As usual, the meeting started with introductions and the question, “What is your favorite mode to operate?” Most responses were Phone and CW, with an added nod to FT8 and RTTY. The primary topics on the agenda were a review of Field Day and looking forward to upcoming events. (See our Field Day post here.) We did take time to share our performance in the 13 Colonies Special Event. Many of those present had a clean sweep!
The Field Day review began with the highly anticipated summary of our points. Our 2026 performance was our best in 5 years, with an estimated point total of 7,150 points. This is a 24% improvement over last year! Points come from QSOs, but also from educational, safety, and outreach efforts. We hit most of the bonus opportunities, with only two missing.
The After-Action Review portion of the meeting was structured such that station captains reported, then everyone had a turn to share. The focus was on (1) things that went well, (2) areas of improvement, and (3) suggestions for next year. Many comments focused on the cooperation and perseverance of operators and trouble-shooters. Remarks also focused on local visitors and first-time HF operators. In terms of improvements, the attack of Murphy prompted much discussion of additional pre-testing of equipment and back-up plans.
The other major topic of the meeting was looking forward to upcoming events. Among those mentioned were:
**July 11, Saturday, Hermon Hamfest (website)
**August 1, Saturday, Maine State Convention & Hamfest (website)
**August 14-16, Friday-Sunday, Northeast HamXposition (website)
Several club members will be at all of these events. For those attending the Northeast HamXposition, consider joining the “Downeast Maine” banquet table on Friday and Saturday evenings. Club member and Hancock County Emergency Coordinator, Barbara KC1SSY, announced an upcoming exercise on September 16th from noon to 8pm called the “Maine Strong” event. Details will be announced later.
There is a sense of pride and accomplishment as we move on from our largest, most complex event of our calendar year. More than any other activity, Field Day brings our community together in the most basic ways. Across 3 long days, we share food, equipment, knowledge, encouragement, the love of ham radio, and the desire to be the best we can be, should a disaster strike. It won’t be long before we are planning for 2027. It’s amazing what this small, dedicated group of amateur radio operators do across the year! If you haven’t been involved, perhaps you’ll join us soon!
Written by Marion, W1GRL
W1TU 