No unresolved fiscal problems arose during Operation CASTLE.
Certain of the financial operations may be resolved into problem
areas for the purpose of discussion, however.
Perhaps the single
most important matter confronting the Comptroller Division was the
one associated with securing authorization for funds needed for
new construction and rehabilitation on Eniwetok Island.
In addi-
tion to Typhoon HESTER damage, elsewhere described in this Chapter, this problem was affected by the decision to base the Air
Force Task Group at Fniwetok.
For tactical and administrative
reasons, it was felt from the beginning that the Air Force Task
Group should participate from Eniwetok.
This had not been pos-
sible during IVY, but was a vital planning goal of the early con-
sideration given to CASTLE.
By March, 1953, the mtter had been
thoroughly studied and a survey of Eniwetok airbase facilities was
initiated in order to determine what minimum improvements would be
necessary.
As a result of this survey improvements and repairs
were recommended which would run to a total of one of two cost figures depending on whether improvements were to be made with a view
toward long-range or short-range use.
For the former the cost was
estimated at $1,412,000 and for the latter the estimate wes $938,000.
Major items included in these estimates were extension and reinforcement of airstrip aprons, taxiways, and turnaround areas; improvement
of runway pavement; and improvement of POL facilities.
The report of this survey was passed to AEC for consideration
and implementation of the recommendations since construction of