Another year, another Field Day is behind us, and I’m sure those that participated are now recovering and gathering their results. I made the 400-mile tour and visited 8 sites. Some clubs have at one time had a big and active setup, now was drastically scaled back, while others have upped their game and had a very organized group and used their public area very well to promote to the visitors who came to see. Another had just built a building for the purposes of radio to promote, educate and yes, operate. They set up as a class D station. Fortunately, the weather was mostly cooperative. Some areas got some rain and then fog, but overall, it was not extremely hot as in the past. As some of you know, I have been running license classes and it was really encouraging to see students past and present actively participating in Field Day. It really proves that outreach and mentoring can really pay off for the clubs. Make them welcome and get them active. Yes, I do remind them every day about that. Some of those students have become officers of their respective clubs which is a bonus in itself.
One thing I observed is the use of trailers in Field Day, the cargo type. (even though camping trailers work fine) These trailers can be set up to a simple setup to a full-blown comms center supporting multiple stations. Although this is nothing new to radio, more trailers have been showing up to events in WMA. I myself have one and have built it to serve multiple purposes for myself in various functions. Why do I say this? How about a very elaborate club project? You are setting up power, solar, radio’s, antenna mounting, weight management, computers and networking, etc. Even Starlink has made it possible to get internet from anywhere. New hams can learn so much by having one of those projects. Trailers can hold up to the weather better than tents and easy-ups for sure! Plus, it’s a good PR piece, you show off your skills on building equipment.
Now that Field Day is over, remember, there is plenty of summer left. That means even though most clubs have taken their break from meetings for July and August, don’t forget to come up with some activities for radio-active fun. POTA is a hot one to do! (was there a joke there???) Even antenna builds and repairing. Anything can work especially if there is burning flesh on the grill 😊
That’s enough for now, Enjoy the Summer, celebrate America’s 250th, get together with family and friends, anything that creates memories. Have fun!
73, Ray AA1SE