Hardtack 1958
US Atomic Veterans
Ronald E. Pope
Ronald E. Pope sent email about his duty at Operation Hardtack.
From: n.pope@verizon.net
Subject: Re: Atomic Veterans
To: "Keith" pdxavets@aracnet.com
Date: 2/12/07
Keith :
While looking through various US Navy Internet links, I discovered your email link, and wanted to see what if anything, I may be able to obtain regarding my duty with CTG 7.3 Boat Pool Det. at Eniwetok, Marshal Islands during Operation Hardtack in 1958. I was an Electricians Mate ( striker )( EM ) Fireman ( E-3) stationed on "Camp David Island" ( recreation island ) during the summer of 1958, while most of our unit was either on board the LSD 35 USS Monticello and / or Eniwetok Island Headquarters.
Thanks for the feed back.... and information. As stated before, I was on the LSD 35 - USS Monticello as part of the 7.3 Boat Pool Detachment out of Coronado, CA... I went to the Island - called "David" on a 90 day TAD assignment ( much like mess cooking duty ) and worked as an assistant to the Cook and others working at the Camp / Recreation Place- I issued swimming gear, and stuff to the Sailors from various ships in the area for their use while on day R&R on the island. We had a swimming area that was fenced off with a nice beach, and picnic area. There was also a place to get hamburgers, hot dogs, and drinks. We only worked a few days a week- when there were no "Tests" going on, and the rest of the time we just hung around the tents we lived in. I did witness several shots, and when they were done - we had to stay behind the sandbag wall and wear the dark goggles issued to us. I had a film badge that I wore all the time I was there. but it was never read - or looked at until the day we were told to pack out stuff ... and go to " Fred " the big Island for debriefing.
I left Eniwetok Atoll in September of 1958 - flew to Treasure Island in San Francisco for reassignment to the USS Midway - CV 41 which I caught in route to the West Pac in October...I was a member of the NAAV for many years, however have not been for several years. I have recently retired ( Social Security ), and am also retired US Naval Reserve - after 23 years service. I am very interested in learning more about the time I was in Eniwetok and CTG 7.3 Boat Pool in 1958. When we all were all reassigned in the Fall of 1958, I was assigned to the USS Midway - CVA 41. and discharged from active duty in January 1963.
Not too much else to report - as I really do not remember much more about that summer of 1958...
Ronald E.. Pope
PO1- USNR - RET
3212 Gleneagles Ct
Plano, Texas 75093
972 473 2625
Email: n.pope@verizon.net
Keith Whittle
February 12, 2007
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