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External Communications, Continued
Method
Flashing Light
Semaphore
Description
Searchlights equipped with special shutters and red
lenses are used at night to send messages or signals.
Standard Morse code is transmitted to the receiving
ship by Signalmen
Semaphore is much faster than flashing light when
transmitting messages over a short distance. It is
normally used while ships are alongside conducting
UNREP.
Signalmen send the messages using hand flags or light
wands.
Responsibilities
As you continue to advance as a QM, you will be required to gain
experience in the use of the methods of external communication as
listed. As a PO2 or PO3, you are required to be able to read signal
flags and pennants. As step-by-step instructions are given in ACP 129,
Communication Instructions, Visual Signalling Procedures, they will not
be repeated here.
At the PO1 and higher paygrades, you are required to encode and
decode tactical signals.
Instructions to meet this requirement are found
in ATP, Allied Tactical Publication lB, Volumes I and II. OJT is really
the only way to become proficient at encoding, decoding, and
transmitting tactical signals.
The navigator can normally set up training
through the operations boss on this material.
Exchanging
Navigational
Data
Occasions will arise when the exchange of navigational data with other
ships is necessary.
In general terms, a position, time of position, and
course and speed are all that is required. Navigational data must never
be exchanged on unsecured frequencies. Always notify the navigator
when an exchange of navigational data is requested.
11-20
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