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the Squadron had performed intensive ground and aerial reconnaissance operations almost every flyable hour. The Squadron's assets were shifted as necessary, capitalizing on mobility, reconnaissance, and firepower in order to determine enemy locations and escape routes. Using "Pink Teams"—one Cobra gunship and one OH-6A observation helicopter—the Air Cavalry troops were able to cover large areas effectively. When the situation warranted, the aero-rifle platoon would be inserted to face the enemy until a larger force could be committed into the area. The intelligence provided by the 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry enabled the division to redeploy its assets and effectively destroy many of the enemy's large cache sites.
The 1st Cavalry Division was not sure that they would be able to evacuate or destroy all the large quantities of enemy supplies that were found during this operation; but, as the engineers repaired roads and constructed bridges to allow a convoy evacuation, these problems were solved. The enormous quantities of rice discovered were distributed to the various agencies under the watchful eyes of the G-5. This captured rice was also used to feed the large number of refugees that came pouring into the Cavalry area of operations.
The operation had revealed several previously unknown facts and confirmed several suspicions. The size and locations of the enemy's base areas were plotted and for the first time the extent and depth of the enemy's logistical system was documented. Whereas the base areas had previously been thought to all be close to the border, it was discovered that the depth extended far into Cambodia, often serviced by unknown roads and trails built specifically for this purpose. The existence of recovery and replacement regiments as well as the organization and operations area were discovered. Vast quantities of new weapons and munitions were captured, possibly preempting their intended use against Allied forces. During the Cambodian Campaign, the 1st Cavalry Division (including those units under its operational control) accounted for 2,574 enemy killed in action and 31 prisoners of war. They captured 2,244 tons of rice and over ten million rounds of ammunition.
The 1st Cavalry Division operation in Cambodia far exceeded all expectations and proved to be one of the most successful operations in the history of the First Team. All aspects of ground and air combat were utilized—air cavalry, armor, infantry, and mechanized infantry. The U.S. Air Force reconnaissance, tactical air, and B-52's performed yeoman duty throughout the campaign