This operation spearheaded the spring offensive into the southern portion of the 101st Airborne Division (AM) AO by elements of 2nd Brigade, 101st Airborne Division with reconnaissance in force operations into the A Shau Valley which was designed to open Route 547 into the A Shau Valley; interdict Highway 548 running north and south through the A Shau Valley, and to regain control of terrain previously controlled by the NVA. Significant contacts and caches have highlighted the operation.Operation Massachusetts Striker commenced on 28 February 1969 and terminated on 08 May 1969.
(HQ,XXIV CORPS; Operational Report for Period Ending 30 April 1969; 04 June 1969)
On 1 March 1969, Allied forces entered the A Shau Valley, as the 2d BN, 502d ABN INF commenced Operation MASSACHUSETTS STRIKER in the southern end of the enemy's important logistical base. The reconnaissance-in-force operation had the mission of interdicting Highway 548 at the Laotian border and destroying enemy supplies, equipment, and forces in the area. More than 100 tons of enemy ordinance, signal equipment, and medical supplies were uncovered by the 101st ABN DIV (AM) troopers in one of the largest caches found in I CTZ during 1969. After first discovering 13 tucks on jacks and with engines and tires removed and buried nearby, the troops search further. In addition to weapons and munitions discovered in the well-constructed, jungle canopied, and well used logistical depot, signal equipment, including telephones, switchboards, and radios were found. Also found in this significant cache were large amounts of chloroquine, penicillin and cod liver oil, as well as other medical equipment and supplies.
(USMACV; Command History 1969; Volume I; 30 April 1970)
Unit(s) tasked organized or under brigade control: 1-501 IN BN, 1-502 IN BN, 2-501 IN BN, 2-502 IN BN and 2d Brigade, 101st ABN DIV
Operation Massachusetts Strike commenced on 28 February 1969 and terminated on 08 May 1969 with the following results:
Friendly: 72 KIA, 259 WIA
Enemy: 176 KIA
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