operations as related to logistical considerations and mention of
the fact that operations were likewise greatly influenced by this
shift.
For TG 7.3 itis difficult to categorize any one result of
the shift afloat as either logistical or operational as there was
considerable inter-relationship.
Perhaps the single most signifi-
cant operational effect came in the employment of ships after the
“SHar/pctonation.. All major vessels were required to remain perm
anently at Bikini for the purposes of housing,
Originally it had
been planned tnat the ESTES would be stationed at Eniwetok between
Bikini detonations.
To accommodate all perzonnel required at Bi-
kini, however, this proved impossible and her planned function as
Eniwetok Harbor Control was assumed by the senior vessel at that
atoll,
The BAIROKO had to prepare to conduct all Bikini helicop-
ter operations from afloat,
The Ai> Force helicopters and one
L-13 were returned to Eniwetok Island and the responsibility of
providing local air transportation at Bikini became solely that of
the Navy Task Group.
Because of the increased role played by the
BAIROKO, the ship became excessively overcrowded until CTG 7.3 transferred his flag and staff to the CURTISS in order to relieve the
situation.
In addition to the above, the problem of adequately fulfilling the security mission--an operational necessity—-was hampered
inasmuch as the security DDE's oftentimes had to be called upon
to perform urgent non-security missions,
It was also necessary
to transfer the security fighter aircraft from Bikini to Eniwetok
tt
An
Ww
.