On what date did the Battle of Tan Son Nhut occur?

The Battle of Tan Son Nhut occurred on January 31, 1968. This date is particularly significant as it marked the beginning of the Tet Offensive during the Vietnam War. The Tet Offensive was a major coordinated series of attacks by the Viet Cong and North Vietnamese forces against South Vietnam and its ally, the United States.

The timing of the battle on the first day of the Lunar New Year (Tet) was strategic, as the holiday was typically a time of ceasefire and celebration. The unexpected aggression caught U.S. and South Vietnamese forces off guard, leading to intense fighting at the Tan Son Nhut Air Base, which was crucial for logistical and operational support during the war.

While the other dates listed were close to significant events in the Vietnam War, January 31, 1968, stands out as the specific date of the Battle of Tan Son Nhut, marking a turning point in the conflict due to its implications for U.S. military strategy and public perception of the war.