|
The hams have been working to restore the radio areas aboard ship to their former appearance, and to return at least some of the equipment to operation. Already, some antenna systems have been repaired and others replaced. Modern equipment was used for the special event, however. The Orleck’s original transmitting equipment has not been located, and the technology has progressed to where those transmitters would be very obsolete. Still, it was nice to have Morse code sounding through the passageways. The hams also introduced their hobby to Sea Cadets that were aboard the ship for the weekend. Some of the Cadets were bold enough to speak with hams across the country, and hopefully will explore the hobby. Hams today use computers, television, satellites, Wi-Fi, small handheld radios and larger equipment capable of bouncing signals off the moon. Linking of systems across the country by internet connection is commonplace. We’re not your daddy’s hams anymore! One ham has commented that “entering Radio Central was like a trip to my youth. At age 18 I was a Radioman 3rd class, and assigned to the Naval Communications Station in Yokosuka, Japan. I used equipment exactly like some aboard the Orleck to transmit and receive Morse, and teletype signals with other land stations and the fleet at sea. This was during the Vietnam War. I would wear headphones and use Morse to send bulletins, and also receive messages. The teletype machines were used for higher priority traffic, and also for classified messages.” 
Above, Doug Phelps (WB5OZA) and Jerry Stroud (K5BPA) operate a station in the transmitter compartment across the passageway from Radio Central. 
Above, Alan Dickerson (KC5JBJ) waxes poetic about “Vintage Equipment” with a ham in Florida. Another event is planned for June 4-5th of this year, when Museum Ships Weekend occurs. Museum Ships across the country will have hams around the world contacting them. Come See! (For more info on Museum Ships Weekend, click here www.nj2bb.org) |