Richmond Relay - 1969-70

Richmond Microwave and VHF Radio Relay Site

Across the road from the Air Force tent was the Helipad overlooking the city of Taejon. What a wonderful view it was in winter and summer or when the mountain tops poked above the layer of fog that hugged the ground and hide the rice paddies. After entering the only gate entrance into the site the road opened into a larger area cut into the side of the mountain. This was the largest single flat area on site and contained the 100's of barrels of diesel oil for the generators and the other site POL storage. There were two buildings on this level, one containing the 3 generators and the other a shop. The only access to the other site buildings was by the two long stairways leading up the side of the mountain from the entrance level.

While I was stationed at Richmond Site there were a few upgrade projects that occurred including work on the access road, a new perimeter lighting system, a double-chain length security fence with gates and a camouflage paint job on all the buildings.

Diesel fuel used for generating electricity on the site was hauled up to the site by the well known Air Force outfit called the "Mule Train." They carried supplies and POL to many areas including the isolated radio relay sites. They were great guys and drivers and were among the few who would take on the challenging task of negotiating the Richmond Roadrunner's road. The most gratitude they would accept would be a cup of coffee and a piece of pie or cake from our mess hall. Then they were off to pick up another load and make another delivery.