During the Tet Offensive in Vietnam, the US Embassy in Saigon came under attack by the Viet Cong, and Marines guarding the embassy were armed with unconventional weapons provided by the State Department. These weapons included the S&W Model 10 revolver, Colt Python revolver, Beretta Model 12 submachine gun, and Remington Model 870 shotgun. Despite the availability of rifles like the M16, the ambassador chose not to equip the Marines with them, and the Marines had to make do with these unusual firearms during the attack.
Key Points:
- Unconventional Armament: Marines guarding the US Embassy in Saigon during the Vietnam War were armed with unconventional weapons supplied by the State Department, including revolvers, submachine guns, and shotguns.
- S&W Model 10 Revolver: The S&W Model 10, a .38 Special revolver, was the sidearm of choice for State Department security personnel and the Marines at the embassy. It had limited capacity and was considered outdated for a warzone.
- Colt Python Revolver: The ambassador’s Personal Security Unit carried the Colt Python in .357 Magnum, providing better sights, triggers, and firepower than the Model 10. It was chosen for close-range urban protection.
- Beretta Model 12 Submachine Gun: After testing, the State Department purchased Beretta Model 12 submachine guns for embassy security details. They were compact, reliable, and fired in semi-auto or full-auto mode.
- Remington Model 870 Shotgun: The Remington Model 870 was used as the long gun option for basic watchstanders at the embassy. It was a pump-action shotgun with a four-round magazine tube, suitable for close-range engagements.
- Absence of Rifles: Despite the presence of M16 rifles, the ambassador chose not to arm the Marines with rifles, leaving them with shotguns and revolvers during the embassy attack. This decision was criticized for not recognizing the threat posed by the Viet Cong.
