881 Signal Squadron - Chowl Zari Team photo (12)

(88 Signal Regiment related photo): A UN communication specialist team arrived mid November 1988 to install the antenna tower seen outside the UNMOs bunker. Our High Frequency {HF} communications vehicle we used throughout the operation is parked alongside with the whip antennae deployed. In addition, another homemade HF antenna was erected behind the vehicle up on the hill that was used from dusk to dawn. Bakhtaran was located 150 km northwest beyond the rock face.

A Motorola radio was positioned inside the UNMOs bunker, where we operated and trained the observers prior to our departure. The daily traffic or Situational Awareness Incident Report produced by UNMOs included:

ceasefire locations visited that particular day;

ceasefire violations and or alleged violations;

potential POW or KIA exchanges; and

movement of military personnel and assets.

John Spencer and I climbed the tower and mounted the UN flag that can be seen on the top. It was a one man job but I think we both needed moral support from each other throughout the climb.

Credit: Paul Cormier