Members of the Chippewa Valley Amateur Radio Club (CVARC) set up for the annual American Radio Relay League (ARRL) Field Day operating event in celebration of “Amateur Radio: A National Resource” at Anson Park in Jim Falls, Wisconsin. ARRL Field Day is an annual demonstration during the fourth weekend of June that invites the general public and organizations to see how amateur radio can serve in an emergency when all else fails. Hams are well known for providing communications support during disasters and post-disaster situations. Despite the development of increasingly complex modern communications systems—or perhaps because they are so complex—amateur radio continues to be called upon to provide reliable communications when it matters most.
Members went big this year and erected an AB-577 surplus military mast, raising a Mosley Jr. triband HF Yagi to approximately 40 feet. Mounted above the tribander was a full-size 6-meter vertical antenna. A Carolina Windom wire antenna was also suspended high between several large white pines, providing coverage from 160 through 10 meters. Radios and computer equipment were set up inside the CVARC communications trailer, while several members also operated their own battery-powered stations under the pavilion. All contacts were logged using a networked computer logging system.
The expanded antenna farm allowed operators to work stations across North America and beyond while demonstrating a variety of operating modes and bands. Throughout the 24-hour event, club members took turns operating the stations, logging contacts, and showcasing the versatility of amateur radio to visitors. Several members also demonstrated digital operating modes and emergency power capabilities, highlighting how amateur radio can continue to function when conventional communications infrastructure is unavailable.
Members were also well fed throughout the weekend thanks to the generosity of the club and fellow members. Hot dogs, barbecue sandwiches, snacks, and a variety of homemade desserts kept operators and volunteers fueled during the 24-hour event. The donated meals and refreshments provided a welcome break between operating shifts and reflected the strong sense of camaraderie and fellowship that makes Field Day one of the highlights of the amateur radio calendar.
Overall, CVARC members made 613 contacts with other Field Day stations across the United States and around the world using voice, Morse code, and digital modes. The successful event demonstrated not only the technical capabilities of amateur radio but also the dedication of local operators to maintaining emergency communications skills and serving their communities.
Field Day is more than just a contest—it is an opportunity for amateur radio operators to practice emergency preparedness, test equipment and antennas in the field, improve operating skills, and strengthen friendships within the amateur radio community. Visitors were encouraged to tour the operating site, ask questions, and even get on the air under the supervision of licensed operators.
The Chippewa Valley Amateur Radio Club appreciates everyone who stopped by to learn more about amateur radio and thanks all of the volunteers whose hard work made this year’s Field Day another successful event. Anyone interested in learning more about amateur radio or becoming licensed is encouraged to attend a future CVARC meeting or contact the club for more informatio