Forbidden Zone Geocaches
 
   
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  FBZ Missions  
  · Stone of the Lost Valley
· Warlock Mine
· Mission Gorge
· Rock River Burial Mound
· Supernatural Supernova
· Little Green Men
· The Forbidden Zone
· The Monkey's Triangle

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  Silverback Cipher  
 
Silverback hunters should be familiar with the “pigpen” or masonic cipher, which is a simple substitution cipher exchanging letters for symbols based on a grid.

This cipher can be used to decrypt directions and secret codewords at FBZ geocaches!

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  External Links  
  · 1: The FBI Vault
· 2: Project Blue Book
· 3: Aliens the Truth
· 4: The CIA Vault

Forbidden Zone Geocaches


OPERATION SILVERBACK is a geocaching series created by the Simian Guerrilla Task Force (SGTF) consisting of seven (7) Top Secret Geocaches (TSGs) hidden in and around San Diego in Southern California. It draws inspiration from Project A.P.E., the geocaching promotion introduced by 20th Century Fox prior to their release of the "blockbuster" Planet of the Apes remake in 2001, The X-Files and other science fiction classics.

Authentic Planet of the Apes Memorabilia (POTAM) has been stashed at some FBZs and has also been sent on Special Reconnaissance (SR) missions to various current and former Project A.P.E. cache locations around the globe.

Project APE geocoin iconSome FBZs also include printed images of prized Project A.P.E. geocoins which can be discovered and logged via their corresponding tracking numbers. GC members who enter the TNs will add instances of the ape face icon to their online profiles!



Top Operatives ChartActivity Details:

FBZ top secret briefing document (.pdf) placed in Project A.P.E. Mission 9 Tunnel of Light cache container on 13 July 09 at 13:29:34.

Operation Silverback is the code name for SGTF's self-assigned Intelligence Support Activity (ISA). We purport a link between extraterrestrials and primates and strongly adhere to the notion that aliens are planning to unleash an imminent attack against mankind using an Alternative Primate Evolution (A.P.E.).* We believe our role is to collect "intelligence" related to our assumption and present documentation to its effect.

In our TSGs we provide "top secret" reports and relevant evidence to prove our hypothesis. In addition to these materials, a codeword is hidden at each FBZ that can be deciphered using the Silverback Cipher and entered here on the codeword panel to reveal coordinates to the final FBZ mission, a remote TOP SECRET Forbidden Zone where the "truth shall be revealed!"  Operatives must gather and enter all six (6) mission codewords before they will be able to view the final mission coordinates.

Optionally, operatives are welcome to create an account on this Web site to display their progress as they visit TSGs and successfully enter corresponding Operation Silverback codewords. Points and a special command ranking are assigned to operatives' profiles for correct submissions and other relevant operation engagements.  Keep in mind that codewords can be gathered in any order so you DO NOT need to visit FBZs sequentially!
   


  
Operation Silverback: mission accomplished
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: General oesteado

Immediately upon exiting the vehicle, an alien presence could be strongly sensed, almost overwhelming so. Approaching the forbidden zone on foot, anxiety grew with every twist and turn. Yes, the Apes had been here and left totems to warn against human encroachment.... Only extensive Terrestrial Defense Force (TDF) training allowed me to maintain sanity while examining the repulsively fascinating evidence. Mind blasted by the horrific implications, I wandered back to civilization hoping the SGTF possessed the operational fortitude to combat this planet-threatening menace...!

( Reads: 13664 ) (comments? | Score: 3.5)
 
   
  
Operation Silverback: Monkey's Triangle compromised
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: General oesteado

Unfortunately it seems that nefarious agents of the enemy have been diligently working to disrupt Task Force plans. Fortunately I was able to maintain contact with a high-ranking SGTF operative who conveyed crucial intel at each location, allowing the quest to continue.... But at the final stop, I witnessed incontrovertible confirmation of an alien connection. And it is my firm belief that extraterrestrials (or their earthly cooperatives) have absconded with damning materials detailing their sinister involvement. Ordered to log a successful find despite my abject failure to find anything useful, it is this agent's humble recommendation that further investigations be suspended until superior officers can unravel the mysterious disappearance of all evidence....

( Reads: 321 ) (comments? | Score: 4)
 
   
  
Operation Silverback: TOL Mission 09: A.P.E. Cache FOUND
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: General of the Army SGTF

The historic Tunnel of Light cache in Seattle, Washington was recently found by a team of dedicated geocaching operatives! A survey (included at blog link below) has been created by GC.com to determine what to do next with the cache.

Admin's Comment: https://www.geocaching.com/blog/2016/11/long-lost-ape-cache-is-found

( Reads: 269 ) (comments? | Score: 5)
 
   
  
Operation Silverback: Intriguing CNN Story
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: General of the Army SGTF

An excellent piece of investigative journalism has been posted on CNN.com reporting what we have known for years. You will see evidence highlighted from this story firsthand at FBZ A.P.E 57. This development has prompted us to add a new resource to our research database entitled "The FBI Vault" which links directly to the unexplained phenomenon section of the FBI's document repository.

Click the link below to see the video...

FBI UFO Files

( Reads: 473 ) (comments? | Score: 5)
 
   
  
Operation Silverback: Triangulation report
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: Lieutenant Colonel balcanthez

Initial detection of area noted and reviewed. Proper transportation acquired and checked out from the motor pool. Maps to locations studied and verified. It was time for the mission start. Gathered operative Golden Siren for the mission and departed 0800 hours for primary site. Entry point located and extraction team inserted to correct location. Checkpoint 2 missed due to lack of proper intel and marking, but was discovered not too far into mission. Sector 1 arrival with mission container found in open. Documents reviewed only showed 4 cards (1 TB card), 1 figure, 1 empty envelope, and 3 pages of Cyrillic notations. Replaced contents after catalog, and rehid in proper fashion to obscure identity. Sector 3 located and entered at 1245 hrs with initial search of compound complete. Required coding attained and new search for final package commenced. Final location identified and opened at 1300hrs, with the following observations: Outer bag wet and soggy, inner briefcase wet and slight mold detected. Inner contents wet on outside but mission packets and documentation in great shape and dry in protective shielding. All documents viewed and photographed for proper cataloging. Final mission codeword attained and all contents returned to pre-find condition. Area extraction completed without detection.

( Reads: 580 ) (Read More... | 1395 bytes more | comments? | Score: 4.2)
 
   
  
Operation Silverback: FBZ 51
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: Lieutenant Colonel balcanthez

Completed 10/28/2011. Subsequent return to location due to Operative Golden Siren indoctrination on 3/17/2012. Transport to location uneventful and quiet due to low weekend activity and eminent storm arrival. Parked at crossroads due to proximity to location and set off utilizing approved locators for mission. Arrived at designated location with winds topping 30-40mph. Climb to hidesite treacherous and required slow travel. Upon reaching container, Golden Siren stayed in shelter of formation 5' to South as I opened and handed contents for review and annotation of documents to her. Winds were picking up steadily and reached a peak at about 50mph. All documents were returned to location and rehid as required. Return to vehicle was accompanied by sleet commencement. Retraction from area accomplished without incident.

( Reads: 563 ) (comments? | Score: 4.12)
 
   
  
Operation Silverback: Final Assault
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: Lieutenant Colonel balcanthez

Once all the codeword’s were obtained for the final mission, an assault plan was devised with assistance of Operative Golden Siren. The mission date was set and only generic locations of our whereabouts would be known by the unbelievers. The drop-off site was attained and descent into the abyss was achieved with little trouble. Guardians of the Forbidden Zone had taken quite a beating, with only 1 sentry still standing guard. We easily avoided capture and moved down the tunnels toward the archeological site. Searchers were above, and we heard their machinery pass as we slowly marked the trail. Additional warning signs were encountered, but since they were simian in nature, we were not deterred. Upon reaching the Government warnings that this was a POTAM Restricted area, we began our search. This took a while, with our detector identifying the correct location, but not the correct altitude. A deeper investigation revealed a curious marking which led us to the secret container. Revealing the truth was quite exhilarating, and we were overjoyed to find the contents quite intact. All materials were studied and photographed for recording of the encounter. Official photographs were encoded with the latest encryption to avoid incidental exposure to non-authorized personnel, and keep the encounter out of the media. Upon recording of the event, Golden Siren and I departed the area just as found. The secrets are hidden once again for another operative to find for additional studying and retrieval. Once we returned to the drop-off site, we noticed residents of a similar nature observing our movements. Those too were photographed for later classification.

( Reads: 540 ) (Read More... | 1805 bytes more | comments? | Score: 4.4)
 
   
  
Operation Silverback: Mined Location Report
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: Lieutenant Colonel balcanthez

Location: obtained. Trip report below submitted. Arrived at initial location with operatives Golden Siren, Monkey Grl, and 1 Muggle daughter who was previously sedated and subsequently hypnotized to remove any memory of the mission. The entry to the area was a very nice hike with no indication of the secrets that were to be discovered. The mine site was in perfect hibernation state and all indicators were not visible to the untrained eye. The secret location was found and the container verified as incident to the mission. Opened the container to find the contents in excellent order. The items were reviewed and the operative number was obtained. Upon verifying the communication devices were properly scrambled, call made to SGTF command to obtain the mission codeword. Codeword written on flash-paper, committed to memory, and destroyed in accordance with established procedures. Operatives replaced mission packet and contents after review of relevant materials. Departure of area was fairly strenuous due to continual ascent, but was completed with all agents accounted for.

( Reads: 521 ) (Read More... | 1185 bytes more | comments? | Score: 4.4)
 
   
  
Operation Silverback: Green Day
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: Lieutenant Colonel balcanthez

Area previously scouted with no clear line of entry identified. Government warning signs noted, and alternate routes of entry did not provide fruitful. Determined additional research needed. After communicating with previous operatives, a new date was set for accomplishing the mission. The new date came and, accompanied by operative Golden Siren, set out for completion of objectives. Reached previously identified parking and set out along indicated route. Passed remains of the secret AF base (currently in process of removal from existance to continue the cover-up), and encoutered a lone guard along the path. Alternate identification was provided to obscure the true details of the mission and he allowed continued access. Photograph of guard submitted for additional operative identification. Final location found and contents of mission packet reviewed, as well as the outstanding view. As operatives, we knew this to be a distraction for non-operatives to be enthralled with, and hide the container from prying eyes. All required materials reviewed and replaced as found to obscure the location. Departure from area completed with no observations of any non-POTAM approved personnel in sight.

( Reads: 528 ) (Read More... | 1287 bytes more | comments? | Score: 4.25)
 
   
  
Operation Silverback: Fallen Hollows
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: General oesteado

Had no intention of commencing this operation. But once this cache showed up on my radar, I knew it had to be investigated immediately. As I noticed the high security required, my interest only deepened. Obtained the required opening device and proceeded towards ground zero. Stumbled around for a short while before observing the well-hidden and well-secured find which promised to reveal so much. And yet. prepared as I was for what i was about to find, I was still taken aback at the depth of the mystery I was now surely obliged to delve into. Took ample notes and even some strategically important photographs. Should my mission fail, this evidence must be destroyed to preserve the sanity of the general (muggling) public.

( Reads: 541 ) (Read More... | 1075 bytes more | comments? | Score: 4.4)
 
   
  
Operation Silverback: CONFIRMATION OF MISSING GC1EW93
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: Green Beret BKip

REPORT 18 SEPT 2011 T:1448 (PST) FBZ A.P.E. 54 – GC1EW93 CONFIRMATION OF PREVIOUS REPORT - In area for non-related Geocache search(s). Extended trip to include (re)visit to Rock River Burial Mound. Based on original visit of 04/04/2009 noted that site has experienced major changes that would have required a massive effort by a skilled and dedicated artesian(s). Found primary cairn disassembled and container to be missing. No evidence of any of the contents found in the general vicinity. The “rock painted with secret symbols…” was found in place with symbols fully intact. Further investigation of “OPTIONAL Engagement” to the north resulted in confirmation of container and contents intact with no evidence of tampering. END REPORT

( Reads: 410 ) (comments? | Score: 4.33)
 
   
  
Operation Silverback: A.P.E. 51 Stone of The Lost Valley
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: Honorable Discharge BlondHiLites

Set out for this mission with Ragfoot on 17/March/2011. We missed our target by a few mile markers due to conversation along the way. Once we were on the correct road, the excitement stirred. I didn't care if we were lost or not as I was in awe by the landscape and thrilled with the hunt. Ragfoot landed the Retroburn and I led the way to the goods. ("We are not just soldiers, we are friends"). I climbed to the top where I discovered the prize. The winds pushed me around like a Ragdoll so Ragfoot took over to my relief. With teamwork, we managed to decipher the code word, read through “intelligence” report(s) and gather other related codes and numbers. I had a hunch where we were to go next and luckily, we made a quick find. With the winds blowing to our backs, I thought for sure we would be hunted down by our scent. We hi-tailed back to the Retroburn before they caught wind of us. Mission Accomplished

( Reads: 443 ) (comments? | Score: 4.77)
 
   
  
Operation Silverback: Mission 51, complete
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: Sergeant Major jahoadiandjohn

Missions don't have to be done in order. This was the third one we accomplished. FBZ A.P.E. 51: Stone of the Lost Valley, GC1E685 Took us East of San Diego, not that far from Mexico. We met up with Fisnjack and Dillweed for a trip to MaCain Valley for this mission. It's the next to the last for those two and so they were anxious to decipher the secret message and gain the last bit of info to finish this adventure. John and I have about 3 more missions before we can head to the desert and the forbidden zone. What a great place out here. It had been ages since we'd been out here and never this far. Windy, windy, windy for sure, but we found the goods easily enough despite a few stops along the way to pull cholla out of john's socks and teddy's paws. Soldiers, jahoadi and john

( Reads: 395 ) (comments? | Score: 4.71)
 
   
  
Operation Silverback: Mission 52, down to the mine: completed
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: Sergeant Major jahoadiandjohn

This time i got to hike down to a historic mine along the old Wilcox toll road. beautiful views of the desert in the distance. What a place to have a house! For FBZ A.P.E. 52: Warlock Mine, GC1HJ6M, I (John) was solo. Fought off ticks and poison oak to get here to do the mission at hand and I was successful. We are slowly getting closer!! I did not see the coin in the container, but did see the other three trackables. This is a terrific trail and beautiful area and I had a really good time even on the uphill hike back. Thank you very much for showing it to me and for showing me the mine! Commander John

( Reads: 189 ) (comments? | Score: 5)
 
   
  
Operation Silverback: Mission 53, the first one completed
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: Sergeant Major jahoadiandjohn

Jodi completed a joint mission for this one. FBZ A.P.E. 53: Fallen Hollows, GC1FWXA, was completed on 4 Sept 2008 before she knew what was upon us..... I was out caching with Ginger!, Mocha!, Chuy!, Team Fatman, and Triple Crown when Chuy!'s phone went crazy. Looks like our plans just changed. Less than a mile from trail head... how cool was that? We kept expecting apes and or other creatures to jump out from behind the trees... it was kind of spooky... lots of P.O. and spiders and noises. We actually all turned off our flashlights once because we saw a light ahead... it was just the night sky. We all climbed over the cache several times before Team Fatman discovered it. We had fun looking through all the material inside. Took a TB or 2 and hopefully digested any needed information for later use. Cool cache LLOT? A great tribute to the nearly extinct A.P.E series. Thanks for the Fun! Seaman Recruit Jodi (of Jahoadi and John)

( Reads: 142 ) (comments? | Score: 4.4)
 
   
  
Operation Silverback: FBZ A.P.E. 57 The Forbidden Zone Final Mission
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: Honorable Discharge blondhilites

I thoroughly enjoyed each and every FBZ A.P.E cache and sorry to see this is the end, the final, The Forbidden Zone...or is it? The series obviously took a lot of time to put together as it does to maintain...all for our enjoyment![:D] Accomplishing all seven missions have been the most fun I've had in my four years of Geocaching ~ truly amazing work you've done in creating each and every one! We carefully worked our way through the detailed documents, studied them, took our notes, snapped pictures and pulled our jaws back in place. The details you've provided are incredible. Thanks to Ragfoot for including me on these missions,for his help,teamwork,and most of all, patience. Patience as I went 'APE' at every cache, playing with the props and goofing off like a kid at the zoo~'wild & crazy' what can I say? Thanks to The JJ Duo for explaining the details and checking in with me often as I learned to navigate through the Forbidden Zone website, making several mistakes along the way. I also appreciated Jim (JJduo) and Bkip for hiking with me to Warlock Mine and hiding breadcrumbs for the rest to follow. This final mission was accomplished by The Silverback Operatives Assalt Team: Ragfoot, Bkip, Dillweed, jahoadi&john and w/out injury, Fisnjack [:D]. MANY THANKS TO YOU SGTF -over and out [;)]

( Reads: 124 ) (comments? | Score: 5)
 
   
  
Operation Silverback: A.P.E. 54 River Rock Burial Mound
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: Honorable Discharge blondHiLites

18/Sept/2010, I received an invite from Ragfoot to hike to a hallowed simian burial mound along the banks of an "ancient" river bed in the wilds of Mission Valley. Since this would be a return trip for him, I’m thinking he may have seen some paranormal activity, and was looking for a friend to accompany him. With this in mind, I brought my canine and picked up my pal for an adventure in Sandrock Canyon. I parked the Retroburn at the south end trailhead and off we went. At the 1st FBZ, the symbols led me to the fascinating anthropological remain, where I gladly paid homage and took notes. We walked as fast as we could along the banks of the "ancient" river bed without injury. At times, I struggled to keep pace with Ragfoot as I noticed a concerned, almost frightened look on his face as we passed those abandoned encampments. Thanks for the fun and thrilling adventure! Mission Accomplished

( Reads: 133 ) (comments? | Score: 5)
 
   
  
Operation Silverback: The Monkey's Triangle
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: Honorable Discharge blondhilites

Another incredibly prepared and executed A.P.E cache that I get so da-gum excited to find! Ragfoot and I planned for a whole day to accomplish all three sectors. We drove to sector 1 via the “recommended off-road vehicle trail” early morning 30/Oct/2010. At GZ we search for a bit and I broke off to expand the possibilities. I got a glimpse of the prize and a taste of how our day would follow :D. Ragoot decided to test his skill with the ‘stock’ (at the time) Grand Cherokee on a very steep sand dune. Knowing we still had 2 WP to go and I had a thumb to hitch hike, I opted to walk around the hill. (this is the Saltan Sea~’Bermuda Triangle’, ya know) As navigator, I got busy converting the coordinates and we headed for sector 2. Once we arrived, Ragfoot announced our first mission and went about it. I went off to I paw-taa and when I had returned, he had expanded his search. I found what we needed where you both said it would be. ;). I tell ya, the door opened and it was game on. I went 'back in time' looking at those old ledgers, labor hours/costs, (thinking of my Mom and Dad) the ape memorabilia, etc, etc, etc ! priceless! The wind was blowing and howling through the building like crazy. If it weren’t for the mystery that remained at the “Final”, I would’ve asked to stay longer. Ragfoot had already denied me the fun of climbing to the roof so I knew not to push my luck. Besides, no one would even see a hitch hiker out here.

( Reads: 134 ) (Read More... | 2260 bytes more | comments? | Score: 5)
 
   
  
Operation Silverback: FBZ A.P.E. 51: Stone of the Lost Valley - Mission Complete
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: Green Beret BKip

Oh woes the ignorant person who goes forth in this world and puts his faith more heavily in electronics than in proper planning, paying attention to details and common sense. That ignorant person spoken of would be I and today I got what I deserved. My only excuse (and not a good one) is that I was just over anxious and excited. To make a short story very long… 06 May 2011 (early evening) Read FBZ A.P.E. 51: Stone of the Lost Valley cache page and decided I would go for it. Copied and printed cache page along with graphics for required code breaking. Created a “Route” and ran it as a “Query” for other GC’s along the way. I confirmed via electronic-mail with the CO that no Adventure Pass was required for this area. Loaded up waypoints and waited out the night. 07May2011: I was ready to depart the fueling depot at 0951. Unknowing, I was about to perform the fatal flaw that ended this event in failure. Activating the ”future position prediction projector (FPPP)“ (oft referred to as GPSr) I ordered the machine to, “take me to the trailhead waypoint”. The machine did as trained to do and I blindly followed. I Transited 90 kilometers via automatic motor vehicle on the well traveled route known as "The Eight", ignoring incidental GC waypoints along the way… I was on a mission! “The Eight”, is patrolled by agents of CHP. They did not build it but they are the self-declared masters and are not to be trifled with. Avoiding contact with them is highly desirable. Other organizations vying for dominance of “The Eight”, encountered more often in this neck of the woods than even the CHP, are the very fast driving (where they going so fast all the time?) USBP, also worthy of avoiding their attentions? Eventually, the machine told me to leave “The Eight” and go to dirt. At this point just a bit of thinking could have still saved the day. I had exited on Crestwood (nearly 5 miles from the intended McCain Valley road) and continued to follow the detached female voice of the FPPP. The dirt road was quite passable in my normal height passenger automatic motor vehicle, though the surface turned to “washboard” every so often. At one point I saw ahead a squirrel in the middle of the road prancing/playing with a large stick. As I neared, the four legged critter scampered off, and I saw that the “stick” was a 2.5’ rattlesnake. The rattle snake was kind enough to pose for a few photographs. As I continued down the lane I contemplated “what kind of area am I in that squirrels tease rattlesnakes?” Soon, I came across an amazing area, where farmers of wind, stole energy from the sky using monstrous plant stalks that had rotating petals, grabbing the wind as it passed. As I drove slowly by, near the base of the stalks, were many amputated petals, mauled and damaged, from lost battles. The sound of these beasts, a loud rhythmatic whooping, was eerie and somehow menacing. I moved on. Right at the 10 kilometer point, I came to a surprising halt. Right in front of me was a shiny new chain link fence, blocking the path my FPPP was demanding I follow. Within the compound were various large pieces of unattended construction equipment. The only sign of life was a hovering helicopter, dangling a long cable. It soon became disinterested in whatever had attracted its attention and shortly flew off. The FPPP still insisted that I go through the blockade. Zooming my map out any distance at all made the dirt road disappear from the screen and I couldn’t tell if any of the roads led to where I wanted to go. At one point I guided my steel and plastic steed down a randomly picked lane but the FPPP insisted that I make a U-turn and go back. Eventually I made the command decision to turn back and route a course for home via unplanned GCs. Not until arriving at home base did I figure out that I simply needed to go a few more miles east on “The Eight” and exit on the intended road. Also worthy of mention at this point… don’t be lead to go north on Ribbonwood Road, which seemingly goes where needed but comes to a dead-end at a fence blocking the road at about the 3 mile mark. The path to happiness is to exit Robbonwood Road, go south and catch Old Hwy 80 eastbound, to finally catch McCain Valley Road going north and all the way to the trailhead. 30May2011: The correct route to ground zero is quite doable in a standard highway vehicle with minimal ground clearance and this day I arrived with no problems. Many interesting sights were seen on a level, easy, fairly short hike. The rock climbing took enough effort to make it fun without being over strenuous. Finding the shale I broke out the cipher devise and shortly discovered that I was holding it upside down. Re-breaking the code upside right provided needed information for obtaining the final code word. After searching for and finding the “hidden item” I spent the next 45 minutes climbing the rocks, exploring the area, and taking lots of photos. MISSION COMPLETE! A very good day indeed.

( Reads: 130 ) (comments? | Score: 5)
 
   
  
Operation Silverback: FBZ A.P.E. 55: The Monkey’s Triangle - The Assualt
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: Green Beret BKip

Mission Date: 28 May 2011 This mission was planned by others, and again, I was invited to join the assault team (thanks BlondHiLites) by Special Operative Ragfoot. A rendezvous was arranged for 0600 at the secret meeting place designated WP1 (publicly known as the Lake Jennings Park & Ride). Arriving just prior to the appointed hour, there were already 5 agents, jahoadi & john, Ragfoot, Dillweed, and Fisnjack standing by, with bon scott soon to arrive and complete the team. Being the “stranger” in the group, introductions were made, coffee was finished off, and soon all agents were assigned to the two assault vehicles, and the task force was off and running. Two stops were made along the way to adjust and zero equipment, one of which required all wheel drive that allowed for proper calibration of vehicle capabilities. Continuing onward to our ultimate destination we arrived at “one avenue of approach” that was barricaded by a hill of sand. The lead vehicle easily made the transit but the following vehicle wanted to dig-into rather than go over. A quick decision was made for both vehicles to remain together and to take the secondary route. It wasn’t long before we were bailing out of the transports and taking in the sights of ground zero. A lone cement bunker covered in sand with its blast doors opened wide. There was a large hole chipped(?) through the front wall, assumingly to gain entrance at some long ago time. Agent Dillweed made the find of the first container while I was still taking in the surroundings. The contents were closely examined for hints and other useful items before the main container was grabbed. In this special case, instead of having the opportunity to make new discoveries of more great sites, the main cache had been moved to this site and left for us. Apparently, the cache may have been compromised and to insure the security of the container the CO had made special arrangements for our assault. When opened, there were many items that required examining, not the least of which was the required code word. Photos were taken, everyone took turns double checking hints, and triple checking that everything that could be found, was found. Instead of returning the cache to its hiding place it was put into the back of Agent Ragfoots assault vehicle, to be returned to the CO. The Agents went about the rest of the day seeking more trivial caches and exploring the fantastic sites and sights of the desert. It was a good day. END OF REPORT

( Reads: 114 ) (Read More... | 1 comment | Score: 5)
 
   
  
Operation Silverback: Terrain - Fallen Hollows
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: General fisnjack

Stopped by Fallen Hollows today. The thickets of poison oak at the cache are very impressive. Will return again wearing a hazmat suit and perhaps wielding some pruning shears.

( Reads: 97 ) (comments? | Score: 2.8)
 
   
  
Operation Silverback: Little Green Men
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: Honorable Discharge blondhilites

11/Aug/2010 My 1st alien and ape encounter! This was one of the caches that I needed for my quest to complete The MT. Laguna Mountain Recreational Area Hall Of Fame. I had no idea what this entailed and I had no knowledge of the storyline behind The Planet of The Apes. I managed to talk Ragfoot into joining me for this mission. We walked through the old AFB housing with amusement and curiosity. There were crews busy assessing and demolishing the buildings, paying no attention to us walking along the road. While Ragfoot stopped to talk to one of the electricians, I explored and snapped some photos. You've done a remarkable job putting this together. Ragfoot and I spent a long time looking through the materials, playing with the props, taking photos, and necessary notes. I am now hooked on Apes! Lucky for me, I returned with The JJ Duo and Bkip for more fun and alien sightings!

( Reads: 84 ) (comments? | Score: 5)
 
   
  
General Geocaching: Stone of The Lost Valley
 
 

General Geocaching

General Geocaching
Report submitted by: Honorable Discharge blondhilites

Set out for this mission with Ragfoot on 17/March/2011. We missed our target by a few mile markers due to conversation along the way. Once we were on the correct road, the excitement stirred. I didn't care if we were lost or not as I was in awe by the landscape and thrilled with the hunt. Ragfoot landed the Retroburn and I led the way to the goods. ("We are not just soldiers, we are friends"). I climbed to the top where I discovered the prize. The winds pushed me around like a Ragdoll so Ragfoot took over to my relief. With teamwork, we managed to decipher the code word, read through “intelligence” report(s) and gather other related codes and numbers. I had a hunch where we were to go next and luckily, we made a quick find. With the winds blowing to our backs, I thought for sure we would be hunted down by our scent. We high-tailed back to the Retroburn before they caught wind of us. Mission Accomplished

( Reads: 87 ) (comments? | Score: 4.4)
 
   
  
Operation Silverback: Report 01May2011: OP FBZ#56
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: Green Beret bkip

Report 01May2011: OP FBZ#56 - The original planning for today's mission was only for the Warlock mine #52 but my two, more experienced, companions made a tactical decision to attempt Little Green Men #56 first. Leaving our wheeled transportation behind, we headed uphill on foot. The temperature had dropped to a brisk 47 degrees F, and the wind was picking up as we neared the summit, but the sky was clear and the sun was bright. The team lead, JJ Duo directed by memory, while agent BlondHiLites, followed her GPSr arrow, and I, unprepared without the coordinates searched between the two. Scouring the hillside the wind was at its peak as we cautiously moved among the scrub bushes on the steep, stone covered slope. Splitting the middle, I was in the right place to make the find. The large container held numerous documents and artifacts, all of which required close examination for fear of missing a critical piece of badly data. As we sat, on convenient rocks, dissecting every bit and scrap of evidence, BlondHiLites discovered that her feet and ape feet were the same size... coincidence? Each of us independently logged codes, snapped photos, and did whatever it took to document our discovery. Eventually, we all were satisfied that we had found all available hints and clues. We secured the cache, returned it to its waiting place and covered it as found. Heading up the slope the wind took my ballcap off my head twice slowing my ascent. The remainder of the return trip was rather uneventful and we were able to take in and enjoy the scenery having successfully completed the mission. Onwards to more adventures...

( Reads: 93 ) (comments? | Score: 4.4)
 
   
  
Operation Silverback: Report 01May2011: OP FBZ#52
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: Green Beret bkip

Report 01May2011: OP FBZ#52 - Leaving #56 in the rear view mirrors, team lead JJ Duo, BlondHiLites, and I, continued down the road, headed for another mission, another adventure.

Arriving at the trail head, to the inexperienced eye it would seem that the locals might not be so friendly. Reading the signage clarified that the trails, are in fact on private land, but open to the public as long as you stay on the trails. Further edification was provided by the team lead who recalled that should you drive down the private lane you should take care in where you park. Better to park on the main road. Agent BlonHiLites decided right off to leave behind trail markers (Geocaches) to ease our return trip and to mark the way for future adventurers. Realization soon set in that it would take more fortitude and time, than our previous event, but the scenic vistas were on an equal par. It was a long, easy, hike with a gradual slope along a well beaten path. Signs of civilization popped up at unexpected times along the route. Spaced along the way were water bowls, all empty, and with empty plastic bottles laying nearby. Occasionally, there would be a sign, for example, "Poison Oak", or, "Stay on the trail".

Midway down, we came across a mine shaft. Braced with large wooden beams, the entrance was narrow, and would require a belly crawl to enter. Team lead, JJ Duo, noted that he had explored it himself and extended an invitation for BlondHiLites and myself to go exploring...we declined, anxious to get to our destination (or was it...?)

As we neared end of the initial, long arm, of the first leg, our destination came into view below. Marked by a small sign providing a bit of historic background, the view gave away the presence of another team. We could see two "unknowns" exploring ground zero. Were they agents? On whose side? There was only one way to find out, and we continued down.

After a few mild switchbacks we made it to the final stretch. Soon, me came upon the "unknowns" coming up trail. After a short chat it was determined that they were friendlies with no knowledge of the significance of the site. We bade them well and made it to the end of the trail in short order.

We had another decision to make. Down slope a short ways was our final goal, up slope, a bit nearer was a looming, black shaft of another mine. Agent BlondHiLites bounded uphill and after gaining the entrance she hollered, "lets get some pictures!" That settled it, the mineshaft first. a few shots and soon all three of us were inside. Plenty of room to stand erect, once inside, it was cooler, and darker. More photographs and finally we were ready for the final assault on our ultimate goal.

It took only a few minutes to cover the last couple hundred feet and almost immediately find the large container. Like the previous find, this one was chock full of documents and artifacts. Again, all three of us individually made our own notes and photos to ensure all that was needed was noted. Obviously, great effort had gone into the creation of this/these caches. Very, very impressive.

When all was closed up and returned to its hiding place our group started the long uphill trudge. Around this time, I think, agent BlondHiLites, decided to announce, in her own unique way, TICKS! To say she was upset would be to put it mildly. Without going into great detail, ticks were noted throughout the remainder of the hike.

Hours after starting, the great expedition ended and was celebrated by a bit of drink supplied by the team lead. There was complete concurrence that the hike was a complete success. The goal was obtained, there was fantastic scenery, and even better company. A fine day indeed!


( Reads: 110 ) (comments? | Score: 4.4)
 
   
  
Operation Silverback: Operation Warlock
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: Honorable Discharge blondhilites

Another Thrilling Ape adventure today with The JJ Duo and BKip [:)] We explored the mines on our way down to the mill and took several photos which I will be posting here [^] I went crazy (as usual) as soon as I set eyes on the prize. Of course, I played with all the items inside the ginormous can and recorded the necessary details to proceed to the final [:D] Thank you so much for keeping these alive and so fun! sl and took the DVD "Planet of The Apes'. [:D]

( Reads: 102 ) (comments? | Score: 4)
 
   
  
Operation Silverback: Finding the truth
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: Honorable Discharge condorman

I decided to check into silverback headquarters on Sunday evening when I saw that there was another mission sittin' on the burner.
Ok, drop everything. Used the fowl phone and made a call to fellow green beret Duck432 and we were on our way. Arrived a tad before twilight and just knew this was going to be another night ops mission. We made our way down into the canyon from the desolate road above. We made our way south east till we spotted some clues on the trail. Did some investigation there. We looked a bit further and saw good ole' Landon, however he wasn't looking so good. A bit parched you would say. Collected some intell there and pressed on. GPS readings were dropping and zeroing down on a large rocky nook. After a short search the TSG was located. Pulled the Container from it's resting place and commenced the search for the truth. Acquired all the necessary special intelligence we needed and we indeed found out the truth.


( Reads: 498 ) (comments? | Score: 4.85)
 
   
  
General Geocaching: Stone of the Lost Valley
 
 

General Geocaching

General Geocaching
Report submitted by: Honorable Discharge TheJJDuo

We left El Cajon late morning with the intention of playing with my friends' new Polaris 6x6. High winds were forecast, but the day was sunny and warm. This was my first time in this particular area, and I was amazed by all the beautiful rock formations.         We located the recommended parking area and proceeded to follow the cords using "as the crow flies" method. After rock climbing and some bushwacking, we ran into a fairly nice trail that led us to GZ. By now the wind was really howling, and it was becoming hard to hear each other and to keep our balance!           The cords for the "slate"rock yielded nothing, so I decided to


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Operation Silverback: Assault on FBZ A.P.E. 55: The Monkey's Triangle
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Report submitted by: Green Beret FlagMan

Special Operatives FlagMan and lulu499 departed 1230 on 2009-60-05 from Command Post Lakeside and headed east on I-8 to Route 79 to Route 78 through Julian to Route 86 providing access to Zone#1 of FBZ 55.  The reports of a truck bombing along an old access road leading to the former Salton Sea Test Base in Imperial Valley, CA are confirmed. The radiation survey meter box has been retrieved, examined, and left in place. The instrumentality causing the destruction of the vehicle was remains unknown. No evidence was found of the whereabout of the troopers who were transporting the intelligence found in the vehicle.  Said evidence provided positive confirmation of the location of Zone#2 which was reached by 1600 on 2009-06-05.  Additional unambiguous clues were examined but the location of Zone#3 remained encrypted.  Contact with SGTF Headquarters confirmed the encryption and provided guidance for further reconnaisance.  The team returned to base and re-provisioned for a second assault commencing at 0530 on 2009-06-06.  A second visit to Zone#2 allowed decryption of the secret location of Zone#3 and the team promptly recovered valuable POTAM.  There was also quite ambiguous evidence of a visit by Condorman and Duck432, although the accuracy of this intel is highly suspicious given no date accompanied their rubber stamps, no log from these Operatives appeared anywhere at Zone#1, and no report has been made of any prior mission to FBZ 55 appears in any of the usual depositories. An inquiry into the FTF status of these potential imposters is clearly in order.

( Reads: 147 ) (Read More... | 2 comments | Score: 4.66)
 
   
  
Operation Silverback: Successful Assault on FBZ 52
 
 

Operation Silverback

Operation Silverback
Julian, CA (Sun 15 Mar 2009 @ 19:04:27 PST; 1237131300.00 seconds since Unix Epoch (POSIX) 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 UTC)

CLASSIFIED

Report from successful assault on FBZ 52 – Mission 2 Warlock Mine

Special Operatives FlagMan and lulu499 geared up from Command Post Poway and headed east on Route 67 through Ramona to Santa Ysabel and through Julian to Whispering Pines, Banner and then to the upper trailhead providing access to FBZ 52.  After a brief reconnaissance, the Operatives proceeded down Route 78 past Wynola Road to a safe unmarked lower trailhead to the Wilcox Toll Road in Banner Canyon approx. 225 feet from AP 2FBZ52.  From here, the Operatives were able to scale the hillside undetected and make a successful assault on FBZ 52. 

The Operatives commenced the assault by following the rocks up the wash in a generally westerly direction for a few clicks and then turning a bit south and scaling the walls of the hillside to a lower portion of the toll road.  At approximately N 33° 04.573 W 116° 33.962, the Operatives discovered a secret Silverback vault that is sure to contain rare and unique POTAM.  This vault warrants immediate further investigation.  Photographic evidence has been submitted and is waiting to be unclassified.

Once the Operatives reached the toll road, GZ for FBZ 52 was reached easily and without incident.  A brief search revealed a sizeable ammo can containing new and rare POTAM confirming the presence of Silverbacks as well as further clues to FBZ 57.  More has been revealed and the Operatives are now closing in on the target.
The Operatives escaped to the bottom of the toll road quickly, easily and without incident. 

 From here, the Operatives retraced their path back to the outskirts of Julian, then west on Route 79 to Lake Cuyamaca and eventually to Hwy 8 to a failed assault on FBZ 51.  Details on that failed mission will be reported at a later date.



( Reads: 176 ) (Read More... | 2 comments | Score: 4)
 
   
Simian Guerrilla Task Force

SGTF operates in support of the Intelligence Support Activity or ISA (“The Activity”) known under the code name Operation Silverback. Those who claim knowledge say SGTF’s primary objective is to conduct top secret operations in tribute to the spirit of geocaching as introduced in Project A.P.E. It is believed that the SGTF's primary Area of Responsibility (AOR) is to operate as a forward scouting and surveillance team conducting Special Reconnaissance (SR) in relation to materials acquisition including the search and recovery of Planet of the Apes Memorabilia (*POTAM) for emplacement in top secret geocaches (TSGs) named Forbidden Zones (FBZs).

Simian Guerrilla Task Force InsigniaProfile Information:

Country: United States of America
Military Branch: Special Mission Units (SMUs)
Type: Special Operation Force (SOF)
Part Of: United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM)
Motto: SANCTUS TELUM OF PACIS ("Holy Weapon of Peace")
Nickname: Monkey Ballz
Engagement: Operation Silverback
Contact: sgtf@geocaches.org
   


 
   
Project APE Gold Geocoin