Amateur Radio (ham radio) is a popular hobby and service that brings people, electronics and communication together. People use ham radio to talk across town, around the world, or even into space, all without the Internet or cell phones. It’s fun, social, educational, and can be a lifeline during times of need.
There are many professional radio services out there; Police, Fire, and EMS all use Public Service bands, the US Military uses several different bands of radio, and there’s also GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service), CB (Citizens Band), and MURS (Multi Use Radio Service), along with many others.
The key differentiation for Amatuer Radio is that we are Amatuers; we are not paid to use radio equipment (In fact we cannot accept payment!), but we do it as a hobby. We also provide our services to the public in times of want or need, such as for scheduled events (bicycle rides, trail runs, triathalons), or in the event of natural disasters (Floods, wild fires, earthquakes) when local communications systems are overwhelmed, damaged, or even completly destroyed!
I started out with my Technician license in 2007, and finally upgraded to my General license in 2011.
Amateur Radio is a hobby I’ve enjoyed everywhere I’ve gone as there’s always something for everyone to enjoy and participate in!
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