‘Thank you’ goes to Ron Mettler, WB4GHU who after a long career as a volunteer as an ARRL Field Appointed Official, is stepping down.

He is a good friend and has worked hard to better amateur radio in his tenure and is to be commended.   Mike, WB6RTH and I have been talking by PX and this last week-end in Orlando where we met working the Tour de Cure bicycle event, we all had a meeting Saturday evening and  he stated he would like to be active and assist the section in building up its emergency communications operations, working with EOCs, and promoting amateur radio with ongoing training and preparation programs for the future needs of the served agencies.   Mike has over 40 years as an amateur radio operator, an ARRL member in good standing, has served in field appointed positions and has extensive training in the ICS training courses including field experience. Mike has a superior background in electronics. His experience in management and working in the volunteer world is top shelf. Mike has a background in “HF”, VHF/UHF, computer, IT and the digital world, he is a strong supporter of all modes of emergency amateur radio..   In the very near future, Mike will have section information transferred to him, and will then by protocol, take the helm as the Section Emergency Coordinator as the ranking official in the emergency services. He will be responsible for training, field appointments (DECs, ECs and assistants), coordinating major events, deployments and  working with the FDEM.   Please welcome Mike on board and look for him to be in touch soon.   Regards,   Paul L. Eakin, KJ4G@arrl.org NFL SM/Liaison to FDEM 850-591-0442