The M60

Overview:

The M60 was also known as "The Pig" by the infantrymen in Vietnam. It earned the title because of its bulk, and how it would devour ammunition and spit it back at the enemy, shredding cover, the environment, and anything or anyone who would get in its way. It fires 7.62mm rounds.

The M60:

The M60 was lugged by members of the platoon, who were often times also ladened down by ammunition. The M60D would be the model seen onboard helicopters and on vehicles. Chopper-gunners would become very familiar with the M60, as its ability to pour out suppressing fire was much appreciated by those trying to keep a LZ safe. The M60 would earn its keep in the Ia Drang valley, where it would help to make weak defensive lines strong.

Citations:

Arques, Antonio. "M60 Machine Gun." Grunt: A Pictorial Report on the US Infantry's Gear and Life during the Vietnam War 1965-1975, by Arques, Madrid, Andrea Press,
2014, pp. 348-49.