[ARC5] Re: [Milsurplus] Command key ?

[Mike Hanz]

Military1944 at aol.com wrote:

>Just finishing off a Command set up here, 2 x rx and 2 x tx layout, was just wondering what the correct mic and key are with these sets ? 
>thinking T-17 and J-37 ? guess there may have been slight variations depending upon aircraft fit but what was used in the B-17 etc?
>

Which command set?  If you're referring to the SCR-274N as opposed to 
the ARA/ATA and AN/ARC-5, then what you suggest seems a reasonable fit 
(though the T-17 was used far less that the throat or oxygen mask mikes 
in both theaters during the war, at least by the combat aircraft.)  
Despite dramatic movies like 12 O'clock High and others, where they 
apparently had to give the actors something more visual to do when they 
talked on the radio, the T-17 was used more prior to WWII.  It had the 
disadvantage that it was not hands-free - in combat it was bloody 
nuisance to hold and simultaneously try to fire a machine gun or take 
evasive action, etc...  It was more of an 'ash and trash hauler' mike 
during the war, probably because cargo and patrol aircraft didn't 
normally get into many tight situations.

On the other hand, just about any combination could probably be found 
during the conflict.  GIs are wondrously inventive, despite strict 
regulations to prevent the use of "non-standard" equipment.  :-)

At least that's my take. 

73,
Mike