Local Ham Radio Operators Gear Up for Nationwide Field Day Exercise

The R F Hill Amateur Radio Club will have their Field Day set up at the Willard H. Markey Park, 1418 Ridge Road, Perkasie, Pennsylvania 18944. The public, first responders, government workers and officials are welcome to stop by and see how Ham Radio provides an invaluable service during emergencies.

Field Day is sponsored by the ARRL (American Radio Relay League), the national association for amateur radio in the United States. The event draws more than 31,000 participants each year from thousands of locations across the U.S. and Canada, including local operators from the R F Hill Amateur Radio Club located in Perkasie.

Participants will set up temporary radio stations in parks, backyards, state park pavilions, and other public spaces. These mobile setups rely on alternative energy sources like solar panels, generators, and battery packs—demonstrating ham radio’s unique ability to function independently of the
power grid, cell towers, and the internet.

“This annual event is more than just a hobbyist’s gathering, ”said Jim Soete, vice President of the R F Hill Club. “It’s a vital emergency preparedness exercise that showcases how amateur radio can
provide critical communication when conventional infrastructure fails.”

With a particularly active hurricane season forecasted, this year’s Field Day carries added significance. When natural disasters strike and knock out traditional communications networks, ham operators can step in to relay emergency information, coordinate relief efforts, and provide a
lifeline between isolated areas and emergency services. We all remember how Ham Radio
operators provided critical communication services following Hurricane Helene last year.

Operators will attempt to make as many radio contacts as possible within the 24-hour period, using a wide range of frequencies and communication modes, including voice, morse code, digital and satellite transmissions. Some sites will include stations set up for formal message transmission via
radio.

Field Day is also a prime opportunity for the public to learn about thecapabilities of amateur radio. The R F Hill Club will be set up at Markley Memorial Park in Perkasie and will welcome visitors and with live demonstrations and hands-on experiences including the chance to make radio
contacts under the supervision of licensed operators. Organizers hope these public-facing events will inspire more people—especially youth—to explore amateur radio’s applications in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Youth groups are invited to contact the Club
to make special arrangements.

There are over 750,000 licensed amateur radio operators in the United States and approximately 3 million worldwide. Enthusiasts range in age from as young as nine to well into their senior years, illustrating the accessibility and enduring appeal of the hobby.

“Ham radio connects people across borders, cultures, and generations,” said one volunteer. “Field Day is our chance to show how this technology can both inspire curiosity and serve a vital function when communities need it most.”

For those interested in getting started, resources such as the ARRL’s “What Is Ham Radio?” guide and local amateur radio clubs provide support for licensing and equipment setup. No prior experience is necessary to attend Field Day events or to begin exploring the world of amateur radio. The ARRL website, www.ARRL.org has listings of many, but not all, locations where there will be Field Day operations. They also have a Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/ARRL.org/ that has information on the organization, activities and people.

For more information, contact Jim Soete at 215-622-4344 oe email wa3ylq@hotmail.com.