Soldiers and airmen hone communications skills
Soldiers and airmen from across the United States recently completed a two-week Joint Incident Site Communications Capability training at the Bethany Beach National Guard Training Facility. JISCC prepares the military to provide emergency communications links among federal, state, and local levels in times of national disasters and emergencies. Students learn the latest communications technologies and techniques so that they can distribute emergency information over military or commercial satellites and radios.
In addition to the course emphasis on military communications, the class also focuses on amateur radio as another means to provide emergency communications. Master Sgt. Rod Godfrey, course manager and senior instructor, said, “Amateur radio is a critical resource that gives JISCC graduates another tool when it comes to emergencies. I’ve been a ‘ham’ for many years and firmly believe that ham radio and its Amateur Radio Emergency Service are essential elements to any emergency communications solution.”
The latest course wound up March 25, and because amateur radio operators require a license from the Federal Communications Commission, specially certified examiners were on hand to conduct testing. The Delaware Amateur Radio Test Team supported by the Sussex Amateur Radio Emergency Service along with members of the Sussex Amateur Radio Association administered the examinations. Joe Stormer of Lewes, DARTT chief, said, “We are very proud to have the opportunity to support our military and to provide them their entry into ham radio.”
Godfrey, whose JISCC course is unique within the armed forces, plans to continue emphasizing amateur radio during future classes, saying, “Ham radio is there when all else fails.”
For more information about amateur radio emergency communications, call Bill Duveneck at 302-537-4755 or email kb3kyh@arrl.net. Anyone interested in getting an amateur radio license can contact Joe Stormer at 302-645-5141 or w3tl@arrl.net
