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2015 ARRL Field Day

06/30/2015 | W1V

 This weekend was an adventure for the record books. It was Amateur Radio Field Day, or at least that was the plan. Noah Goldstein and I established the W1V special event station at the Gay Head Light in Aquinnah, Massachusetts. This was my first trip to Martha's Vineyard. Our simulated emergency setup soon turned true emergency as the weather took a drastic turn. We were requested to remain on the air by Wx1box - National Weather Service Taunton Amateur Radio Skywarn Group. We relocated from the open field to the only structure we had - the public restrooms. Yes, we setup a fully functioning radio station in a bathroom. Winds were measured at 39 MPH at times, with about 1 1/2 inches of rain. 3000 customers were without power on the island. We were running off of a generator. We are proud to have been able to accomplish this and remain on the air with minimal damage to equipment. The only damages were to a canopy tent and a water-damaged microphone. Both are replaceable. This weekend was a true testament of what amateur radio is all about. Yesterday, after concluding operations, we had an extensive interview with The Martha's Vineyard Times. We anticipate a great story explaining not only our experiences, but also amateur radio as a hobby and service. I wanted extend a huge thank you to The Aquinnah Board of Selectmen, Aquinnah Police Department, Aquinnah Town Administrator - Adam Wilson, Boy Scout Troop 100 Bellingham, National Weather Service Taunton, The Martha's Vineyard Times, and our visitors. Without these people, none of this would have been possible and more damage would have been likely. Their support was great and it has been amazing working with them.

-- KC1AJT


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