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patrol activity was approx. 3-4 miles which doesn’t seem like much but in the hilly and dense terrain surrounding Qui Nhon it was a ‘hike’ to complete these patrols. Communications within and between our units was absolutely critical— distance was a factor with our radios—platoon communications internally used the PRC#6 with a range of 1-3 miles—each squad leader had a PRC #6 along with the platoon leader —it was absolutely critical that we maintain contact with company HQ and Battalion artillery support. Our radio batteries had to be maintained and recharged whenever possible. The PRC #10 was the standard radio for Company operations —the PRC #25 was the standard radio for Co. to Bn. communications.—these radios had ranges of 5-10 miles—which was the limit of our patrols. We had 3 or 4 Marines trained in communications as backup for our radio communicator. We stayed in radio contact with company HQ 24/7— we needed to receive info. sent by the CO. throughout the day—and night. The battery ‘life’ was approx. 60 hours and we always had a backup battery—it was essential equipment —just like our weapons. The exact same routine was taking place in each of the Companies of BLT 2/7. Each of the platoons in E Company covered our TAOR ( tactical area of responsibility) with day time patrols, night
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