We spent a lot of 1971 performing calibration runs for a new sonar that was mounted on a new class of destroyer escort, or DE. We were conducting what was essentially a special research and development exercise. We were outfitted with elaborate electronic equipment, which was centered around a complex array of special acoustic transducers. We performed a series of precise maneuvers underwater, and we measured the received sound power level at many points around the submarine. The information was recorded on digital tape, on a rig that looked a lot like an IBM 1401 computer of the 1960s.

At the end of each day, we took the tape reel off the computer, and transferred it to the DE for overnight analysis. They then prepared the instructions for the next day's maneuvers. What struck me about the process was the method of transferring the information to the other ship.

We surfaced each evening at twilight, and the DE pulled alongside us. We both hove to. The DE launched a motor whaleboat, which came close aboard. One of our sailors then took the data tape, which did not have a backup, by the way, out onto the forward deck. Then he threw it from the deck of the submarine to the sailors in the motor whaleboat. They caught it every time.

I think about this, sometimes, when I hear people talking about difficulties with data transfer techniques. Have you tried the Roger Staubach method?