A Day to Remember: Cub Scouts Field Day Radio GOTA 2024
Introduction: Scouts Field Day Radio GOTA 2024
Hello everyone! I am thrilled to share my experience of the Cub Scouts Field Day Radio GOTA event that took place on Saturday, May 4th, 2024, in the charming town of Pleasant View, Tennessee.
Partnering with Nashville Amateur Radio Club
As a proud participant with the Nashville Amateur Radio Club (NARC), we put together an event that was both educational and fun. The NARC, organized in 1934, is one of the oldest radio clubs in the country. Our goal was to introduce the scouts and their parents to the fascinating world of amateur radio.
One of the highlights of our partnership was the Get on the Air (GOTA) event. GOTA is an opportunity for any Technician or Novice licensees, newly licensed amateurs, other generally inactive licensees, and non-licensed persons to experience first-hand the fun of amateur radio.
Setting Up the VHF Station
I set up a station complete a 25-watt mobile VHF 2m/70cm radio with a portable 2m/70cm quarter wave dipole antenna with a display of homebrew antennas and a wealth of reading material. The station served as a hub for learning and interaction, sparking curiosity among the attendees. Some of the common homebrew antennas included a 2m/70cm quarter wave dipole antenna, a 2 meter tape measure yagi antenna, and a homemade radio fox transmitter
The VHF GOTA Station
One of the highlights of the day was the VHF GOTA (Get on The Air) station we had set up. This allowed the scouts to experience hands-on communication using the radio equipment. We were using local repeaters to reach contacts all around middle Tennessee.
Participation and Engagement
The event saw participation from about 40 scouts, ranging in age from as young as 4 to as old as 15. Their enthusiasm and eagerness to learn were truly infectious. The scouts were given the opportunity to speak into the microphone, send CW, or make digital contacts under the direct supervision of a properly licensed control operator.
A Trip Down Memory Lane
Being part of this event was not just about teaching and sharing; it was also a nostalgic journey for me. It brought back fond memories of my own time in the Boy Scouts, filled with camping adventures, hiking trails, and the pride of earning merit badges
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Cub Scouts Field Day was a resounding success. It was a day filled with learning, laughter, and the creation of lasting memories. I can’t wait for the next one!
Remember, the world of amateur radio is vast and exciting. So, why not dive in and start exploring? For more information, you can visit the ARRL website and the Nashville Amateur Radio Club website.
