ARRL Delaware Section Manager


Newsletter – June 2026  SPECIAL FIELD DAY EDITION

Greetings from Sussex County

 

Welcome to this month’s edition of our amateur radio newsletter—your hub for everything happening across our vibrant Delaware Section ham radio community.

 

May was a busy month for radio operators in all three counties. The first weekend a good number of radio operators ran in the Delaware QSO Party. Both clubs and individual operators participated. June 10 is the deadline for logs so be sure to get your in via the qsoparty@gmail.com email.

 

I heard from several stations who participated in the DoD Armed Forces Day Crossband Test. These tests allowed amateur radio operators to contact multiple DoD sites throughout the country. We transmit in our ham bands and the DoD station transmits just out of our ham band. We listen on their frequency and switch back to ours to transmit. This ‘split’ type of operation is very effective and good practice for us.

 

ARRL Delaware Section W1AW/3 Operation December Update

The ARRL Delaware Section’s second activation of W1AW/3 will run from Wednesday, December 2 through Tuesday, December 8. I have submitted the 30 page Permit Request and should hear back soon. I wanted to mention I made an error in last month’s newsletter. I neglected to list three additional operators who ran W1AW/3 from Chris’ bus at the hamfest; Chris – KE5NJ, Gurnie – N3YXT, Ray – N3RG and Scott – AA2SD. Thanks for everyone’s help who made this special event a success.

 

Interstate DMR Forum is now LIVE on the ARRLDelawareSection.groups.io

Many operators in the section asked for a place where they can get questions about DMR answered, obtain codeplugs, information about repeaters in the peninsula, and other information. The Interstate DMR groups.io was set up for this reason. This group is run by the very experienced DMR operators who run the DelMarVaDMR.com website who set up the DMR system we use today. The Wiki in this forum is fantastic and is updated regularly. To join the forums, send an email to InterstateDMR+subscribe@ARRLDelawareSection.groups.io. Simply reply to the email you get from the system. Per the rules on the forum, you must provide your callsign and have your email address visible on QRZ.

 

2026 Field Day is just weeks away! June 27-28

Field Day is the largest and most popular on-the-air event in amateur radio, bringing together operators from across the United States and Canada on the fourth full weekend of June each year. More than 31,000 radio amateurs participate annually, joining clubs, groups, and friends to set up temporary stations in parks, schools, community centers, and other locations to demonstrate the capabilities of amateur radio.

While Field Day is often viewed as a contest, it is much more than simply making contacts. It is a nationwide showcase of amateur radio’s ability to provide reliable communications when normal systems fail. 

Operators test their equipment, practice emergency communications skills, experiment with portable antennas and power sources, and demonstrate to the public how amateur radio can serve communities during disasters and emergencies.

This year’s ARRL Field Day theme, “Amateur Radio – A National Resource“ highlights the tremendous value amateur radio operators provide every day. Across the country, volunteer radio amateurs support emergency management agencies, weather services, hospitals, shelters, public events, and disaster response organizations. Their dedication and expertise save communities countless resources while providing a vital communications capability when it is needed most. Now is the time to begin planning your Field Day operation. Gather your team, secure your operating location, test your equipment, and invite fellow operators, family members, and members of the public to join the fun. Whether you’re competing for points, introducing someone to amateur radio for the first time, or sharpening your emergency communications skills, Field Day offers something for everyone. Most importantly, get on the air and participate. Every contact made, every antenna raised, and every new operator welcomed helps demonstrate why amateur radio remains an invaluable national resource. 

If your club or group is hosting a Field Day operation, be sure to register your site on the ARRL Field Day Site Locator so operators and visitors can find your event. Additional information, rules, and resources are available at the ARRL Field Day website.

See you on the air!

 

Governor’s Proclamation declaring June as Amateur Radio Emergency Communications Month Online

The ARRL Delaware Section has requested the Governor declare June as Amateur Radio Emergency Communications Month. June represents the beginning of a season where amateur radio has clearly made an impact in providing emergency communications; hurricane season. During hurricanes, amateur radio operators have provided critical communications when normal systems such as cellular, internet services and electrical power are disrupted. June is also one of the largest amateur radio events of the year; ARRL Field Day. More on the ARRL Field Day is below in the “EmComm Topics” section. The governor’s proclamation is available for all to download via the ARRLDelawareSection.groups.io forum. It’s a high-resolution scan in PDF format so you can easily print and hang in your shack. I was recently given several years’ previous proclamations and will scan and put up online as time permits. Check the forum for updates.

Updated Delaware Section Amateur Frequency and Emergency Reference Sheets Posted

Each year, just prior to the start of hurricane season, I update and publish the Delaware State Amateur Radio Emergency Reference Sheet. In addition to the statewide document, each County Emergency Coordinator reviews and updates the emergency reference sheet for their respective county. These PDF reference guides provide valuable information for amateur radio operators throughout the Delaware Section. They include basic emergency communications procedures, HF frequencies, primary, secondary, and tertiary repeater information, linked repeater systems, Winlink gateways, APRS digipeaters, key contact information, and details on which communications sites have emergency power capabilities. The documents also identify repeaters monitored by the Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) during incidents and emergencies. To protect the privacy of our volunteers and prevent misuse of personal contact information, only the contact information for the Delaware Section Manager is included in the published versions. These reference sheets are available for download and distribution through the ARRL Delaware Section Groups.io forum and serve as an important resource for operators preparing for emergency communications activities throughout the year. Copies of these docs should be a part of your EmComm kit by printing out each document and/or keeping a copy on your EmComm USB key.


Field Day Special Edition…General Information & Site Safety

 

Field Day 2026: More Than Just a Contest

 

This year’s ARRL Field Day promises to be especially exciting for several reasons. First, 2026 has been designated as the “Year of the Club,” and many operators will be looking to contact American Radio Relay League affiliated club stations in pursuit of endorsements for the special 250th Anniversary WAS  certificate. Although Field Day is widely recognized as an emergency  communications exercise, it can truly be whatever you or your club want it to be. Yes, many operators enjoy chasing points and maximizing scores, but Field Day is also a social gathering, a training opportunity, a public outreach event, and even a Parks on the Air-style portable operating activity for some groups.

 

Many clubs invite family members, friends, and significant others to participate, creating a welcoming atmosphere that encourages fellowship as much as operating. In many ways, making Field Day a social event first helps make amateur radio more inviting to both experienced  operators and newcomers alike.

Field Day also helps operators build valuable transferable skills that improve capabilities across many areas of the Amateur Radio Service. Effective Field Day communications require operators to exchange information quickly, accurately, and efficiently — the very foundation of emergency communications.
One of the best operating habits during Field Day is to keep exchanges simple and concise. Provide the required exchange information unless additional details are requested. Of course, while many of us are focused on making contacts and earning points, don’t hesitate to take a moment to answer questions about your station, antenna, radio equipment, or location. Those conversations are part of what makes amateur radio enjoyable.

 

Operators should also remember the Amateur Radio Code and the DX Code of Conduct while on the air. Courtesy, patience, and respect for fellow operators help ensure a positive experience for everyone participating.

 

If your club or group is hosting a Field Day operation, be sure to register your site on the official ARRL Field Day Site Locator so visitors and operators can find your event. Including your planned hours of operation in the listing is also very helpful. 

 

Successful Field Day operations are built on preparation and teamwork.

Consider organizing teams in advance to handle:

  • Site setup and tear-down
  • Weather contingency planning
  • Operating schedules
  • Food and refreshments
  • Talk-in repeaters and simplex frequencies
  • Public outreach and media contacts
  • Logging computers and network support
  • Visitor information and handout materials

Most importantly, remember why we gather each year for Field Day: to learn, to operate, to prepare, to promote amateur radio — and above all, to have fun.


ARRL Field Day Safety: Make Safety Part of the Score

 

Every year, thousands of amateur radio operators participate in American Radio Relay League ARRL Field Day — setting up temporary stations in parks, parking lots, clubhouses, fields, and backyards across North America. While Field Day is known for camaraderie, emergency preparedness, and operating fun, it also presents real safety challenges that deserve attention.

 

A successful Field Day is not only measured by points and contacts, but by ensuring every participant goes home safely. Start with a Safety Plan Before setup begins, designate a Field Day Safety Officer or assign safety responsibilities to one or more experienced members.

Even small groups benefit from having someone focused on: 

  • Site hazards
  • Weather monitoring
  • Generator safety
  • Electrical safety
  • Trip hazards
  • Hydration and heat conditions
  • Emergency procedures

Review the layout before equipment arrives. Think about:

  • Vehicle access
  • Public foot traffic
  • Tent placement
  • Cable routing
  • Generator locations
  • Shelter options during storms

A five-minute safety briefing before setup can prevent hours of problems later.


Electrical Safety Matters

Field Day stations often combine commercial power, generators, batteries, solar systems, extension cords, and RF equipment in temporary configurations. That creates risk.

Key reminders:

  • Use outdoor-rated extension cords and power strips
  • Protect cords from water and foot traffic
  • Avoid overloaded circuits
  • Inspect cords for damage before use
  • Keep power connections off wet ground
  • Use proper grounding where appropriate

Generators should never be operated inside tents or enclosed areas due to carbon monoxide danger. Place generators downwind and away from gathering areas whenever possible. Fuel should be stored safely and refueling should only occur after generators have cooled down.


Antenna Safety Is Critical

Temporary antennas are one of the biggest hazards during Field Day setup and teardown.

Always:

  • Look up for overhead power lines before raising antennas
  • Maintain safe clearance from utility lines
  • Use hard hats when appropriate during tower or mast work
  • Secure guy lines with visible markers or flagging tape
  • Keep spectators clear during antenna raising

    Remember the old rule: if an antenna or mast can fall into a power line, it is too close.

Trip hazards are another common problem. Guy ropes, coaxial cables, and ground wires should be clearly marked and routed carefully.

 

Weather Awareness

Field Day occurs during summer, which means operators may encounter:

  • Heat exhaustion
  • Dehydration
  • Sunburn
  • Thunderstorms
  • Lightning
  • High winds

    Provide shaded rest areas and encourage operators to drink water regularly — not just coffee and soft drinks.

If thunderstorms approach:

  • Suspend antenna work immediately
  • Disconnect antennas if conditions warrant
  • Move participants to safe shelter
  • Follow the rule: “When thunder roars, go indoors.”

No QSO is worth risking a lightning injury.

 

RF Exposure Awareness

Modern Field Day stations often run high power and multiple transmitters in close proximity. Clubs should review RF exposure limits and ensure antennas are positioned safely away from operators and the public.


Pay special attention to:

  • Beam antennas near operating tents
  • Vertical antennas near walkways
  • High-duty-cycle digital modes
  • Shared operating sites

Clearly mark restricted areas around transmitting antennas when needed. Food, Hydration, and Fatigue.

 

Many Field Day operations run continuously for 24 hours. Fatigue can become a safety issue, especially during overnight operation and teardown.

Encourage:

  • Regular breaks
  • Shift scheduling
  • Hydration
  • Adequate meals
  • Sun protection

Operators who are tired are more likely to make mistakes with tools, power systems, and tower work.

First Aid and Emergency Preparedness


Every Field Day site should have:

  • A stocked first aid kit
  • Fire extinguishers (do you have an extinguisher for LIFEPO4 batteries?)
  • Flashlights
  • Emergency contact information
  • Knowledge of the nearest medical facility

It is also wise to identify members with CPR or first-aid training.

 

Public Safety and Visitor Awareness

Field Day is often a public event. Visitors may not recognize hazards such as:

  • Guy lines
  • Hot equipment
  • RF exposure areas
  • Generator exhaust
  • Cables on the ground

Use signs, barriers, and friendly guidance to keep visitors safe while still making them feel welcome.

Safety Is Part of Amateur Radio Excellence Field Day showcases the best of amateur radio: technical skill, public service, emergency readiness, and teamwork. A strong safety culture reflects that professionalism.


The best Field Day outcome is simple:

  • Great operating
  • Great fellowship
  • Zero injuries
  • Zero accidents

This year, make safety part of your Field Day checklist — and part of your score. For more information and official guidance, visit ARRL Field Day Resources and ARRL Safety Resources.


A Warm Welcome to Our Newest & Upgrading Members

Join me in welcoming the latest additions to the Amateur Radio Service in our vibrant community.

 

KD3DDY Ross Gilson

KD3DDZ Steve M. Broujos

KD3DEK Zachary D. Elwyn

KD3DES Ethan Kunz

KD3DEV James R. Osborne III

KD3DGT Tyler Frohock

 

The Strength of Amateur Radio

The strength of amateur radio has never been measured solely by the number of contacts we make, but by the willingness of operators to serve when called upon. Through training, preparedness, public service, and fellowship, we continue to demonstrate why amateur radio remains an invaluable resource to our communities. Thank you for all you do to keep the spirit of amateur radio alive. Stay prepared, stay connected, and

we’ll see you on the air.

 

Feel free to reach out at any time.

73, 

Steven Keller

Delaware Section Manager

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