Li CHAPTER IV, SECTION 2 were salvaged. One tug boat broke away from ‘its mooring during the night, was found un- damaged the next morning three miles at sea, and was returned to the mooring under her own power. One LCM grounded off Site Charlie on the night of D minus 1 of the SYCAMORE event, and another was grounded off Site George on the night of D minus 1 of the POPLARevent. Because of the evacuation to sea for these events, the boats were temporarily abandoned. As soon as permissible after each of these events, both of the boats were salvaged, with minor damage in each case. Through years of experience with EPG ac- tivities, H&N has evolved procedural techniques so that such activities as cable laying, houseboat operation, and maintenance of underwater pipe lines have become moreorless routine. However, the extent of this type of work in HARDTACK was a significant factor in the over-all work load. Of particular significance also was the ex- tent of diving operations arising primarily be- cause of the work in connection with Pinex barges. To provide the support required for these operations, eight sets of aqua-lung gear were acquired. This gear was adequate, and all diving requirements were satisfactorily fulfilled. HARDTACK marked the first Operation in which an ocean-going vessel was acquired by the AEC and placed under the operational control of the Contractor. The USS LSM 444, later named the MV ALOTO, was obtained on a loan basis in accordance with the existing agreement between the Navy Department and the AEC for the loan of Navy craft. This vessel was activated and modified for EPG service. The principal modifications consisted of raising the bow open- ing to permit high trailer loading across the bow ramp, and air conditioning all living spaces. The vessel was towed to the Eniwetok Proving Ground and placed in active service; she de- parted Elmer for Nan on 30 December 1957 with the first load and has since operated on a continuous schedule. The advantage of having a vessel under AEC control was most strikingly illustrated during the early days of the Johnston Island operation. At that time, the entry of LST’s into Johnston Island harbor was question- able, and it was through the availability of the ALOTO that the materials for Station 6001 could be rushed to that site. The availability of these materials had a direct bearing on the fact that the Johnston Island construction was expedited and that the station was readied ahead of schedule. There were other incidents in which the ALOTO paid off. Her operation by a Contractor crew was satisfactory and provided a long-needed AEC service. (Neg. No. W-608-11) Figure No. 4-10. Page 416 Water Taxis Docked at Personnel Pier — Elmer.