CHAPTER 4 ALLIED COMMUNICATION PROCEDURES In addition to operating equipment and constructing messages, you must use correct communication procedures to provide concise and definite language so that communications may be conducted accurately and rapidly. The method of communicating may depend on a number of considerations, ranging from security to required speed of transmission. Whatever the condition, you as a Signalman must be able to perform to the best of your ability. Although Signalmen normally use only three methods to communicate visually (flashing light, flaghoist, and semaphore) other methods such as sound and pyrotechnics are available. This chapter explains communication procedures used by communication personnel. Flaghoist procedures are covered in chapter 5. GENERAL PROCEDURES LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Explain the use of general procedures to eliminate lengthy transmissions, to maintain proper signaling discipline, and to determine the rule of visual responsibility. Visual communications procedures may be subdivided into Allied, international, and special procedures. Allied procedures are those used by the United States with its Allies and between Allied Nations. International procedures, discussed in chapter 6, are those designed for nonmilitary communications between civil stations, but may be adapted for military use. Special signal procedures are those not included under Allied or international procedures, such as those described in ATP 2, volume II. Other special signals include the following: Ship-shore movement signals Harbor tug control signals Signals for various foreign ports U.S. Navy and Allied fleet exercise signals The foundation for these signal procedures is contained in ACP 129, Communication Instructions, visual Signaling procedures; ATP 2, volume II, Allied Naval Control of Shipping Manual Guide to Masters; ATP 1, volume II, Allied Maritime Tactical Signal and Maneuvering Book; and Pub 102, International Code of Signals. OPERATING SIGNALS Operating signals provide a brevity code for passing information pertaining to communication, aircraft operation, search and rescue, and so on. Although the signals eliminate the need for plain language transmissions between operators, they have no security and are in fact the equivalent of plain language. Operating signals are contained in ACP 131, Communication Instructions Operating Signals. Description Operating signals consist of three letters that start with either the letter Z or Q and may have figures, letters, abbreviations, or call signs following them. Most operating signals have complete meanings, but some require information to complete their meanings. The following rules apply: 1. Where a appears, it must be filled in. 2. Where a ( ) appears, it is optional to complete. Numbered alternatives, if used, will be followed without spacing. Numeral flags must be used between Allied units. Numeral pennants must be used for the Q codes for non-Allied military stations and merchants. Allocations Allocations of operating signals are as follows: QAA-QNZ: Allocated to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The only civil stations that will have a copy of this series are those of the aeronautical service. Therefore, this series is not used 4-1