Communications/Electronics #1 – January 1967

 

Communication/Electronics

  1. General.  During the period 1 through 26 January 1967, the Battalion Communications Platoon conducted refresher MOS training and participated in GMS training conducted by H&S Company.  MOS training was conducted for personnel in their assigned MOS and also in related communication fields.  Cross training was designed to broaden individual knowledge in communications and to give personnel sufficient knowledge to perform basic duties in related fields.
  2. The Communications Platoon embarked with the Battalion for SLF Operations on 27 January 1967.
  3. The bulk of the platoon (1 officer and 58 enlisted) embarked on board the USS Iwo Jima, while seven personnel embarked with communication vehicles on board the USS Vancouver.
  4. The Communications Platoon underwent an operational readiness inspection by 9th MAB on 12 January 1967.  Results of the inspection were satisfactory.
  5. Equipment.  Extensive efforts were directed toward refurbishing communication/electronics equipment.  Upon return from 3rd FSR, equipment was painted, remarked, and generally reconditioned.  With the exception of one AN/MRC-83 radio set, T/E shortages were replaced either by procurement of new equipment or by temporary loan of equipment from 9th MAB units.  Major items on temporary loan include:

                                    AN/MRC-83             1

                                    AN/MRC-87             1

                                    AN/MRC-41             1

Additionally, certain critical component items, ie. Antennae and antennae base; and BB-451 wet cell batteries were provided from 9th MAB units.

  1. In preparation for SLF operations, steps were taken to provide the capability to operate AN/PRC-25 and AN/PRC-47 radios from within the LVTC during amphibious operations.  Special antennae lead-ins were fabricated to permit utilizing organic external antennae on the LVTC to operate AN/PRC-25 radios.  A transmission line was also fabricated to allow operation of one AN/PRC-47 from within the tractor.
  2. Tests were conducted with AN/MRC-109 and KY-8 Secure speech Equipment.  Successful operation was achieved, and it is anticipated that this equipment will be employed during SLF operations.
  3. Message Center.  Message Center operations were normal for the period.
  4. Message totals for the period:

(1)               Classified

        (a)         Incoming          122

        (b)         Outgoing              7

(2)               Unclassified

        (a)         Incoming           436

        (b)         Outgoing             49