Beaverbank, NS

1958 – Narrative Report – National Archives of Canada


SECRET

Narrative Report
RCAF Station Beaverbank
1 Dec 58 to 31 May 59

Section II – CAdO

The following is an outline of the activities of the CAdO for this period.

8 Dec 58

Air Commodore Reyno, D/AOC ADCHQ, visited the unit for an inspection.

12 Dec 58

The Boys and Girls Clubs of the Station held a very successful Variety Show.

18 Dec 58

The David Hornell School combined with the Beaverbank Park Council to hold a Christmas concert. Santa Claus distributed presents and refreshments.

24 Dec 58

Dr. PL Milns completed his employment as the Station Medical Officer, as he was leaving to continue his practice in Bolton, Ontario.

31 Dec 58

All Messes held New Year’s Eve dances.

11 Feb 59

F/L PG Chipean, CAdO, was presented with the Canadian Forces Decoration.

12 Feb 59

Twenty-five members of the Halifax Rotary Club were conducted on a tour of the station, including the Operations Building. On completion of the tour, a dinner was held in the Officer’s Mess.

17 Feb 59

F/O VE McCaw replaced F/L LJ Davis as PAdO.

28 Feb 59

The station hockey team won the Halifax Tri-Service Hockey League championship.

23 Mar 59

The station was alerted for a Vulnerability Test. A successful defence was carried out as the ADCHQ Test Team failed to capture any of the sites.

4 Apr 59

A Red Cross conducted swimming instructors course was held on the unit. This is a week’s course, and included civilians from the Halifax area. Four servicemen from the unit successfully completed the course.

23 Apr 59

A search party found the daughter of Cpl. Rix, Supply Section, in the woods near the station after she had been missing for approximately three hours.

24 Apr 59

F/L RE Laird and Cpl. EC Day were awarded the Canadian Forces Decoration.

27 Apr 59

A practice nuclear defence exercise for personnel of the Domestic site was carried out for one hour.

29 May 59

F/L JH MacLean was awarded the Canadian Forces Decoration.

Section III – Chief Technical Services Officer

The following is an outline of the activities of the sections under command of the CTSO.

2 Dec 58

WP1 JJA Aucoin and Sgt. GW DeGruchy of ADCHQ, SOCE branch inspected the power plant. Mr. D Martin and party of seven technicians arrived from CGE, Toronto, to carry out the semi-annual overhaul of radar equipment.

8 Dec 58

A/C EM Reyno, D/AOC/A, carried out an inspection of the technical sections. WO JS Rattee of ADCHQ carried out an inspection of the station Pump and Sewage system.

12 Dec 58

Mr. K Cooke of Maritime Tel and Tel took over the duties of Wire Chief from Mr. F Moore, who returned to MT&T.

17 Dec 58

Mr. T Waterston and Mr. D Gill of Canadian Marconi, Montreal, arrived this date to carry out an investigation on Marconi-manufactured magnetrons which had been found unsatisfactory in performance.

30 Dec 58

AN/GPX-6A equipment arrived this date from Rome AFB and was placed in storage pending installation at a future date.

1 Jan 59

F/O NW Rehder, SSO, promoted to rank of Flight Lieutenant.

9 Jan 59

Two FRT-502 transmitters and three URC-60 receivers were shipped to Sydney this date. Mr. D Murray and Mr. R Martin arrived this date with a reconditioned amplidyne for installation in the radar equipment.

14 Jan 59

F/L AC Edmonds of SOAF branch ADCHQ inspected the CE stores and photo section records.

26 Jan 59

F/O EW Gaffray proceeded on TD to attend a Telecom Officers Conference at ADCHQ. A new snow plow, 12E61-1810 arrived this date from Station Rockcliffe.

28 Jan 58

A Cadillac ambulance, 51J6-1556 was added to the vehicle strength this date. A long line circuit, 59E, was activated with Barrington.

2 Feb 59

W/C W Trischuk, SOCE, ADCHQ carried out an inspection of the CE section.

5 Feb 59

Mr. WA Parama and party of 10 technicians arrived to carry out the semi-annual overhaul of secondary radar equipment and the 15J1D trainer.

11 Feb 59

The Annapolis Valley Construction Company arrived on the site to commence construction of a four-room school extension and 48 new PMQs.

12 Feb 59

W/C CEF Underwood, CCE/Insp. of AFHQ visited the CE section for liaison purposes and inspection. Twenty-five members of the Halifax Rotary Club were given a tour through the radar section and message centre.

19 Feb 59

Mr. D Murray of CGE arrived on a pre-overhaul inspection.

24 Feb 59

Mr. LM Nagata and Mr. HJ Simons of CGE arrived to carry out transmitter modifications.

3 Mar 59

Mr. DC Murray of CGE and party of technicians commenced the annual overhaul of communications equipment. F/O EW Gaffray, RAdO, proceeded to RCAF Station Parent for a period of two weeks TD. F/O HW Causier, Tech/Tel assumed the duties of RAdO effective this date.

5 Mar 59

A/C DAR Bradshaw, D/AOC,O carried out an inspection of the Radar Section.

6 Mar 59

Mr. HR Standring and Mr. LaPoint of RCA Montreal, arrived to investigate and correct a fault on the TPS-502 400 Cycle Generator.

8 Mar 59

The station fire truck was dispatched approximately one mile south on the Beaverbank Road to assist in fighting a fire at a farm owned by Mr. Lively.

12 Mar 59

F/O E McLachlan, Tech/Tel, assumed the duties of CommO vice F/O HW Causier.

1 Apr 59

Mr. AJ MacDonald and Mr. WR MacDonald of Maritime Tel and Tel ceased employment at RCAF Station Beaverbank as Wire Chief and Assistance Wire Chief. Mr. N Dolbec of Northeastern took over the duties of Wire Chief.

6 Apr 59

F/L NW Rehder was appointed VMEO vice F/O EW Gaffray. FS HG Moon of ADCHQ carried out an inspection of the Sewage Disposal Field at the Operations Building.

7 Apr 59

WO1 JA MacDougall of ADCHQ carried out a Command fire inspection.

16 Apr 59

FS WE LeBlanc reported in from RCAF Station Goose Bay to take over the duties of CE Foreman of Works.

26 Apr 59

A crew of six fire fighters and equipment were dispatched to help fight a fire approximately five miles south of the station.

30 Apr 59

F/L C Hines, SSO of Station Sydney, arrived for a liaison visit.

4 May 59

F/L JG Ford of AFHQ, Mr. RW Hawkins, Mr. D Covill and Mr. A Noble of Crossar of Canada, Halifax; Mr. H Rogers of AMC arrived this date to carry out proto-type tests of AN/GPA-501 equipment. F/L A Atkinson of ADCHQ arrived to carry out a Telecom staff visit and to conduct a two day technician course on the AN/GPA-16 equipment.

11 May 59

Six volunteer fire fighters were dispatched to assist the provincial forest ranger to fight a forest fire approximately two miles south of this unit.

21 May 59

A message was received from ADCHQ this date amending the designation of Vehicle and Marine Equipment to Mobile Support Equipment and VMEO to MSEO. Mr. DM Loomis of Inspection Services, AFHQ visited the unit to inspect new construction.

25 May 59

S/L L Stewart, Tech/Tel, F/O D Clarke, Tech/CE, and Mr. Petterson of AFHQ arrived for the purpose of siting a Ground Air Transmitter Receiver building and antenna farm.

 

Section IV – Senior Controller

The following is an outline of the activities of the Senior Controller section for this period.

1 Dec 58

10 practice intercepts with Banshees. STP exercise carried out. Scope camera on Clipper 114 - Mode 3.

2 Dec 58

Sector advises ECM Exercise with 104 Comm. Flight. Thirteen practice exercises with Banshees.

3 Dec 58

Surveillance given MATS 7675 upon request.

4 Dec 58

ECM Synthetic Triangulation Exercise. One unknown - later identified.

5 Dec 58

Nil joy with Decision on HF. Attempted all channels. Fourteen practice intercepts with Banshees. STP Exercise carried out. MTI Off 53 minutes - Requested by CGE Crew.

6 Dec 58

Adelaide 418 declared emergency. Escorted by Adelaide 129 to ZX via QI. Weather passed to Decision for relay to a/c. Aircraft landed safely at ZX. Aircraft had lost starboard inner propeller which had sliced off part of nose cone. These a/c never under Redtape control. Two unknowns - Later identified. Received Mechanical and Electronic (Strength 1) Jamming from Kenneth a/c working QM. QM and Search and Rescue 2 S2F a/c overdue at Bermuda. Alert removed later by Shearwater. Two a/c under surveillance.

7 Dec 58

Two Sections Moneybags - F86’s - Controlled by Auxiliary Controllers.

8 Dec 58

Exercise "Signpost" (ECM Synthetic Triangulation) carried out. STP Exercise carried out. Nine Practice Intercepts with Banshees.

9 Dec 58

CGE Technical Crew still working annual maintenance. Synthetic Exercise ECM "Signpost" carried out. Having considerable trouble on Telling Circuit.

10 Dec 58

Acted as Primary Report Unit for Adelaide "Senior". Aircraft had lost radio contact with Brunswick, ME. Passed all information on L/L to "Wildbill" for relay to "No Trump". Heavy interference on FPS-502. Internal - caused by 6B. Advised by Sector to disregard unknown. Three practice intercepts with Banshees.

11 Dec 58

Synthetic ECM Exercise "Signpost" carried out. N6342 to XF on handover from Founder.

12 Dec 58

Wildbill advise weather balloon in JP5945 heading NE approximate speed 110K at 35,000 feet. Did not paint this target. One unknown - later identified. Handover AF441 to Midwife. Anti-clutter FTC on EW Kit to reduce weather on scope. STP Exercise carried out.

14 Dec 58

HF Line to Decision unserviceable.

15 Dec 58

STP Exercise carried out. "Big Blast" Exercise, Condition 4 from Zola 18 but no interference from Zola 46 - a/c off Redtape frequency. Transmitting on 1300 Megs - TJon 2800.

16 Dec 58

Emergency maintenance on 6B. Only SAC Tracks and Friendly fighters forward told to Sector during SAC overfly. Permission to intercept given. Shearwater unable to supply and interceptors for this exercise. All SAC a/c are SRCC "Fakers". ECM - Condition 2 - and Mechanical Jamming. Scope Camera used on ECM.

17 Dec 58

Three F89’s scrambled from PQU for our control. Eaglebeak had power failure and could not correlate handover. Redtape had to use backup due to faulty main gear in rotation system. Echo Golf Blue Section (F89’s) handed over to Founder. Throughout the day Redtape experienced Mechanical and Electronic Jamming ( Strength 1 - 4) but no intercepts carried out. Fighters were not available for our control though 4 CF-100’s were on alert at Chatham. Considerable difficulty was experienced with the Radar necessitating the use of backup. Sector could not allow any time for 6B maintenance until SAC overfly complete. No STP due to SAC overfly.

18 Dec 58

ECM experienced during first eight hour shift as continuation of SAC overfly. Pepper had runs but though tracks passed through Redtape area no fighter a/c available for control. Eleven practice intercepts with Banshees.

19 Dec 58

Mechanical Jamming carried as TJ6 although no evidence of a track. GObC was alerted for possible balloon drop in LQ44. A string Jet Stream was in this vicinity and Chaff dropped in a more westerly section may have drifted east due to high winds. Nil results from GObC. Nil evidence of aircraft.

21 Dec 58

Unknown claimed by "No Trump" to be a Boeing 707. Though 50 miles off course this track was identified by Wildbill.

22 Dec 58

Synthetic ECM Triangulation exercise carried out. Northern GObC declared a Cocked Pistol but #2 Sector did not participate. Surveillance given to Navy 1507.

23 Dec 58

Electronic Jamming (Strength 1) experienced on two occasions. One, Jolly 57 was transmitting inadvertedly and the second instance pertained to four B-52’s in Midwife’s area.

25 Dec 58

HF with Decision very noisy.

28 Dec 58

IFF changed in EW kit.

30 Dec 58

Synthetic ECM Triangulation Exercise carried out. EW IFF still very weak.

31 Dec 58

Explanatory signal on ECM Report "Big Blast" 15 Dec 58 - Zola 46 sent to Pease AFB, MA. Handover Clipper 2115 to Founder.

1 Jan 59

EW IFF Normal. One unknown - later identified.

2 Jan 59

SIF System "Turn-On" date postponed from 1 Jan 59 to 2359Z 31 Jan 59.

3 Jan 59

Handed over Schoolite 28 (KC-97) to Pepper control.

5 Jan 59

STP Exercise carried out. Scope camera used on Zola 16 - "Big Blast".

6 Jan 59

EW Kit went u/s. On backup. The condition lasted until 092025Z. The cause for the delay in getting the main gear serviceable sooner was burned out generator brushes with replacements unavailable here. Parts had to be shipped in from Toronto. STP Exercise carried out. Six practice intercepts with Banshees.

8 Jan 59

Fourteen practice intercepts with Banshees. Off the air for emergency maintenance for one hour.

9 Jan 59

STP Exercise carried out. Returned to Main Gear. First time since 6 Jan. Took hand over from Founder of MATS 33272.

10 Jan 59

Synthetic exercise carried out by 2405 (Auxiliary) Squadron.

11 Jan 59

Synthetic exercise carried out by 2405 (Auxiliary) Squadron.

12 Jan 59

STP Exercise carried out. "Big Blast" - Zola 14 - ECM (Strength 1). Sweep Jamming run.

13 Jan 59

Eight practice intercepts with Banshees. ECM Strength 1 from NW B-47’s not working this area. Tracks scrubbed by Mohawk. Four KC-97’s on Flight following. Handed over to Pepper. Ten practice intercepts with 2 CF-100’s (Rhino Squadron) from Chatham. This is the beginning of new scheduling of CF-100’s stationed at Bagotville for Redtape control.

14 Jan 59

Ten practice intercepts with Banshees. Emergency maintenance. Voltage Rectifier u/s on Search. This required the use of 6B on 300 RPF with Tilt lowered to 1.5 degrees Mechanical or 0 degrees Electronic. This condition lasted for a period of 30 hours until a new unit was installed. One unknown track - re-identified as MATS 33288.

15 Jan 59

Nine practice intercepts with 2 CF-100’s - Rhino 12 and 14. A second section was cancelled later in the day as low level clearance (10,000 feet) could not be attained from Moncton. One unknown track re-identified as Adelaide 543. External interference on EW IFF. Source unknown.

16 Jan 59

Electronic Jamming (Strength 1) received from B-47 in Midwife area. No action required from Redtape. STP Exercise carried out. Information received from Bagpipe that a Commanche crashed in Sydney area. No further information available.

17 Jan 59

Emergency maintenance for 35 minutes. Back up serviceable. Commanche a/c found in Sydney area. Pilot killed. No on else on board. Diverted to Sydney because of weather on flight from Gander to New York. Practice intercepts handled by 2405 (Auxiliary) Squadron.

18 Jan 59

Four practice intercepts with Sabres by 2405 (Auxiliary) Squadron. Unknown track - TJ42 - intercepted by Scallop Trout 2. Aircraft identified as a DC-4 #0272714.

19 Jan 59

Adelaide Senior given flight following as aircraft was unable to establish UHF contact with No Trump. Eventually this aircraft was handed over to Picket Ship Control. STP exercise carried out. Six practice intercepts with CF-100’s - Rhino 10 and 12. Five practice intercepts with CF-100’s - Rhino 5 and 7.

20 Jan 59

Eight practice intercepts with Banshees. Five practice intercepts with CF-100’s.

21 Jan 59

COC Triangulation Synthetic Exercise carried out. STP exercise carried out. Pancake 32 given flight following handed over to Decision.

22 Jan 59

STP exercise carried out. Emergency maintenance for 23 minutes. Back up serviceable.

23 Jan 59

One section of Banshees scrambled for CAP. This section was then committed against YG3. Intercept completed. Target was one CF-100. This target was not an unknown. Scramble and intercept was a practice mission. Redtape gave flight following to one MATS, three Banshees and one CF-100.

24 Jan 59

CF-100 sections were assigned and cancelled on two occasions. All intercepts were under Midwife control. Slant paints on HRI were very weak. Maximum distance was 65 NM. EW IFF was unserviceable. Surveillance given to one a/c - VC598.

25 Jan 59

Electronic jamming Condition 1. Source unknown. Anti-clutter circuits were used. Very effective. Jamming lasted only for a period of 3 minutes.

26 Jan 59

STP exercise carried out. Two aircraft under surveillance. One unknown track re-identified as one Boeing 707.

27 Jan 59

Electronic jamming condition 1 from 320 degrees was reduced to zero by use of FTC and AUNL. This jamming was aircraft working Eaglebeak. Sector did not require any flash reports. Later in the day Mechanical jamming observed about 130 NM west. This was established as coming from an aircraft working Brunswick, ME. Still later in the afternoon, external interference of unknown source experienced on EWK. Surveillance given one a/c on handover to Sydney.

28 Jan 59

Random mechanical jamming observed 100 NM west. Aircraft making drops was working range and Sector advised us to ignore same. IFF on 6B very weak. One unknown tracked late - identified as Adelaide 33. Surveillance given one aircraft. STP exercise carried out.

29 Jan 59

Redtape went on Emergency maintenance until further notice. Back up put into operation until CGE representatives arrive and correct fault in EWK and 6B. Landline 59E now operational between ourselves and Barrington. This line is a primary telling/plotting line, but may be used as an operational or administrative line. HF contact with Barrington is being maintained until further notice. This landline is our first line to this American manned site. Surveillance given to five aircraft.

30 Jan 59

STP exercise carried out. Due to emergency maintenance only one scope could be utilized for this exercise. This scope for control purpose. Surveillance given to one aircraft.

31 Jan 59

Surveillance given to two aircraft.

2 Feb 59

STP exercise carried out. One unknown track - identified.

3 Feb 59

Off the air for 20 minutes. Emergency maintenance.

4 Feb 59

"Big Blast" ECM exercise. SAC aircraft ran jamming run for 36 minutes during latter part of the evening shift. STP exercise carried out. Heavy external interference was noticed on EW around noon for 3 minutes (approximately). Source was unknown.

5 Feb 59

Emergency maintenance required during day shift. Back up radar used for approximately 3 hours. Fault was in 6B antenna rotation. Strength 1 electronic jamming from 360 degrees. This proved to be originating from aircraft working Eaglebeak. We were advised by sector that no requirement existed for us to pass reports. Three practice intercepts with Banshees.

6 Feb 59

STP exercise carried out. Emergency maintenance from 1925 - 2055Z. Two unknowns - later identified. Gave surveillance to three aircraft.

7 Feb 59

One unknown track was scrubbed before identification was made. The reason for scrubbing track was position off GSM board.

8 Feb 59

Considerable trouble with radar equipment. Primary and back up were off due to triggering system. When the search became serviceable surveillance was carried out on the 502 monitor scope. The EW kit was unserviceable for two hours. 6B was unserviceable for two and a half hours.

9 Feb 59

STP exercise carried out. Because of Trigger Amplifier considerable difficulty with 6B and HRI. RCA Technicians working on 15J1D. Should be ready prior to the weekend. An Emergency Squawk 4 was picked up in the Greenwood area. Checking with ZX tower did not accomplish any identification. It is believed an Argus in that area inadvertently squawking. Nothing concrete obtained.

10 Feb 59

Redtape was off the air for three hours on emergency maintenance. Repairs being made to 6B Trigger. After the three hour period the Search, IFF and HRI became serviceable. We were advised of a "Sweep Jamming" mission by 5 B-47’s to take place during the evening shift. Dartmouth Navy did not have any aircraft available to intercept on this mission.

11 Feb 59

STP exercise carried out. "Sweep Jamming" run lasted only one minute. One unknown - later identified.

12 Feb 59

AMIS was unserviceable during part of the day shift. This line implemented for flight plans, came into effect on 9 Feb 59. There are still a few bugs to be ironed out before complete serviceability can be effected and while this line is out at this station, applicable flight plans are passed to us by Sector. RCA technicians are still working on the back up radar and 15J1D. The 15J1D became serviceable in late afternoon. Two unknowns - later identified. While using 6B for Search the Tilt was lowered to 1.5 degrees Mech. with PRF of 300. This is very effective. Synthetic Triangulation exercise carried out with COC.

13 Feb 59

STP exercise carried out. Two unknown tracks - later identified. Emergency maintenance for 20 minutes. RCAF technicians completed with overhaul. Back up and 15J1D serviceable. Search still u/s awaiting 400 cycle brushes.

14 Feb 59

Eight synthetic intercepts completed. Some targets still require adjusting on speed control. Search equipment now serviceable. Radar giving good results. Six intercepts with CF-100’s. These aircraft are part of the program to work with "2 sub-sectors on live intercepts". Bagpipe reported an aircraft over Lousiburg with its port engine on fire. Inquiries did not produce any evidence of any aircraft experiencing trouble. Exercise "Reflex Action" with B-47’s penetrating Naval area, to take place on 19 and 20 Feb 59.

15 Feb 59

Nine synthetic intercepts completed. CF-100 aircraft near our control cancelled for day program. Severe snow and wind. Bagotville only alternate. All HF frequencies changed. One aircraft under surveillance.

16 Feb 59

STP exercise carried out. Redtape had 2 sections of CF-100’s based at Chatham for close control. Carried out 10 PI’s. AFHQ are coming out with new policy regarding HF Net. As of this date, until further notice, Redtape is not on any HF Net.

17 Feb 59

Nine PI’s with a pair of CF-100’s based at Chatham. Five practice intercepts with Banshee a/c. Surveillance given to Fishbank Faker 9.

18 Feb 59

STP scheduled was cancelled by Sector. Two aircraft were given surveillance.

19 Feb 59

One unknown track later identified as one B-52. A local synthetic exercise was carried out which included 8 intercepts and 2 GCI-GCA letdowns. Sydney requested RCC aid to assist in the Rescue of 3 men trapped in a boat, 2 miles off St. Peters Bay. Upon contacting RCC, Redtape learned they were working directly with the RCMP. The final outcome of this mission as successful. Five UHF frequencies - 392.2, 342.0, 312.2, 278.4 and 253.8 were removed from our channelization set-up.

20 Feb 59

During daily maintenance in the evening, Redtape refused to take over a section of 3 CF-100’s from Chatham. The weather display was so concentrated on the scope that the controller was unable to establish radar contact with the a/c. STP exercise carried out. Two aircraft given surveillance. Three practice intercepts with Banshees. Redtape carried out a Live Broadcast Control exercise employing 4 CF-100’s based at Chatham. The exercise proved quite successful. Heavy internal interference was caused by the FPS-502 Trigger System during the day shift. The interference lasted for 2 hours until the Tech rectified the trouble all Blanket circuits were used.

21 Feb 59

Two unknown tracks originated in our area and were later identified as friendly. One aircraft under surveillance. Auxiliary controllers carried out synthetic PI’s.

22 Feb 59

Five aircraft were under surveillance. A local synthetic exercise was carried out by members of 2405 (Auxiliary) Squadron who were here over the weekend.

23 Feb 59

STP exercise carried out. Eleven practice intercepts with Banshees. A Harlequin type exercise with 3 CF-100’s from Chatham, resulted in 12 practice intercepts.

24 Feb 59

Four aircraft under surveillance. One of these a/c Cowbell 15 declared a semi-emergency requesting to descend from 37,000 to 10,000 feet due to a pressure failure in the Gunner section. After descending, the trouble was overcome and the a/c climbed to its original altitude. Four practice intercepts carried out with Banshees. A local synthetic exercise was employed with no forward telling required. One unknown track - strength 6 - identified friendly by Sector.

25 Feb 59

STP exercise carried out. Three sections - 2 a/c to a section - were scrambled from Shearwater on a CF-100 acting as a penetrating track at 30,000 feet. One fighter aborted due to radio and radar failure and was replaced by the scramble order of one fighter. Three of the six aircraft carried out MA’s and three were unsuccessful due to controller error. Eleven practice intercepts were also completed while these a/c were airborne. Two unknown tracks were later identified friendly. Twelve practice intercepts with Banshees carried out at night. Two sections of CF-100’s one section of 2 a/c for PI’s and one section of 3 a/c for Broadcast Control were utilized from their base at Chatham.

26 Feb 59

Two aircraft under surveillance plus one section of 4 CF-100’s on a handover from Pepper. UHF frequency 392.2 now utilized on our Channel 15. Eight practice intercepts with Banshees. UHF Frequency 364.2 causing trouble.

27 Feb 59

STP exercise carried out. UHF 364.2 now serviceable. Trouble was in the transmitter. Five aircraft under surveillance. Kenneth 5 unable to contact Midwife on 364.2. Requested to run on Redtape for ECM practice. Strength of Electronic Jamming never more than 2. One Banshee (BD14) airborne for local flying was re-directed to jamming aircraft. This intercept was successful with identification of Kenneth 5 as one B-50. NORAD Form #5 forwarded to Sector.

28 Feb 59

Four aircraft given surveillance. One of these was a handover from Wildbill. 2405 (Auxiliary) Squadron controllers carried out synthetic exercise.

1 Mar 59

"Bankmud" - Bangor SAGE - became operational at 0001Z. They request that Redtape forward tell all westbound traffic that is south of Halifax to 4300 N initially as it crosses 6400W with 3 minute revisions thereafter. Redtape’s landline contact with Bankmud is through the same lines now being used to Founder with 487C going directly to their manual input and terminated at the Forward Tellers position at this end. Two aircraft under surveillance. Two unknown tracks originated in our area were later identified as friendly.

2 Mar 59

STP exercise carried out. During this 2 hour exercise, the only tracks forward told to Bankmud are live, Hostile, Unknown or Fakers. Two aircraft - B-29’s - were unintentionally jamming Redtape, strength 1, from 120 NM north on an easterly heading. No action taken. Banshee aircraft scheduled to fly a night practice intercept mission cancelled out due to weather. One unknown track originated in our area was later identified as friendly.

3 Mar 59

At 0330Z, Redtape went on emergency maintenance. EW unserviceable. The 6B was used with 300 RPF and Mechanical tilt lowered to 1.5 degrees. This was to last until 050108Z. Using the 6B was very effective during the unserviceable time of the search Kit. Two unknown tracks - one originating in Eaglebeak’s area - were later identified friendly. Three aircraft were under surveillance. Bankmud and Decision carried out an STP exercise with no participation required by Redtape.

4 Mar 59

The STP normally scheduled was cancelled due to failure of our T-2. Two unknown tracks were carried. Both were later identified friendly. Sector advised that the 3 remaining weekly maintenance periods for the month were to be changed from Wednesdays to Thursdays because of the STP exercises. Position reports from Air Senior were passed by Redtape to No Trump as a/c could not contact the latter.

5 Mar 59

Air Commodore Bradshaw, Deputy AOC, visited Redtape for the day. An internal STP exercise was implemented for the visit. Redtape was unable to contact Violet 29 as requested by Moncton. This a/c was 30 minutes overdue at COD. No further information on this a/c was received.

6 Mar 59

STP exercise carried out. Decision advised they picked up an Emergency IFF presentation from Adelaide 534. This was not observed at this site. Bankmud was also advised but had no joy. It was later decided this a/c was on SIF as the return was received at Decision on interrogating for Mode 3. No further inquiries were carried out.

7 Mar 59

Mechanical jamming observed north with a/c working Midwife. No action was required from Redtape. One unknown track originated in this area which was later identified as friendly. All four land lines to Founder are out for 14 hours. This was due to American site working on their switchboard. However, Redtape still has landline contact with Bankmud.

9 Mar 59

STP exercise carried out. Nine practice intercepts with Banshees.

10 Mar 59

"Big Blast" sweep jamming run with Zola 42. This run took place during the latter part of the afternoon and was a 50% paint - no paint run. Anti-jamming circuits worked quite well. One aircraft was given surveillance.

11 Mar 59

STP exercise carried out. Shortly after 0130 hours (LST) Wildbill notified us of an emergency with Oatmeal 70. All attempts by Redtape to contact this aircraft on VHF/UHF unsuccessful. Emergency was called off a short time after attempts were made to contact this aircraft. Aircraft landed at home unit without incident. A submarine sighting report was received from Truro Filter Center. Information passed to Sector and Dockyard. Nothing of further importance followed regarding this incident. Two aircraft handed over to Decision for surveillance.

12 Mar 59

A Distress "Parrot" signal was picked up 20 NM due west. Attempts to contact any aircraft on VHF/UHF were unsuccessful. The "Mayday" disappeared over Greenwood and later proved to be an Argus - VC20728 - which landed successfully after an engine failure. One unknown track later identified as friendly.

13 Mar 59

Three unknown tracks carried during 24 hours of operations. All tracks were later identified friendly.

15 Mar 59

Eight practice intercepts carried out by 2405 (Auxiliary) with Sabre aircraft from Chatham. Two aircraft were given surveillance and a total of three unknown tracks were later identified friendly. Sector inquired about an emergency squawk in the vicinity of 4120N 6430W. Redtape was unable to assist in this regard. No further action was required.

16 Mar 59

STP exercise carried out. Two ECM runs - one in the morning and one in the afternoon by Boneyard 2 out of Greenwood. Both runs only reached a condition 2 and with anti-jamming (FTC) on EW Kit. Though jamming not eliminated, aircraft was painted at all times. Two unknowns during the day. Each was re-identified friendly. Boneyard 2 ran ECM on Redtape with condition 2 experienced on search. Bankmud requested that the "Hot-Line" not be used for Telling. All special tracks to be told through the switchboard. Faulty IFF created an emergency presentation. This fault was quickly rectified by the Techs. At 2003Z (1603 LST) 1, 2, 3 Sectors and 64th Air Division were placed on "Short Jab" Air Defence Readiness State Preparatory to penetrating exercise "Blast Off". This exercise was a no notice NORAD directed exercise with the simulated enemy air force to consist of an attacking force of approximately 130 B-47 of the 8th and 2nd Air Forces to penetrate eastern Canada over a 34 hour duration. Maximum use of ECM was to be used, if required, with B-47 cells varying in strength from 1 to 5 a/c. Friendly forces to be employed were RCAF ADC aircraft and RCN forces, when available. The mission of "Blast Off" was to determine the capabilities of Eastern Canadian Sectors to successfully track and intercept concentrated attacks of high-speed high-flying targets using ECM. The attacking forces were to penetrate on a no warning basis using ECM, both Electronic and chaff. The Goose Bay Tanker Force was to support the mission and maximum participation was anticipated by interceptor aircraft. Command informed Sector of a Security Standdown and there were no Faker aircraft in our area until we were put on "Snowman" at 180027Z. CF-100’s from St. Huberts were deployed to Chatham with a turn around expectancy of 30 minutes. A total of 6 were to be made available to #2 Sector. The Navy also placed 870 Squadron at our disposal. By the end of the day no simulated enemy tracks had entered our area.

18 Mar 59

Operational personnel were placed on Alert Schedule as soon as the Alert sounded yesterday. This schedule requires all crews to work 12 hour shifts with shift changes every 6 hours. All available controllers were called in for this exercise. Officers detailed to the Battle Staff were to remain in the Operations Building for the duration of the exercise. Hot meals and sandwiches were provided to personnel in Operations by the kitchen staff. At 0027Z, Redtape was placed on Air Defence Warning "Snowman" followed by "Applejack" at 0211Z. The RCN Banshees were placed on 10 minute Air Readiness State. The exercise carried on until "Fade Out" at 1530Z which concluded the exercise much sooner than had been anticipated as originally advised. During the exercise several scrambles were originated including Banshees from Shearwater, CF-100’s from Chatham and F-89’s from Presque Isle. Several handovers took place between Redtape and Pepper and some included F-89’s from Eaglebeak and Midwife. A large number of overflys took place and Sweep-Jamming scores were tabulated on ECM. Throughout the entire exercise Redtape did a remarkably fine job with all personnel extending themselves to the fullest extent. Weather conditions were most favorable for flying and the RCN were particularly noticeable for their full co-operation on airborne participation. See entry 26 Mar for detailed results.

19 Mar 59

A few Sweep-Jamming runs continued for approximately 10 hours following "Fade Out" on "Blast Off" exercise with scores averaging between 4 and 6. The last run went through Redtape’s area at 0430Z. Other traffic light for this date with 3 aircraft under surveillance.

20 Mar 59

STP exercise carried out.

21 Mar 59

Two aircraft under surveillance and two unknown tracks re-identified friendly. EW Kit unserviceable for 45 minutes. Back up employed during this interval.

22 Mar 59

2405 (Auxiliary) Squadron carried out an internal canned exercise. One unknown track re-identified friendly and two aircraft under surveillance.

23 Mar 59

STP exercise carried out. At 1910Z a security alert was sounded. This alert lasted until 0833Z, the next day. During the period 7 out of a Ground Penetrating Force of 8 were apprehended. One aircraft experiencing aileron trouble given surveillance for 10 minutes. Handed over to Halifax tower and landed safely.

24 Mar 59

The weekly maintenance due for 6 hours required a total time of 10 hours due to trouble with the EW Kit. Redtape also experienced IFF Failure during part of this maintenance period.

25 Mar 59

At approximately 1530Z, Exercise "Cue Ball" commenced. This exercise consisted of a penetration of 2 CF-100 tracks from the NE. One track penetrated to Halifax and then turned north. The second track penetrated to a point approximately 50 miles north of Redtape prior to turning north. Banshee fighters from the RCN were employed as interceptors. Four sections of two aircraft and a single aircraft were scrambled during this exercise. One pair was handed over to Pepper; one pair to Midwife with Redtape maintaining control of two pairs and the single aircraft. Under Redtape’s control one pair effected an intercept prior to the Fakers reaching Halifax and the second pair had MA’s as the track moved North from Halifax. The single fighter was unsuccessful due to a late scramble. Sector’s appraisal of the exercise stated that only the first two scrambles were early enough. The last three, even though two were successful, were not considered as having been implemented soon enough. EW Kit shut down for 30 minutes due to 400 cycle generator brushes being u/s. During this period, search was carried out with the 6B on 300 PRF and a Mechanical tilt of 1.5 degrees.

26 Mar 59

The results of this unit’s participation in exercise "Blast Off" conducted 17-18 Mar are as follows:

A

Number of known penetrating tracks

54

B

Total number of tracks detected

54

 

through initial plots

3

 

through cross told tracks

51

C

Interceptor tactical action

 
 

Total scrambles

12

 

Total aircraft scrambled

23

 

Total MA’s

25

 

By F2H

22

 

By CF-100 and F-89’s

3

 

Total MI’s

6

 

By F2H - (2-EMC, 1-LS, 1 AEF)

4

 

By CF-100’s and F-89’s (1-ECM, 1 AEF)

2

It is to be noted that the co-operation and accuracy of warning cross telling from Pepper was conducive to keeping the operation situation clearly presented to the Battle Commander. Communications were found to be adequate and the Sector Conference Circuit was a great asset in passing and receiving information.

28 Mar 59

Three unknown tracks - later identified as friendly. Emergency squawk 4 reported by Midwife was Clipper 15 (B-707) on SIF.

30 Mar 59

STP exercise for 27 Mar and this date cancelled. Easter weekend. Decision are now receiving early warning from Picket Ships and will be responsible for identifying such tracks. This responsibility was that of Border.

31 Mar 59

One unknown track - later established as friendly.

1 Apr 59

STP for this date cancelled by Sector. MAC Operations requested that Redtape try to contact AF24116. This a/c was one hour overdue at Greenwood. Decision was advised and asked to attempt similar contact. Both sources were unsuccessful. This a/c eventually called in over Bridgewater requesting clearance to Greenwood. This clearance was obtained through RCC and aircraft landed safely. Electronic jamming (Condition 1) experienced on EW Kit from 300 degrees M. This lasted for approximately 10 minutes. No action was required. An emergency IFF mode was passed from Midwife. This was later proven not serious. Redtape did not paint this Mode 4 at any time. Two unknown tracks, heading SW in NP area were carried until faded by Sector. One track was squawking Mode 3 and one was on SIF. After contacting all possible sources of information, identification was not made. Effective this date #870 and 871 Squadrons at Shearwater have amalgamated into one Squadron. This Squadron is #870 with the call sign "Apprehend".

2 Apr 59

Redtape required extra hours for weekly maintenance because of difficulties with EW Kit. While working 6B in Search the RPF was 300 and worked very good. Cause of EW unserviceable lay in the Generator brushes of the 400 cycle motor. This condition existed until 032115Z. Two unknown tracks were carried – later identified.

3 Apr 59

Unknown track is NP34 suspected of being "Senior". These a/c work this area and contact by radio or identification from Bankmud are difficult to obtain on occasion. The RCN advised us that a NATO exercise will be carried out for an indefinite period. This exercise will involve RCN aircraft working from Bermuda north and as Moncton will not be able to pass flight plans, identification of these aircraft will have to be obtained from Shearwater. STP exercise carried out.

4 Apr 59

Two unknown tracks were established and then identified. Two aircraft given flight following on request.

5 Apr 59

STP exercise #7 conducted by 2405 (Auxiliary). This exercise was local and proved quite successful. Two unknown tracks. One track was handed over to Bankmud and the other was identified.

6 Apr 59

STO exercise carried out. Effective this date #870 Squadron’s call sign changed to "Cress".

7 Apr 59

Exercise "Checkerboard 2" commenced this date and is to terminate 20 Apr 59. Six CF-100’s from Uplands (3 from 428 and 3 from 410 Squadrons) are deployed at Chatham. One crew will be maintained at 10 minute readiness until 201200Z. These a/c are to practice intercepts with 2 Sector AC&Ws employing various types of assigned missions. Two sections of 2 CF-100’s were under Redtape’s control with a total of 6 MAs completed.

8 Apr 59

STP exercise carried out. 6 practice intercepts carried out with CF-100’s from Chatham. These aircraft are also carrying out practice Broadcast Control. One unknown track was identified friendly.

9 Apr 59

Radar giving very poor range pick up. This was believed due to heavy AP in the SW area. Electronic jamming in varying conditions of 1 and 2 were being received from 320 degrees M. This a/c was working Eaglebeak. Two sections of CF-100’s were handled for practice intercepts.

10 Apr 59

STP exercise carried out. Two sections of CF-100’s for practice intercepts. These aircraft are also employing Harlequin tactics.

11 Apr 59

Synthetic exercise carried out by 2405 (Auxiliary).

12 Apr 59

Five practice intercepts with CF-100’s from Chatham. One unknown track was re-identified as friendly.

13 Apr 59

STP exercise carried out. Six practice intercepts with CF-100’s from Chatham.

14 Apr 59

Redtape was advised that "Discoverer #2" was expected to go out of control between 142200Z and 150200Z. AC768 received at this unit informed us that area of drop expected to be from 7106N 166W to 87N 160W. An orange and white parachute attached to the cone would have a white light flashing for a time interval of from 8 to 10 hours. If the nose cone alites on water a luminous powder will indicate its position. Any sightings, visual or radar were to be passed to sector in plain language. No further incident regarding this drop occurred at this unit. Five aircraft "Bareback" section did sweep jamming run. Moderately effective.

15 Apr 59

All forward telling from this unit to Bankmud ceased this date until further notice. All priority tracks are to be forward told to Midwife who have now assumed the responsibility of passing traffic to Bankmud. Further information on Redtape’s contact with 32nd Air Divisions and Bangor SAGE is to be forwarded from Sector in the near future. Exercise "Booby Trap", consisting of an overfly of CF-100 target force, was delayed 24 hours due to weather conditions in Newfoundland. One aircraft, Jully 17, activated 2 GCI jamming runs. There were no fighters available to carry out intercepts. Jamming on "L" band quite effective. The 6B antenna was set at 1.5 degrees E and VL was used for search. This procedure has been giving better results than the EW Kit. STP exercise #9 carried out. Four practice intercepts with CF-100’s from Chatham. Three CF-100’s also carried out a Night Broadcast Control exercise under Redtape’s control.

16 Apr 59

Exercise "Booby Trap" was again delayed for 24 hours due to poor weather. The RCN have assigned 8 Banshees to act as interceptors for this mission. A Harlequin exercise was carried out with three CF-100’s from Chatham. Ten MAs. Land lines were checked out with COC regarding triangulation exercises. Redtape found COC very difficult to read. Lines are to serviced and another test will be run. An Apache aircraft, KKM, was reported lost by Moncton between St. John and Greenwood on a flight from Montreal to Halifax. Upon contacting Greenwood tower it was learned they were working this a/c on 121.5 mcs. All attempts by Redtape to establish voice contact with KKM failed. Liaison between Decision and Redtape, established radar position and with Greenwood relaying instructions by voice to a/c. Steers were given to recover a/c at Greenwood. This a/c was on top at 13,000 feet and a descent was made to 9,000 feet at which time the pilot reached VFR conditions and landed at Kelly Lake. No reason for the pilot having gone IFR was ever learned at this unit. DOT were, apparently more than a little perturbed over pilots behaviour.

17 Apr 59

STP exercise cancelled in lieu of exercise "Booby Trap". One track, consisting of 2 CF-100’s in close formation and 1 CF-100, a straggler 100 miles behind, flew in from the east and they landed at Halifax. Flying at 35,000 feet. These a/c were intercepted by 8 Banshees from Cress Squadron. The Banshees were scrambled from Redtape in four sections of two a/c. The first two sections were handed over to Pepper control because the 6B Modulator went u/s at this unit and the third and fourth sections remained under close control with Redtape. Four MAs were carried out on the CF-100’s and all 8 Banshees were recovered at Shearwater. The 26th Air Division went on Cocked Pistol at 1250Z for exercise "Straw Boss" although intercept action was not required. Decision expected 50 B-47s and KC-135’s from Westover and Loring. None of these tracks were observed in our area. This exercise terminated at 1700Z. MAC Search and Rescue advised they were put on alert because a CF-100 (492) was overdue from Torbay to Ottawa. This a/c arrived at destination without further incident. Surveillance was given AF574 which had its Radio Compass become unserviceable. This aircraft landed safely at Halifax.

19 Apr 59

Seven practice intercepts carried out with CF-100’s by 2405 (Auxiliary) Squadron controllers.

20 Apr 59

Broadcast Control exercise with 4 CF-100’s participating was carried out. STP exercise carried out. Land line check re "Sign Post" appeared quite serviceable although Redtape is only receiving COC strength 2. Apparently the wear line is running out of Midwife’s switchboard. Two a/c were given surveillance.

21 Apr 59

CF-100’s from Chatham attempted to carry out a Harlequin exercise. Because of aircraft unserviceability only 2 practice intercepts were completed. Strong interference of wheel spoke variety was observed on EW Kit. This interference was proven to be external and inquiries led to fact that AF24108 performing GCA calibration runs at Greenwood was source of interference. Aircraft was flying 090 degrees at the time.

22 Apr 59

STP exercise carried out. Ten practice intercepts with CF-100’s. W/C Briese, Sector Commander, given flight following into Halifax.

23 Apr 59

Jamming on "S" band, condition 1 from 350 degrees. This jamming lasted for 32 minutes. Source unidentified. Harlequin mission with CF-100’s had to be aborted after 2 MAs due to radar unserviceability. Section was handed back to Midwife to complete the mission. In mid-afternoon operations released as many personnel as possible to aid in the search for a child lost from the townsite. The search ended successfully after one hour. W/C Briese attended controllers meeting in the Operations Building. Pepper reported a "Mayday" Squawk in NQ15. This proved to be an undecoded SIF return. Each day an increase in SIF equipped aircraft is being noted. This applies to civilian as well as military aircraft.

24 Apr 59

STP exercise carried out. Navigational assistance was given to two aircraft on request. One was a C-121 westbound at 8,000 feet and the second a MATS a/c on requesting assistance to a definite position. During the day shift trouble was experienced with VL and 6B IFF. Sources of unserviceability were cleared up by the Techs. One unknown track, cross-told by Sydney was eventually scrubbed by Sector.

25 Apr 59

Experiencing difficulty with L/L 59E – from our switchboard to Barrington Ident. The employment of 2 GP1075. The direct line to Moncton ATC – proved successful. The 6B IFF proved to be very poor. This problem was cleared upon changing the Coder. Ten practice intercepts with F-86’s from Chatham were completed by 2405 (Auxiliary) controllers. Halifax tower advised an Navy S2F was overdue from Bermuda. Redtape unable to give any assistance. It was later found that this a/c had revised ETA Halifax and a/c arrived without further incident. At 2352Z, Redtape was placed on Short JAB relative to exercise "Eye Washer".

26 Apr 59

All positions were manned for exercise by 0030, Forty-eight minutes after condition Short Jab was instituted. The RCN placed 10 Banshees at our disposal for intercept action with 2 pair placed on 10 minutes and the remained on 30 minutes. Because of weather conditions only one pair of Banshees were scrambled. Redtape handed these fighters over to Pepper and did a recovery with them to Halifax on completion of their mission. "Fade Out" was implemented at 0515Z. Eighteen practice intercepts were completed with CF-100’s. Three unknown tracks were identified as friendly. Mechanical jamming was experienced in PB53. This did not interfere with normal operations. The 6B IFF required servicing as did the EW Kit. The 400 cycle Generator was u/s and required replacing.

27 Apr 59

STP exercise conducted. All scopes carrying external interference. Although all sources of possible interference were investigated, nothing definite could be established. The scope camera was implemented to record interference.

28 Apr 59

Extensive external interference on the EW Kit produced a condition 3 to 4. The source of this interference was a flight of 11 P2Vs in the Halifax area. As soon as radio contact was made with this flight and a request to have their radar turned off was granted, this interference ceased. The RCN placed 6 Banshees on readiness for intercept action on exercise "Sage Brush". Of the 6 a/c, four were scrambled for Pepper control. Including turnarounds, Redtape had 6 fighters and completed 7 intercepts. Three aircraft were given flight following and handed over to Pepper. One unknown – later identified.

29 Apr 59

STP exercise carried out. HF frequencies changed to 2724, 5050, 2840 and 4902. Two aircraft given surveillance. Two unknown tracks re-identified.

30 Apr 59

Scrambled 2 Banshees (Cress 14 and 15) against unknown track TK21. While intercept was in progress radio contact with unknown a/c established identification as one B-47. Intercept continued and from visual MA TK21 proven to be B-47 in question. Two aircraft under surveillance and handed over to Bankmud. IFF on CPS-6B u/s for short duration. Redtape advised that Argus aircraft for SIF tests will be available as planned. F/L King will captain this test flight.

1 May 59

STP exercise carried out. CommO now as the following 487 L/L terminating at Bankmud giving Redtape these direct lines.

487A

Air Surveillance O and Overlap Tech

487B

Senior Director and Senior Weapons Director

487C

Plotter Teller

487D

Operations PBX

One unknown track identified by radio as MATS 62008. Weather for Westover and Griffis AFB passed to this a/c upon request. SAR advised a DC-4 (415) was overdue at Halifax. Redtape was unable to contact this a/c on radar or radio but were advised by SAR that a/c eventually landed without further incident.

2 May 59

Cossor representatives in operations building for installation of SIF Test Equipment. Tests to begin on 4 May and run for a period of three days using one SIF equipped Argus from Greenwood and 3 SIF equipped CF-100’s from Chatham. Three aircraft under surveillance.

3 May 59

Internal trouble with EW Kit. Used 6B as Search on 300 PRF and 2.8 degree mechanical tilt. Command ran line tests for synthetic triangulation exercise. Proved weak between Midwife’s and Command. Will run further test at a later date. Temporary VHF/UHF trouble with 122.2 and 243.0. Was proven unfeasible to change channels and trouble rectified itself in a short period of time.

4 May 59

"Signpost" exercise scheduled this date was cancelled by Mohawk. One handover to Bankmud and one a/c given surveillance. No STP this date due to SIF trials. These trials are to continue for a period of three days.

5 May 59

Bankmud requires tracks to be warning told in true heading. Whether this is to be a permanent set-up remains to be seen. SIF trials with Cossor are still being carried on. Results of these tests not known at this time. Air Senior lost contact with No Trump and used Redtape’s facilities to pass traffic. Decision was alerted to this procedure.

6 May 59

At 0135Z jamming commenced re "Big Blast" exercise. Aircraft did not establish radio contact with Redtape and no scoring was established. Handover of Smoker 50 from Pepper to Redtape to Bankmud. At 1505Z the 26th Air Division was placed on Cocked Pistol. No action was taken at this unit as Sector advised us that this exercise would not affect us in any way. VFR GCI approach attempted with a C-45 piloted by S/L Bishop on Halifax runway 09. This run was completed at 2 ½ NM from runway and a/c was handed over to Halifax tower.

7 May 59

Considerable outgoing traffic consisting primarily of B-47’s contacted Redtape for Flight Following. These a/c are part of Persian Rug exercise due to commence on 8 May. Faker Force are from the 509th USAF Bomb Wing and Friendly forces consist of RCAF ADC a/c and RCN a/c from 870 Squadron. The approximate duration of the exercise is to be 2 hours with Faker tracks sweep jamming S and L bands - also chaff drops. Jammers will also be used against interceptors. Poor weather hampered interceptors from Shearwater. Towards end of this day forecast for weather not good for any intercepting action. At 2327Z a/c began penetration.

8 May 59

Sweep jamming by Faker forces on Persian Rug very successful. Due to poor weather conditions fighters were not scrambled from Shearwater. Because of extremely good jamming our COpsO contacted USAF to extend his congratulations. Emergency squawk observed in Halifax area. Unable to find a/c or ground transmission responsible for creating paint. Strong interference was created on scopes from FPS-502. Techs called in to rectify trouble. Due to inclement weather surveillance was given a/c that could not normally contact this unit. Results of Cossor SIF tests quite satisfactory. Complete details not available. Tests were completed 7 May.

9 May 59

26th Air Division placed on Cocked Pistol. Redtape was given track designators for a/c on this exercise that would penetrate this area, but any other action not required. Twelve a/c on this striker force passed within radar coverage of this unit.

10 May 59

Signpost exercise carried out. One unknown track carried - later identified.

11 May 59

STP exercise carried out. Passed PX’s from AF 445 who was unable to contact Moncton. Intermittent trouble with UHF/VHF channels throughout the day. Trouble seemed to clear towards evening.

12 May 59

Flight following was given to 2 Clipper (B-707’s) from Yarmouth to Sydney. Decision and Midwife reported an Emergency squawk in LB3000. Because our IFF was u/s on 6B at the time, this unit was unable to be of any assistance. The a/c proved to be an F-86 from Chatham that had lost all radio communication. This a/c landed safely without further incident. W/C Wilson checked L/L from Truro GObC. Hot line to DC position serviceable. Air Senior used Redtape’s facilities to pass tracks to Midwife and Bankmud.

13 May 59

STP exercise carried out. Boneyard 2 (104 K Flight) jammed today but was not successful due to faulty airborne equipment. An unknown track proved to be one B-47 from Madrid to Pease AFB. One pair of Banshees due for PI’s was scrubbed due to inclement weather.

14 May 59

Cue Ball exercise carried out between 1510 - 1705Z. Four Banshees were scrambled but due to poor visibility only 2 MA’s were made and fighters were diverted to Chatham. These fighters returned to Halifax in the evening.

15 May 59

Occasional interference on FW was found to be interval. This trouble crops up periodically and is very similar to outside ECM returns. Two unknown tracks - only one identified. STP exercise carried out. Flight following given a Lancaster into Bridgewater area.

16 May 59

Emergency maintenance due to faulty 400 cycle generator. Trouble rectified by Techs. During this time EW was u/s. The CPS-6B was used for search on 300 PRF with tilt at 2.5 degrees due to AP’s caused by weather. This condition lasted for approximately 10 hours when the 6B was returned to normal tilt. Surveillance given to three aircraft.

17 May 59

SAR reported an alert on one S2F. The track was carried by Decision and Border and contact was re-established with this a/c approximately ½ hour after alert was issued. Redtape had nothing to offer towards this incident.

18 May 59

EW Kit u/s for 1 ½ hours. This was due to faulty Magnetron and Crystal. Light traffic this date.

19 May 59

IFF u/s on EW Kit. Rectified in short order by Techs. Air Senior traffic passed to Border until the two re-established HF contact. Three a/c given flight following.

20 May 59

21 live PI’s with Banshees. "Muscle Flexer" exercise consisting of a series of B-52 overflys (21 a/c in total) penetrated our area from the east. These a/c were on a USAF mission only. Though this unit warning told all tracks to Bankmud and Decision. Jamming was experienced from these a/c as they were working Decision at a point approximately 80 miles east of Halifax. Mechanical jamming was also encountered. Application of FTC eliminated 90% of electronic jamming. One a/c ran GCI jamming - score 6. RCN (8 Banshees) a/c brought up to 30 minutes for intercept on CF-100 Faker force. Two sections remained with Redtape control. Two sections were handed over to Pepper control and this unit (Redtape) established 4 MA’s. Information regarding B-47 overflys passed to Border on their request. This consisted of various cells in which they were interested. Surveillance given to three aircraft.

21 May 59

ECM encountered west from a/c working American sites. Anti-clutter circuits very effective. A TBM crashed IM. From Osborne Head. All crew members safe. This a/c under Shearwater control at the time.

22 May 59

Jamming still experienced from USAF a/c to our west. Condition of jamming does not impede our search capabilities. Two Banshees cancelled on scramble after jamming (friendly) a/c due to poor weather. STP exercise carried out.

23 May 59

32nd Air Division on Cocked Pistol. Tracks in Cape Breton Island area and were not warning told to Border or Bankmud on Sector’s orders. Four unknown track - later identified.

24 May 59

Two CF-100’s for practice intercepts with Reserve controllers were quite successful. AP due to weather during evening. Overcast for radius of 75 NM.

25 May 59

STP exercise carried out. Passed PX for Cowbell aircraft to Moncton ATC.

26 May 59

Six MA’s with Banshees on practice intercepts. GCI jamming run by Jolly 34 on "S" band. Scramble of one Banshee on TJ4 proved identification as one Beechcraft.

27 May 59

Five unknown tracks - later identified. STP carried out. EW Kit and 6B u/s for one half hour and unit worked on back up. Trouble was in utility power supply. One a/c given flight following.

28 May 59

ECM experienced from a/c 120 miles east heading south. Scrambles not initiated because of poor tactical position. ECM was strength 2. Did not hinder scope operations. EW Kit u/s. Emergency maintenance on 6B used as search.

29 May 59

STP exercise carried out. Two unknowns - later identified.

30 May 59

One unknown - later identified.

31 May 59

Four MA’s with CF-100’s by reserve controller. One unknown - later identified.

 

Section V – Accounts

The following is an outline of the activities of the Accounts Section for this period.

13 Jan 59

F/L Edmunds arrived this unit from ADCHQ to conduct a semi-annual inspection of accounting records at this unit.

30 Jan 59

LAW Denise Potvin proceeded overseas on transfer to No 4 (F) Wing.

Section VI – Security

The following is an outline of the activities of the Security Section for the period.

1 Dec 58

Security - While checking the Recreation Centre at 2200 hours LAC Moore AFP noticed that John Gillis civilian cleaner was in the Rec. Hall, talking to Rolly Cahill. Mr. Gillis did not enter the Unit via the Main Gate. Was confirmed by Commissionaire Rose on duty at the Main Gate.

2 Dec 58

Snow Removal - 0515 hours - CE personnel informed of Road Condition. Snow removal equipment commencing work.

3 Dec 58

Building Repairs - F/O Bordeleau CEO informed staff at the guard room that the toilet in the guard room could not be repaired until spring 1959.
Security - Patrol found north entrance to the administration building insecure at 0120 hours.

4 Dec 58

Material Loss - SSO F/O Rehxder reported the loss of seven (7) LPO’s DND 17’s. NCO i/c APF initiated an investigation.

5 Dec 58

CAdO informed the NCO i/c AFP that a mantle radio was missing from the Grocery store. Mr. M Lively interviewed.

6 Dec 58

Discipline - Orderly Corporal (Cpl. M MacDonald) informed AFP that 238156 LAC DK Thomas was causing a disturbance in the Airmen’s Canteen. Patrol to the Canteen and the situation cleared. LAC Thomas escorted to his barracks.

8 Dec 58

Fire - 1310 hours. Fire alarm sounded. Maritime Foundation Construction employed on the unit working with a Tar machine when it caught fire. Fire extinguished by RCAF Fire department. Nil damage to DND property.

10 Dec 58

Insecurity - 0230 hours. AFO patrol found main doors of the Administration building insecure.

11 Dec 58

Duties - CAdO informed NCO i/c AFP the Post Office will be secured by the AFP in the future - which was the duty of the Orderly Officer in the past.

13 Dec 58

Commissionaire Duties - CAdO and Sgt. Blast to the Operations Guard room and a review of the Commissionaire’s instructions.

15 Dec 58

Transfer – LAC Sobey, AFP transferred in from RCAF Station Moisie PQ.

16 Dec 58

Inspections - CAdO arrived at the guard room 0810 hours for weekly inspection and conference.

18 Dec 58

AWA - The SSO F/O Rehder requested the AFP visit the residence of LAC Scott employed in the supply section, living in a trailer park near Waverly, and ascertain if LAC Scott was at his home, and inform LAC Scott to report for duty. Message passed to LAC Scott, SSO and PAdO informed of the results.

19 Dec 58

Security - Security check carried out by Sgt. Bast, assisted by F/O Moody, of the Operations building.

20 Dec 58

Discipline - 0001 hours. LAC McHollister requested to bring beer on the unit. Purpose (crew party). Informed he must obtain CAdO’s authority.

24 Dec 58

Insecure - Patrol discovered the Combined Mess kitchen insecure at 0330 hours.

25 Dec 58

Discipline - 238156 LAC DK Thomas placed in Close custody by F/O Champagne Orderly Officer.

28 Dec 58

Discipline - 1710 hours. F/O Champagne informed Air Force Police that Cpl. RO MacDonald was placed on open arrest and confined to quarters.

29 Dec 58

Discipline - 0900 hours - Cpl. MacDonald placed in close custody on request of the COpsO S/L Reid. 1100 hours - LAC Thomas paraded before S/L Reid and was awarded 14 days detention.

30 Dec 58

Discipline - Cpl. RO MacDonald paraded before COpsO and awarded $50.00 fine and a reprimand.

31 Dec 58

Security - CAdO and Sgt. Bast on a security check.

3

CAFIB 32’s issued

72

CAFIB 33’s issued

15

Operations passes issued

8

Dependants passes issued

1 Jan 59

Lost - LAW Murphy reported loss of purse containing: Identification card (later recovered).

2 Jan 59

Theft - 0800 hours. F/O Moody reported tricycle removed from his garage. LAC Reeves son, age 3 ½ years old was found riding the tricycle. (Parents informed).

3 Jan 59

Road Conditioning - 0245 hours. Snow plough reported U/S approximately 4 miles from the unit.

4 Jan 59

Fire - 1213 hours. Fire alarm sounded. Telephone operator called that a fire in Zone 12 Operations building. Later discovered a false alarm.

5 Jan 59

Road Conditioning - 0510 hours. Duty CEO informed of the hazardous road conditions.

6 Jan 59

Identification - CAFIB32, Temporary Pass, system for the Operations Building initiated. LAW O’Neill reported loss of purse containing Identification Card (found in Halifax).

7 Jan 59

Discipline - Civilians attempting to leave the Unit with parka’s contrary to DROs. Violators instructed to take parka’s back to their sections.

9 Jan 59

Insecure - 0125 hours. Rear door of the HQ Orderly Room found open.
Discipline - F/O Guillimette, Nursing Sister, requested AFP to go to Kinsac and inform LAW Maynard to report to the hospital immediately.
Theft - 1100 hours. LAC English reported theft of car battery. LAC Daly had removed the battery to start his own car. No charges laid by LAC English.

11 Jan 59

Discipline - LAC Thomas reported back from Detention barracks.
Fire - Report received that a fire had occurred in Mr. Blackmore’s garage. (Investigation revealed that Mr. Blackmore’s son initiated the fire).

12 Jan 59

VME - AFP 601B5 taken to Halifax to get an estimate on modification for a paddy wagon.
Loss - 1600 hours. F/L MacLean reported loss of lamp, electric (Investigated).

14 Jan 59

Search - A search of all PMC’s leaving the unit carried out.

16 Jan 59

Discipline - 0815 hours. Sgt. Collen reported that a drinking party had taken place in the Fire Hall. Investigated. Persons involved charged.

18 Jan 59

Maintenance - Telecom Section arrived at the guard room commencing to install 2 way radio equipment.

20 Jan 59

Security - 0200 hours. Hospital kitchen door found open. A check revealed all in order.

21 Jan 59

Accident - LAC Sullivan going to Halifax rolled his PMC into the ditch due to the icy road. Sullivan not in possession of a valid NS driver’s or vehicle permit.

23 Jan 59

Security - Revised orders for Operations Building. Visitors, Commissionaires informed to adhere.

25 Jan 59

Security - 0400 hours. Door to the Airmen’s Mess found open. AFP states that Orderly Officer, Auxiliary type, was nervous and requested AFP to remain with him until the crowd dispersed from the dance.

27 Jan 59

Keys - Keys obtained from the C&E section for all PMQ garages. Missing keys obtained and duplicated from the original.
Visitor - CAdO weekly inspection of the guardroom.

30 Jan 59

Accident PMC - 0015 hours. LAW Peverill and LAC JE Leblanc involved in a two car collision on the Beaverbank Road. AFO accompanied by the Nursing Sister visited the scene of the accident.

31 Jan 59

Reporting In - LAW Rye AFPL TOS in from Trenton.
New Pass system to Operations Building issued.

225

CAFIB 32’s RCAF Regular

42

CAFIB 32’s Civilian Regular employees

24

CAFIB 32’s 2405 Auxiliary

12

CAFIB 32’s Visitors to Operations Building

68

CAFIB 33’s

1 Feb 59

Security - 0030 hours. AFP patrol apprehended a PMC loaded with nine civilians proceeding towards the Operations area. The driver, Mr. Donald Charles Spriggs, of Princess Lodge Halifax stated that they had been guests of the Sgts. Mess and taken the wrong route and were lost. They were escorted off the unit.

2 Feb 59

Escort - With Pay Account Officer to Bedford.

3 Feb 59

Found - 0715 hours. A box of Air Force tools were found inside the Mess Hall. Taken to guardroom for safe keeping. Owner LAC Kulnych later identified and signed for the chest of tools.
Visitor - PAdO informed AFP that W/C Underwood will arrive on this unit. Pass was completed and Commissionaires informed.
Discipline - County Constable arrived on the unit and initialed an attach on the Poll Tax Violators. Mrs. Foster, wife of WO2 Foster, arrived at the Guardroom demanding to know why the Constable was allowed on the unit.

4 Feb 59

Repair - Commissionaire at the Operations Building complained that there was no weather stripping on the main entrance to the Operations Building. When a high wind or cold weather ensued the conditions were unbearable.
Discipline - RCMP requested to speak to Mr. Don Lively who works at the Mess Hall. Mr. Don Lively was interviewed.

5 Feb 59

Discipline - Arrangements made with Mr. Leo Ward, local dog catcher, to come on the unit to apprehend stray dogs.

7 Feb 59

Found - Hand bag contained wallet and I Card. Property of LAW O’Neill. Later returned to owner.
Security - 0900 hours. A security check carried out at the Operations Building and Administration Building. All was in order.

8 Feb 59

Loss - Cpl. Barnaby informed AFP that a visiting team of basketball players lost money amounting to approximately $4.00. This was small change kept in their trouser pockets in the locker rooms.
Transportation - Received numerous requests from Duty Controller to pick up Radar Maintenance people.

9 Feb 59

Damage - Hot water pipes frozen in the guard house.

10 Feb 59

Road Conditions - 2340 hours. Duty CEO informed of the hazardous road conditions.

11 Feb 59

Trade Advancement - LAC Moore and LAC Sobey attending Trade Advancement.

12 Feb 59

Discipline - Mr. William Moore, employed in the C&E Section, arrested by a self made constable, for a financial company. Neglected to pay a bill.
Visitors - Members of the Rotary Club from Halifax, visiting the unit.

13 Feb 59

Discipline - 2300 hours. Three teenage youths from the Beaverbank road, escorted off the unit. Attempted to bring liquor into the station dance.
Discipline - Keys removed from LAC Vickers. He was in a state of intoxication.

17 Feb 59

Inspection - Weekly visit and inspection of the guardroom by F/L Chipman, CAdO.
Accident - Mr. DS Lively, operating a VME and Mr. Doherty a PMC, had a head on collision near the C&E section.

18 Feb 59

Accident - LAC Crowe operating a Service Vehicle backed into a PMC owned by Cpl. Patterson. No damage to the PMC.

20 Feb 59

Investigation - Numerous articles property of the DND observed stored in Mr. Les Wards barn. Investigation carried out in conjunction with the RCMP.

21 Feb 59

Transportation - 1715 hours. Duty Controller requested transportation for Crypto Clerk.
Insecurity - 0400 hours. Sgt.’s Mess door found unlocked.

23 Feb 59

Security - FS Campbell, Air Force Security, ADCHQ, requested D 26 action to be taken on Telephone Operators.
Traffic Offense - LAC LeBlanc awarded $12.75 for a traffic offense. Operating a PMC with a beginners license.

24 Feb 59

Inspection - F/L Conn, Air Force Security Branch ADCHQ, completed an inspection of the guard room, records, reports, registers etc. All in order.

26 Feb 59

Sgt. Bast attended a Fire Prevention meeting held at the Fire Hall.

27 Feb 59

Discipline - F/O Brind reported civilian firm hauling sand to the Warehouse above the PMQ area. They were speeding later. Both drivers apprehended and accosted for their infractions.

28 Feb 59

Discipline - 0400 hours. F/O Brind asleep in the Officer’s Mess. Requested our assistance.
New Pass System to Operations Building issued.

26

CAFIB 32’s RCAF Regular

4

CAFIB 32’s Civilian Regular employees

18

CAFIB 32’s 2405 Auxiliary

12

CAFIB 32’s Visitors to Operations Building

10

CAFIB 32’s Civilians Domestic Site

86

CAFIB 33’s

1 Mar 59

Visitor - FS Hannan arrived on unit from ADCHQ.

2 Mar 59

Security - Security briefing by FS Hannan.

3 Mar 59

Loss - 247092 AC R O’Neil lost his I Card while working in the Operations Building. It was later recovered.

5 Mar 59

Visitors - A/C Bradshaw and F/L Dunston visiting Station.

9 Mar 59

Fire - Construction Company’s shovel caught on fire. No other damage.

10 Mar 50

Road Condition - Due to the road conditions of Beaverbank Road, Cpl. Young rolled his PMC in the ditch. He was taken to hospital for X-Rays.

11 Mar 59

Sick - LAW PA Campbell became ill while working and was escorted back to the Airwomen’s quarters.

12 Mar 59

Trade Advancement - Sgt. Bast attended a Trade Advancement committee meeting.

16 Mar 59

Road Conditions - 0710 hours. Duty CEO notified of slippery roads.

17 Mar 59

Inspection - Weekly visit and inspection by F/L Chipman, CAdO.
Alert - 1625 hours. Alert sounded.

18 Mar 59

Alert - 1406 hours. All clear sounded.
Leave - Sgt. Bast went on leave.

19 Mar 59

Escort - With Pay Account Officer to Bedford.
Arrest - LAC JE Leblanc arrested by order of F/L Rehder.
Illegal Possession - Mrs. Richard Devanney caught taking beer off the station. The beer was confiscated.

23 Mar 59

Alert - 1515 hours. Alert sounded for Security Penetration.

24 Mar 59

Alert - All clear sounded.

26 Mar 59

Sleeping on Duty - Sewage Disposal Man, Mr. D Davis found sleeping at work.

29 Mar 59

Lights - 0500 hours. Rose noticed Gas Pump lights were on. The lights were switched off by Cpl. Maletta.

30 Mar 59

Escort - LAC Reeves brother-in-law driving LAC Reeves to work up at the Operations Building was escorted back to townsite area by AFP. Civilians are not allowed past PMQ area.

31 Mar 59

Barred from Station - Mr. And Mrs. Richard Devanney will not be allowed on this station from this day on.

2 Apr 59

Search - 0100 hours. Air Force Police and Commissionaire carried out a search on all vehicles leaving the unit.

9 Apr 59

Complaint - Cpl. Stokes reported that a small black dog had attacked his mother-in-law in the PMQs. Dog owned by F/L Gatz.

10 Apr 59

Security - 0130 hours. Administration building found insecure. Checked and secured. PAdO was seen leaving the Admin. at 2359 hours, 9 Apr.

11 Apr 59

Security - 0330 hours. Officer’s, Sgt.’s and Airmen’s Mess found open. Building checked and secured.

14 Apr 59

Examination - 0900 hours. Trade examinations held at Rec. Center. LAC Sobey writing Group three. LAC Moore writing Group Two.

16 Apr 59

Found - 0900 hours. CAFIB 20 found and returned to owner LAC Knulych.
Security - D 26 forms issued for completion to the Mess Hall personnel. Requiring access to the Operations Building.
Investigation - 2040 hours. Commissionaire Cochrane, employed in the Operations Building, reported that someone looked into the Operations guardroom window. The Air Force Police investigated but could not find anyone around there.

18 Apr 59

Temporary Duty - LAC Sobey went to ADCHQ on "V" test, two weeks temporary duty.

20 Apr 59

Investigation - 0900 hours. The SWO reported the latch on the upstairs store room was broken. Investigation proved no items missing. Latch replaced by the C&E section.

23 Apr 59

Lost - 1130 hours. Mrs. Rix, PMQ 26, reported her daughter Janice, age 3 ½ years was missing from home. A search party organized. The child found at approximately 1320 hours in the woods.

25 Apr 59

Damage Private Property - 0800 hours. Report received from cleaner Bart Smiley that someone had broken into the new school and caused damage to the Fibre glass insulation. Investigation revealed that the culprits were teenage children from the PMW area. Report submitted to CAdO.
Security - A security check of the Operations Building carried out in conjunction with the CAdO.

27 Apr 59

Alert - Siren sounded. Operation Fallout put into effect. All personnel from the Domestic site reported to the basement of the Rec. Hall.

28 Apr 59

Inspection - 0810 hours. F/L Chipman at the Guard room on his weekly inspection.

1 May 59

Search - 0001 hours to 0300 hours. A search was carried out of vehicles leaving the station.
Keys - Keys duplicated for the VIP suite on request of the SWO.
Parking - Parking facilities were inadequate for the dance tonight.

5 May 59

Inspection - F/L Chipman on weekly inspection of guardroom. FS Gibson, Station Chatham inspected explosive stores.
Discipline - Mr. Carter, local dog catcher given permission by the CAdO to collect dog taxes. (one hour)
Security - 2010 hours. A security check carried out of the Operations Building. All in order.

6 May 59

Security - Ordered by S/L Reid to cease paining the pass holders at the Operations Building.

8 May 59

Discipline - Cpl. Middleton apprehended and placed on open custody for AWA at the request of the STelO.

14 May 59

Discipline - RCMP called stating that they had Sgt. W Rains in close custody for impaired driving. Sgt. Rains awarded a fine of $59.75 and loss of driving privileges.

15 May 59

Security - F/L Conn ADCHQ security called stating that they had received mail from Beaverbank with a security infraction. CR briefed on mailing procedure. F/L Cavenaugh ADCHQ informed AFP to be on the lookout for a 1958 green Chevrolet coach, Ontario license CD 467, driven by the Russian Embassy.

16 May 59

Articles Lost - A suitcase and camera found in the Rec. Centre returned to the owner.

18 May 59

Accident - Cpl. Sullivan operating his PMC collided with a telephone pole on the Beaverbank Road. No injuries sustained to driver or passengers.

22 May 59

Discipline - LAC Boyer was paraded before S/L Reid COpsO and awarded 14 days CB.

24 May 59

Loss of Wallet - AW1 Goyette reported the loss of her wallet containing her CAFIB 20. Later recovered.

26 May 59

Meeting - Air Force Police attending the station Fire Committee meeting.

28 May 59

Security - Rear door leading into the C&E stores found unlocked. Secured and CEO informed.
Inspection - S/L Boyschuk inspected the guard room washroom facilities. Toilet still U/S.

30 May 59

Discipline - 2100 hours. Mrs. Brown, daughter of Cpl. Poole and a party of 6 requested to visit PMQ’s and diverted to the Airmen’s canteen. Were removed by AFP.