As field headquarters for Air Force nuclear resaerch and de- velopment, AFSWC has provided air support for ten previous Nevada and Pacific test series, The Center's air support unit is the 4950th Test Group (Nuclear), commanded by Colonel Paul B. Wignall. The 4950th was activated in September, 1956, to plan for and accomplish the portions of testing programs in Nevada and the Pacific for which AFSW is responsible, \ One squadron of the 4950th, the 4926th Test Squadron (Sampling), has the task of gathering samples from radioactive clouds after test detonations. Major Malcom S. Bounds commands the squadron. Another 4950th unit, the 4935th Air Base Squadron, operates Indian Springs Air Force Base throughout the year. AEC Support Contractors. In keeping with its policy nationally, the AtomicEnergy Commission utilizes private contractors for maintenance,-operation, and construction (including military and FCDA construction) at the Nevada Test Site. Personnel of the AEC's Las Vegas Office administer all housekeeping, construction and service activity, but performance is by contractors. Reynolds Electrical & Engineering Company is a principal AEC support contractor for the Test Site, performing community operation, housing, feeding, maintenance, minor construction, and scientific structures support services. Holmes & Narver, Inc., performs architect-engineer services for the Test Site. The firm, with home offices in Los Angeles, is the principal support contractor for the Commission's Eniwetok Proving Ground in the Pacific. Federal Services, Inc., provides security and other guard services for the Test Site and for Las Vegas AEC offices. Pacific Telephone and Telegraph Company provides communication facilities and service as needed. oS z << Bk, ~ 27 ~ See. Numerous other contractors selected on the basis of lump-sum competitive bids perform construction of test towers, structures and other facilities at the Test Site.