“Yes sir, our OP reports that they have stopped their advance and are looting the camp” said Lt. Brooks. He paused and listened to the handset.

Lt. Brooks looked about and nodded as he said, “Will do, sir.”

“First Sgt, how’s it look out there?”

“We brought back everyone that can walk Lost some good men, but we still can fight.”

“Good, because we’re going to take off at 0530.”

“Any support?”

“I’ve been promised air assets after first light. The artillery is committed to supporting the Marines. You don’t have a lot of time, so get moving.”

As we headed out I turned and asked “Hey, first Sgt. Is there anything to eat around here?”

“Perhaps it escaped your notice, “ he sneered, “that the Chinese are in our camp. They have our supplies.” He reached into his pocket and drew out something the size and shape of a cracker jack box and tossed it to me. I looked at it and read, “US Army, Field Ration K, Supper Unit.”

“Share that with your squad, and make it last. It’s all you’ve got.

We headed for the line.