Operation Starlite commenced as a robust military operation involving United States Marine Corps forces launching a coordinated attack against a well-entrenched Viet Cong stronghold located on the Van Tuong peninsula. The operation aimed to neutralize the Viet Cong's influence and secure the region in order to maintain the South Vietnamese government's stability. Approximately 5,500 Marines participated in the .82 operation, which was primarily designed as a preemptive strike to counter the growing insurgency. U.S. intelligence had identified the area as a critical base for Viet Cong operations, making it a logical target for the first major ground offensive by American forces. 

On the ground, Marines encountered fierce resistance from Viet Cong fighters who were well-prepared for the assault. Despite incurring losses and fierce combat, the Marines managed to achieve their objectives, leading to the destruction of multiple enemy positions and the recovery of captured materials. Operation Starlite not only demonstrated the capabilities of the U.S. military but also set a precedent for subsequent large-scale operations in Vietnam, showcasing the increasing involvement and commitment of the U.S. to the conflict. This engagement highlighted the complexities of guerilla warfare faced by conventional forces and signified a shift in U.S. tactics as the war progressed.

The operation was a catalyst for the escalation of U.S. involvement in Vietnam, sparking debates within the American public and government about the war's purpose and strategy. Critics began to voice concerns over the increasing number of troops deployed and the ongoing commitment to support South Vietnam against the communist threat represented by the Viet Cong. While Operation Starlite was deemed a tactical victory, it framed the narrative of an increasingly costly and drawn-out conflict that would have long-lasting implications for both Vietnam and the United States.