Field Day, held this year on Sunday, June 23, is an annual amateur radio exercise, widely sponsored by the International Amateur Radio Union and affiliate organizations, that encourages emergency communications preparedness among amateur radio operators.
In the United States, it is the largest single emergency preparedness exercise in the country, with over 30,000 operators participating each year. On Vashon, Field Day takes place each year on the fourth full weekend of June and runs for 24 hours.
The event centers around deploying a radio station remotely and operating over the course of a full day to make as many contacts on as many different bands as possible, using a variety of modes. Meeting that objective entails much experimentation to maximize performance. And though the overall Field Day event is intended to increase awareness about communicating during an emergency, it also gives an opportunity for sport radio enthusiasts to try out their hobby, with plenty of time for leisure.
The event showcased the Vashon-Maury Island Radio Club to the community, and members got to spend some time with family and friends on a beautiful day. A highlight of this year’s Field Day was demonstrating and discussing the club’s operation as well as working with folks as they tried their hand at making contact.
There were over 50 participants in attendance, all of whom had the chance to connect with satellites and make contacts from all across the country and the globe, from as far away as the Netherlands, Japan, Russia and New Zealand. Members operated over the phone and a variety of digital modes.
Craig Gagner, President of the Hams Club, said they had the privilege of setting up in the Swallows Nest Guest Cottages field on Maury Island. He noted that the site is ideal, with a beautiful view and for being high on the bluff with great radio propagation.
Anyone interested in the radio communications arts and sciences, emergency communications or radiosport is encouraged to contact the Vashon Maury Island Radio Club at cdgagner2@comcast.net.
