ARVN 5th Marine Battalion 258th-brigaded | Black Dragons – Vietnam War

The Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) 5th Marine Battalion, famously known as the “Black Dragons”, was a prominent unit within the South Vietnamese Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. This elite battalion was an integral component of the 258th Marine Brigade, a key formation of the Republic of Vietnam Marine Division (RVNMD).

The ARVN Marine Division, including the 258th Brigade, originated from French-trained Commandos Marine divisions and evolved into a highly mobile, conventional infantry force, part of the general reserve, readily deployable across South Vietnam. The “Black Dragons” participated in numerous critical engagements throughout the conflict, often fighting alongside U.S. and other ARVN units. Like other ARVN Marine battalions, they were trained for rapid deployment and often served in crucial areas and operations, highlighting their role in the overall South Vietnamese defense strategy.