April 1, 1954: Our troops fought with the enemy for every inch of land on hill A1, destroying stronghold 106.

Our assault units are attacking the enemy on Hill A1. (Photo: VNA archives)

While the 102nd Regiment was fighting on Hill A1, the 36th Regiment also received orders to switch from threatening to attacking and destroying outpost 106. At this time, our trenches were only about 50 meters from the barbed wire fence of outpost 106. At 6:30 PM, the attack on outpost 106 began. Simultaneous and intense firepower bombarded the outpost, especially concentrating on the main attack direction.

After a barrage of 105mm artillery fire, the 80th Battalion of the 36th Regiment advanced to the very last trench. The leading company immediately used explosives to breach the defenses. Due to the weakened defensive system within the stronghold, the main assault company of the 88th Battalion stormed the command post, capturing the lieutenant who was the outpost commander. The enemy in Area A retreated to Area B, intending to return once the artillery fire ceased, but the regiment's main assault, the 80th Battalion, quickly seized Area A and advanced directly to Area B along the trenches within the stronghold, eliminating the enemy and capturing 33 prisoners.

Our assault units are attacking the enemy on Hill A1. (Photo: VNA archives)

In Zone C, the enemy, relying on bunkers and trenches, put up fierce resistance, but ultimately their efforts were neutralized by our forces. The battle unfolded very quickly; within just 30 minutes, Regiment 36 completely took control of outpost 106, eliminating and capturing 160 Foreign Legion soldiers. In this battle, Regiment 36 innovatively employed the tactic of encirclement and assault, swiftly destroying outpost 106. This initiative of the Regiment was disseminated throughout the Dien Bien Phu front for study and application.

Our artillery units continued shelling enemy positions. Enemy positions hit by artillery fire are on fire. (Photo: VNA archives)

Source: https://special.nhandan.vn/tien_cong_A1-tieu_diet_106/index.html?_gl=1*soqzq9*_ga*MTk3MTc4ODk3My4xNzAzMzM4NjUx*_ga_2KXX3JWTKT*MTcxMTkyODA4MS4zMjQuMS4xNzExOTI4MDg2LjU1LjAuMA..