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43. The careful gathering of intelligence as a result
of increasing co-operation from the public contributed greatly
to the Security Forces' success. Close surveillance
was
maintained on areas where terrorists or their munitions
were likely to be and possible supply routes were
intercepted.
During the year a number of unapproved border crossing points
were effectively closed,
44. The Royal Military Police, whose second Regiment was formed
provided invaluable support to the Royal Ulster
All three "nited Kingdom-based Royal Marines
during 1974,
Constabulary,
Commandos
undertook
peace-keeping duties in the infantry role
and in 1973 40 Commando, Royal Marines, was awarded a Wilkinson "Sword
of Peace" in recognition of efforts to improve community relations in
Belfast. In 1974 this award was won by the 1st Battalion, The Prince
of Wales's Own Regiment of Yorkshire for similar community
relations work. Ships of the Fleet, together with Royal Air Force
long-range marine craft, maintained anti-gun-running patrols. Royal
Navy craft also patrolled in Lough Carlingford and Lough Foyle.
Royal Air Force helicopters gave valuable support in operational
situations.
Squadrons of the PAF Regiment
continued
to provide close protection for the airfield at Aldergrove and the
radar unit at Bishops Court; and in 1973 supported the Army on the
streets of Londonderry.
45. The Ulster Defence Regiment
continued to provide an
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