4.
On 20 March, 3 PB-1W planes of VX-4 detachment reported
for duty and were assigned to night patrol using 1 plane on
patrol each night.
These planes were based at Kwajalein.
The
FB-1W planes are attached normally to an experimental squadron
and these plenes have very elaborate radar equipment installed;
this radar equipment is capable of detecting a submarine, sub-
merged, using snorkel.
For this reason, it was considered best
to use them on night patrols, when a submarine would normally
feel quite secure operating on snorkel.
5.
The preparations for the evacuation of the task group
during the test were begun immediately after arrival at Eniwetok
by conducting individual rehearsals of the components of the units
involved.
The two AVR, together with the small boats (wherries
and LCVP) and DUKWs assigned to operate with the AVR, made several
practice runs, tested communications, and practiced operations in
conjunction with helicopter operations.
Night operatims were con-
ducted using the special AVR channel lighted buoys.
Beaching of
sample recovery parties, retraction of boats, and delivery of
samples to various units were stressed.
Operations were repeated,
simulating operating casualties, commmications failures, SAR pro-.
cedures, and indootrinatioa of the specially assigned personne] in
radiological safety measures and in decontamination as well as
general familiarization of the crews with the navigational aids
and hazards to be encountered.
Section VII
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