the operations and the necessity for close and rapid coordination, the plecemeal installation of field equipment is not adequate to provide satisfactory service. Thus, for an adequate system to be established, a considerably longer preparatory period to allow for engineering and construction is needed following the firming of operational plans, Since the period is so short it is necessary to make certain assumptions based on preliminary plans, to for- mulate plans for base communications facilities adequate to meet the maximum needs of the operation, and to begin the engineering, requisitioning, construction, and installation activities well in advance. During this phase it is essential that the task groups and the Task Force cperation's planners coordinate with the communica-~ tions personnel on ali plans and changes thereto so as to avoid unsatisfactory and costly emergency action during critical periods, The wide geographical dispersion of the Task Force units and the security restrictions combine to complicate effective coordination but at the same time increase the need for it. In accomplishing coordination at least two conferences between Task Force and task group communications officers are desirable; (1) to discuss preliminary planning and, (2) to finalize details prior to the operational phase. Other effective methods for assur- ing needed liaison include trips to the PPG by communications officers, field surveys, and some indication, formal or informal, of the periodic progress toward operational readiness of the various