THE value of the LCT (Landing Craft, Tank) to amphibious operations has been demonstrated by the part it has played in delivering men and materials to beaches in both war zones. There is no doubt that it will figure largely in many future actions, but in order to carry out its mission successfully it must, obviously, be manned by well-trained and carefully selected crews. As an aid to those who have the responsibility of providing such crews, the Amphibious Training Command, Atlantic, has requested that a study of the officer and enlisted billets be undertaken by the Billet Analysis Unit of the Training Activity of the Bureau of Naval Personnel. The present specifications, based upon information which was obtained by observation and interviews aboard ship and which was verified by training officers attached to the Amphibious Training Base, Solomons, Maryland, are the result of that study.
An abridged Watch, Quarter, and Station Bill drawn up to assist in identifying the individual billets is reproduced here. The assignment of duties in this bill is not intended to be inflexible, though it does represent what was found to be an efficient and practical organization aboard ship. Only the evolutions significant for training and selection – General Quarters, beaching, condition II, and off-watch maintenance duties – have been included in the bill. These were chosen because they are the conditions most important to the fighting efficiency of the ship and because they cover the duties which occupy a major part of the working time aboard.
The specification for the officer in charge begins with a billet summary, which is a concise statement of the responsibilities involved. The types of prior naval and civilian experience that would best seem to qualify an individual for the billet are presented next, and these are followed by a statement of the academic or other formal training required. The remainder of the specification is devoted to a detailed breakdown of the duties.
The specifications for the enlisted billets are designated by numbers corresponding to the billet numbers on the Watch, Quarter, and Station Bill. A summary of the duties performed appears under the headings "General Quarters," "Cruising (condition II)," and "Maintenance (off watch)." A list of gear with which the incumbent works, a statement of above-average physical qualifications necessary, and an indication of the knowledge and skills required for the proper discharge of the duties follow. It should be kept in mind that the list of gear is subject to change at all times and varies in different theaters of operation; it should not, therefore, be considered standard under all conditions.
During normal cruising four stations are manned:
1. Bridge steering control 2. Bridge engine control
3. Port lookout 4. Starboard lookout
Since the ship cruises in condition II (two section watch), the men standing watch exchange duties to prevent fatigue and promote efficiency, the frequency with which they do so depending upon weather conditions and the zone of operation. This procedure makes it necessary that each man in the crew be able to perform the duties of the four stations satisfactorily. In order to avoid needless repetition in the specifications, a summary of these duties is given below:
1. Bridge steering control--The helmsman stands watch at the wheel in the pilothouse and executes the orders of the officer of the deck by turning the wheel to the right or left until the rudder indicator shows that the rudder is in the desired position. When ordered to bring or keep the ship on a certain course, he checks the compass to insure that the ship is on the correct course and keeps it there with a minimum of rudder.
2. Bridge engine control--The throttle man, since there are remote engine controls in the pilothouse, stands his watch at this station. He receives all speed orders in terms of engine revolutions and adjusts the three throttle levers, visually checking the tachometers to insure compliance with orders. When ordered to stop or reverse the direction of the engines, he regulates the throttles to "idle" speed and shifts the clutch levers to the required position. He relays and acknowledges all orders from Conn to the helmsman over the voice tube.
3-4. Port and starboard lookout--The two lookouts are stationed in the port and starboard gun tubs. They maintain a constant lookout over their assigned sector of the surface and sky and report all objects sighted to Conn. They must be able to identify enemy and Allied aircraft and warships, must know the proper phraseology and procedure in making reports as to the identity, relative bearing, position angle, distance, and appearance of the objects sighted, and should be capable of estimating target angles and speeds of ships sighted. In addition, they should be fully aware of the importance of maintaining a vigilant lookout at all times.
A fifth man is provided for each section of the watch. It is his function to act as a relief at any of the stations, thereby affording an opportunity for the member of the engineering force to check the engine room at least once every half-hour. He also relieves the quartermaster or signalman striker when it is necessary to send or receive signals.
OFFICER BILLET
This specification is not intended to conflict in any way with Navy Regulations. It is not a complete statement of the duties and responsibilities set forth in those regulations (see Navy Regulations, 1920, Articles 1061, 1103-1108), nor does it discharge the incumbent of the billet of full responsibility for knowing and adhering to Navy Regulations.
BILLET SUMMARY
Is in complete charge of ship and directs all its operations, both internal and external; assumes direct command over all drills and in all emergencies. Organizes and instructs crew and is responsible for their welfare. During normal cruising and when ship is at anchor, delegates to boatswain’s mate some of duties involved in its control and operation.
PRIOR NAVAL EXPERIENCE
Naval experience not essential, although service as armed-guard officer or as boatswain, signalman, or quartermaster on a small naval vessel such as a PC, a DE, or a DD would be helpful.
AGE
From twenty-four to thirty years of age; mental maturity and sense of responsibility are real criteria.
PRIOR CIVILIAN EXPERIENCE
Marine experience of any type, but particularly in coastal or channel waters highly desirable. Experience as athletic coach, camp director, or in similar work concerned with groups of young men valuable. Professional or general business experience desirable.
ACADEMIC OR OTHER FORMAL TRAINING
College degree desirable. Naval indoctrination, midshipman training, or naval ROTC course required.
DUTIES
1. Insures ship’s readiness for service on taking charge. Makes thorough inspection of ship to determine state of preparedness for service, examining in detail plans of hull and equipment; checks all machinery, lines, valves, tanks, electrical gear, and auxiliary equipment for completeness and operating efficiency. As a result of this personal inspection makes requisition for materials and equipment needed.
2. Organizes crew and provides for maintenance of ship.
a. Prepares Watch, Quarter, and Station Bill and organizes crew so as to effect maximum operating and battle efficiency.
b. Prepares and posts operating instructions for all equipment; insures that operating and maintenance manuals are available for use by engineering force. Instructs men in safety precautions to be observed.
c. Establishes records for inventory of oil, water, gasoline, and grease and instructs motor machinist’s mate in keeping them; prepares and keeps current a repairs and supply list and delivers it to repair officer at base for appropriate action.
d. Insures that all cargo and equipment are properly lashed down.
3. Exercises control over training, discipline, safety, and welfare of crew.
a. Instructs crew in safety procedures, first-aid preparedness, fire-fighting methods, seamanship, and signaling. Supervises training of crew for advancement in rating and recommends advancement through group and flotilla commanders.
b. Maintains discipline, referring violations to group commander, who holds captain’s mast. Sees that "Articles for the Government of the Navy" is read monthly to crew and that a copy of these articles is posted in a conspicuous place.
c. Censors mail, approves menus, and performs similar miscellaneous duties pertaining to personnel.
4. Performs deck duties involved in operation of ship under way.
a. Gives orders necessary to get ship under way, such as instructions for warming up engines, for setting special sea detail, for casting off lines or weighing anchor, and for steering course and setting speed ordered by group commander or other designated authority. Directs quartermaster to take plots and fixes and to maintain charts; supervises keeping of ship’s logs. Makes periodic check for compass errors and compensates for errors found.
b. Directs such evolutions as towing, fueling at sea, firing, General Quarters, beaching and retracting, and mooring. Sees that running lights are in order. On anchoring, selects safe anchorage and has bearings and angles taken so that position of ship can be accurately determined on navigational chart.
c. Familiarizes self with Nautical Almanac, Bowditch’s American Practical Navigator, Dutton’s Navigational and Nautical Astronomy, and any other publications which would be helpful in performance of his duties.
d. Delegates to boatswain’s mate duties of officer of the deck for one section of watch when at anchor or during normal cruising, but remains available throughout such periods for making any decisions which require judgment and authority of officer in charge.
5. Supervises requisition, stowage, expenditure, and use of all stores and provisions necessary to operation of ship and welfare of crew.
Maintains full allowance of provisions, procuring them from regular Navy supply bases or, in case of necessity, from Army or Marine activities. Inspects provisions as they come aboard and sees that they are properly stowed. Computes ration allowances, prepares ration returns and supply vouchers, and maintains inventory of supplies.
6. Is responsible for receipt, interpretation, and execution of all orders, group and flotilla directives, and bureau directives (remains in complete charge of ship regardless of rank of any Army personnel aboard).
7. Saves as much of ship as possible in case of disaster and destroys confidential and restricted matter if there is any danger that it will fall into enemy hands.
8. Submits action reports to group commander after all engagements and prepares appropriate report for group commander in event of fire or collision.
ENLISTED BILLETS
BILLET NO. 1 BOATSWAIN
Rate Allowed: Boatswain’s Mate, First Class. Division: Deck
DUTIES:
General Quarters: Acts as talker, relaying orders from Conn to port gun crew and, during beaching and retracting operations, transmitting orders of Conn to ramp crew. Supervises and assists in dogging and undogging ramps in beaching and retracting. Is in charge of damage-control party.
Cruising (condition II): Is stationed on bridge, acting as officer of deck in charge of port section watch. Directs activity of’ ship from position on conn. If emergency arises or if incumbent is not certain as to proper course of action, he requests directions from officer in charge.
Maintenance (off watch): Supervises deck crew in painting, cleaning, repairing, and maintaining ship, except for engine room. Is responsible for proper functioning and maintenance of all deck gear.
GEAR
Ramp, ramp winch, ramp dogs, lines Telephone-talker headset
Firefighting gear Ground tackle
Life raft, wherry, and attached equipment
Cleaning and painting gear
Marlinespikes, turn buckles, thimbles, shackles, lines, wire rope, prickers, hammers, chisels, clamps, pinch bars, saws, and calking equipment.
PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS
Good hearing and ability to speak distinctly on telephone-talker headset. Physical and mental maturity in order to command men effectively; preferably 22-30 years old.
KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS
Must be able to plan and direct activities of others.
Must be capable of making independent decisions.
Must be proficient seaman, skilled in keeping station during group operations and in piloting. Must know how to maintain and handle ground tackle. Must have thorough knowledge of ship and be familiar with stowage location of various gear.
Must have thorough knowledge of maintenance and use of fire-fighting equipment.
Must know proper stowage and equipment for life raft.
Must know how to rig block and tackle for moving heavy gear.
Must be able to splice line and wire rope.
Must know proper methods of cleaning, removing rust from, and painting metal surfaces.
BILLET NO. 2 QUARTERMASTER
Rate Allowed: Quartermaster, Second Class Division: Deck
DUTIES
General Quarters: Acts as helmsman in accordance with orders issued by Conn, turning wheel to right or left until rudder indicator and compass show that rudder is in desired position or that ship is on right course. Acts as signalman when ordered to do so by Conn. Sends and receives messages by flag, semaphore, or blinker.
Cruising (condition II): Stands port section watch, alternating as helmsman or lookout in starboard gun tub. As helmsman, performs same duties as at General Quarters. As lookout, maintains constant watch over assigned sector and reports all objects sighted to Conn. Acts as signalman when necessary. Sends and receives messages by flag, semaphore, or blinker. Plots course and takes sights at direction of officer in charge.
Maintenance (off watch): Keeps navigation data, such as charts and tide and current tables, up to date. Prepares advance sailing information as directed by officer in charge. Keeps quartermaster’s notebook. With help of striker, cleans pilothouse, signal bridge, and conn.
GEAR
Portfolios Nos. 1, 5, 30 and their indexes
HO 9 (Bowditch), 71, 73, 87, 88, 89A, 99, 100, 120, 127, 128A, 128B, 129, 130, 205, 206, 211, 214 (Vols. I – V), 217
Tide and current tables – Atlantic
Wreck information list
USCP Sections A through D
USOP Section Gulf Coast
Pilot Rules for Certain Inland Waters
Wartime Information to Mariners
Nautical Almanac
Binoculars
Navigation cases
Air Thermometers
General-purpose goggles
Aneroid barometer
PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS
Good vision in order to take bearings, read signal flags, and act as lookout. Normal color perception in order to distinguish flags and lights.
Ability to speak distinctly in order to communicate effectively over voice tubes.
KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS
Must know how to steer ship.
Must know how to take and plot ranges and bearings.
Must know types and meaning of signal flares.
Must be skilled in operating in the dark all light, whistle, and bell signals in pilothouse.
Should be familiar with precautions to be observed in vicinity of magnetic compass and know how to work from magnetic to true compass.
Must be thoroughly familiar with rules of the road and number and character of lights carried by all types of vessels under way or at anchor.
Must be able to recognize and identify buoys, landmarks, and light characteristics.
Must be able to do simple mathematics necessary for computing tide and current tables. Must know proper phraseology to use in quartermaster’s notebook.
Must know how to rig halyards and use standard signal procedures.
Must be skilled in sending and receiving messages by semaphore (10-12 words a minute) and by blinker (5-8 words a minute).
Must be able to identify Allied and enemy warships and planes.
BILLET NO. 3 GUNNER’S MATE
Rate Allowed: Gunner’s Mate, Third Class Division: Deck
DUTIES
General Quarters: Acts as pointer on port 20 mm. gun. Trains, points, and fires gun at target indicated by officer or boatswain in charge. Keeps gun tool kit at hand to make any repairs needed to either of the two 20 mm. guns.
Cruising (condition II): Stands port section watch, alternating as lookout, helmsman, or throttle man. As lookout, maintains constant watch over assigned sector and reports relative bearing of all objects sighted to Conn. As helmsman, executes orders of Conn, turning wheel to right or left until rudder indicator and compass show that rudder is in desired position or that ship is on right course. As throttle man, regulates speed and changes direction of engines as ordered by Conn.
Maintenance (off watch): Cleans and maintains all guns and small arms aboard ship. Inspects magazine and ready-service boxes and takes temperature readings of them daily. Instructs and supervises gun crews in minor repairs to and proper handling of 20 mm. guns.
GEAR
20 mm. gun .45 caliber Thompson submachine gun
.45 caliber pistol
.22 caliber pistol
Line-throwing gun
Very pistol
Ammunition for all guns and small arms listed
Gun lubricants
Gun-cleaning equipment and supplies
PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS
Hand and finger dexterity in repairing guns.
Good eyesight in order to keep gun on target through use of tracer control and to act as lookout.
KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS
Must be able to point and train 20 mm. gun and stay on target by use of tracer control. Must know firing procedure of 20 mm. gun.
Must have knowledge of care and maintenance of all guns aboard so as to be able to keep them in condition to fire.
Must have skill in use of hand tools in gun-repair tool kit.
Must know how to steer ship.
Must be thoroughly familiar with rules of the road and number and character of lights carried by all types of vessels, under way and at anchor.
Must be able to identify Allied and enemy warships and planes.
BILLET NO. 4 RADIOMAN
Rate Allowed: Radioman, Third Class Division: Deck
DUTIES
General Quarters: Stands watch in pilothouse near radio switchboard, receiving and transmitting all messages for ship. Sees that all messages are delivered to Bridge via messenger or voice tube. Acts as member of damage-control party if necessary. In such emergencies connects loud speaker to radio so that remainder of pilothouse crew can relay any incoming messages. Assists with anchor at beaching operations by operating cable brake and indicating direction cable is tending.
Cruising (condition II): Stands starboard section watch, alternating as lookout, helmsman, or throttle man. As lookout, maintains constant watch over assigned sector and reports relative bearing of all objects sighted to Conn. As helmsman, executes orders of Conn, turning wheel to right or left until rudder indicator and compass show that rudder is in desired position or that ship is on right course. As throttle man, regulates speed and changes direction of engines as ordered by Conn.
Maintenance (off watch): Maintains radio receiver and transmitter and radio power equipment by making routine inspections and by executing minor repairs and replacements when necessary. Performs miscellaneous cleaning duties as detailed by boatswain’s mate.
GEAR
TCS-5 radio receiver and transmitter
TCS-5 power equipment Radioman’s tool kit
Instruction manual for TCS-5
PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS
Good eyesight in order to act as lookout.
Good hearing and ability to speak distinctly in order to receive and send messages.
KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS
Must be able to operate TCS-5 radio receiver and transmitter and be skilled in frequency changing and tuning of equipment.
Must be able to make minor repairs and replacements to radio equipment.
Must know how to steer ship.
Must know types and meanings of signal flags.
Must be thoroughly familiar with rules of the road and number and character of lights carried by all types of vessels, under way or at anchor.
Must be able to identify Allied and enemy warships and planes.
BILLET NO. 5 SEAMAN
Rate Allowed: Seaman, First Class Division: Deck
DUTIES
General Quarters: Acts as pointer on starboard 20 mm. gun. Trains, points, and fires gun at target indicated by officer in charge, using tracer control.
Cruising (condition II): Stands starboard section watch, alternating as helmsman or lookout in starboard gun tub. As helmsman, executes orders issued by Conn, turning wheel to right or left until rudder indicator and compass show that rudder is in desired position or that ship is on right course. As lookout, maintains constant watch over assigned sector and reports all objects sighted to Conn. Acts as signalman when necessary. Sends and receives messages by flag, semaphore, or blinker.
Maintenance (off watch): When necessary, scrapes, chips, and paints ship and gear. Performs miscellaneous maintenance, cleaning, and repair duties under supervision of boatswain.
GEAR
20 mm. Gun
Open sights
Binoculars
Wheel
Rudder-angle indicator
Magnetic compass
Cleaning and painting gear
PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS
Good eyesight in order to act as lookout and as pointer and trainer on 20 mm. gun. Normal color perception in order to distinguish flags and lights.
KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS
Must understand operation of 20 mm. gun thoroughly.
Must be skilled in pointing and training 20 mm. gun by tracer control.
Must know all safety precautions required in operation of 20 mm. gun.
Must be skilled as helmsman.
Must know how to rig halyards and use standard signal procedures.
Must be skilled in sending and receiving messages by semaphore (10-12 words a minute) and by blinker (5-8 words a minute).
Must be able to identify Allied and enemy aircraft and ships.
Must know proper cleaning methods and scraping, chipping, and painting procedures.
BILLET NO. 6 SEAMAN
Rate Allowed: Seaman, First Class Division: Deck
DUTIES
General Quarters: Acts as loader on starboard 20 mm. gun. Puts 60 lbs. tension on magazine by using detachable hand crank, inserts and locks magazine on gun, and stands by to replace expended magazine with full one. Assists in clearing jams and changing barrel.
Cruising (condition II): Stands port section watch, alternating as helmsman and lookout in starboard gun tub. As helmsman, executes orders issued by Conn, turning wheel to right or left until rudder indicator and compass show that rudder is in desired position or that ship is on right course. As lookout, maintains constant lookout over assigned sector and reports all objects sighted to Conn.
Maintenance (off watch): When necessary, scrapes, chips, and paints ship and gear. Performs miscellaneous maintenance, cleaning, and repair duties under direction of boatswain.
GEAR
90 mm. gun Rudder-angle indicator
90 mm. cartridges and magazines Magnetic compass
Binoculars Cleaning and painting gear Wheel
PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS
Good eyesight in order to act as lookout.
KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS
Must understand operation of 20 mm. gun.
Must be able to insert and remove 20 mm. magazines.
Must be skilled as helmsman.
Must be able to identify Allied and enemy aircraft and ships.
Must know proper cleaning methods and scraping, chipping, and painting procedures.
BILLET NO. 7 SEAMAN
Rate Allowed: Seaman, First Class Division: Deck
DUTIES
General Quarters: Acts as lookout at starboard 20 mm. gun. Assists loader and replaces loader or gunner in event of casualty to either. Relieves quartermaster at helm when signals are being received or sent. Assists in dogging and undogging ramp, then stands by and operates auxiliary ramp winch in emergency. Acts as member of damage-control party if necessary.
Cruising (condition II): Stands starboard section watch, alternating as helmsman and lookout in starboard gun tub. As helmsman, executes orders issued by Conn, turning wheel to right or left until rudder indicator and compass show that rudder is in desired position or that ship is on right course. As lookout, maintains constant watch over assigned sector and reports all objects sighted to Conn.
Maintenance (off watch): When necessary, scrapes, chips, and paints ship and gear. Performs miscellaneous maintenance, cleaning, and repair duties under direction of boatswain.
GEAR
20 mm. gun
Rudder-angle indicator
20 mm. cartridges and magazines
Magnetic compass
Binoculars
Cleaning and painting gear
Wheel
PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS
Good eyesight in order to act as lookout and to train and point 20 mm. gun.
KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS
Must understand firing procedure on 20 mm. gun.
Must be able to insert and remove 20 mm. magazine.
Must be skilled as helmsman.
Must know how to dog and undog ramps.
Must be able to identify Allied and enemy aircraft and ships.
Must know proper cleaning methods and scraping, chipping, and painting procedures.
BILLET NO. 8 MOTOR MACHINIST’S MATE
Rate Allowed: Motor Machinist’s Mate, First Class Division: Engineering
DUTIES
General Quarters: Takes station in engine room and checks main engines and generators for proper operation. Makes any necessary adjustments or emergency repairs. May act as member of damage-control party if necessary.
Cruising (condition II): Acts as throttle man in pilothouse during starboard section watch, regulating speed and controlling direction of engines as ordered by Conn. Alternates duties with lookout in port gun tub. As lookout, maintains constant lookout over assigned sector and reports all objects sighted to Conn. At least once every half-hour goes to engine room and inspects all operating machinery, transferring fuel from fuel tanks to day tanks when necessary and recording required data in engine-room log.
Maintenance (off watch): Is responsible for supervising and assisting engineering force in maintenance and repair of main propulsion plant, generators, ramp engine, anchor winch, and auxiliary equipment. Sees that handy-billy pump, ramp engine, and anchor engine are started daily; checks stern tubes and salt-water packing glands, flame primer’s, fuel filters, service generators, and starting motors. Takes daily soundings of lubricating-oil, fuel-oil, and fresh-water tanks and enters amounts in engineering smooth log. Instructs other members of engineering force in proper operation of equipment, in observance of safety precautions, and in maintenance and repair procedures.
GEAR
Main engines (three Gray-Marine diesels, 6-cylinder, solid-injection, 225-h.p., 2100 r.p.m.)
Generators (two 10-kw., 120-v., D. C.)
Anchor-winch engine (Hercules, 6-cylinder, gasoline, 119-h. p.)
Ramp engine (Wisconsin, 4-cylinder, gasoline, 18-h. p.)
Fire and bilge pump (Allis-Chalmers, motor-driven, centrifugal)
Transfer pump (centrifugal, driven by Wisconsin 2-cylinder gasoline engine)
PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS
Good eyesight in order to act as lookout.
Average size or smaller in order to work in confined spaces of engine room.
KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS
Must be capable of planning and directing activities of others.
Must be able to operate, maintain, and repair diesel and gasoline engines.
Must understand functions and relationships of various units in main propulsion plant. Must know safety precautions to be observed in machinery operation and what action to take in event of equipment casualties.
Must know location and use of all lines, pumps, and valves involved in operation of main and auxiliary equipment.
Must know lubrication requirements of all equipment under cognizance of engineering department.
Must be able to understand written instructions in operating and maintenance manuals.
Must be able to do simple mathematics necessary to keep logs and records.
Must be able to identify Allied and enemy aircraft and ships.
BILLET NO. 9 MOTOR MACHINIST’S MATE
Rate Allowed: Motor Machinist’s Mate, Second Class: Division: Engineering
DUTIES
General Quarters: Acts as throttle man in pilothouse, adjusting the three throttle levers to provide required speeds ordered by Conn and visually checking the tachometers to insure proper regulation. Stops or reverses direction of engines by regulating throttles to "idle" speed and moving clutch levers to required position. Relays and acknowledges all orders from Conn to helmsman over voice tube.
Cruising (condition II): Stands port section watch as throttle man, with the same duties as at General Quarters. Alternates with lookout in port gun tub, maintaining constant lookout over assigned sector and reporting objects sighted to Conn. At least once every half-hour goes to engine room and inspects all operating machinery, transferring fuel from fuel tanks to day tanks when necessary and recording required data in engine-room log.
Maintenance (off watch): Performs assigned maintenance and repair work on engineering equipment. Lubricates engines, changes oil and filters as required, re-packs glands, renews gaskets, and repairs pumps and valves. Assists in wiping down engines and in cleaning engine room, bilges, and machinery.
GEAR
Main engines
Generators
Auxiliary equipment
Machinist’s hand tools
Lubricating equipment and supplies
Throttles
Clutch levers
Tachometers
Engineer’s log book
PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS
Good eyesight in order to act as lookout. Average size or smaller in order to work in confined spaces of engine room.
KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS
Must be able to operate, maintain, and repair diesel and gasoline engines. Must know how to start, parallel, and secure generators. Must know safety precautions to be observed in machinery operation and what action to take in event of equipment casualties. Must be able to identify Allied and enemy aircraft and ships. Must be familiar with orders issued to helmsman and know standard acknowledgments. Must be skilled in use of machinist’s hand tools.
BILLET NO. 10 ELECTRICIAN’S MATE
Rate Allowed: Electrician’s Mate, Second Class Division: Engineering
DUTIES
General Quarters: Acts as lookout at port 20 mm. gun. Assists loader and replaces gunner or loader in event of casualty to either. During beaching and retracting operates winch to drop and heave in anchor, receiving orders from officer in charge by hand signals. Acts as member of damage-control party if necessary.
Cruising (condition II): Stands starboard section watch as lookout in port gun tub, maintaining constant watch over assigned sector and reporting all objects sighted to Conn. Alternates duties with throttle man, regulating speed and controlling direction of engines as ordered by Conn. At least once every half hour goes to engine room and inspects all operating machinery, transferring fuel from fuel tanks to day tanks when necessary and recording required data in engine-room 1og.
Maintenance (off watch): Is responsible for maintaining, repairing, and cleaning all electrical equipment, including motors, fans, searchlights, generators, storage batteries, and generator and distribution switchboards. Sees that anchor-winch engine is fueled and lubricated and that it is in good operating condition at all times.
GEAR
20 mm. gun and magazines
Anchor winch
Throttles
Clutch levers
Tachometers
Engineer’s log book
All electrical equipment (generators, motors, fans, storage batteries, refrigerator, switchboards, searchlights, coffee urn, and so on)
Pliers, wire, fuses, electric soldering iron, flux-core solder, friction tape, screw drivers, test lamp, and drills.
PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS
Good eyesight in order to act as lookout. Average size or smaller in order to work in confined spaces of engine room.
KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS
Must know firing procedure for 20 mm. guns.
Must be able to identify Allied and enemy aircraft and ships.
Must be able to operate anchor winch and know proper use of anchor in beaching and retracting.
Must be familiar with orders issued to helmsman and know standard acknowledgments.
Must know how to start, parallel, and secure generators.
Must know how to test and charge storage batteries.
Must know how to maintain and repair generators, motors, searchlights, fans, and interior-communications equipment.
Must know how to test circuits for grounds.
Must know how to operate and maintain diesel and gasoline engines.
BILLET NO. ll FIREMAN
Rate Allowed: Fireman, First Class Division: Engineering
DUTIES
General Quarters: Stands by with kit to administer first aid to casualties. Acts as member of damage-control party if necessary. Operates ramp winch to lower and raise ramp during beaching and retracting.
Cruising (condition II): Acts as throttle man in pilothouse, port section watch, regulating speed and controlling direction of engines as ordered by Conn. Alternates duties with lookout in port gun tub, maintaining constant lookout over assigned sector and reporting all objects sighted to Conn. At least once every half-hour goes to engine room and inspects all operating machinery, transferring fuel from fuel tanks to day tanks when necessary and recording required data in engine-room log.
Maintenance (off watch): Is responsible for maintaining, cleaning, and repairing ramp winch and engine. Performs assigned maintenance and repair work on main engines and auxiliary equipment; assists in wiping down engines and in cleaning engine room, bilges, and machinery.
GEAR
First-aid kit
Main engines
Generators
Auxiliary equipment
Ramp winch (Wisconsin, 4-cylinder, air-cooled, gasoline engine)
Machinist’s hand tools
Throttles
Clutch levers
Tachometers
Engineer’s log book
PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS
Good eyesight in order to act as lookout. Average size or smaller in order to work in confined spaces of engine room.
KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS
Must know principles of first aid.
Must be able to operate and maintain ramp winch and engine.
Must be able to operate, maintain, and repair diesel and gasoline engines.
Must know how to start, parallel, and secure generators.
Must know safety precautions to be observed in machinery operation and what action to take in event of equipment casualties.
Must be able to identify Allied and enemy aircraft and ships.
Must be familiar with orders issued to helmsman and know standard acknowledgments. Must be skilled in use of machinist’s hand tools.
BILLET NO. 12 SHIP’S COOK
Rate Allowed: Ship’s Cook, First Class Division: Deck
DUTIES
General Quarters: Acts as loader on port 20 mm. gun. Puts 60 lbs. tension on magazine by using detachable hand crank; inserts and locks magazine on gun and stands by to replace expended magazine with full one. Assists in clearing jams and changing barrel.
Cruising (condition II): Prepares and serves food with aid of seaman assigned as helper. Maintenance (off watch): Is responsible for cleanliness and good order of galley, all galley equipment, and all food stowage spaces. Maintains inventories of provisions and keeps officer in charge informed of amounts on hand. Cleans, with aid of helper, crew’s sleeping compartment, quarters of officer in charge, and heads, showers, and wash basins.
GEAR
20 mm. gun and magazines
Oil-fired range equipped with Therm Burner
Coffee urn
Cooking utensils
Refrigerator
Cleaning supplies and equipment
PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS
Personal cleanliness and freedom from communicable diseases in order to act as cook.
KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS
Must be able to plan and prepare menus and estimate amount of food required for given number of men.
Must be familiar with standard Navy recipes and be skilled in cooking and baking.
Must know sanitary precautions to be observed in stowage, preparation, and issue of food.
Must be able to light off, operate, secure, and clean galley range.
Must know how to maintain inventories of provisions.
Must understand firing procedure of 20 mm. gun.
Must be able to insert and remove 20 mm. magazines.
Should know proper cleaning procedures and methods.
FOUR EVOLUTION LCT WATCH, QUARTER, AND STATION BILL
Billet No.
Rate
Allowed
General Quarters (Condition I-A)
Beaching & Retracting
(Condition I-B)
Two Section Watch
(Condition II)
Maintenance
Duties
1
BM 1c
Petty officer in charge topside; in charge damage control party if necessary.
Petty officer in charge ramp detail; in charge damage-control party if necessary.
Acting officer of the deck in charge port section watch.
Supervises deck crew in maintenance of ship and gear.
2
QM 2c
Helmsman; signalman when required.
Same duties as at General Quarters.
Helmsman, alternating duties with lookout in starboard gun tub—port section watch.
Cleans and maintains pilothouse; keeps navigation data.
3
GM 3c
Gunner, port 20 mm. gun.
Same duties as at General Quarters.
Relief for lookouts, helmsman, and throttle man—port section watch.
Maintains guns and ordnance equipment.
4
RM 3c
Radio operator; member damage-control party if necessary.
Radio operator; assists with anchor if necessary.
Relief for lookouts, helmsman, and throttle man—starboard section watch.
Maintains radio gear; assists in cleaning topside.
5
S 1c
Gunner, starboard 20 mm. gun.
Same duties as at General Quarters.
Helmsman, alternating duties with lookout in starboard gun tub—
starboard section watch.
Cleans and maintains topside under direction of boatswain.
6
S 1c
Loader, starboard 20 mm. gun.
Same duties as at General Quarters.
Lookout, starboard gun tub, alternating duties with helmsman—port section watch.
Cleans and maintains topside under direction of boatswain.
7
S 1c
Lookout and standby, starboard 20 mm. gun.
Auxiliary ramp-winch operator; member damage control party if necessary.
Lookout, starboard gun tub, alternating duties with helmsman—starboard section watch.
Cleans and maintains topside and crew compartment.
8
MoMM 1c
Petty Officer in charge engine room; member damage-control party if necessary.
Same duties as at General Quarters.
Throttle man, alternating duties with lookout in port gun tub. Starboard section watch.
Supervises maintenance of engineering equipment.
9
MoMM 2c
Throttle man in pilot house.
Same duties as at General Quarters.
Throttle man, alternating duties with lookout in port gun tub. Port section watch.
Maintains and repairs main engines and auxiliary machinery.
10
EM 2c
Lookout and standby , port 20 mm. gun.
Anchor-winch operator; member damage control party if necessary.
Lookout, port gun tub, alternating duties with throttle man. Starboard section watch.
Maintains electrical equipment and anchor-winch engine.
11
F 1c
Stand-by (first aid kit ready); member damage control party.
Ramp-engine operator; member damage control party.
Lookout, port gun tub, alternating duties with throttle man. Port section watch.
Maintains ramp engine and assists in general repairs.
12
SC 1c
Loader, port 20 mm. gun.
Same duties as at General Quarters.
Galley.
Cleans and maintains galley, messing compartment, officer’s bunk room.
© 2000 LCT Flotillas of World War II ETO PTO