Wireless Sets and the Vehicle Collector 

   Some would say that a finely restored military vehicle is nothing more than a convenient way of transporting a finely restored military radio.  I would heartily agree!!   

    Well, what would you expect from someone who has lots of wireless sets but can only dream about owning a Dingo?  Nonetheless, there may be something to be learned from someone who is an "outsider" to the fraternity of vehicle collectors.  This article outlines some issues that should be considered by a vehicle collector when dealing with military wireless sets.

   There are three main areas to consider: the potential for damage to the radio, the potential for damage to the vehicle and the potential for interference with other users.  While many of the comments relate specifically to the Wireless Set No.19 or the C42 Set, the points are generally applicable to all wireless sets.

    Author and Wireless Set No. 19 Group co-founder Dave Lawrence, VA3ORP, offers an insightful article on the possible pitfalls to be encountered by vintage military vehicle collectors who go for a "real" look by including vintage radio. But there are lessons for all of us in this piece.  See the full article here.  It also appears in the "Support" section.

The Evolution of the WS#19

  The late Mr. Sydney Sillitoe (left, accompanied by WS#19 Group co-founder Chris Bisaillion, VE3CBK) was a key member of the Northern Electric team in Montreal that produced and improved the Wireless Set No 19 during the Second World War.  (Click photo for larger image.)

    Mr. Sillitoe's story is fascinating and includes a dangerous flight to and from war-time England to confer with his U.K. counterparts.  It's "required reading" for anyone who considers himself a friend of vintage military communications gear.  The story, written by VE3CBK and titled History of the WS#19, can be seen by clicking that title here or in the Table of Contents along the left side of this page.

Earn Your Vintage Operator Award!

     The Wireless Set No. 19 Group offers a certificate or plaque (our choice) to any Amateur Radio Operator who satisfies certain requirements in making contact using vintage military communications equipment.  The purpose is to encourage and recognize those personnel who collect, restore and operate vintage military communications equipment.  

     It is not necessary for both ends of the exchange to be made with vintage equipment and separate endorsements may be given for the receiver and transmitter of a particular set.  In fact, one may use a vintage military receiver to qualify so an Amateur Radio licence isn't required  

     For full information see The Wireless Set No. 19 Vintage Operator's Award page.  Click "Support" in the Table of Contents on the left side of this page.

Memories of WWII Amateur Radio and Military Communications

    Bill Loucks, VE3AR, has written a personal history of his communications experiences, including not just Amateur Radio but also how his life touched upon vintage military communications equipment, including the Wireless Set No. 19 and gear used by the RCAF and RCN. 

He kindly provided that account for an exclusive internet showing here on this website. The article has subsequently appeared in The Canadian Amateur magazine.  Read his intensely interesting personal Memories here.

Note: It is with sadness that we report Bill's death on March 20, 2010, at the age of 88.

Preserving Military History Single-Handedly

   Rick Crawley, a new member of the Group, had what he describes as an "epiphany" that led to him making his collection of WW II militaria, including vintage communications equipment, available for all to not only see but to touch.  Read his continuing story by clicking here.

Canadian Signals Production Branch History

" This history of the development of the Signals Production Branch (formerly Communications and Fire Control Production Branch) has been prepared for the Minister of Munitions and Supply, at his request. The prime purpose of the history is to present a concise picture of the endeavors (sic) and accomplishments of the Branch from the time of its inception, in May, 1942, to the end of August, 1943.  At the same time, the vast expansion of production of Radar and Communications equipment in Canada is illustrated.

    " The method of presentation is that of knitting together a number of chronological stories so as to progress from the events leading up to the formation of the Branch, through development of the organization and the relation of this organization with the radar and communications programs, to a statistical recapitulation.  This method has been chosen that easy reference may be made to the complete details of any one subject." -- Signals Production Branch, Department of Munitions and Supply, Ottawa, Ontario.  October 15, 1943.

    So begins an intriguing history which includes wartime development of the Wireless Set No. 19 and other equipment, kindly provided by Chris Bisaillion, VE3CBK, from research he conducted at the Military Communications and Electronics Museum, at Kingston, Canada.  The history is continued HERE.

Ham Humour: An Insider's View of Our Hobby

  Dick Sylvan, W9CBT, is an accomplished cartoonist and writer.  He is also a member of The Wireless Set No. 19 Group and, among other things, has written a personal account of his experiences with the 19, entitled "Built Like a Tank".  He has a new work, "HI HI - A Collection of Ham Radio Cartoons", sure to tickle the funny bone.  More info.

Group Members Enjoy Other Benefits

   Members are reminded to check the Yahoo 19Set area for photos, files, event calendar and other features accessible only by Wireless Set No. 19 Group members.  Simply log into the Yahoo area.  And, while you're there, PLEASE update your Profile.

    The 19 Set Goes to the Movies      

    The Wireless Set No. 19 has appeared in several movies and at least one television series. Often only a very brief glimpse is shown of the set and you have to have eagle eyes to spot the set. It is then even more of a challenge to identify what type of No. 19, i.e. British, Canadian, U.S. and if it is a Mark 2 or Mark 3.   Chris Bisaillion, VE3CBK, has researched many of those glimpses in this article.  

Wireless for the Warrior Resource Series

  Group member Louis Meulstee, PA0PCR, has to date authored five excellent books of interest to us all.  Click on the individual book cover below to be taken to his Wireless for the Warrior  website to obtain further information about that particular book and how to obtain a copy.  Louis' most recent effort, entitled "Compendium 1",  is pocket-sized for easy reference.  Its sequel, "Compendium 2", is in the course of being prepared.