Greetings! I was first licensed as KN8RBW in 1958. In 1959, I became K8RBW and have held that call to the present time. It was close to my initials (RJW) and I always kind of liked it. Moreover, I am partial to original items, whether they are pieces of electronics equipment or my body parts. I do not normally attach myself to organizations, but I do enjoy membership in the ARRL, the Quarter Century Wireless Association, FISTS and SKCC.   As you can perhaps tell by my affiliations, my primary interest is in CW, something that is increasingly diffficult as my manual dexterity declines with advancing years.

My primary means of earning a living is as a professor of economics. Partly because of the press of events and professional demands placed on my time, I was QRT for a number of years. Nonetheless, as I approach retirement, I am becoming much more active. Indeed, I finally achieved DXCC after 44 years! I would like to sincerely thank all of you who sent me the many QSL cards that enabled me to achieve that goal.

I lived a considerable period of time abroad in Taiwan and China and served as a Fulbright scholar. While there, I taught at Beijing University, studied and did research. Most of my study of the Chinese language was done in Taiwan with some additional work in the US. My love of Chinese studies extends beyond economics, encompassing the culture and literature. In fact, it exceeds my love of amateur radio. I hope some day to return there, perhaps operating an amateur radio station.

I have two homes in the US. My primary home is in Chicago and QSL cards for contacts there may be sent to:

Richard Wiltgen, 1341 W. Fullerton #149, Chicago, IL 60614

My vacation home and secret hideout for working is in Wisconsin. If you wish, you may send QSL card to me there at:

P.O.Box 708, Delavan, WI 53115

I promise to try and respond to all cards sent to me.

I look forward to talking with you over amateur radio. I hope you find talking to me as enjoyable as I am sure I will talking with you.

Very 73,

Dick, K8RBW