 Although SIGINT had earlier alerted Jackson to the possible presence of a strong VC force in the vicinity of Nui Dat 2, patrols of the area revealed nothing, and as a consequence B Company did not expect to meet significant opposition.Stepping off early on 17 August with just 80 men—some due on leave the following day—they were significantly under-strength, lacking provisions.Crossing the Suối Da Bang creek, the firing point of the mortars was soon located, as were signs of the VC withdrawal.