In 1976, while in high school in Romney, WV, Bill Hick, W8FZP, took me under his wing and began to teach me morse code and prepared me for the novice exam. I received my ticket in the mail from the FCC on December 24, 1976. My call sign was WD8EFS. A nice Christmas present. I began with an old Hallicrafters HT-44 transmitter and Realistic DX160 receiver. After graduation I return to the state of my birth, FL, and attended the University of South Florida. There I upgraded to Advance and ultimately Extra, now with the call sign KD8AQ. I have had this call since 1982. I graduated in 1984 with my BS in Physics. Soon after I got married and the family came along, 3 kids.

In 1987 I went to work for Hillsborough County FL government as an Environmental Scientist,Engineer, and finally as a Department Manager. During that time I also served many years as the local ARES/RACES Officer supporting local emergency management activities. I enjoy CW, DXing, and PSK work. In 2010, I left my employer of 23 yrs for a new position in East Texas. I currently work for the Department of Army as the Environmental Operation Manger at a DoD facility.

Here in rural Texas I haven't encounter any antenna restriction, so the tower is up and am having a great time with the antennas and rig here in east TX. Attached are a few pictures of the antenna project this summer.

73,

Fred

KD8AQ

Took a week by hand to dig the 5X5X5 hole for the tower base, but I was motivated.

Pouring the base for the tower.

Get ready for lift off

Just before going to the 40ft level

At full height

Artistic view