[6] On 3 October, the Việt Minh 312th Division launched an attack on French forces in the town of Nghĩa Lộ and its vicinity which was led by the general Giap.

[6] The first attacked was carried out by two regiments of the 312th Division to the surrounding posts that acted as the main defense of the town in order to maintain military control.

[6] Since de Lattre was not present at the time, General Salan took the reins of the situation and quickly reinforced the surrounding posts with paratroopers carried by parachutes to fortify defenses.

[6] This quick strategy by General Salan was looked upon the saving grace of this battle since it repelled a secondary attack by two regiments of the 312th Division that same night.

[6] Additional reinforcements occurred during the 4th of October along with air support which led to General Giap to call off his attack which they then fled across the Red River.