Hardtack 1958
US Atomic Veterans
Thomas W. "Tom" Cuthbert
Tom Cuthbert sent email about his duty at Operation Hardtack.
From: tcuthbert@earthlink.net
To: "'pdxavets@aracnet.com'" pdxavets@aracnet.com
Subject: Operation Hardtack I
Date: Tue, 25 Apr 2000
I am an Atomic Veteran, having served aboard the USS Boxer (CVS21) during
Operation Hardtack I. The Boxer was designated at the command and
communications center for the operation.
I was a Radioman in the
communications center aboard the Boxer. We handled the command and
communications for the test series for Atomic Energy Commission (AEC),
Department of Defense (DoD), and the units of Joint Task Force 7 (JTF 7).
The bulk of our communications activity was handled by radio and teletype.
I also worked in the crypto section as much of our communications with the
various agencies was classified.
I have many, many memories of those months in the South Pacific. I remember
sitting on the flight deck, arms folded, head down, and eyes closed during
the tests (when not on duty). I also remember the bright light from the
blasts and feeling the heat along with the shock waves.
I underwent surgery and radiation therapy for non-lymphoma Hodgkins disease
about 27 years ago. I'm happy to report that it's in remission.
I am grateful for this opportunity to be "counted" as an Atomic Veteran and
would sure like to hear more from other "vets" who were there and in hearing from shipmates aboard the USS Boxer and personnel from the Coronado 7.3 Boat Pool gang.
Thomas W. "Tom" Cuthbert
Email: tcuthbert@earthlink.net
Keith Whittle
April 29, 2000
[ Operation Hardtack1 ]