Howard L. Watson
From: "Howard L Watson" hlwlvw96@earthlink.net
To: pdxavets@aracnet.com
Subject: Operations Crosroads Bikini 1946
Date: Tue, 27 Nov 2007
I was there for tests Able and Baker. I was an AETM3c in the Third Division on the USS Avery Island, the electronic ship which controlled the tests. We were the last ship to leave the lagoon before each blast. We readied all of the electronic equipment and turned it on before we left the lagoon to record video, pressure and sound. As far as I know, I was the last person to board the New York as we sailed out of the lagoon.
My unit was Code 935 BUAER under Lt. E. V. Sizer, Code Head.
Our assignment was to check all electronic gear on aircraft on the Saratoga, the Independence and in the holds of several ships. We prepared reports of the condition of each piece.Following the blast, we revisited each ship and re-tested the equipment, again reporting on its condition.
I found the information on the site interesting after all these years. I went into the Navy when I was 17 years of age, I am now 80 years old.
Thank you for listening to my story as I reflect on a period of my life long ago.
Howard L. Watson
Orlando, FL
Email:hlwlvw96@earthlink.net
[ Operation Crossroads ]