th, 561st, 567th and 551st.
Cargo was off loaded and held at the port for ground convoy and barge distribution to logistical facilities located throughout III and IV Corps Tactical Zones.
One of the first assignments for the 720th MP Battalion in October 1966 was convoy escort to and from Long Binh Post, to Cu Chi and Tay Ninh.
In 1966 & 1967 physical security of the warehouses and dock areas at both Saigon and Newport was provided by the 188th and 300th MP Companies, 92nd MP Battalion. Physical perimeter security for the complex was provided by the transportation companies.
As the war buildup continued through the late 1960's new convoy stops and destinations were added to the list including Operation OVERTAKE, the transport of high end post exchange cargo from the docks to Long Binh Post. During Overtake the MP's escorted the civilian contracted vehicles to prevent organized criminal theft. |
Regardless of MOS if you would like to contribute any information, personal stories, documents, media articles, photographs, or, if you can provide information on any events not listed, please take a moment to contact the History Project Manager at the Email Link provided for you on each page. Your contributions are important to the recording of the Battalion history and always welcomed here.
