Operations – On the Gunline

Naval Gunfire Support (NGFS) missions were usually part of a scheduled operation by forces ashore, requiring Taylor to be precisely positioned for optimal effect. Forward Observers, either in aircraft or on the ground, would call in grid coordinates to the ship and direct fire where and when needed. The FO would also specify what kind of round is needed, depending on the nature of the target. Sometimes, the ship would be asked to stand on station in case gunfire support is needed, or to respond to an urgent unscheduled call for support. Taylor made a large and tempting target standing still close to shore, so lookouts were posted, percussion grenades were used to discourage enemy swimmers, and machine guns were manned around the ship.