World: The View at Natu Pass

(2 of 2)

The Tougher Troops. There had been earlier in the week: on the 19th, 20th and 21st of September, Chinese patrols moved across the border against Indian positions, firing white parachute flares from their mortars and covering their approach with bursts of small-arms fire. Before dawn on the 21st, a brief fire fight took place, and about 1,000 rounds were exchanged. The Indians suffered no casualties, but the Chinese were seen dragging at least two of their men from the foggy no-man's-land below the ridge. The results reflected the change that has come over Indian morale and training since the grim days of 1962, when the Chinese walked all over them. These troops are tough and determined, well supplied with U.S. weapons and winter clothing. All have been acclimatized at 9,000 ft. and can jog up and down slopes like mountain goats.

"I'm glad the fighting has stopped," said one Indian officer. "But professionally, I only wish we could have a go at the Chinkos. We're ready for them."