USA HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -In addition to providing underground shelter, the Cu Chi tunnels served a key role during combat operations, including as a base for Communist attacks against nearby Saigon.

Detailed explanation-2: -Some complexes ranged up to 40 miles long; the Cu Chi tunnel complex contained 130 miles of passageways. Having begun construction during their fight for independence against the French, the Vietnamese had incorporated a number of unique, battle-tested design features in their tunnels.

Detailed explanation-3: -The tunnels were used by Viet Cong soldiers as hiding spots during combat, as well as serving as communication and supply routes, hospitals, food and weapon caches and living quarters for numerous North Vietnamese fighters.

Detailed explanation-4: -Between 1959 and 1975, the Democratic Republic of Vietnam (North Vietnam) used a series of trails running through Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos to transport weapons, supplies and reinforcements to the North Vietnamese Army and other sympathizers within South Vietnam.