I became interested in amateur radio while a student at the University of Alabama and earned my novice license (WN4AQW) in 1959. Six months later I upgraded to WA4AQW and have had that call eversince.

During my Air Force career I operated fixed portable in Alabama, California, Illinois, Oklahoma and Tennessee. I was fortunate to be able to operate four years in Tokyo as KA2QW and two years as WA4AQW/DU2 in The Philippines.

While I am know to occasionally chase DX, my main ham activity is “Rag Chewing” with other hams across the nation and around the world. Off the air, I have been active in a number of amateur radio organizations and served as president of the Far East Auxiliary Radio League in Japan and the Mid-Oklahoma Repeater Association.

My primary radio is an FT-1000MP Mk5 connected to an AL-811H amplifier. The secondary rig is an FT-897D which is also used in portable operation at parks and campgrounds around the Midwest and Southeast. Antennas include a TA-33 up a modest 35-feet, a Windom Dipole, and J-poles for VHF and UHF.

In addition to amateur radio, I also enjoy camping, boating (both sailing and power), shooting and reloading, and driving and maintaining my ’29 Model A. Around the Maryville, IL QTH there is never a shortage of things to do.

When you hear me on the air, give me a call because I’m sure there are many topics we can discuss.