Dec. 19, 1961 - U.S. military men in South Vietnam were understood today to be operating in battle areas with South Vietnamese forces that are fighting Communist guerrillas. Although the Americans are not engaged in actual combat operations, they are authorized to shoot back if fired upon. About 2,000 Americans in uniform are now in South Vietnam. These soldiers, under new arrangements with the Government there, are taking part in tactical operations in battle areas. The operations include support roles in transport and communications. Officials in South Vietnam are aware that the American soldiers may be subject to attack by Communist guerrillas, known as the Viet Cong.
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