The Patoka Valley Amateur Radio Club is participating in the American Radio Relay League Field Day event, which runs from 2 p.m. Saturday, June 27, to 2 p.m. Sunday, June 28, 2020. ARRL Field Day is an annual nationwide exercise that tests the amateur radio operators and equipment, and their ability to operate under adverse conditions such as those that may occur during a disaster.

Amateur radio is recognized as one of the only viable communication means that would be available after a large-scale disaster. This exercise involves amateur radio operators throughout the U.S. and Canada who set up temporary stations, many using emergency power from generators, batteries, or solar power. From these temporary stations, they contact as many other stations as possible in North America and beyond. There are over 750,000 amateur radio licensees in the U.S. and approximately 3 million around the world. More information regarding Field Day and the over 1,000 participating sites around the nation can be viewed at http://www.arrl.org/field-day-locator.

The PVARC is operating from Shelterhouse No. 4 at the Dubois County Park, located at the 4-H Fairgrounds one mile north of Bretzville on U.S. 162. The public is invited to watch the amateurs in operation as they communicate with stations around the country and around the world. Visitors are asked to wear masks and practice social distancing.

For more information on the field day event or on becoming a licensed Amateur Radio Operator, contact the PVARC at mvogler1@frontier.com.   

The Patoka Valley Amateur Radio Club’s objective is to foster, educate and promote amateur radio in the Patoka River Valley. The club meet meets monthly on the second Tuesday at Mac-A-Doo’s dining room beginning at 7 p.m. The public is welcome to attend the meetings.