The ammunition belt, a crucial piece of equipment for M60 gunners during the Vietnam War, played a significant role in their ability to engage enemy targets effectively. This article explores the specific requirements and considerations in carrying and managing ammunition during patrols, highlighting the weight, quantity, and tactical strategies that influenced the logistics of combat.

Introduction to M60 Gunner Equipment

The M60 machine gun, a pivotal weapon during the Vietnam War, required a substantial ammunition supply. An ammunition belt, typically containing 200 rounds, was a standard issue. However, the weight and volume of these belts demanded careful management. The M60 gunner, often referred to as the "pig" due to its unwieldy size, carried a primary load of ammunition along with their own weapon, making mobility and tactical flexibility key considerations in the War.

Standard Ammunition Configurations

In our outfit, Co.A 1st Battalion 11th Infantry in Northern I Corps, Vietnam, gunners carried a fifty-round teaser in the gun and 350 additional rounds slung around their waist or over their shoulder. The assistant gunner, if present, carried 400 rounds plus their own M-16 rifle and additional magazines. As the weapons squad leader, I carried 200 rounds of linked hail Mary ammo in my rucksack, though this was a secret reserve. It is worth noting that an auxiliary magazine weighing 28 pounds carried 400 rounds was more than the empty gun's 22-23 lb weight in bipod mode.

Unit-Specific Prep and Procedures

Ammunition requirements varied based on unit combat SOPs. Typically, a gunner had a 100-round belt as an immediate starter kit, while others carried 250 rounds in boxes or draped over. However, these numbers could fluctuate based on unit-specific strategies. For instance, Australian forces often carried less ammunition, typically 50 rounds, due to the need for rapid movement and immediate flanking maneuvers.

Clearing and Organizing Ammunition

The ammunition came in metal cases within sealed plastic covers, stored in small cloth bandoliers. Prior to engaging in combat, the gunner and assistant gunner would remove the plastic covers from two belts each. Some units would repack ammunition in black plastic sleeves cut from air mattresses, while others would keep the bandoliers. Cleaning and maintaining the belts was critical, especially during halts, as the constant friction and movement caused vegetation and dirt to accumulate on the belts.

Conclusion

The M60 gunner's ammunition requirements during the Vietnam War were meticulously planned and executed to ensure operational effectiveness. The complexities of carrying heavy ammunition belts while maintaining mobility and tactical advantage highlight the careful balancing act required during this conflict. Understanding the weight, quantity, and distribution of ammunition is crucial for any historical or tactical analysis of the Vietnam War.

Keywords: M60 Gunner, Vietnam War, Ammunition Belt