Issue #23: Life Lessons from Ham Radio

I got my start in ham radio from a class at Arlington State College (Texas, Junior College). This was a course entitled "Electricity 133-Amateur Radio" and was taught by W5FBL, Professor Joseph Howell. It was was worth three hours college credit. If you passed the FCC Exam and got your "ticket" you got an "A" for the course and didn't have to take the "Final Exam."
However about this time (the "Korean Conflict ") I got drafted but chose to enlist in the United States Navy. Passed 11 weeks of " Boot Camp" followed by passing 36 weeks of Electronic Technician school at Treasure Island Naval Station which had W6HMA...Club Station. Got as far as Second Class Petty Officer in my four years in the USN.
That's the story of my start as W5TBC.

 

I might add that ASC also had a ham station, W5EUY, at that time with a BC610 Xmtr and a 20 Meter Beam Antenna mounted on a tall mast atop the old Mechanics Arts 2 story shops and class room building.
Sadly, "Joe" Howell, W5FBL, W5EUY, and the Mechanics Arts Building have long since departed the campus.
And ASC has become UTA.

73, W5TBC

 

A guy close to my QTH has been very patience and helpful.I met him 20 +years ago and since I got into radio since 2019 we have been in communication quite a bit.Many of the hams I met over the air have been great to talk to and helpful.That is why I started a special event based on saying thanks to Elmers.Check it out:
https://www.qrz.com/db/W1E/ELMER
73!