Category: Articles

On July 1, at the weekly Clandestine Coffee gathering of the EAWA, Phil announced, rather loudly, “I just want you to know that I have no restraints! I can do whatever I want now!” That’s typical of Phil’s ever-present jokes and sarcasm. July 1 marked the end of his tenure as the Maine ARRL Section Manager. It was clear that he was happy to have the gift of more leisure time and fewer commitments. Over these past few weeks he’s been on the radio more than he has in years. Even though he’s been reducing his leadership commitments, he’s not leaving amateur radio behind. He is retooling, learning some new facets of radio, and simply having fun on the air waves.

This article is a mix of Phil’s words and quotes from others. I took the liberty to bold key words for emphasis. When I asked Phil about his leadership positions in various amateur radio organizations, he shared:

In the past 30 years I have served as a club president, county ARES emergency coordinator, Maine Section Emergency Coordinator, and Net Control Station for NTS and ARES Nets, to name a few activities in which I have dedicated time and effort. 

Serving as Maine’s Section Manager from December 2021 through June 2026 was a highlight and privilege. It opened my eyes to how so many hams volunteer every single day running traffic nets, relaying radiograms, conducting emergency communication exercises, organizing hamfests, and so much more. 

I really enjoyed working and collaborating with affiliated clubs, ARRL field service appointees, and others in the pursuit of contributing to this amazing hobby and service. Other life goals and personal reasons made me decide to not seek reelection this time. Perhaps if things work out, I will run for section manager again in a couple years or so, but for now my focus is elsewhere.

I also asked some people who worked with Phil to share in this retirement tribute. They wrote:

“Phil demonstrated more initiative and just plain hard work than any section manager I have encountered anywhere in the ARRL in my time as director. He did not hesitate to take on the most difficult problems facing his Section and Amateur Radio in general, and he made good progress with everything that he touched. He was a true pleasure to work with, and we will all miss his leadership very much. I consider it a privilege to have had the opportunity to work with Phil.” ~Fred, AB1OC, former ARRL New England Division Director

“During my time as ARRL Vice Director for the New England Division, I cannot think of a more dedicated Section Manager than Phil. He epitomizes what the job entails. Phil is always rallying the troops and acknowledging the volunteers in his section for their efforts. Phil is a “force multiplier.” It’s unfortunate that we can’t clone Phil and seed all of the other seventy ARRL sections with N1EP clones.” ~Phil, K9HI, Vice Director of the ARRL New England Division

“Phil has done an outstanding job as Section Manager for Maine. His visibility and involvement have been incredible. His on-air presence on various nets, visiting clubs in-person, touring field day sites, participating in hamfests and interacting with many hams has made him an incredible force in the hobby.” ~Cory, KU1U, Assistant Section Manager

“As the Maine State Emergency Coordinator (SEC), I was blessed with Phil’s appointment to the position and mentorship while serving. Phil’s support as the Section Manager and a County EC, among others, simply sets the example of support above and beyond. Phil was always available to ‘rein me in’ and provide advice, which is greatly appreciated! Good luck, Phil.” ~Keith, KE4UCW, Maine State Emergency Coordinator 

“Phil’s energy and contributions to the ham community have been overwhelming. Anyone who replaces Phil will have a tough act to follow. Great personality and instant friendship. Enjoy yourself Phil! (I suspect retirement is not in his vocabulary.)” ~George, K1GDI, Seagull Net 

“As a former Section Manager for Maine, I know just how demanding and challenging the role can be when it’s done right. Phil had the right stuff and did the job with finesse” ~Michelle, WM1C, Former Maine ARRL Section Manager

“I have known every Section Communications Manager/Section Manager in Maine for the last 60 years (in fact I married one!) and I would rate Phil, N1EP, top tier for effort and effectiveness. Maine has been fortunate to have his leadership for the past 4-1/2 years.” ~Bill, W1KX, former Maine SCM/SM

I also asked Phil about his early experiences with amateur radio and his preferred modes of operation. He shared:

Even as a kid, I was always interested in radio-electronics and was an avid short-wave listener. I didn’t earn my ham radio license until I retired from the U.S. Navy in 1996. I jumped into the hobby head first and have had a blast ever since. 

Very early on I got involved in the Amateur Radio Emergency Service and also the National Traffic System. Meeting and working with all the like-minded hams in Maine helped me make friends all over the state. The friendships you make among the ham radio community, if you get involved, is the best part of this hobby. 

My most memorable QSO was talking with an astronaut aboard the International Space Station. Also, I used to run the annual Wreaths Across America special event (W1A) and had some awesome conversations with veterans or family members of veterans who shared their stories with me. It was quite heart-warming. 

 Another couple of QSOs that stand out for me is when I was first learning CW and was on the bands at 5 wpm, I had contacts with a couple centurions. They were very patient with my sloppy fist and I felt it was an honor to chat with these very senior operators.

I have tried as many aspects of amateur radio as possible, including phone, digital modes, coffee-meets, CW, digital voice modes, coffee-meets, satellite, DX, kit-building, coffee-meets, and more coffee-meets. One mode I have not tried yet is moon-bounce (EME). Maybe I will eventually check that one off the bucket list after a clandestine coffee meet.  

I also asked some members of the EAWA to share a little about their experiences with Phil in leadership positions. They offered:

“One of Phil’s concerns is how to keep amateur radio alive and vibrant for coming generations. He has organized and formed a non-profit (Kidz Radioactive, https://kidz.n1ep.com/) to find and support young people curious about ham radio. This has met with some success through offering lessons at local libraries and summer camps. The organization is now offering a grant for other ham radio clubs in Maine to actively encourage new young hams. This all is a result of Phil’s leadership.” ~John, KQ1P, President of the Ellsworth Amateur Wireless Association

“Phil conducted a technician class for people interested in ham radio. As someone who had no experience in electronics or radio, his teaching style was patient and helpful. He took the time to explain the concepts in a manner that not only made them interesting but also understandable. I passed my test, upgraded to general, and have found an amazing and fun-filled hobby!” ~Barbara, KC1SSY, Emergency Coordinator for Hancock County

“As Maine’s ARRL Section Manager, Phil officially established an Assistant Section Manager position to promote and support Maine’s YLs and women interested in amateur radio. Phil has been available to the Women Radio Operators of Maine group and has supported the women’s newly created Facebook page.” ~Joan, W1DLC, Director of the Women Radio Operators of Maine

“I have known Phil for many years. He is always engaging, and will always help, another ham. He comes up with ideas for the promotion of amateur radio that are current and relative to his target audience. He is also networking and helps with introductions of hams in need to hams who can help. His presence representing the state of Maine at the national level will be missed. He truly worked hard and brought amateur radio front and center all over the state.” ~Jeff, KA1DBE, former president of the Ellsworth Amateur Wireless Association and Assistant Section Manager

For those of us who interact with Phil all the time, it’s easy to get lost in his jokes, pranks, love of Baofengs and coffee-meets, and lose sight of the hours of dedicated effort, time, energy, thought, and worry he has spent on the administration and advancement of this wonderful hobby and service. While we celebrate his many leadership-driven accomplishments and his retirement, I, for one, hope we continue to hear him vote “no” to every meeting adjournment. I hope we continue to hear him say, “We were having a good time until you showed up,” or “They let you in here???” I also hope we continue to hear about his many hours on the air waves and new adventures in radio.

Congratulations Phil! You’ve more than earned your right to play radio for as long as you want!

Compiled and written by Marion, W1GRL

In many ways it felt like Murphy’s Law, “anything that can go wrong, will go wrong” was the theme for the EAWA Field Day 2026. There were numerous equipment, networking, logging, weather (lightning), and personnel issues that presented daunting challenges across the weekend. That said, we persevered! The community of operators and visitors at Field Day worked to find the best solutions and work-arounds to keep the operation running. While the challenges will remain in our memories, so too will the successes and highlights! 

As in previous years, Barbara KC1SSY, club member and Hancock Country Emergency Coordinator, gave us a safety briefing covering everything from marking tripping hazards with bright tape to fire extinguishers to hydration. Bob AB1EP gave an educational program on grounding while we enjoyed some freshly-delivered pizza.

This Field Day, more than ever, the club members pulled together to tackle a number of difficult situations. We have to wait to see our scores and how we placed in Maine, but that’s secondary to the many victories and highlights. We had around 20 visitors and guests, two people made their first HF contacts, several people joined the club, and every QSO was hard won! One of the fun things about Field Day events is that each year has its own unexpected, yet memorable themes. In 2025 it was rain. In 2026 it was Murphy’s Law. What will 2027 be? Perhaps you will join us and find out!
Written by Marion W1GRL

Everyone is invited to visit our off-grid emergency communications exercise at the Trenton Elementary School, located across from the Bar Harbor Airport. Called “Field Day,” the event runs rain or shine, from 2:00pm on Saturday, June 27, straight through the night, ending around noon on Sunday, June 28. There will be stations operating Voice (called Phone), Morse code (called CW), Digital messaging, and Satellite contacts — with all communications sent across the air waves. This is a family-friendly event. There will be operators available to answer questions, as well as a special “Get On The Air” station available for anyone, kids included, who would like to try a voice contact. 

You can see more about previous Field Day Activities by clicking these links: 2025 Field Day and 2024 Field Day.

For those who not familiar with it, amateur radio, also called ham radio, is a popular service and hobby that uses various radio frequencies for non-commercial communication, experimentation, and public service. Many hams have radios and antennas at their homes, along with portable systems. Ham radio operators communicate locally, worldwide, and with satellites and astronauts, without relying on the internet or cell services. Exercises, such as Field Day, are helpful to practice our transmission skills and test our equipment in preparation for any real emergency. When needed during a disaster, operators work with local, state, and federal agencies to provide reliable communications when the normal infrastructure is unavailable.

Don’t be shy! We hope to see you at this year’s Field Day and Open House!
Written by Marion W1GRL

Congratulations to EAWA member Jeff KA1DBE on receiving the Maine Ham Radio Operator of the Year Award! His enthusiasm and dedication to this great hobby is evident to everyone who knows him. In a recent conversation Jeff said, “I’ve never really gotten bored with ham radio. There is always something to learn.” That statement, along with sharing and teaching what he’s learned, are clearly the primary sources of motivation and energy that keep him immersed in all things ham radio.

Over the years Jeff has built quite an impressive radio resume. When asked to name three or four of his most satisfying radio adventures, he began with the many years he worked entirely QRP (low power, usually 5 watts). His eyes lit up as he talked about the kits he built and/or used for QRP operating, including NorCal CW paddles, the wilderness radio version of the NorCal Sierra, an Oak Hills Research QRP Wattmeter, and a Heathkit HW-8. His primary radio in his QRP days was a Ten Tec Argonaut 509. 

Jeff welcomed the blending of computer and radio technologies, particularly the development of packet radio. His love of radio exploration found him activating many modes, including PSK-31, FLdigi, and WSJT-X. Also, after seeing a satellite demonstration at a Field Day event, he was motivated to learn more about satellite communications. The first time he heard his callsign returning from space while working a satellite was, for him, an “aha moment.” At the time, he was using an FT-726R and everything was done by hand.

Another set of satisfying experiences revolved around accomplishing WAS (Worked All States), DXCC (100 entities or countries), and 5BDXCC (100 entities on each of 5 bands). He also completed WAS and DXCC on Phone, Digital, and CW. He added, “All of these were accomplished with 100 watts or less and wire or vertical antennas.” Jeff has kept his first call sign, KA1DBE, and is proud to the be only one to have used that call while working toward these challenging awards.

When asked about his favorite yearly radio activities, he mentioned Winter Field Day, ARRL International DX CW, the Stew Perry Top Band Distance Challenge, the Milliwatt Sprint sponsored by the NCQCC, and Hoot Owl Sprints sponsored by the QRP Amateur Radio Club International.

Jeff first attended an EAWA meeting in 1978, before he was old enough to drive. His Elmer (mentor) Don Frost, K1WJY provided the rides. (Don is a silent key. EAWA member Chris Stanley, Don’s grandson, now has the K1WJY call.) Jeff earned his license in May 1979. Life took him elsewhere after high school, and he returned to the area and the club in 2015. He served as the club President for many years. Today Jeff serves as the Field Day Coordinator and the Director of our Annual Symposium. He is the founder of the Maine State POTA (Parks On The Air) Day and the head of the Maine Chapter of the NAQCC (North American QRP Club).

When asked what the near future holds, Jeff’s responses moved from traditional tube gear, as he is in the process of restoring a Heathkit 301/401 combo, to experimenting with moon bounce. He would also like to do more POTA and SOTA (Summits On The Air), as well as operate more on 160 meters.

Current EAWA President John KQ1P described Jeff as “curiosity driven,” highlighting the core theme of life-long learning, exploration, and experimentation in ham radio. As he shared stories about how radio technology and practice changed over time, Jeff continually put the emphasis on, “just try it.” His excitement and energy for ham radio is contagious. Receiving the 2026 Maine Ham Radio Operator of the Year Award is a small way to say “thank you” to one who has inspired, educated, and motivated many of us.
Written by Marion W1GRL

The Maine Parks On The Air (POTA) Day, held Saturday, May 16, is an annual event that many operators look forward to. Just like last year, the weather was a major influence. Unlike the rain we had last year though, this year it was the solar weather that proved to be a challenge. It’s a safe assumption that there were many EAWA members and friends who activated a park and/or were POTA hunting from home. Below are some activation summaries.

Rob W8HAP had a successful activation at Lamoine State Park, working CW on 20 meters.

Stan W1BOY and Marion W1GRL activated the Blueberry Hill area on the Schoodic Peninsula in Acadia National Park. They struggled for two hours to complete 10 phone contacts, moving between 40 and 20 meters. 

Joan W1DLC activated the Strong Wildlife Management Area. She also worked for two hours to complete 14 QSOs on 20 meters.

Barbara KC1SSY and Tracey AC1UN operated from two parks. Their first location was Lily Bay State Park. Struggling as everyone did, they worked for an hour and a half to complete 17 contacts. They also spent two hours at Spectacle Pond Wildlife Management Area, completing an additional 2 contacts. 

Matt KC1VLH and Sue activated Roque Bluffs State Park. Matt made 31 contacts on 20 meters. His signal made it out to Texas and Utah. 

Wes AA1CX managed 35 contacts over two and a half hours while activating Holbrook Island Sanctuary State Park. He found more success operating CW than phone. During his activation Wes made contacts with Stan, Marion, and Rob.

Some operators gave a great effort, but in the end, technical challenges, poor solar weather, and difficult terrain won the day and prevented the activations. Jeff KA1DBE and Bernie KI4VCR made a valiant effort to activate Donnell Pond State Preserve. After many struggles, the adventure ended with a plate of Irish Nachos. John KQ1P also tried an activation. Between a limited time frame in a busy day and technical issues, he also had to abort the activity. 

It’s always a learning experience, and usually a fun one(!), when we set up to activate regardless of weather and environmental challenges. Whether it is a POTA, Field Day, a contest, or a net, all of these activities sharpen our skills and put our equipment through the paces. When it’s fun we call it “a hobby” and when it’s an emergency we call ourselves “ready and willing.”
Written by Marion W1GRL