Bob Lightner, W4GJ
(formerly WN4JOM, 1961)

I learned about HAM radio while attending Sebring Boy Scout Camp back in 1961. Scouts needed to learn the Morse code in order to obtain the rank of First Class. A camp counselor, Steve Fried (WA4AMC), had a HAM station set up at the camp and he taught this fascinating language to me and other interested scouts. I couldn't get enough of this new subject! While my fellow scouts were boating or learning other skills, I kept sneaking back to learn more about HAM radio.

Steve told me that I could get my own license. He loaned me a copy of the ARRL License Manual and the next summer he had the exam ready for me to take. I passed and became a HAM operator at the age of 13. I saved money cutting people's lawns and was able to buy a Heath DX-40 and a Hallicrafters SX-110. Eventually I upgraded my receiver to a Drake 2B. I will include photos of my Novice station then, and now.

The hobby has served me well, opening doors professionally throughout my lifetime. I was in Army MARS, served as a Signal Corps officer, worked for commercial radio and TV stations, PBS and have managed a TV studio at Santa Fe College (my present occupation since 1972).

My current set up is an Orion II and a IC-PW1 with a Force 12 antenna. In my truck I have a Yaesu FT-100D with the ATAS antenna. I work mostly high speed CW on the lower 25 of each HF band. I like to chase DX and also do contesting. I'm also the QSL manager for YS1EJ. Hope to meet you on the air some day!

73,

Bob, W4GJ

Bob's E-mail bobw4gj@gmail.com

Bob's Web Site  http://www.afn.org/~w4gj/HAMpage.htm