I used to run a JMICS for II MEF, and as part of it we had a TROJAN SPIRIT, which had a 6m parabola attached.

I caught a pair of supply guys trying to cook an MRE on what they thought was the focal point of the dish.

And I tried to explain the power density of SHF from a receiver. I’d have had better luck explaining calculus to a chicken.

Instead I bribed them with cans of beer I’d smuggled in a classified van and then told them I’d happily trade beer for them to run contraband from the British and Telemark Battalions - but only if they’d keep other Marines away from my dish.

They spread a rumour that they’d seen it fry a bird out of the sky, they got free beer, I got mysost, kippers, full English breakfasts, hot porridge, the Norges got Marlboros and the Brits got beer.

When the officers found me out, I was able to trade farm-fresh scrambled eggs and smoked kippers and a few pints of an evening and they turned a blind eye.

Had a great three months, would recommend.