spartans_in_darkness

Tep 5EeREl',':eeMINTJlX4
then, the threat was enough to cause a degradation
to high-altitude imagery.
CD) Another source of intelligence was the
insertion of so-called "road watch" teams, known
later under various covernames as Shining Brass
and Prairie Fire, which were controlled by the
Pentagon, and Gypsyweed, which was run by the
CIA. The problem with these teams was their limited
observation and reporting capabilities. The
extensive scope and nature of the trail system
often precluded the teams from being able to
gather useful information on infiltration rates.
The difficulties in training also limited the number
of teams available. The first teams were
inserted into Laos northeast of Tchepone. None
was placed south of this important terminal,
mostly due to the numerous communist units
protecting the complex there. All along the trail,
the teams often were prevented from approaching
the individual trails and roads by active
Pathet Lao or PAVN security patrols/'''
OGA
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