*
*
The US Studies and Observation Group (SOG) dispatched*
many "Spike" recon teams into Laos and Cambodia between*
1966 and 1972.  These teams were tasked with general*
reconaissance and were often used to direct airstrikes against*
base areas along the Ho Chi Minh trail.*
*
More often than not, these teams were detected*
and quickly found themselves on the run.*
Though methods of extraction were developed*
they could not always be counted on.  Special reaction*
platoons, called "Hatchet Forces" were developed to*
provide additional firepower in such circumstances.*
Additionally, sometimes platoon level operations were*
conducted against base areas to gather physical*
intelligence or attempt to destroy or booby-trap*
arms caches.*
*
*
Note, Information on exactly how the Hatchet Forces*
were organized and their equipment loadout is scarce.*
However, this would seem a reasonable organization and*
loadout based on their assigned mission.  This is subject*
to change later.