In the week that followed the primary work was begun. The first week brought the task of completing the survey of the Forward Emplacement Area. This was completed and a detail was sent out to stake and mark out in masking tape the various emplacement positions.

Orders were received to delay actual construction until an inspection was made by Major General W. B. Kean on 29 Sept 51. General Kean flew in, landing his aircraft on a road very near Area B and conducted an inspection of the area as laid out. From his observations, from the air, and by walking through the area, Gen. Kean expressed his satisfaction of the basic lay out recommending few minor changes. These changes were incorporated into the plan and actual construction commenced immediately.

In order to expedite construction of the various emplacements, the following plan was used. One squad was detailed to conduct a carpenter shop, to build revetments for the emplacements which were being dug by the remainder of the company. As soon as the emplacements were dug, the prefabricated revetments were slipped into position and secured. Sand bags were filled and placed all around the emplacements.

It was about this time that I was assigned to Company A. As a wheeled vehicle mechanic with a GI driver's license that allowed me to drive any vehicle. I was pressed into service driving as mechanics were needed as much as drivers. I remember the revetments being finished at the carpentry shop and hauling them to the emplacement areas near Ground Zero. I remember distinctly it being quite a shock coming from Atlanta, Ga. to the Nevada Desert. Especially the night time in the desert was awfully cold after being in Georgia.