Collection: Brown Water Navy

The "Brown Water Navy" refers to the U.S. Navy's riverine forces that operated in Vietnam's inland waterways during the Vietnam War. Established to patrol and secure rivers and canals, their mission was to disrupt the flow of supplies and communications from North Vietnam. Composed of converted World War II landing craft and modified commercial boats, the Brown Water Navy played a crucial role in riverine warfare.

Key vessels, such as the Patrol Boat, River (PBR), were instrumental in patrols, ambushes, and search-and-destroy missions against Viet Cong and North Vietnamese forces. Despite facing challenges like ambushes, booby traps, and difficult environmental conditions, their efforts highlighted the significance of riverine operations in modern warfare and were vital to U.S. military strategy in Vietnam.