Collection: Mayaguez Incident (1975)

Mayaguez Incident (1975)

On May 12, 1975 — just weeks after the fall of Saigon — Khmer Rouge forces seized the SS Mayaguez, an American merchant vessel, in international waters off the coast of Cambodia. It would become the last official combat operation of the Vietnam War era.

The Crisis

President Gerald Ford, determined to project American resolve in the wake of the Vietnam withdrawal, ordered a swift military response. The operation unfolded over three days with imperfect intelligence, compressed timelines, and high stakes.

The Battle of Koh Tang

U.S. Marines assaulted Koh Tang Island in a fierce battle against unexpectedly heavy Khmer Rouge resistance. The fighting was intense — 18 Americans were killed in action, 50 were wounded, and 3 were listed as missing. The crew of the Mayaguez was recovered, but at a significant cost.

The Last Battle

The Mayaguez Incident stands as a testament to the courage of the Marines and sailors who answered the call — even as the nation was still processing the end of a long and painful war.

Wear the History

MIP Brand's Mayaguez Incident collection honors the men of the last battle. Each piece is crafted with premium materials and authentic unit insignia, built for those who carry history forward.