though never critical, problems was the one associated with unloading MSTS and other supply vessels. Insuring the discharge of car- go at the appropriate atoll of destination required extensive coordination and monitoring. After the Bikini effort was forced to move afloat, this problem became even more asute. The dispersion of Navy units; the passing from one operational area to another of many units; and the distances involved made the phasing of discharge and operational schedules even more complex and usually extended the unloading of MSTS ships beyond the normal period of one to two days. Another difficult problem which complicated the execution of the logistical mission was that of continual damage to LST's. In January, the LST 551—-engaged in piacing the weather stations— damaged her hull while beaching at Rongerik Atoll. The damage was of such a nature that she had to be replaced and the LST 825 was sailed from San Diego on 20 January. The beaching problem which existed at Eninman Island at Bikini already has been discussed, The condition continued to create difficulties throughout the pre= shot period and was the cause of grave concern right up to the time of the initial detonation. Late on the ta of February, just two days before the first scheduled shot, the LST 825 was heavily grounded on the landing beacn at Eninman. Though with the assis— tance of tugs she was clear of the beach with no apparent damage on the morning of the 27th, there had been great fear that the shot might have to be delayed if the ship could not be retracted