Operation Redwing
1956
US Atomic Veterans
Herman Carver
Date: Thu, 24 Dec 1998
From: rockycarver@hotmail.com
To: pdxavets@aracnet.com
Subject: OPERATION REDWING
Hello;
I am also an Atomic Vet. I was stationed aboard the USS ESTES
AGC-12 for the tests over there in the Marshall Islands in 1956, I was
stationed aboard the Estes from 1955-1960, and thought I would never get
transferred off of her.
I saw all of the tests in Operation Redwing, and enjoyed the sight.
The bombs were very beautiful, (I thought). I was also on some of the
cleanup crews on the barges. I don't know how much of a doseage I
received. I requested a copy of my service records, but guess what!
There isn't one thing in my records about Operation Redwing, my doseages
received, or anything. (How interesting)
I remember the parties on Japtan, Enewetok, and on Bikini Atoll. I
also remember the Japanese freighter that was on the reef at Japtan. I
sure did my fair share of drinking over there. If I remember correctly,
a beer cost a nickle and a mixed drink was a dime. Does anyone remember
the name of the enlisted mens club on Enewetok? I remember it had a
patio in the back. All you had to do was step off of the patio and you
were on the beach. You sure could get drunk drinking beer in the hot
sun! HA! We just had to have our fights with whoever would accommodate
us. HA!
My health is fine as far as I know. I don't hardly ever get sick.
When I even catch a cold it might only last a day at the most. I should
have a physical taken but I feel fine. I haven't had a physical since
1976, or had any shots of any kind since 1973. That is when I retired.
I was a Lithographer and was stationed with McGraw LI-1 who was on
the plan-of-the-day that is shown on the internet. He was a very good
counselor for me. He would always make sure I didn't get into much
trouble with our Chief. I don't remember his name. Seems like I was
always getting into trouble. I couldn't teach the Navy anything. HA!
I sure would like to hear from all my shipmates that were on the
Estes from 1955-1960. If anyone out there still has their Operation
Redwing Certificate, I sure would like for them to email me a copy. I
lost all of my pictures and everything else in a house fire. Well, I am
going to close for now.
Herman (Rocky) Carver, USN Ret.
rockycarver@hotmail.com
Keith Whittle
December 26, 1998
Operation Redwing