A brown water navy or riverine force, refers to maritime forces specific to operations within inland waterways, including rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. Today, it broadly encompasses small patrol boats and gunboats deployed in coastal areas and on rivers, supported by larger motherships. While riverine units remain an element of the modern U.S. Navy, the phrase "brown-water navy" is most associated with its significant operational role in the Vietnam War, securing the Meko

History of the 1st Aviation Brigade in Vietnam. The Brigade served in Vietnam from May 1966 until March 1973. At its peak strength, the 1st Aviation Brigade had over 4,000 helicopters and fixed wing aircraft and approximately 24,000 soldiers assigned.