there is evidence of a high rate of deterioration of all metal
atructures and mechanical equipment.
In the month of February,
the wind dropped to normal trade wind characteristics, velocity
10 to 12 km, direction 70° manetic.
encountered.
No further high winds were
The rainfall was very light and did not interfere
in any way with construction.
The plan of operation was to prepare three islands,
6.
Engebi, Aomon, and Runit, for tests.
Eniwetok was to be the supply
and administrative base, Parry was to be the control center and
contain several scientific installations.
Another small island,
Aniyaanii, was to have a photographic tower erected upon it.
Troops were to move from island to island to meet operation and
construction requirements.
Engebi was conditioned to have a hous-
ing capacity of 350, Aomon to have 300, Runit 250, and Parry 100,
but these maximum capacities were only used for brief periods.
Eniwetok had a maximum population of 1,650 men, but the total
troops ashore on all islands never exceeded 2,000.
7.
In view of the rapid and frequent shifting of troops from
one island of the lagoon to another, a good signal communications
net and a system of inter-island transportation were first necessities.
The first necesity was met by use of tactical radio sets,
SCR 399, in the hands of the troops.
This equipment was later re-
Placed by VHF radio telephone service, which functi
oned in a superior
fashion.
Se ctim Vie