We...the Marines:

by Pvt D. C. Abood, ISO, MCB, Camp Lejeune, N. C.

Copyright Marine Corps Association Feb 1969

Men From MARS

There's no science fiction involved in the job that Camp Lejeune's MARS men do every day-just plenty of dedication and down-to-earth technical experience.

The five Marines who staff the MARS (Military Affiliated Radio System) station at Marine Corps Base believe completely in its purpose-to provide servicemen and their dependents with a fast, free, and easy way of communication.

Originally licensed as amateur radio station W4LEV, the station became a MARS affiliate in November 1967, and was also licensed to operate on the call sign NOFAA.

In July 1968, the station was designated as the 6th Naval MARS District Primary Teletype Relay Station. Since January of this year, W4LEV/ NOFAA has handled approximately 10,000 messages and 3,000 phone patches.

SSgt Bill Biggs, Jr., chief operator, said he and the crew are proud to be members of the most advanced, forward-looking and efficient Naval MARS district.

The station is currently helping to pioneer a radioteletype communications system via satellite to deliver messages even quicker than the relatively fast two days it now takes.

Someday, Marines and their families may be communicating via satellite, thanks, in part, to the Marines from MARS.