What was the first major American offensive during the Vietnam conflict?

The first major American offensive during the Vietnam conflict is recognized as Operation Starlight. Launched on August 18, 1965, this operation marked a significant escalation in U.S. military involvement in Vietnam. The goal of Operation Starlight was to engage and defeat the Viet Cong forces located in the Que Son Valley, specifically targeting the 1st Viet Cong Regiment, which was known to be a formidable opponent in the area.

Operation Starlight's significance lies in its role not only as a tactical military operation but also as a demonstration of the U.S. commitment to supporting the South Vietnamese government and combating communist forces. This operation set a precedent for subsequent large-scale deployments of American troops and strategies in Vietnam, thereby shaping the course of the conflict in subsequent years.

In contrast, other operations mentioned were either air campaigns or conducted at later stages in the war, illustrating the evolution of U.S. military strategy as the conflict progressed. The context and impact of Operation Starlight were pivotal in understanding the early American military strategy within the challenging landscape of Vietnam.