Reported by Robert Alan Griffiths, NE3I, EPA Public Information Coordinator
Montgomery County ARES-RACES (MCAR) hosted ARRL Eastern Pennsylvania Section and Atlantic Division leadership at its November monthly meeting held Saturday, November 9 at the Montgomery County Emergency Operations Center in Eagleville.
MCAR EC Chuck Farrell, W3AFV, hosted the meeting and introduced guests. EPA Section Emergency Coordinator, Jay King, W2AFE, summarized this past year’s section exercises and Simulated Emergency Test (SET). He complimented ARES and Red Cross operators who participated from 19 Pennsylvania Counties. Jay announced an upcoming Red Cross exercise planned for the Spring in 2025. Following Jay, EPA Section Manager Bob Wilson, W3BIG, expressed pride in ARES units and stressed that “Emergency Communications is one of the most important things we do.” He explained that ARES operators have the ability to go “off grid” to provide emergency communications. He complimented MCAR efforts and encouraged participation in local clubs as a way to increase involvement and to recruit ARES volunteers. The third guest was ARRL Atlantic Division Director Bob Famiglio, K3RF. Bob reviewed how the ARRL structure and organizational policies are designed to benefit amateur radio. A member of the ARRL’s ARES and Legal Defense Committees, he reiterated that “Our highest calling is emergency communications activities. Emergency communications is why we exist.” Bob stated that amateur radio operators are recognized as having an important role by FEMA as well as state and local government entities involved in public safety.
The meeting was well attended with 42 amateur radio operators present either in person or via Zoom.
