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The weather was getting hotter. When we were not out on patrol or involved in some other duties, we would go swimming. Initially we were swimming in the Quang Tri River. That was alright, except that while swimming if you forgot and got into a water spitting fight you would come down with dysentery, which was no fun especially while out on an ambush.

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The beach at Ca Lu. The local kids on the shore side of the boat swam there every day. The Marines are seen to the right in this photo - Photo by Richard Banks

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A young Montagnard woman washing clothes to earn money for her family

We found a better swimming hole at the little bridge security post on Highway 9 a mile or so north of our position. The stream was narrow, shallow, and had minimal growth along its banks exposing it to the sun, which heated the water. The original bridge had been blown out and the swimming hole was a result of the bomb crater. A Bailey bridge had been erected when Highway 9 was reopened. The crater was deep enough that we could jump from the bridge.

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On this day the air temperature was near 110. The Marines are relaxing in the near 90 degree water.

The road behind the swimming hole was used by vehicles too heavy for the bridge to support as well as a bypass in case the bridge was damaged.

The original width of the stream is seen beyond the road.

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Another view of the bridge at the swimming hole on Highway 9 looking south, back toward Ca Lu. Note the mountains on the south side of the Quang Tri River in the background.

The security post bunkers are seen at the end of the bridge. The pole with the two cross arms was a jury-rigged antennae we made for better reception on a transistor radio, which provided our music. Communication wire was attached in a spiral diamond shape near the top and then down the pole to the radio.

The marine is Cpl. LBJ, who is about to take his position on the rail to make the plunge from the side of the bridge. Shortly after this picture was taken Capt. RIPLEY arrived and also took the plunge.