1.
GV Lang Vei outpost
0.05

2.
LV Helicopter takes off PAN TO troops waiting to leave
0.14

3.
MV Reporter TOM STREITHORST on camera
0.29

4.
GV Ammunition and supplies being burnt (2 shots)
0.35

5.
SV Tank driving out
0.40

6.
TRACKING SHOT Tanks firing at possible ambush sites
1.01

7.
GV Tanks arriving at new base
1.07

8.
LV Troops around wounded South Vietnamese soldier
1.10

9.
GV Area of retreat
1.14



Initials BB/2214 GL/BOB/BB/2242


TELERECORDING

Script is copyright Reuters Limited. All rights reserved

Background: Lang Vei support base, close to Route 9 leading from South Vietnam into southern Laos, played a major part in United States airborne assistance to the South Vietnamese troops during their brief incursion into Laos. U.S. helicopter gunships operated from Lang Vei, and when the South Vietnamese troops came under heavy fire, it was to Lang Vei they were evacuated, some of them clinging to the skids of the rescue helicopters.

By last weekend, Lang Vei had ceased to serve any strategic purpose, but 500 U.S. troops were still waiting to pull out. Shortage of helicopters meant most had to leave by troops carrier along the notorious Route Nine.

The commentary on this film is by National Broadcasting Company reporter Tom Streithorst, and may be used. A transcription appears overleaf.