Great Texas Balloon Race 2006

Our mission was to Support local, county, and state law enforcement agencies in traffic control and security operations during the event. This year saw record attendance by the public.

900 x 675 You know you are busy when you can't open some pogie bait between calls! For those interested in radio, this image also shows how we provided redundant power for the radio set. The large case under the table holds a 95AH 12V AGM battery. The small 12V (13.8V) 3A power supply on the table keeps it charged and supplies most of the power for the radio. During transmit, some of the energy is supplied by the battery, which constantly recharges when the radio is receiving or idle. In case there is no power, the battery can run the radio for about 2 days in normal use. The system can also be operated from a vehicle if no 120VAC power is available. 13.8V is high for continuous float charge at 100 degrees F, but it is done for only 2 days. The battery is usually floated at 13.58V in an 80 degree environment.	900 x 675 Image showing the base station radio. It's also described in more detail here.	900 x 1200	900 x 675
900 x 675 The TOC (tactical operations center). The TOC included the actual TOC, a rest area for soldiers rotated from the field, and the MRC (Medical Reserve Corps) operations center.	900 x 675 Medical and communications staff	900 x 1384 This kind of ammo box opens at the top and bottom and so a divider was put in the center. We use them to hold intra-squad radios and accessories. These super-tough cans are made of plastic and have O-ringed covers.	2591 x 1525
900 x 675	900 x 675	900 x 545	2592 x 1944 MRC operations center. We set up their shelter adjacent to our own. We are always grateful for their support, especially in the 100+ degree heat.
2592 x 1944 NCOIC	2592 x 1944	2592 x 1944	2592 x 1944 "Laughter is the best medicine" says the guy in the yellow vest. I think some people can smell a camera a mile away!
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Picture is inside the communications truck used as the net control station.
Communications sergeant says: "They told me today would be a good day. And it was!"