RESTRICTEDSECTION IGENERAL
RESTRICTED
b.In performing this mission, a port repair ship crew might be required to assist in removing obstructions and debris from harbor entrances, harbors, docks, and areas alongside wharves, quays, and piers; repair underwater structures; make and repair parts for damaged port facilities and equipment; and salvage cargos and small craft. Large salvage operations are a naval function and are handled by the Navy’s salvage ships.
(1) The group’s mission is to return captured ports to operating condition. It repairs such port facilities as power and water-supply plants, communications, wharves, docks, warehouses, and cargo-handling equipment. (See fig.2.)
Figure 1. General view of an engineer port repair ship.
Figure 1. General view of an engineer port repair ship.
Symbols: S = engineer port repair ship. G = port construction and repair group.Figure 2. Schematic view of a typical captured port showing jobs done by the port construction and repair group and those done by the engineer port repair ship.
Symbols: S = engineer port repair ship. G = port construction and repair group.Figure 2. Schematic view of a typical captured port showing jobs done by the port construction and repair group and those done by the engineer port repair ship.
(2) Usually, the engineer port repair ship is the first large vessel to enter the port; it carries in supplies and equipment to help the port group start its work. Some of this equipment such as portable generators, pneumatic drills, paving breakers, hammers, and saws, may be put ashore and used by the group’s personnel. In addition, the facilities of the various shops on the ship are used for making or repairing parts for damaged port machinery and equipment.
b. Transportation Corps.After the harbor has been cleared, the engineer port repair ship may be called on to assist harbor craft units of the Transportation Corps in heavy towing or cargo-handling operations.
c. Navy.Naval minesweepers precede the engineer port repair ship into the harbor, clear the harbor of mines, and report dangerous areas to the engineer port repair ship.