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199th Inf Brigade
199th Bde veterans
199th Bde veterans
Episode 3289 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature story about the 199th Inf Brigade and its reunion. The featured story is titled: Vietnam veterans of the 199th Light Infantry Brigade reunite for lunch in Portland. It appeared on the KRIS-TV website and was submitted by Shane Rackley.
Rackley reported that the Vietnam veterans of the 199th Light Infantry Brigade, proudly known as the Redcatchers, continue to demonstrate the unbreakable bonds forged in combat more than 57 years ago. Gathering for a reunion lunch in Portland, Texas, these veterans represent one of the most respected and battle-tested units to serve during the Vietnam War.
Originally activated in 1966, the 199th Light Infantry Brigade was created as a highly mobile counterinsurgency force guided by its motto, “Light, Swift & Accurate.” After intensive training, the brigade deployed to Vietnam and quickly established a reputation for courage, toughness, and determination. Operating primarily in the dangerous III Corps Tactical Zone north of Saigon, the Redcatchers relentlessly pursued enemy forces through jungles, swamps, rice paddies, and urban battlefields.
The brigade participated in 11 major campaigns across Vietnam and Cambodia. Its soldiers played crucial roles during Operation FAIRFAX, helping secure areas around Saigon, and during the historic Tet Offensive of 1968, when they fought fiercely to defend Long Binh and Bien Hoa Air Base while engaging enemy forces in the streets of Saigon and Cholon. Their bravery under fire helped blunt some of the enemy’s most significant attacks.
The sacrifices of the Redcatchers were immense. More than 750 soldiers were killed in action, and over 4,000 were wounded. Their extraordinary service earned numerous decorations, including the Presidential Unit Citation, the Valorous Unit Award, and two Republic of Vietnam Crosses of Gallantry with Palm.
Today, the veterans of the 199th Brigade stand as examples of courage, sacrifice, and devotion to duty. Their service helped shape history, and their enduring brotherhood remains a testament to the greatness of America’s Vietnam veterans.
Listen to Episode 3289 and discover more about the 199th Inf Brigade and its reunion.
