LCPL Robin L Arnold, Operation Hastings, The Creek

On July 22nd, India Company was operating within the mountainous region of Quan Cam Lo District of Quang Tri. The 3rd Platoon was on point that day as they made their way up a creek. As they rounded a bend in the creek, the point men came under a heavy attack, ambushed by the NVA. Four Marines were immediately KIA. Lt Michael Carey directed his Marines into an offensive position while he and others began rescuing wounded Marines. In the ensuing battle, four other Marines lost their lives.

This was the first major skirmish that India Company had experienced since their amphibious landing in June. The 1st Platoon happened to be toward the rear of the column at the time. Dick Weber recounts that he and Tink had heard the skirmish while walking along the creek and their Platoon had taken to the jungle in a flank position.

The men of India Company who fell on July 22, 1966

LCPL WALTER STONEMAN BROWN

PFC JOHN JAMES FLEMING

PFC JOHN WHILDEN PERICH

PFC PHILLIP MALCOLM PIERCE JR

CPL JOHN WALTER REAGAN

SSGT JOHNNIE EARL SMITH

PFC RODNEY WAYNE WESTCOTT

PVT FREDERICK JOHN YOUMANS