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Shield and perhaps Desert Storm.

Another obstacle that was conquered during this episode was the I
incompatibility of the TTC-39A and the TTC-42. As a result of a I
high level interest in ensuring compatibility between thel
TTC-39A and ULCS, a new software release for the TT~39A was I
ready for testing in ~heinMein Germany. One TTC-42 and 21
SB-3865s along with 2 operator/maintainers were sent from 9th I
Communication Battalion to Germany.  The testing lasted 10 days I
and replicated a portion of the Desert Shield network. Except I
for a few small glitches,  the TTC-39A and the UThCS were modified

to be fully compatible.   This compatibility allowed for the I
increased system usage that was required in conjunction with the

preparation for the ground offensive.   Further, it assured I
secure voice tactical telephone to users throughout the system, I
an infinitely important accomplishment.

One particular event during this episode demonstrated the I
reliability of the communications system.  Exercise Imminent I
Thunder was conducted in early November to test the preparedness

of all CENTOOM forces and to train forces in the complexities of

combined arms warfare with joint and combined forces.   For the I
communications battalion,  the results were excellent.  The I
service provided to the CO and his staff throughout the exercise

was reliable and allowed uninterrupted command and control. It I
was a limited example of what was to come during Operation I
Desert Storm. e
Finally,  it was during this period that Alpha Company, 9th I
Communication Battalion embarked with 5th MEB.  Much of Alpha I
Company's   personnel and equipment were already in Saudi Arabia I
being full utilized when the order to embark was published.  I
Accordingly, a careful accounting of required equipment was I
accomplished, and a task organized personnel roster was I
produced.   Then both the equipment and the personnel flew back I
to Camp Pendleton in late October where they made final I
preparation for embarkation.

These were the significant events of the period.   However, as in

the first episode,  training was continuous.  Emphasis remained I
on NBC classes and weapons skills while first aid and classified

material handling procedures filled out the formal training I
schedules.   As for operator/maintenance expertise, it was a I
beneficial period for the battalion because it allowed extensive

opportunity to train and to garner valuable experience in the I
operation of the various new and complex systems.   The battalion

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