Communications/Electronics

1. Message Center.  The Battalion Message Center continued to handle Unclassified and Classified Message traffic at VCB and Quang Tri.  Numerical codes and Authentication Tables were distributed as required.  Communication security procedures were reemphasized.  An intensified training program is being initiated for training of all personnel on use and handling of classified code sheets.
2. Radio.  The radio section continues its mission of providing direct communications between elements of the Command.  Due to the issue of new frequencies to this Command and Administrative Net was initiated between Quang Tri and VCB.  This has greatly reduced the volume of traffic on the Battalion Tactical Net.  The AN/PRC-88 has been phased into all Companies for Inter-Company use.  It has been tested by all Companies and very favorable reports have been received.  The AN/PRC-88 has proven very useful in reducing the traffic load on the Company Tactical Nets.
3. Covered Circuits.   One covered circuit net (Regimental Tactical Net) is maintained by the Battalion.  There are 22 KY-38’s on hand in the Battalion; however, there is only one AN/PRC-77 available for use in conjunction with the K-38.
4. Wire.   One switchboard is maintained at VCB.  The 4^th Marine Regiment maintains our switchboard at Quang Tri, while we still maintain our own lines.  The wire section had a sixty percent turnover of personnel this reporting period; hence, much additional time has been spent training new men.
5. Electronic Repair.   The electronic repair section now maintains two shops: one at Quang Tri and one at VCB.  Steps are being taken to combine the two shops at VCB.  The shortage of test equipment still hampers the technicians in the performance of their duties.
6. Critical Shortages.   A critical shortage of repair parts exists for the A-9, A-10 and A-1 modules for the AN/PRC-25.  Tape antennas for the AN/PRC-25 and UG-255’s for the RC-292 are also in short supply.
7. Equipment Repaired.  The following equipment was repaired by the Battalion’s 2^nd echelon technicians:

                                        Items                                                  Quantity

                                    AN/PRC-25                                                 31

                                    TA-312                                                           5

                                    TA-1                                                                3

                                    EE-8                                                                3

                                    H-189                                                            11

This page last corrected 7 September 2011