Columbus (CA 74) - Naval Cruise Book

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he signal gang — t-he eyes of the ship. This division consists of highly trained men specializing in many forms of the all-important and oldest type of communications, visual signaling. These men come under the rating of Quartermaster- Signalman, an almost invariably sea-going rate. Among the more important forms of visual signaling are flag hoists, flashing light and semaphore. Flag hoist is mainly used for rapid dissemination of tactical signals throughout the task fleet, force or group. The sharp command of stand by your bags alerts the signal v atch and instantaneously the flag bags are alive with motions of multi-colored flags being hoisted smartly in the air. Immediately visual responsibility is determined and expeditious closing up of signals together with sharpness of execution are all signs of a well coordinated signal gang. Messages of a limited text are distributed to the fleet by use of a signal lamp, the beam of which is interpreted to form morse code characters. Minimum lag in transmission of relays is constantly being strived for. Semaphore is a speedy method of transmitting messages by hand flags whose relative positions decide the letters of the alphabet. Its limited range restricts it mainly for use in port. In all methods of communication, reliability, security and speed are paramount. Training and general supervision comes under the competent eye of J. R. McCarthy, QMC, being closely assisted by the capable, harmonious LPO, C. C. Gouge, QM I. Training of hew men in the division is patiently and tactfully carried out by the divisional training petty officer hi. A. Watts, QM3. Ensigns Harthorn and Lucas, the signal and junior signal officers respectively, have the admiration of the entire signal gang for their complete willingness and sympathetic attitude towards the men, and one need never feel ill at ease in bearing confidences or requesting advice. The general consensus of opinion throughout the fleet is that the COLUMBUS signal gang Is tops, and despite a series of set-backs by the loss of many competent operators due to transfer and discharge it hasstill managed, through hard work on the part of all hands, to maintain a high standard of reliability and respect. Qfu.V ( '

Page 47 text:

nder the most capable direction of LT W. E. Striplin, CHELEC Hodges and Chiefs hHozak and Perlcs, Schnider, EMI, and J. Beckham, EMI, Easy Division operates and maintains most of the electrical equipment aboard ship. The division is divided into many different gangs, each handling certain phases of the intricate electrical system needed to keep the ship running properly. The first is the inter-communications gang which takes care of the maze of telephones, sound powered and ship ' s service, the gyro compasses, and signal and warning alarms in all engine and firerooms. Next is the distribution men who handle all motors, pumps, main generators and switch boards in all four firerooms and both Engine rooms. They operate emergency switchboards in the fwd. and aft. diesel spaces. Next we have the lighting gang which takes care of all lighting and battle lanterns, and rigs any emergency lights needed. They also repair irons, toasters, joe pots, hot plates and many other implements used to make living aboard ship more desirable for all hands. Next is general power handling all heavy extractors and dryers in the laundry and all galley equipment such as meat cutters, mixers, ovens and grills. Then there is ordnance and power which maintains motors, hoists and the electrical gear in the turrets, mounts and other Gunnery spaces. The next on the list is ventilation, taking care of vent motors and equipment used in keeping the ship cool and livable for everyone. Another important part of Easy Division is the battery locker which handles all batteries for liberty boats, automobiles and Captain ' s gig. Also they take care of search lights, ignition systems, starter motors and generators in all boats. E Division also supplies the movie operators, who are School graduates and can operate many different types of slide, silent and sound projectors. These chosen few show all training films and movies for the crew and officers — sometimes even for children ' s parties held aboard the ship. This is a short summary of the duties and capabilities of the men in E Division, and as you can see, we have a vitally important job in the smooth operation of the USS COLUMBUS in war as well as peace.