A cache of Viet Cong (VC) food supplies (probably rice) hidden in the jungle and covered with ...

A cache of Viet Cong (VC) food supplies (probably rice) hidden in the jungle and covered with plastic sheeting by members of the D445 (VC) Battalion. This cache was discovered by members of 6th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment (6RAR), during Operation Ingham. Approximately 73 tonnes of rice was captured and a further 19 tonnes destroyed (burnt) during the search and destroy operation. Overall the operation was regarded as disappointing, in that no major contact was made with the D445 Battalion. However, it did much to disrupt the VC logistical capability by destroying many of their camps (27) and capturing major food stores, which, apart from rice, included sugar, lard, beef concentrate and condensed milk. Documents, maps, weapons, ammunition and three wireless sets were also captured and 15 ox carts and two boats were destroyed. At the end of the operation, Australian casualties amounted to two killed and 22 wounded. Enemy casualties were estimated at 10 killed, 10 wounded (but escaped), one wounded prisoner and 19 suspected civilians detained.