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The communications platoon, also known as the "S-6" is responsible for all related communications for the battalion. It is part of the Headquarters and Services Company and is responsible for supporting all companies within the battalion. At the regiment level, the communications platoon is responsible for providing support to the regiment as well as the battalion communication platoons. Within the communications platoon, there are four sections: Data, Wire, Radio, and Maintenance. Each of these sections have specialized individuals who have been trained to best understand their field.
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Leadership
The communications platoon is headed by a 2nd or 1st lieutenant, called the Communications Officer or S-6, and a master sergeant, called the Communications Chief. For regiment level communication platoons, it's typical to have a captain head the platoon and a master gunnery sergeant be the senior enlisted marine. Each section has a chief that is responsible for the work of the section. The rank of the section chief can vary from sergeant to master sergeant; however, to have a Data Chief, Radio Chief, Wire Chief, Maintenance Chief MOS, the marine must be a staff non-commissioned officer (NCO).
Data Section
Key objectives of the data section are to develop and prepare networks during field operations, maintain the network at the base, and provide helpdesk support. The data section is responsible for all computer related issues for the battalion, to include email, office support, servers, switches, routers, and printers. During preparation of field ops, the data section will configure routers and switches to create a LAN at the base of the field op. Additionally, the data section will prepare all laptops that will be used and the servers to support them (e.g. exchange servers, ESXi hosts, etc.).
Radio Section
The radio section provides radios and radio networks to the battalion and companies within the battalion during field operations, training events, and during deployment patrols. The radio section, along with the data section, provide invaluable support to the battalion by maintaining all radio networks. These networks are especially useful during deployment patrols when the only form of communication are long range frequency radios. When paired with the data section, the two sections combined can create a WAN through the radios and have the capabilities to send and receive pictures, documents, and emails.