06/29/2009 | AC5DI This year's Field Day was used to introduce twelve year old Justin Potter to Amateur Radio. My capable assistant was twelve year old Jacob Gochnour, KE5WCX.
The 2D station was operated out of my wife's dog kennel. We started from scratch--built a loop antenna for 40 Meter, installed a ground, and set up the FT-100 station out of my Go Box. Every step was instructional covering the how and the why.
After the contest Justin said "It was fun and enjoyable yet challenging experience, and I am going to try to get all the way to Extra." Justin knocked out most of the requirements for his Radio Merit Badge. Once he saw what was going on he called his troop to pre-register for the badge before starting the completion of the requirements. Justin wants to operate PSK31 next year.
Jacob's comment was, "I thought it was fun, and I want to go to Field Day every year, and to try to get my General license." Jacob will upgrade in the next 60 days. HF privileges are a wonderful motivator.
This was the most intense teaching experience I have ever endured. The boys tested my knowledge and skills to their limits. They asked a MILLION questions and their inquisitiveness fed off each other. We were in an environment where neither of them could learn enough quickly enough. It was great to see them so motivated and enthusiastic about learning. This was a great learning experience for me. I hope the guys learned as much as I did.
I want to thank the other Field Day participants we contacted for their patience with these guys. Not everything was perfect but the mission was accomplished. Without the kindness and consideration of other operators this would not have been possible. Thank you all. -- AC5DI