-~10-
Program,
Note that, whereas the authorized strength of WET was only 193 as of 30 June
62, actual personnel level was at 402 which included a number of personnel on
temporary duty for testing.
In a summary of their activities, WET says that "They experienced the heaviest
workload in its history.
For the first time in the history of nuclear weapons test,
joint AEC-DOD major test series were conducted simultaneously within the continental
U.S. and overseas.
Also, for the first time, while experiments were being conducted
at the NTS and in the Pacific, other experiments were being planned for both areas.
Adding to the pressure of this workload was the requirement to plan and execute all
tests by 30 June 62,
This cut-off date was extended in June 62 because of weather,
test schedules, and operational problems which were not the responsibility of
FCWI.
Success in meeting all time schedules by the the FCWT is attributed to the
guidance, assistance, and support provided by Commander, Field Command DASA; the
experience, knowledge and high morale of the key personnel assigned; and the
mutual cooperation among the armed services,
civilian contractors involved.
the many government agencies, and
Requirements normally completed in 10 or 12 months
were completed in 2 or 3 months by personnel working in excess of 8 hours a day,
7 days a week."
The continental test organization was at the NTS by Feb. whereas
the overseas organization (TU 8.1.3) began moving key personnel to the Pacific in
March.
At the NTS, the DOD Continental Test Organization participated in 35 tests,
and obtained data for the Vela Uniform program on 32 of these underground events.
Those numbers reflect only the tests from 1 Jan.
thru 30 June 62.
Moreover, the
CTO supported Hard Hat, Danny Boy, and Marshmallow and prepared for the atmospheric
tests at the NIS planned for July.