Field Day 2004

Field Day in Athens, GA; the airport was buzzing with excitement. Field Day to Amatuer Radio Operators comes once a year and allows them the opportunity to work in emergency conditions; that means setting up with batteries, solar power or other alternative means of electricity. Stringing wire antennas as if there were no phones or computers left. The challenge brings out the fun in the exercise. 9/11 brought the reality to all operators that we need to be prepared in case of such an emergency. What would you do if you had no electricity and no phones and any way to contact anyone. How would you know what was going on? How would the police and emergency personnel be able to operate without electricity for their radios? Hopefully we will never have to face that problem, but if we do, ham radio operators will be prepared. Field day is for training for such purposes and being able to enjoy the "hobby" at the same time. Athens Radio Club operated from Ben Epps Field in Athens, GA on June 26, 2004. Their first contact was Montanna and they were off and running...

They were joined by many local citizens that have never experienced amatuer radio and they had the chance to see first hand and to participate. As seen below, a local business employee makes a contact to Virginia while Ugalee the dog cools under the emergency equipment.

Below, the local bulldog tries to make a contact; it was great to have a good turnout. Hopefully alot of us learned a new respect for the Amatuer Radio Hobby, alot of knew it but practice makes perfect.

Thanks to all that attended and to the county and airport for allowing us the space to practice. Maybe we will not need to use our expertise but if we need to we will be ready.