Muang Phalan TACAN Site explained

Muang Phalan TACAN Site
Type:Air Force
Built:1967
Used:1967
Condition:abandoned
Occupants:1st Mobile Communications Group
Battles:
Vietnam War

Muang Phalan TACAN Site (also known as Lima 61 Alternative or L-61A) was a U.S. Air Force facility built in the village of Muang Phalan, Laos, during the Vietnam War.

History

Muang Phalan TACAN Site was established by the U.S. Air Force in April 1967 as part of Operation Bright Light to create a network of TACAN sites to support air operations over southern Laos and Vietnam. The site operated as TACAN Channel 77.[1] [2]

On 25 December 1967 the site was attacked by the People's Army of Vietnam who overran the facility killing the two "sheep-dipped" technicians from the 1st Mobile Communications Group.[1] A replacement TACAN site was installed at Mukdahan, Thailand.[2]

Current use

The site is abandoned and turned over to farmland and housing.

See also

Notes and References

  1. Book: Kelley, Michael. Where we were in Vietnam. Hellgate Press. 2002. 978-1555716257. 346.
  2. Web site: CHECO USAF Report Operations from Thailand 1 January 1967 to 1 July 1968. Headquarters, Pacific Air Force. 54.