Josiah "Si" Russell WD5JR is part of the next wave of operators breathing new life into ham radio. At just 18, Si already has a POTA record that would make many seasoned hams envious—over 400 activations and more than 5,300 parks hunted. But it’s not just about numbers. From activating rare parks in Turks and Caicos to representing Oklahoma as a Parks on the Air mapping coordinator, Si blends enthusiasm, technical skill, and a drive for community building that’s rare at any age. Though he grew up surrounded by ham radio—his great-granddad, grandparents, parents, and even his eight-year-old cousin are all licensed—Si didn’t dive in right away. It took a Florida road trip and a chance activation to spark his passion. That spark quickly became a fire, fueled by outdoor adventure, the challenge of DXing from remote parks, and a growing love for contesting and CW. Ham radio became more than a hobby—it became a family refuge during his mom’s cancer treatment and a catalyst for personal growth. There’s also a quiet confidence to how Si operates. Whether it’s packing an Icom 7300 in foam for international travel, giving presentations at hamfests, or learning SO2R techniques for CW sprints, he’s always building. Not just a skillset, but a path forward—showing that youth isn’t a liability in ham radio; it’s a lifeline.
@WD5JR It was really nice to work you and your from Turks & Caicos! Thanks for the contacts and QSL cards! Eli AE0HQ ex. KF0QFD LICW #91 K
I have made several contacts with Si and he is a class act promoting the hobby like we all should be doing. Keep up the good work...God Bless
Very Nice Si!! Les - KI5GTR hooked me up with the program I see your running as well Hunter Log (Top Right Screen to anyone else) Les introducing me to that program was the reason why i started PotaLink.com
