WPE’ers say

Book #2

Your site brings back fond memories.
William J. Martin WPE3HZI <[email protected]>
Wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, October 01, 2003 at 22:32:43 (EDT)

I received my WPE "Call sign" when I was 12 years old. I also had WPE1 DCJ. I do not know why I applied for a second call sign, but it was great having two certificates on the wall over my Lafayette Electronics Explore Air super regenerative receiver.
WPE1DAZ <[email protected]>
Hamden, CT USA - Wednesday, October 01, 2003 at 07:14:04 (EDT)

Got mine in the late 60's as did a lot of other kids. I stil have the certificate around here somewhere. 73, Norman KA4PUV
Norman Young WPE4JKZ <[email protected]>
Zebulon, NC USA - Friday, September 26, 2003 at 20:06:23 (EDT)

(continued from first entry) Quote After that time all previously issued WPE identifiers that have not been converted over to the WDX identifiers will be declared null and void and these identifiers will then be issued to new applicants. Unquote. So you can take that for what it's worth as to the validity of a WPE call. They were all fun in their day. Big 73 to all you old NNRC'ers out there! 47 years at the dials and still tuning! John Cobb, ETC, USN (Ret.), ex-WR04AJ/ex-WPE4AJ/WDX4AJ
John Cobb WDX4AJ <[email protected]>
Roswell, GA USA - Friday, September 26, 2003 at 00:23:59 (EDT)

Those of you who have been in the hobby long enough to have gotten your initial SWL call from the originator, Joe Morris, will remember that he issued them with the prefix WR(zero). I was assigned WR04AJ in 1958. When he handed the program over to Hank Bennett, those calls were converted to the WPE prefix, in 1959, I think. Then when Pop'tronics dropped the Shortwave Report, Hank was allowed to continue the registrations with the WDX prefix. I have the notice from 1970 which states that holders of WPE calls had until 31 DEC 1972 to apply for reissuance as a WDX call. It states:
John H. Cobb, Jr. WDX4AJ <[email protected]>
Roswell, GA USA - Friday, September 26, 2003 at 00:12:02 (EDT)

HAD THIS DURING THE 60'S REGULAR CONTRIBUTOR TO HANK'S DX LISTINGS
WPE1EOE
USA - Wednesday, September 24, 2003 at 12:03:17 (EDT)

Still hanging on my ham (k4bty) wall.
WPE4DXZ <[email protected]>
Nashville, TN USA - Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 23:31:49 (EDT)

Remember listening for hours for tht rare dx
WPE3FSJ <[email protected]>
uniontown,, pa USA - Friday, September 19, 2003 at 23:44:29 (EDT)

I was in suburban Buffalo, NY probably around 1970 when I got that first call. Then later I paid the "upgrade" fee to get my 2-letter call. Member of Newark News Radio Club. It popped into my mind tonight and I thought I'd search for it; came across your site. Spent many nights SWL'ing and later BCB DXing. Favorite catch was KGRT Las Cruces, NM. Jeff KC1GB
Jeff Hodge WPE2QVS WDX2NY <[email protected]>
Medway, MA USA - Tuesday, September 16, 2003 at 23:05:18 (EDT)

Thanks for the site and the guestbook. Bill, W5SG
Bill Eckenrode, WPE5PX <[email protected]>
Spring, TX USA - Tuesday, September 16, 2003 at 10:09:20 (EDT)

I think I printed my own WPE2NWH QSL cards at Jr HS shop.. ALso have several period photos of me and shack and lots of SWL cards.. I recall being visited by FBI for "freqeunt correspondence with Communist nations" on day.. Prob still on the S list in DC..!
Pete Malvasi WPE2NWH <[email protected]>
Ramsey, NJ USA - Saturday, September 13, 2003 at 09:59:13 (EDT)

I started out SWLing with my Knight Kit Star Roamer. I received it as a Christmas gift from my father in l964 when I was about l5 yrs old. AS I got into the hobby of SWL i gained knowledge of the WPE monitor call system and got my call in 1965. I still have my certificate packed away and will always keep it.
Andy Morelli Jr., WPE8ISY <[email protected]>
Sterling Hts., , MI USA - Saturday, August 23, 2003 at 05:08:03 (EDT)

Hallicrafters S-118 and some wire out the window.
Gene WPE9FTD <[email protected]>
Litchfield Park, AZ USA - Friday, August 15, 2003 at 21:48:03 (EDT)

The "PE" calls also were issued for Canada, and perhaps other countries. I became VE2PE1F in 1959. VE2PE1B, VE2PE1D and VE2PE1U were good friends who got their calls at the same time. They had connections with VE2PE1A and VE2PE1C, who I never met. You site is a great "blast from the past". I still chase SWBC and mediumwave DX, in addition to operating as boith VE2EM and VA3TEE. And I still have my VE2PE1F certificate, now over 44 years old.
Andy Rugg VE2PE1F <[email protected]>
Cornwall, ON Canada - Tuesday, August 12, 2003 at 01:58:27 (EDT)

i wasnt a wpe but had wdx i recieved mine in 1974 i was wdx3wrt when i lived in warminster pa,when i moved to fla in 1975 they issued me wdx-4kwi which i still use today.lost both certificates though pity wish i still had them
ron trotto wdx4-kwi <[email protected]>
waggoner, il USA - Tuesday, August 05, 2003 at 23:09:57 (EDT)

WPE1FYG - My first RX|was a Star Roamer that I built when I was 14. Still have it. Got novice, WN1GGL in May, '66 and used a DX-20 transmiter exclusively for the next 7 years. Now I've got another one to resurrect!
Ken Tata <[email protected]>
USA - Wednesday, July 30, 2003 at 21:42:37 (EDT)

Still have the certificate displayed on the wall of the shack!!
WPE0CFK <[email protected]>
Lindstrom, MN USA - Wednesday, July 30, 2003 at 15:54:36 (EDT)

I got mine in 1965 and still have the cerificate.
Ronnie Reams WPE4CGL <[email protected]>
Wendell, NC USA - Sunday, July 27, 2003 at 12:46:36 (EDT)

Got mine in 1959, and I still have the original certificate.
Pat Bailey WPE7YQ <[email protected]>
Bremerton, WA USA - Sunday, July 27, 2003 at 03:22:30 (EDT)

I had a Hallicrafters S-119 Sky Buddy II and a thirty foot antenna and used to listen to Soviet jammer stations thinking they were plane engines. I was an idiot. I desperately wanted call letters, even if they were a bogus call from a magazine. Finally, I got a novice ticket in 1968 and developed a pallor spending every waking moment on 2M AM in NYC.
Howard WPE2NPM <[email protected]>
Los Angeles, CA USA - Saturday, July 26, 2003 at 01:27:43 (EDT)

I was WPE9DAW in 1962. Seems all we had to do was send in a dime, no QSL's. Started with only a Space Spanner and a DX-20, both used. Now have an Ocean Hopper, S38-E, Drake 2B, and HQ-180. Unfortunately, lost original certificate in a fire years ago, but recent years have been kind to me and I still enjoy SWL'ing, especially on the Ocean Hopper. I have built about ten homebrew Ocean Hopper clones since 1995 and most have appeared in Electronic magazines. I wrote the LAST TWO printed Ocean Hopper articles of the 20th century! And a WPE call started it all. 73's AL
Al WPE9DAW now KA9GDL
Springfield, Il USA - Tuesday, July 22, 2003 at 12:41:14 (EDT)

If I could only go back to the 60's with the radio equipment and software I have now.....
Tom Rohrs WPE0EYY <[email protected]>
Plano, TX USA - Tuesday, July 22, 2003 at 01:36:34 (EDT)

Got WPE5CXK around 1962 at age 13. Had a Knight Span Master & Hallicrafters S-38D. WA5IGM since 1963. Listen occasionally now on a Yaesu FRG-7700 & Kenwood R-2000. Nice site - Thanks!
Steve Hebbler <[email protected]>
Jackson, MS USA - Thursday, July 17, 2003 at 22:45:57 (EDT)

I received my certificate on 8 Dec 1967, when I was 13. I had been SWLing for many years before that at my grandmother's house, as she had a nice Blaupunkt multi-band radio. I remember being up late at night with the living room dark and the dial lights illuminating the room, while I listened to all those fascinating SW B'cast stations from all over the world. That became a bit of a habit even when I was at home. I spent many evenings through many years listening to SW in my bedroom, with the dial lights and tubes throwing their light on the walls and ceiling. Had may QSL cards from those early days, but they're long gone now. I remember how hard I worked for some of those cards! I always kept a log of stations received, and still have that here on the shelf! I was on some of those mailing lists from some of the SW B'cast stations for over 20 years! Those were some fun (and carefree) times! Thanks for the memories! 73, Floyd, W8RO
Floyd Soo, WPE8JVE <[email protected]>
Clarkston, MI USA - Thursday, June 26, 2003 at 02:48:13 (EDT)

Glad to see someone is putting this all together. Thank you! Is there a viewable list of folks who have registered here?
Bob Coomler, WPE6AG <[email protected]>
Cloverdale, CA USA - Friday, June 20, 2003 at 17:39:52 (EDT)

Lived in Delaware in 1963 when I rec'd my cert.
Richard L. Moore WPE3CGR <[email protected]>
Nottingham, Pa. USA - Tuesday, June 17, 2003 at 20:50:43 (EDT)

I had a short lived cardswapping column in the Newark News Radio Club Bulletin while I was in High School back in the late 70's. -Ken
Ken VanTassell WDX2KEN <[email protected]>
Chelmsford, MA USA - Wednesday, June 11, 2003 at 23:22:10 (EDT)

Although I lived in Louisiana at the time, when I received my WPE call, it was for the "9" call area!! Don't know why -- fluke?? -- but I added that call to my QSL requests!!
Steve Ponder WPE9JJJ <[email protected]>
Houston, TX USA - Friday, May 30, 2003 at 15:52:59 (EDT)

My best memory of PE - they ran my name and a photo of my Radio Peking QSL card in the early 60's calling it the first reported one since the Cultural Revolution!! That card is right up on my wall in a frame with dozens more, and after 30 some years of threatening to "upgrade" from WPE to a "real" ham license, tech plus code finally in 2003 - KC2LBO!
WPE2OXZ Walter O'Brien <[email protected]>
Clinton, NJ USA - Friday, May 23, 2003 at 14:01:13 (EDT)

Was assigned WPE5BFS in the summer of 1960, at the age of 14. Later received my Novice license and now K5THC.
WPE5BFS <[email protected]>
Allen, TX USA - Tuesday, May 20, 2003 at 17:08:47 (EDT)

Received the WPE call in about '62. Now K8WV.
Darrell W. Ringer WPE8ERM <[email protected]>
Morgantown, WV USA - Sunday, May 18, 2003 at 04:00:43 (EDT)

At the time I lived in NY now reside in Maryland I still have my S38e and NC-100 Now I have over 125 countries verified
WPE2CKM <[email protected]>
Brooklyn , NY USA - Sunday, May 04, 2003 at 22:06:52 (EDT)

Got my start on the Island of GUAM in 1956. My WPE call should have been for KG6-land but the FPO SF CA address fooled them. So many days ago and still love the thrill of hearing stations from far away places..... RICH WPE6AKQ / WA6KNW
Rich MC Clung WPE6AKQ <[email protected]>
San Jose, CA USA - Monday, April 28, 2003 at 13:05:20 (EDT)

Certified 12/65, then as WDX4HHX in 12/70. Still active also an Extra Class Amateur Op - WB4RJE since 1971.
Robert Scott WPE4HHX <[email protected]>
Knoxville, TN USA - Sunday, April 27, 2003 at 21:25:24 (EDT)

I remember likes it's yesterday my swl days. Amateur call K3VPZ
Chuck Nemec, WPE3DXJ <[email protected]>
Baltimore, MD USA - Wednesday, April 16, 2003 at 10:16:18 (EDT)

Wow. Long ago and far away. Stopped WPEing when I got my novice in 1968. Just found the cards about a year ago. Wow.
Redd Swindells WPE2PXK <[email protected]>
Oswego, NY USA - Tuesday, April 15, 2003 at 04:12:35 (EDT)

Had both call signs. Can't get a zero on my computer. That was a zero not O
WPE0BHW AND WDXOBHW <[email protected]>
St. Louis, Mo USA - Wednesday, April 09, 2003 at 22:41:32 (EDT)

I was WPE9HQK in the early 60's. Ran with a Knight Star Roamer with a long wire antenna under the eaves around all 4 sides of the house. 140'. Still listen off and on now that I'm retired.
Bob Lambke WPE9HQK <[email protected]>
Elmhurst, il USA - Monday, April 07, 2003 at 20:30:27 (EDT)

Mistakenly posted wrong "call sign" about a year ago. Started out with a Knight Kit, "Span Master" receiver. Later used a Hammurland HQ-???.Still have both of them! Also acquired a pristine Panasonic RF-2200 about two years ago for $15.00!!! HAve been a ham for 30 years (WB4EJZ) , now use an FT-817. 73's !
WPE4JHR <[email protected]>
Oviedo, FL USA - Wednesday, April 02, 2003 at 10:10:01 (EST)

Steve Waldee - rec'd my 'call' c.1963. Was then using 6-tube Andrea (Fada) BC/SW radio and 2-tube KnightKit, with 750 foot antenna. FABULOUS reception then, which I cannot duplicate now with 175' wire and Icom R75, darn it! (Wonder what 750 foot could do?) Enjoy the website and articles-pictures. One comment: I *really* think, Joe, that you *should* get rid of the Marshall 2001. It is SO inferior to a U47. You need that nice peak at 8 kHz...! Best, Steve Waldee
WPE6CXH
San Jose, CA USA - Tuesday, April 01, 2003 at 21:14:15 (EST)

Just moved again. Now in Helena, AL. Still SWLing and haming. Still have the original GR-64 but use a Kenwood R-1000 or Hammarlund HQ-129X now adays. My WPE8JFR certificate is posted at: http://www.qsl.net/wb8cac/wpe8jfr.htm It's in pretty rough shape, but I still have it!
WPE8JFR <[email protected]>
Helena, AL USA - Sunday, March 30, 2003 at 08:02:20 (EST)

Circa 1966, I used a TROY for AM DXing, a BC455 and a Hallicrafters s-120 for SW. Somewhat unusual at the time, I was a CW SWL. I'd copy CW QSO's and send hams reception reports - they'd all say" Mike, get your license and talk to me!" So in 1967 I took the bus to 555 Battery Street in San Francisco, donned sweaty headphones and got my novice even though I could copy CW at about 18 WPM. I am K6LQ now and 100% CW
Mike WPE6GPQ <[email protected]>
Fair Oaks, CA USA - Wednesday, March 26, 2003 at 12:42:02 (EST)

It's been fun reading all the reminiscences... I hadn't thought about my VE6PE2A call for a long time. My certificate is long gone, but I think I might still have one of the SWL cards I had printed up. I mostly used them to send reports to hams - at the time, I was too young to get a ham ticket (there was a minimum age of 15 in Canada at the time). I even sent cards to guys I heard via Es on the 6m band - I think they were quite surprised to hear from an SWL! Eventually I got my ticket (VE6AJC, later VE3KLW, and now VE3JF) and left SWLing behind, but these days I've come full circle, and I DX the AM broadcast band.
Barry McLarnon, VE6PE2A <[email protected]>
Ottawa, ON Canada - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 22:51:19 (EST)

now wa4tol and still swling-tnx for site.
gary wpe4cfz
loganville, ga USA - Saturday, March 22, 2003 at 01:59:58 (EST)

Thanks for the memories! Got my red, white and blue "WPEÿBXN" QSL cards printed at Walter Ashe Radio here in St. Louis. Went on to become WNÿCNO in 1962, then WAÿCNO, NÿDFH and now, WÿFM.
Terry Schieler, WPEÿBXN <[email protected]>
Saint Louis, MO USA - Monday, March 17, 2003 at 14:18:15 (EST)

Listening was done with a Hallicrafters S-120 and a modified BC-683. Now a licensed Ham - KB6CYS
Bill Hutchins WPE6FAQ <[email protected]>
Cypress, Ca. USA - Saturday, March 01, 2003 at 11:27:52 (EST)

I started SWLing in 1964. My first receiver was a Knight Kit Star-Roamer. Got my Ham license in 1968, now WB4KTF
Glen Jenkins WPE4IVJ <[email protected]>
Houston, TX USA - Friday, February 28, 2003 at 23:16:04 (EST)

I started SWLing in 1965
Glen Jenkins WPE4IVJ <[email protected]>
Houston, TX USA - Friday, February 28, 2003 at 23:14:12 (EST)

Had that "WPE" in Brooklyn, NY Now licensed as WA1MJE ..
Tom Jaworski, WPE2BAT <[email protected]>
Great Barrington, MA USA - Thursday, February 27, 2003 at 04:33:32 (EST)

Wow...a long time ago !!
Paul Besimer WPE9FCY <[email protected]>
Chillicothe, oh USA - Wednesday, February 26, 2003 at 20:50:15 (EST)

I started listening to SW in 1961 (16 years old) with my first radio a National SW-54. Obtained my WPE registration on April 10, 1961. I also joined the National Radio sponsored National Association of Armchair Adventurers. Changed radios to a NC-121 and later to a National HRO-50. Even though they are old, I continue to use the 121 and HRO-50. Shortwave listening continues to be an activity that I enjoy often. I know I should purchase a new receiver but the National's continue to provde me with good service.
Charles Van Middlesworth WPE5BKU <[email protected]>
Kansas City, KS USA - Monday, February 24, 2003 at 21:07:44 (EST)

I got my WPE call back in about '63. I used a GE Educational Kit SW receiver I built at age 12, then my parents got me the "ultimate"- a Halicrafters WR-1500 (S-188 in a wooden case) for Christmas (I was in heaven that year)! That and a 50 ft wire to a tree netted about 65 countries. Been near a SW radio ever since. I still fondly remember the days of Popular Electronics and the "WPE" calls. Dave K2DH
David Hallidy WPE2MUA <[email protected]>
Webster, NY USA - Wednesday, February 19, 2003 at 20:42:23 (EST)

I just found my certificate from 1965 using an R1155A and a McMurdo Silver 801 superhet. Even more fun than my present Icom PCR-1000. Finding all of this has sparked my interest and will go for the ticket in a few weeks.
Roy Sutton VE3PE1ZO / VE2PE1KE <[email protected]>
Belleville, ON Canada - Tuesday, February 18, 2003 at 14:01:47 (EST)

I now work for the US government in Stuttgart, Germany. I remember the days of Popular Electronics fondly and have never been far from a shortwave receiver. Gil
Gil Torbeck - WPE0DMG <[email protected]>
APO, AE USA - Monday, February 03, 2003 at 08:19:31 (EST)

I was issued WPEÿEIC about 1964. I don't have the certificate but still have all my QSL's. I verified about 70 countries using an old Hallicrafters S-38E and a 40' piece of wire. Good memories Jim NÿOR
Jim Broden WPE0EIC <[email protected]>
Littleton, CO USA - Tuesday, January 28, 2003 at 01:11:00 (EST)

I was an SWL for many years during the 60's using an Knight Kit Span Master and later a Lafayette receiver.
Brad Weekley WPE8GPY <[email protected]>
Tecumseh, Mi USA - Sunday, January 26, 2003 at 22:53:25 (EST)

Had a SkyBuddy and a converted ARC-5 receiver!!
Rick Lloyd WPE8FZO <[email protected]>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Sunday, January 26, 2003 at 00:29:05 (EST)

I wonder if anyone remembers the Electronics Illustrated DX awards like "Outposts 6" etc? They were given to SWL's or HAM's who submitted the necessary QSL (actually they accepted log info...I don't think QSL's were necessary). I still have a couple of my certificates somewhere. I used to get QSL's from WPE's and was always happy to send out my WA2ERZ or WN2ZJD card to any WPE who sent me a card. No SASE required! 73 to you all.
Tom Althoff K2TA <[email protected]>
Greenwood Lake, NY USA - Tuesday, January 21, 2003 at 18:52:28 (EST)

I received a Hallicrafters S38E for Christmas in 1960 and my WPE call in 1961, O for the "Good Old Days"
WPE4HUU <[email protected]>
North Augusta, SC USA - Monday, January 20, 2003 at 09:04:52 (EST)

I was WPE5LD back in late 50's. Used a Heath AR-3 and longwire antenna. Received a lot of QSL's using WPE call. Became WA5GSW in 1963,now KC5KQ.Great fun! PE helped to make a lot of us future HAMS.
Albert M. Serafine WPE5LD <[email protected]>
San Antonio, TX USA - Friday, January 17, 2003 at 18:09:26 (EST)

Signed in once before, but changed QTH & E-Mail. Got WPE8JFR in 1966 in Mich (Heath GR-64). Now WB8CAC. Still SWLing with boat anchor gear. THANKS PE!!!
Bob Mason WPE8JFR <[email protected]>
Sylacauga, AL USA - Thursday, January 16, 2003 at 21:23:15 (EST)

I started as a SWL in 1960 with a Heath AR-3. Later in 1961 became KN8BVY and am still licensed. Still enjoy listening to SWL broadcasts. 73 K8BVYWP8CPC <[email protected]>Chelsea, Mi USA - Wednesday, January 08, 2003 at 20:56:10 (EST)

WA8SDF When I got mine., the call was on a peice of paper, so my mom filled in the blanks. I was in 7th grade(?) maybe 12 or so. Had a Lafayette HE-40. It's still here in my shack. I got my novice a couple of years later.
James Barrie WPE8FNR <[email protected]>
Fairfield, OH USA - Monday, January 06, 2003 at 22:21:56 (EST)

I had one in the early '60s, but have since lost the certificate and can't remember the call. Any way there is a record somewhere? Thanks Jim/AA0PP
James (Jim) D. Oss <[email protected]>
WaKeeney, KS USA - Thursday, January 02, 2003 at 00:03:51 (EST)

I received my WPE call in 1962 in Detroit Michigan.
Phil WPE8FRP

Must have been about the mid-60's. Still have a lot of the SWL cards I sent for from broadcast stations. I remember looking through copies of Whites Radio Log.
Bob Norgard - WPE8JMK <[email protected]>
Anchorage, AK USA - Tuesday, December 24, 2002 at 13:16:57 (EST)

LOST THE CERTIFICATE TO A FIRE WHILE I WAS OVER SEAS IN THE ARMY WPE1UH ? it has been 44 years 73 George W1ME
George Caswell Sr WPE1UH 1958? <[email protected]>
scarborough, ME USA - Tuesday, December 03, 2002 at 06:40:35 (EST)

I began SWL'ing with A Knight Kit Star Roamer and got hooked when I could pickup "SputniK" on the thing. Its been many receivers since that day. Now run Kenwood r2000 and Kenwood R5000 - John
WPE9IZE - John Berszoner <[email protected]>
Bolingbrook, IL USA - Sunday, December 01, 2002 at 22:55:31 (EST)

Was a member of Newark News Radio Club and National Radio Club.
Sam McLauchlan VE2PE1B <[email protected]>
Pointe Claire, QC Canada - Saturday, November 30, 2002 at 15:32:43 (EST)

Wow... amazing the things that you can recall out of the blue! WPE4JAJ (we lived in Murfreesboro, TN at the time) was equipped with a Hallicrafters S-38C and a long wire! Still have some of the original QSLs, and probably can find the WPE certificate, somewhere in all this junk!
Wayne Day WPE4JAJ <[email protected]>
Fort Worth, TX USA - Thursday, November 28, 2002 at 12:50:13 (EST)

Manager of shortwave radio stations WWFV and WWRB
WPE8KPA <[email protected]>
Livonia , MI USA - Thursday, November 28, 2002 at 12:21:25 (EST)

Haven't thought about my WPE callsign for more than 40 years!
WPE0AQW <[email protected]>
Austin, TX USA - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 18:23:25 (EST)

That's "Dubbya Dee Ex Six Oh", not "Dubbya Dee Ex Sixty"!
WDX6O Mike Westfall
Los Alamos, NM USA - Tuesday, November 26, 2002 at 18:52:00 (EST)

That's Dubbya Dee Ex Six Oh, not Dubbya Dee Ex Sixty!
WDX6O Mike Westfall
Los Alamos, NM USA - Tuesday, November 26, 2002 at 18:47:49 (EST)

Received the WPE call around 1964. Art Harris
Art Harris WPE2MJS <[email protected]>
Kings Park, NY USA - Monday, November 25, 2002 at 15:56:57 (EST)

Still use these calls for QSL's
VE4DX1SMA <[email protected]>
Winnipeg, MB Canada - Monday, November 25, 2002 at 15:39:46 (EST)

I was a member of the "Newark News Radio Club", back in 1963. I've heard that these call signs origionated from the Popular Electronics Magazine, hence the ".PE" in the "WPE".
WPE2OLR <[email protected]>
Newark, NJ USA - Monday, November 25, 2002 at 12:23:52 (EST)

I recieved this call when I lived on Long Island in the early 60's
Dick Kahane WPE2KKQ <[email protected]>
Rochester, NY USA - Monday, November 25, 2002 at 07:36:51 (EST)

Has anyone re-printed the WPE form ?
Andy WPE2KVN <[email protected]>
East Islip, NY USA - Monday, November 25, 2002 at 06:26:47 (EST)

I bought a wonderful Sharp 1710 world band radio in 1970, while still in high school, and became WPE4KNC shortly afterwards. I still have the certificate signed by Oliver Perry and Hank Bennett. Thanks for bringing back some great memories! --John Szewczyk
John F. Szewczyk WPE4KNC <[email protected]>
Ashland, Va USA - Sunday, November 24, 2002 at 22:38:43 (EST)

Was later WDX4JB and still have the certificates. At that time QTH was Annandale, VA.
Alan Merriman WPE4JB
Chincoteague Island, VA USA - Sunday, November 24, 2002 at 20:51:11 (EST)

I now have wdx6hwo, When I was in jr high,1966/1969 my old call, lost to the years and just turned up was wpe6uni
Dana Wentling WPE6UNI <[email protected]>
Ventura, Ca USA - Sunday, November 24, 2002 at 19:24:15 (EST)

http://home.houston.rr.com/edmayberry
Ed Mayberry WPE5FAJ <[email protected]>
Friendswood, TX USA - Thursday, November 21, 2002 at 23:29:17 (EST)

So many years ago :-) Wish I still had the certificate!
Dennis Ashworth WPE7BZB <[email protected]>
Battle Ground, WA USA - Monday, November 18, 2002 at 23:33:21 (EST)

After thirty five plus years I can still remember my call sign. I still shortwave listen and still use my Lafayette HA-230 communication receiver. I also have a Sony ICF-2001D for a standby. Happy DXing!!!
Tom Slaten WPE8JJU <[email protected]>
Mi U.S.A. - Friday, November 15, 2002 at 08:27:41 (EST)

I am still a short wave listener,My picture appeared in your magazine July 1968 page 99,along with my best friend Bob Fleck,WPE3DXZ on page 75, 73's
Gary T. Lane WPE3CJX <[email protected]>
Lewistown, Pa USA - Saturday, November 09, 2002 at 20:16:25 (EST)

Was 14 and living in Lewistown, Pa when I received my WPE call
Robert Fleck WPE3DXZ <[email protected]>
Euless, Tx USA - Friday, November 08, 2002 at 22:45:49 (EST)

I started SWL in 1959 and have listened off and on since. My receivers have all been National radios - Started with a SW-54, NC 120, and presently I use a vintage HRO-50 [it's old but it does the job]. Don't do any serious DXing like I used to, but still have fun running the dial.
WPE5BKU <[email protected]>
Kansas City, KS USA - Saturday, November 02, 2002 at 23:37:18 (EST)

Brings back pleasant memories.
WPE6DYY <[email protected]>
Sun City, CA USA - Sunday, October 27, 2002 at 19:33:14 (EST)

I'm amazed at the listings by WPEs on this site! I DXed primarily the AM BCB in those years but had to expand to the SW bands just to get the required QSLs to qualify for my WPE2MGU "callsign" in 1964. I didn't discard the WPE certificate so I know it's tucked away somewhere. I think when I come across it again, I should frame it and post it in my shack. I realize now the historical significance of it. I've been involved in BCB DXing, SWLing, CB, and Ham Radio all through the years and made electronics my vocation as a result of this passion. I miss Popular Electronics as it was back then. I'm sure it was a catalyst for many who've made radio and electronics a lifetime experience. Thanks to Tom Kneitel for bringing WPE to Pop'tronics. Was anyone an avid reader of Carl & Jerry in PE?
Eric Nelson, WPE2MGU <[email protected]>
Dix Hills, NY USA - Sunday, October 27, 2002 at 11:03:56 (EST)

Wasn't a WPE but was a WDX with the KDX6T call. Still use the SWL call to this day. Also a ham as N6PEQ.
Dan Dankert KDX6T <[email protected]>
Tustin, Ca USA - Monday, October 21, 2002 at 21:01:05 (EDT)

What memories!!!
Jim WPE9IKE <[email protected]>
Chicago, IL USA - Sunday, October 20, 2002 at 13:50:12 (EDT)

Hello to all you WPEr's! I got my WPE "call" sometime in the 50's and listened to short wave till the wee hours of the morning on my Hallicrafters S-38E. (No wonder I fell asleep in school!) Anyway, SWLing took me to ham radio (K1IKE) and the two of the hobbies led to my present job. I'm a wireless technician and get to play around tower sites and radio equipment all day. Jeeze, I love my job, can't tell my boss though. 73, Joe, K1IKE
WPE1EIT <[email protected]>
East Haddam, CT USA - Tuesday, October 15, 2002 at 20:33:50 (EDT)

Great site! Thanks for remembering the good 'ole days. 73, Jerry
Jerry Williams, WPE4DJS <[email protected]>
Mechanicsville, VA USA - Monday, October 14, 2002 at 22:11:25 (EDT)

I AM NOW W0AC FOR 40 YEARS A HAM.. i WAS WPE2HTS
BOB MOTT - WPE2HTS <[email protected]>
ENGLEWOOD, CO USA - Monday, September 23, 2002 at 01:19:22 (EDT)

I AM NOW W0AC FOR 40 YEARS A HAM
BOB MOTT <[email protected]>
ENGLEWOOD, CO USA - Monday, September 23, 2002 at 01:18:38 (EDT)

love the site! We link to sites that have new information, edutainment, infotainment. If you want to exchange links, please visit http://www.ChangingLINKS.com and add your LINK. [click here]__
ChangingLINKS.com <[email protected]>
ChangingLINKS.com, _ _ - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 01:00:24 (EDT)

I have no ideal where the certificate might be but I did DX for many years as a kid in the 60's. Once in a great while, I will still tune accross the dial.
Larry Cowles WPE4BXP <[email protected]>
Norco, CA USA - Sunday, September 15, 2002 at 18:31:47 (EDT)

I was Wpe9Hqk in the early 60's
Bob Lambke WPE9HQK <[email protected]>
Elmhurst, Il USA - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 01:41:31 (EDT)

Had registered before. However, cannot find any reference. Since my WPE was a "2 letter", it obviously was one of the first group issued. Glen, K9STH
Glen E. Zook, WPE9YU <[email protected]>
Richardson, TX USA - Saturday, August 31, 2002 at 14:00:15 (EDT)

Swapped a great many cards in my day. I am know also known as N9CUE. Still a SWL. First radio was a 3 tube regenerative receiver I built. Even had to wind the frequency coild by hand. Those were the bad old days HIHI.
Donald Dickerson WPE9JEF <[email protected]>
Indianapolis, In USA - Saturday, August 24, 2002 at 23:51:00 (EDT)

WPE1EKN. I first regisrered on January 25, 2002, and have changed my e-mail address. I also found the original WPE certificate in my basement, collecting dust for all these years!! Un-Believiable after all these years. What great memories....73's Ed W1EPM.
Edward P. Murphy <[email protected]>
Ipswich, MA United States - Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 23:46:06 (EDT)

This brings back a lot of memories
Danny Hammers WPE4DQG <[email protected]>
Inverness, FL USA - Sunday, August 11, 2002 at 18:20:28 (EDT)

I STILL HAVE MY ORIGINAL WPE CERTIFICATE FROM 1960
roger deutsch wpe9azp <[email protected]>
barstow, CA USA - Saturday, August 10, 2002 at 20:53:10 (EDT)

Still have my original 1964 WPE certificate (with 50 states verified) hanging in my ham shack (K4UKV). My monitoring station was in Enola, near Harrisburg PA.Had old Hallicarfters Sky Champion, and a "new" (1964) S-120 tied into a 200'long wire antenna. Later I got a Hammerlund SP600 that still picks up the faint signals that my Icom R70 and R7000's can't hear. Started SWLing in 1969 and got my ham ticket in 1962. The WPE program was responsible for getting several guys, and a least one girl on my street interested in swl. Your site brings back some great memories. Doug WPE3FMZ
Doug Messimer WPE3FMZ <[email protected]>
Richmond, VA USA - Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 14:50:13 (EDT)

Although I am A licensed amateur now,I continue to probe the short wave bands.
Gary Naus WPE2ECU <[email protected]>
Niagara Falls, NY USA - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 05:59:16 (EDT)

I believe I obtaind this during the late 50's or early 60's. As someone else has already mentioned, the certificate was issued "blank" with a slip of paper indicating my WPE call, and stating that I should write it in myself, as they were no longer issuing preprinted certificates. I was using an RCA Victor Victrola 3 band console model with a 100' wire strung between the house and a large tree in the backyard. There was only 1 shortwave band covering 9.3 - 15.00, and 1 special band covering 2.3 - 6.0, and the broadcast band covering 550-1600. The first QSL card's I ever received wwere from Radio Brazzavile, the Belgan Congo, and ELWA, Morovia, Libera. Not bad for a 'kid' from a small town in North Dakota! :)
Gleason Sackmann - WPE0AOT <[email protected]>
Fargo, ND USA - Thursday, June 27, 2002 at 15:30:44 (EDT)

I operated my "Registered Monitoring Station"- WPE0FCW from a farm house located halfway between Lewistown and Monticello, Missouri in the mid 60's. My first "station" was an old Wards Airline Console Radio. I was able to talk my 7th grade science teacher out of an old Knight "Ocean Hopper" which had been assembled wrong and didn't work. I repaired the radio, and it occasionally picked up a signal. My shack eventually went "high tech", when my mother literally traded our kitchen sink to get me an old Hallicrafters S-38E. It was a thrill to wait for the mail carrier to deliver my next piece of "wallpaper". BBC Londons Big Ben, Radio Nederlands Windmill, and Radio Switzerlands bobsled team all looked down as I tuned HCJB in Quito, Radio Havana Cuba, and Radio South Africa. The highlite of my month was going to the Lewistown Grand Leader(the closest thing we had to a convience store back then) and investing my $.35 in the latest issue of POPULAR ELECTRONICS. PE treated SWLing like a real hobby, and I was always excited to get my hands on it each month. I financed my hobby by selling the old "GRIT" newspaper. Each copy sold for $.15 and I kept a nickel. Most of this money went to pay international postage so I could send in my reception reports. I next got my hands on an old 5 channel Knight Kit CB radio, followed by several Lafayettes. I landed jobs in high school with Motorola and Gates Radio (now Harris Broadcast). After high school I became a police and fire dispatcher in St. Louis, then a police officer, later Police Chief of a small town. Today I am Extra Class Amateur K7JHB...and still "Registered Monitoring Station WPE0FCW."
John H. Bigley wpe0fcw <[email protected]>
Las Vegas, Nv USA - Thursday, June 27, 2002 at 07:05:03 (EDT)

I operated my "Registered Monitoring Station"- WPE0FCW from a farm house located halfway between Lewistown and Monticello, Missouri in the mid 60's. My first "station" was an old Wards Airline Console Radio. My shack eventually went "high tech", when my mother literally traded our kitchen sink to get me an old Hallicrafters S-38E. It was a thrill to wait for the mail carrier to deliver my next piece of "wallpaper". BBC Londons Big Ben, Radio Nederlands Windmill, and Radio Switzerlands bobsled team all looked down as I tuned HCJB in Quito, Radio Havana Cuba, and Radio South Africa. The highlite of my month was going to the Lewistown Grand Leader(the closest thing we had to a convience store back then) and investing my $.35 in the latest issue of POPULAR ELECTRONICS. PE treated SWLing like a real hobby, and I was always excited to get my hands on it each month.
John H. Bigley wpe0fcw <[email protected]>
Las Vegas, Nv USA - Thursday, June 27, 2002 at 06:13:27 (EDT)

used old Hallicrafters and Realistic gear with 100 foot long wire in Norwalk,CT.-SWL'ing got me into 20 years as a 911 dispatcher!
Rich Abrams WPE1FYN <[email protected]>
New Haven, CT USA - Saturday, June 15, 2002 at 23:59:52 (EDT)

I was glad to see the WPE site on the Web. I too started a lifetime of radio and electronics as a WPE. I was in junior high school when I started short wave listening. I became WPE 8 GDY in March 1963 I still have my certificate and the QSL cards I collected back then. Like most WPEs I got my ham license in high school. My current call is WB8ZFQ. In 1966, like many of my fellow WPEs, I went into the service. I attended Army communications schools and worked with Air Defense Link communications for a Nike Hercules missile unit in Germany (2nd/56th). Later I worked on the VHF FM transceivers used in amour vehicles and jeeps at Fort Knox. I also spent sometime with MARS. I still do some short wave listening using a modern Grundig receiver or my old Knight R100A that I used forty years ago. My interest in radio/electronics has led me to stay employed in the electronics all these years. I look forward to retiring in a few years and spending more time hamming and short wave listening.
Mike Betz <[email protected]>
Galion, OH USA - Friday, June 07, 2002 at 07:12:53 (EDT)

YOU have one of the coolest sites I have EVER been on.
Rich Arland, WPE7BYR <[email protected]>
Wilkes-Barre, PA USA - Saturday, June 01, 2002 at 20:50:07 (EDT)

I never thought I would come accross a site with comments about the "WPE" fad years ago. I got mine early on (WPE5LD) and printed up many QSL cards using it. Sent a lot of them out to SW Bcast stations and many HAMS and usually received a QSL back. This further sparked my interest in HAM RADIO and I eventually got my HAM Ticket. I am now KC5KQ and have been a HAM since 1963. Great site! 73, Mark
Albert M. Serafine WPE5LD <[email protected]>
San Antonio, TX USA - Wednesday, May 22, 2002 at 09:27:38 (EDT)

I think that when you sent a SWL report, haveing a WPE number may have helped your chances of getting a reply. I used the WPE from ~1962 to 1970.
Ken Wirsing WPE8DYF <[email protected]>
Fairfield, OH USA - Tuesday, May 21, 2002 at 07:02:16 (EDT)

It brings back pleasant memories.
Dave Schmarder WPE2CBS <[email protected]>
Beaver Dams, NY USA - Sunday, May 12, 2002 at 14:20:38 (EDT)

Œ“œÎœ¬‘ÿWPE
elvazsr <[email protected]>
shichuan, china - Friday, May 03, 2002 at 18:56:17 (EDT)

This was a special thing back in the late 50's and 60's. A great thing for a young DXer to be a part of....
Dan Henderson WPE4GW <[email protected]>
Laurel, MD USA - Thursday, March 28, 2002 at 17:34:08 (EST)

Wish I still had my certificate. I can't remember the year I received it, but I was living in Cresaptown, Md at the time.
WPE3ETS <[email protected]>
Acworth, Ga USA - Monday, March 25, 2002 at 22:18:35 (EST)

I collect multi-band radios like Zenith Trans-Oceanic and Grundig Satellit.
John Clampett WPE1EPR <[email protected]>
Watertown, CT USA - Monday, March 18, 2002 at 17:46:03 (EST)

Zowie. . . . I thought I was the only WPE certificate holder left! Sure wish I had kept mine! 73, Harry Helms AK6C
WPE4HKE <[email protected]>
USA - Wednesday, March 13, 2002 at 01:53:30 (EST)

Good friend W8SU reminded me of my WPE days in the 1960's. That was my pre-ham ticket days (now W8JPG) I am director of engineering for WKSU at Kent State University in Kent, OH. If it weren't for my WPE days which led me to getting my ham ticket I often wonder if I would be where I am. 73's.....Ron
Ron Bartlebaugh WPE3ECT <[email protected]>
Uniontown, OH USA - Wednesday, February 27, 2002 at 12:12:41 (EST)

I was G2PE4J in London, England and I have some very fond memories of being a Ham as well as an SWL simultaneously ...My Certificate Of Registration is dated Apr 6 ,1959 and certified by Oliver Read W1ETI editor, Popular Electronics and Tom Knietel WPE2AB, Director of Monitor Station Registration. mohan ve7fm : o _ |_\< _` O ` 'o
mohan G2PE4J <[email protected]>
Qualicum Beach, BC CANADA - Saturday, February 23, 2002 at 22:41:25 (EST)

I was assigned WPE9FON sometime in the mid-60s, and was using a Hallicrafters S-40A, which I still have. I seem to remember that my certificate was issued "blank" with a slip of paper indicating my WPE call, and stating that I should write it in myself, as they were no longer issuing preprinted certificates. Twenty years later I came across the Great Circle Shortwave Society and joined. (I see that Vern has posted some info about GCSS here.) I was not living too far from Vern at the time, and remember having a nice chat with him on the telephone. I'm still a somewhat active SWL with a Kenwood R-1000, a Yaesu FT-817, and a Sony ICF/SW-7600G. 73 de Bill, KR8L/7.
Bill, WPE9FON <[email protected]>
Idaho Falls, ID USA - Saturday, February 23, 2002 at 19:02:39 (EST)

WPE4JIC It IS interesting that we all can remember these! Says something for the impression those days left.
Leonard B. Revelle <[email protected]>
Grayslake, IL United States - Saturday, February 23, 2002 at 10:02:35 (EST)

-Thanks for setting up this neat nostalgia site. I was WPE4HQT around 1962, when I was 12. Lots of fun SWLing and experimenting with radio. Still have the original Hallicrafters S-120, and modified my old SWL dipole to use as a backup 40M dipole. Don't have the original certificate, but have the 75 countries award. Unfortunately, only have a few of the original QSLs left. Some were great pieces of art, and you used to get small gifts from some stations, eg, the rooster from Radio Portugal. 73 de K4RLC Bob
Bob Conder WPE4HQT <[email protected]>
Raleigh, NC USA - Saturday, February 23, 2002 at 09:53:33 (EST)

SWL'ing got me started in this radio stuff..used to listen to W8YLN and W8RKW on 40m every night and got the ham bug. Typical eh?
Arthur Nelson WPE9JYG <[email protected]>
Rockford, Il USA - Thursday, February 21, 2002 at 21:19:36 (EST)

I found your site and it brought back memories of being a kid again. I still have my Certificate. It has traveled all over with me sense 1965. It traveled with me for 22 years in the USAF. I was slow in getting my ham license altho I did try to learn the code from Wayne Greene in Peterborough NH in 1975 on Okinawa I became a ham and operated DX as KA6DB for 5 Months. now hold Extra class as WA1URS.
Dennis L. Bosley WPE1GKG <[email protected]>
Brewer, ME USA - Monday, February 18, 2002 at 11:05:33 (EST)

I received this Certificate on 5/23/65 while in high school in Jaffrey,NH.
Dennis L. Bosley WPE1GKG <[email protected]>
Brewer, ME USA - Monday, February 18, 2002 at 10:48:21 (EST)

Nice to see the mention of the WPE program. For a 12 year old it was a good feeling to have and use.
WPE6DYY <[email protected]>
Sun City, CA USA - Sunday, February 17, 2002 at 13:23:28 (EST)

Had forgotten about the WPE program until I saw your web page! Have been licensed ham since 1959 73, Ed K8RD
Ed Warren WPE4AJU <[email protected]>
Camarillo, CA USA - Wednesday, February 13, 2002 at 18:41:54 (EST)

AN OLDIE BUT GOODIE WHO IS STILL INVOLVED IN SWL. STARTED LISTENING IN 1952 IN PHILA,PA
Steve Massey WPE3BJM <[email protected]>
St. Petersburg, FL USA - Wednesday, February 06, 2002 at 18:11:43 (EST)

AN OLDIE BUT GOODIE WHO IS STILL INVOLVER IN SWL
Steve Massey WPE3BJM <[email protected]>
St. Petersburg, FL USA - Wednesday, February 06, 2002 at 18:03:42 (EST)

I was first QRV on AM broadcast using a 1/10th watt Knightkit "home broadcaster" with my Hallicrafers S-38E! Me and my buddy Ed Stolz, WPE6BYY, used our WPE calls in our qsos between each others houses, about 200 ft away. I am currently K7HV.
John Parnell WPE6CNR <[email protected]>
Seattle, WA USA - Wednesday, February 06, 2002 at 13:08:40 (EST)

WPE7KM was my intro to Amateur Radio. 45 years later, still fascinated with radio signals, the ionosphere, and the magic of shortwave. de K7SS
Dan WPE7KM <[email protected]>
Seattle , WA USA - Wednesday, February 06, 2002 at 02:04:29 (EST)

What a blast! It was 1965 (I was 15), and I remember fishing for DX in the wee hours of the morning, hunched over my little group of cobbled together shortwave sets in a corner of our basement in Oneonta, NY. Your site brings back some happy memories. Thank you! Paul K2ORC
Paul Goodman, WPE2LTE <[email protected]>
Maine, NY USA - Monday, February 04, 2002 at 08:54:44 (EST)

Grew up in Rockville, MD as WPE3HWV and WN3RMM, morphing into WB3IRN and finally the current model, W3AM. Still love short wave, especially AM. Those were the days, though I'm probably still on some CIA list somewhere as a bad risk for getting regular mail from the Radio Moscow, Budapest, Bucharest, Tirana, Sofia, Havana, Peking, etc. etc. DX Clubs...
Gary Blau WPE3HWV <[email protected]>
Miami, FL USA - Monday, February 04, 2002 at 01:56:05 (EST)

I RECEIVED MY WPE IN 1968 AND THROUGH MANY MOVES MISPLACED THE CERTIFICATE. IS THERE ANYONE OUT THERE WHO COULD GIVE INFO ON REPLACING IT?
DANNY BAILEY <[email protected]>
UNICOI, TN USA - Sunday, February 03, 2002 at 22:31:51 (EST)

Those were the days... Now W3AM in Miami, FL! Web site: http://www.w3am.com
Gary Blau <[email protected]>
Rockville, MD USA - Sunday, February 03, 2002 at 22:11:21 (EST)

At the age of about eight, I became fascinated with a neighbor's ham station, and determined that someday I'd have a license and a National NCX-3 like his. In the meantime, armed with a Knight-Kit R-55A, I applied for and received my WPE certificate ('still have it) which enabled me to score REAL QSL CARDS sporting the call WPE5DYC. Several years later, still dreaming of that NCX-3, I received my new Novice call...WN5NCX! Reality IS stranger than fiction. By the way, I now own that same NCX-3 I first saw that day at the age of eight.
Gary Jones <[email protected]>
Houston, TX USA - Sunday, February 03, 2002 at 20:35:31 (EST)

WPE2QVL. Still have my certificate. What fun it was to stay up all night with a Heathkit GR-64 that I built myself. Wonderful times!
Paul Wolcott <[email protected]>
Bargaintown, NJ USA - Sunday, February 03, 2002 at 12:17:41 (EST)

After posting a note on this site a week back, I was inspired to find my WPE certificate, and lo and behold I found it. WPE0FCQ issued August, 1967. Also still have a number of QSL cards from the shortwave broadcasters of that era, including Radio Americas on Swan Island broadcasting on 1160 khz. I also have a pennant from that station which turned out to be a CIA-funded operation broadcasting to Cuba. Swan Island then was a U.S. posession with a KS4 ham prefix; today I believe it belongs to Honduras. I recall a number of articles in Electronics Illustrated, Popular Electronics, et al. about the station during the sixties. Lots of fun going down memory lane. Rob WA0VQY/WPE0FCQ
Mr. Robin Formaker <[email protected]>
Ames, Ia USA - Sunday, February 03, 2002 at 02:12:27 (EST)

I applied, and got WPE2NTQ some time around 1965. Interesting how I remember that, so many years later. Bacon, WA3WDR
Bob Bruhns <[email protected]>
Herndon, VA USA - Saturday, February 02, 2002 at 23:08:45 (EST)

Hi .... I was WPE6DHU 'way back then. Got my Ham License in 1977 after SWL'ing for several years Unfortunately, my WPE certificate disappeared in various moves, but think I still have a few WPE6DHU card's around someplace
gary
fresno, ca USA - Saturday, February 02, 2002 at 20:02:38 (EST)

Yes, I still have my certificate. Got it before I got a ham license while growing up in Smithville, Tennessee. I loved SW and still do. SW radios all over the house!
WPE4EMH <[email protected]>
Houston, TX USA - Saturday, February 02, 2002 at 15:15:11 (EST)

My SWL "call" was VE3PE2LM. At the time I was using a Trio 9R59D. I had lots of fun but my parents were worried that the feds would come and question me about those QSL cards and propaganda I received from communist countries. During the '60s, Cuba was the bad boy. Nevertheless, Radio Havana was a good listen. Back then you could hear Radio Moscow on just about any band at any hour of the day. Closely followed by the VOA. Those were the days of shortwave nirvana... Guy VE3VCF/VA3FZA
Guy Charron <[email protected]>
Ottawa, ON Canada - Saturday, February 02, 2002 at 10:18:39 (EST)

My Popular Electonics call was/is: WPE1FIM Dated August 7, 1963 I still have the certificate hanging in my shack!
Rich Vitello <[email protected]>
Grafton, MA USA - Friday, February 01, 2002 at 00:02:44 (EST)

I am WPE2HKG, and my original certificate hangs in the shack today. I even found my old SWL log, with a QSL card I had made up to send to broadcasters carrying SINPO format reports! My rig was a Knight Kit R55, which my Dad built for me. Watching and helping with that project started me on many a kit building adventure myself. 73 Tom N3VUF
Tom Siolek <[email protected]>
USA - Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 11:50:41 (EST)

I was issued WPE1FO and swapped cards with many others. I also sent the cards to broadcasters.
Charlie Washburn <[email protected]>
Perry, ME USA - Wednesday, January 30, 2002 at 11:26:58 (EST)

Ahh, the memories, the headphones on late at night, Mom thinking I was asleep, the card from Radio Moscow, then the worry that the FBI was concerned about my mail... WPE1FKO
Bill Whetstone <[email protected]>
East Greewich, RI USA - Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 09:59:41 (EST)

I was WPE4JUH back in the late 60's. Now ham radio operator ND4F
Rick Slover <[email protected]>
Knoxville, TN USA - Monday, January 28, 2002 at 11:13:23 (EST)

I spent countless hours listening to foreign broadcasts. Late at night I would fall asleep with headphones on sitting in front of my Hallicrafters S-38E.
Curt Hewitt <[email protected]>
Milaca, MN USA - Sunday, January 27, 2002 at 23:53:58 (EST)

I looked forward each month to Popular Electronics and their swl and ham columns. I still have quite a few issues of the magazine from 1967 through 1970. I was WPE0FCQ and have the certificate somewhere at my parent's house in Waterloo, Iowa. I think I got my swl certificate around 1967, and I was an avid short wave listener at that time (then age 13) using a Hallicrafters S-120 and longwire antenna. Got my novice ham ticket in 1968, and still enjoy short wave and ham radio today. 73s-- Rob, WA0VQY
Mr. Robin Formaker <[email protected]>
Ames, Ia USA - Sunday, January 27, 2002 at 23:01:16 (EST)

Wow! This wpe site sure brings back memories. I got mine in 1963 and was WPE8FZT. I was 12 years old I am now wb8vav. I also looked forward Popular Electronics each month.
Gary Grabenstein <[email protected]>
Lyons, MI USA - Sunday, January 27, 2002 at 21:28:15 (EST)

WPE0EEB
George Dowell <[email protected]>
New London, MO USA - Sunday, January 27, 2002 at 20:39:07 (EST)

Was a teenager SWL in 1961 in Fair Haven NJ and assigned WPE2HHY; later moved to Media PA and got WPE3EAS. Crazy I would remember that all these years hence!!! When did that program end, anyway?
Ted Edwards <[email protected]>
Ledyard, CT USA - Sunday, January 27, 2002 at 19:31:42 (EST)

Great page--I was WPE0BHO in 1960---
keith gilbertson <[email protected]>
rochert, mn USA - Sunday, January 27, 2002 at 19:23:36 (EST)

In June of 1966 I was isssued the Call VE3PE2KF. At that time I was living on the farm near Chatham, Ontario with my folks. I was so proud of the call in fact I made up a special sign and hung it out on our Mail Box, under the family name. It was the closes thing to being a registered shortwave listener! In 1982 (after moving to Alberta in 1980) I re-applied and was issued the call VE6DX1AJ Edward Kusalik, VE6EFK
Edward Kusalik <[email protected]>
Coaldale, AALB Canada - Sunday, January 27, 2002 at 14:07:09 (EST)

I was a Hank Bennett SWL. In 1975 I was issued the call WDX6IBY. I was 15 yrs old at the time. Those were fun days. Tim
Tim Scott <[email protected]>
Gilroy, Ca USA - Sunday, January 27, 2002 at 12:13:41 (EST)

I was a Hank Bennett SWL. In 1975 I was issued the call WDXIBY. I was 15 yrs old at the time. Those were fun days. Tim
Tim Scott <[email protected]>
Gilroy, Ca USA - Sunday, January 27, 2002 at 12:13:19 (EST)

My call sign was WPE9JCZ. I remember those days like yesterday and still have all my SWL cards. Last year,I even printed up some more "WPE" cards to send off to SW stations. It's a wonderful hobby.---Gary, AF9Z(Ex: WN9BVZ,WB9BVZ)
Gary Bullinger <[email protected]>
Warrenville, IL USA - Sunday, January 27, 2002 at 02:42:02 (EST)

Get a load of the number of WPE's who are also hams! Perhaps it's just a fascination with callsigns, but it is nevertheless a significant number. I received WPE2QIX whilst living in the Hudson Valley. I'll have to find the thing (I still have it SOMEWHERE!) and see which awards were claimed. I had a QSL card made up with this call and besides the many, many QSL's I earned through monitoring, I exchanged cards with scores of other WPE's. Upon moving back to Toronto, I became, IIRC, VE3PE2PC though later it became VE3DX2PC. Those were some fun times indeed!
Ori Siegel <[email protected]>
Toronto, ON Canada - Sunday, January 27, 2002 at 00:18:57 (EST)

WPE8JFR issued in Sept. 1966. Still have the certificate. That developed into being a ham, then a career in two-way radio.
Bob Mason WPE8JFR / WB8CAC <[email protected]>
Elk Park, NC USA - Saturday, January 26, 2002 at 21:21:50 (EST)

Hiya...WDX9KIM back in Steger, IL in the early 70's. Now K4NFO! Ah for the old days! 73 de George.
George
Havelock, NC USA - Saturday, January 26, 2002 at 22:00:08 (EST)

I was 'WPE2MAV'in the early 60's before i got my Novice license ( WN2QLP ) in 11/64. I started out as an SWL shortly after a ham radio demonstration was put on in a 6th grade science class in grammar school. I was bitten by the 'bug' after speaking to a midwest farmer in Iowa on the radio. It was soooo cool ! Now, 37 yrs later, i hold an Extra class license and still enjoy getting on the air everyday.
Jordan Mash <[email protected]>
Naples, FL USA - Saturday, January 26, 2002 at 19:50:17 (EST)

WPE8AJS 09/21/1959
Raleigh Wert W8QOI <[email protected]>
Midland, MI USA - Saturday, January 26, 2002 at 19:21:40 (EST)

WPE9ALJ
William Komstohk <[email protected]>
Indianapolis,, IN USA - Saturday, January 26, 2002 at 15:57:37 (EST)

WPE4KCD
Duke Rumley <[email protected]>
Mayodan, NC USA - Saturday, January 26, 2002 at 14:46:41 (EST)

I was originally WR06AF, went thru the WPE & WDX phases. When I moved to Oregon in 1990, got Hank Bennett to issue me WDX7AF.
Bill Flynn <[email protected]>
Cave Junction, OR USA - Saturday, January 26, 2002 at 14:33:33 (EST)

I am: W P E 2 L Z O (Not was, still am) My best friend Lee is WPE2LOG Hard to realize those were issues almost 40 years ago... A lot of sounds have passed through the headphones since then! John WB2UHK/G5AUC/WPE2LZO
John Hall <[email protected]>
Canastota, NY USA - Saturday, January 26, 2002 at 12:19:23 (EST)

I wasn't a WPE, but my late Uncle was, and he was WPE8AHX
Mark Graalman <[email protected]>
Toledo, OH USA - Saturday, January 26, 2002 at 10:22:03 (EST)

Going down memory lane with your WPE website was great! Even though my certificate disappeared over 30 years ago, I still remember my call - WPE3HNC. That speaks to the significance that certificate had on me when I was a teen in the '60s. Wouldn't it be neat if Monitoring Times or Popular Communications revived this program? Good listening to all. Remember, NASWA has a certificate program for listeners based on verifications.
Bob Barr
PA USA - Saturday, January 26, 2002 at 11:34:36 (EST)

I am WPE9AOP
Bob Dritz <[email protected]>
Chicago, IL USA - Saturday, January 26, 2002 at 08:29:10 (EST)

Hi---my WPE was VE7PE1DI--- It is still on my wall besides all my licenses-always has been !!!!! 73's......Dwight VE7BV ex VE7BCU, ex VE7BCU/TG9, ex VE7BCU/HR5
Dwight Morrow <[email protected]>
Merritt, BC Canada - Saturday, January 26, 2002 at 04:05:41 (EST)

Hi---my WPE was VE7PE1DI--- I remember seeing an article in WorldRadio asking people to register their old WPE calls a few years ago 73's......Dwight
Dwight Morrow <[email protected]>
Merritt, BC Canada - Saturday, January 26, 2002 at 03:57:52 (EST)

Still have some qsls with WPE8DXG, my first "official" call, there where 4 or 5 of us in the neighborhood that registered with PE. Received my novice call WN8EOJ in '62, commercial First Class in 69. A good friend, now K2RU, and I used to practice CW by doing homework on the landline. I used any radio I could find to listen. Did anyone ever feel guilty for being on Radio Moscow's mailing list? Try to explain that in '61! 73's
Dennis Moon <[email protected]>
Toledo, Oh USA - Saturday, January 26, 2002 at 02:19:35 (EST)

WPE9CFR in the 60's while attending DeVry Tech in Chicago, Ill
Charles James Fisk <[email protected]>
Union Grove, Al USA - Friday, January 25, 2002 at 21:11:33 (EST)

WPE4CMS
Lee Spencer <[email protected]>
Houston, TX USA - Friday, January 25, 2002 at 21:20:33 (EST)

GUTHMAN U-50 Super rcvr. General coverage up to 60 mc.!!! VR105 regulator. HAS ANYONE HEARD OF IT ??? WPE9HVJ swl call and WN9RHA novice call. Spfld. IL
Bob Croteau WPE9HVJ
Dolton, IL USA - Friday, January 25, 2002 at 16:54:40 (EST)

We used a GUTHMAN U-50 Super rcvr. HAS ANYONE EVER HEARD OF IT ??? General coverage up to 60 mc.!!! VR105 regulator. My triplet brother and I got our WPE calls back in about 1963. Bob's was WPE9HVJ, and mine was WPE9HVK. Our next rcvr was a National 250-D. My novice call was WN9QIH, now WA9ZSK in Seattle WA 73
Tom Croteau WA9ZSK
Dolton, IL USA - Friday, January 25, 2002 at 16:53:17 (EST)

WPE4DX1G was my callsign at that time.. when i sarted in SWl'ing Now amateur NP4CC
Hector F. davila <[email protected]>
Bonaire, GA USA - Friday, January 25, 2002 at 17:43:32 (EST)

I had the "callsign" WPE5DHX when I was in Highschool. Later, after being in the armed forces and serving in Viet Nam, I got the C.B. callsign KPH 7411. I consider myself a real radio operator now, with the amateur callsign KC5UCI and hold a commercial broadcast license as well. Dewey, KC5UCI
F.T. Dewey <[email protected]>
Houston, Tx USA - Friday, January 25, 2002 at 17:34:44 (EST)

Ham radio began with my WPE4FSX call issued by Popular Electronics.
Chuck Stigberg <[email protected]>
Chester, VA USA - Friday, January 25, 2002 at 15:38:57 (EST)

I was/am WPE9IGS
Donald Whiteman <[email protected]>
Northfield, IL USA - Friday, January 25, 2002 at 14:13:24 (EST)

I remember getting my WPE1GZQ "callsign" when I was about 11. I was so proud of it that I even put it next to my name on schoolwork. My parents figured that staying up late tuning around on my 4-tube Hallicrafters WR-600 was a passing fancy, but here it is 37 years and a bunch of real callsigns later and the magic of radio *still* fascinates me. The Web is fine, but it can't compare to the feel of HF propagation. 73 to all the Faithful! Doug Grant, K1DG
Doug Grant <[email protected]>
Windham, NH USA - Friday, January 25, 2002 at 13:58:17 (EST)

Long time ago, but I think my WPE ID was WPE9HRY. I even talked my dad into letting me put my "call" in stick-on letters on the back window of the family car!
John Peterman <[email protected]>
Milwaukee, WI USA - Friday, January 25, 2002 at 15:15:19 (EST)

I was WPE2JKJ in 1962.
Jeff Beals, WA4AW <[email protected]>
loxahatchee, fl USA - Friday, January 25, 2002 at 15:09:01 (EST)

I was WPE2JKJ in 1962.
Jeff Beals, WA4AW <[email protected]>
loxahatchee, fl USA - Friday, January 25, 2002 at 15:08:28 (EST)

I was WPEJKJ in 1962.
Jeff Beals, WA4AW <[email protected]>
loxahatchee, fl USA - Friday, January 25, 2002 at 15:07:43 (EST)

"Esta Es Radio New York Worldwide, transmundos en Scituate, Massachusetts, WRUL". WRUL then changed ownership and became WNYW. Couldn't hear anyting but this, even got it on our bedsprings. Finally got a decent, a used SWL radio at the Radio Shack at South Shore Mall, a Hallicrafters S-38EM and heard even more. Got OFFICIAL (legal) FCC CB call of KMA-9869, then spent $25 for amateur code class. Passed the code class and now I can talk anywhere, to anyone, worldwide. WPE1FWC certificate still on the wall. Radios have changed, but the WPE call hasn't. 73's de KA1AMR
Jim Dillon (WPE1FWC) KA1AMR
Scituate, MA USA - Friday, January 25, 2002 at 14:43:57 (EST)

WPE1EKN. Thanks this brought back some nice memories. Funnny how after some many years of not thinking about something one can still remember. I had a Lafayette receiver, still downstairs aomeplace. Ed W1EPM
Edward P. Murphy <[email protected]>
Ipswich, MA United States - Friday, January 25, 2002 at 14:06:22 (EST)

I was not a registeed WPE but am registered as WDX4JWA,& am a general,W8SSS.I do remember the WPE SWL callsigns.Am also registerd monitor KOH8IZ.73"s,Jim Andrews,W8SSS/WDX4JWEA/KOH8IZ
James W.Andrews <[email protected]>
Miamisburg, Oh USA - Friday, January 25, 2002 at 09:57:50 (EST)

listening to short wave broadcasts at 10 years old started my quest to become a ham radio operator (presently AC3T). my certificate call was WPE2HCK.
len moncaleri <[email protected]>
saint georges, de USA - Friday, January 25, 2002 at 06:55:09 (EST)

My WPE call was WPE2IME, and I had to fill in the certificate myself
Mike Clarson <[email protected]>
Bloomfield, NJ USA - Friday, January 25, 2002 at 04:10:26 (EST)

In 1961 I was K5TLG and got the SWL call sign WPE5BER. I went into the US Army the same year and forgot all about my Certificate. I have not seen it since. I am now W0HH. I never leave the ham bands and am mostly on the computer.
Tom Champlin <[email protected]>
Independence, MO USA - Friday, January 25, 2002 at 00:17:36 (EST)

Sure bring back memories, I was WPE0AYA and I still have a SWL card. Would like to post it here if possible. Joe K0BX/WPE0AYA
Joe <[email protected]>
St. Louis, MO USA - Thursday, January 24, 2002 at 23:42:54 (EST)

WPE3DFN As with you, I never forgot this combination. Apparently it was (is) important to me.
Ron Hunsicker <[email protected]>
Wyomissing, PA USA - Thursday, January 24, 2002 at 21:39:15 (EST)

WPE9HCA
Bob Frankowiak <[email protected]>
Munster, IN USA - Thursday, January 24, 2002 at 13:18:58 (EST)

WPE6BSR
Art Hinrichs <[email protected]>
Thief River Falls, MN USA - Thursday, January 24, 2002 at 11:44:01 (EST)

I still have my certificate, WDX2QVF April 1971. I really enjoyed being a "swl'er" with my Hallicrafters SX-24 that my Dad bought for me when I was 12. I still have the Popular Electronis issue that has my name in it as a station contibuter.
Henry J. Borawski <[email protected]>
Pearl River, NY USA - Thursday, January 24, 2002 at 11:10:30 (EST)

I really enjoyed being a "swl'er" with my Hallicrafters SX-24 that my Dad bought for me when I was 12. I still have the Popular Electronis issue that has my name in it as a station contibuter.
Henry J. Borawski <[email protected]>
Pearl River, NY USA - Thursday, January 24, 2002 at 11:08:33 (EST)

My first callsign ever was WPE2QIA. I hunted for DX with a Zenith Transoceanic 500 and then a Heath GR-54. I just dug my old certificate out, and found I had endorsements for 50 countries, 40 states and 20 zones. Getting the states out west was hard under all the 50kw AM stations in New York! It became increasingly difficult to pick up more states and countries, so I became WN2JSJ, WB2JSJ and later W1SJ and picked up a few DXCC's.
Mitch Stern <[email protected]>
Essex, VT USA - Thursday, January 24, 2002 at 08:46:31 (EST)

I was WPE9BQH. I had a National NC-60 and a long wire. This led into amateur radio and my Novice call WN9AVT in October 1961.
Carl Luetzelschwab <[email protected]>
Ft Wayne, IN USA - Thursday, January 24, 2002 at 09:23:21 (EST)

I was WPE9BQH
Carl Luetzelschwab <[email protected]>
Ft Wayne, IN USA - Thursday, January 24, 2002 at 09:20:37 (EST)

I am WPE2JR. Two letter guy! Still have WPE Certificate on wall in Ham shack. Now K2MP/W2AN and Curator of the AWA Electronic Communication Museum.
Edward M. Gable <[email protected]>
Hilton, NY USA - Thursday, January 24, 2002 at 07:28:23 (EST)

I was WPE2GAT back in the '60s, at least 15 years before I got my ham ticket. Used a Hallicrafters S-108, and even managed to get a picture of my listening shack published in Pop 'Tronics!
Mel Granick <[email protected]>
Syosset, NY USA - Thursday, January 24, 2002 at 07:08:21 (EST)

I WPE2GAT back in the '60s, at least 15 years I got my ham ticket. Used a Hallicrafters S-108, and even managed to get a picture of my listening shack published in Pop 'Tronics!
Mel Granick <[email protected]>
Syosset, NY USA - Thursday, January 24, 2002 at 07:04:17 (EST)

I was proud to hold WPE9DRF (dirty rotten fink). A few of my SWL buddies had obtained their novice ham licenses, and I had "call-sign envy." I was 13 years old in 1961 when I received my certificate. I became WN9BTY in 1962, then WA9BTY and subsequently NC9F and K0PG. I enjoyed SWLing foreign broadcast on my S38E, but as soon as I started listening to hams, I was hooked. I probably haven't thought about WPE9DRF in 30 years. Thanks for bringing those memories back.Tim
Tim Sullivan <[email protected]>
Oakbrook Terrace, IL USA - Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 23:06:28 (EST)

WPE3DWQ. It took me many years from the WPE days, but finally got licensed in 1970. When I was about 12, my first transmitter was a 2-tuber built from the pages of PE (I think it was a 6AG5 and a 6V6) built on one of my grandmother's steel cake pans. The receiver was an old Corbin-Farnsworth that covered the shortwave bands up to about 20 Megacycles. It had no BFO of course, so I learned to copy CW (poorly) by listening to the speaker thumps. After I got the transmitter working...all 15 watts of it, I bootlegged on the 40 meter novice band for just one day. I used my WPE suffix, put a WN3 in front of it, and fired off a snappy CQ. When I flipped the DPDT TV antenna switch manually over to receive, there were 3 stations answering my CQ. I got so scared, I didn't answer anyone and turned everything off. Man I wish I knew where that stuff was today..... It took me another 15 years to actually get licensed and enjoy this wonderful hobby, I have never regretted it for one day. Reading the WPE article brought it all back again. Thanks and 73's...Don K7MX
Don Baughman <[email protected]>
Chesterfield, Va USA - Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 23:20:49 (EST)

WPE3DWQ. It took me many years from the WPE days, but finally got licensed in 1970.
Don Baughman <[email protected]>
Chesterfield, Va USA - Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 23:08:41 (EST)

I started with a used Knight Span Master that my brother got me at the Allied Radio store in Chicago for Christmas in 1962. I read Popular Electronics every month and got the call WPE9FSG. I think having that call made me feel like a recognized member of a worldwide radio fraternity. My listening to shortwave broadcasts led me to want to talk back. Soon thereafter I passed my Novice test and became WN9INK and then WA9INK. My first rig was a Knight T-50 transmitter and R-55 receiver. My dad knew Bill Halligan, the owner of Hallicrafters. One day he drove down to the Hallicrafters factory in Chicago and got me a new transmitter and receiver there. I think my early shortwave listening and ham days were the start of my interest in world affairs. I eventually became a Foreign Service Officer. I am now NV7E. Look for me in Nevada when I retire.
Charles Signer <[email protected]>
Washington, DC USA - Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 22:18:38 (EST)

I hadn't thought of my WPE call sign in years. It was WPE4FUQ.....Received it around 1962. Used my grandparents RCA tabletop AM/SW to get started. Bob Richardson, W4RR
Bob Richardson <[email protected]>
Montpelier, VA USA - Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 22:15:24 (EST)

I was WPE3HNB many years ago back in Pennsylvania. I had a Knight Kit Star Roamer for my receiver. I got into Ham Radio and now I am AL7CE.
Terry Reynolds <[email protected]>
Eagle River, AK USA - Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 21:18:12 (EST)

W-O-W! What memories. Got my WPE call sign back in the 60's...as WPE9ITL (Certificate hangs right with my ham ticket and other certificates, awards and things). Loved SWL-ing so much got ham ticket in 1966 as WN9TVB..a year later changed to WA9TVB. What ever happened to "those days?" Thanks for the memories. 73's Glenn/WA9TVB-10m, 15m & 20m-Phx., AZ
Glenn Dober <[email protected]>
Phoenix, AZ USA - Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 20:16:56 (EST)

I started into radio back in 1967 when I bought my first shortwave receiver, a Hallicrafters S-120. After getting the required number of reception reports, I applied to Popular Electronics and was issued WPE9JQT (I grew up in Northern Indiana). I became a ham in 1969 and have been active ever since. 73, Pete K2XM
Peter Thomas <[email protected]>
Hudson, NH USA - Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 17:13:48 (EST)

I was 12 years old when I proudly became WPE1CGL. My best friend was WPE1CGH and my dad was WPE1DXY. I started out with my dad's Hallicrafters S-20-R and a long wire. Got my first (novice) ham ticket at 14 (KN1VPJ)and later upgraded to K1VPJ. Have been continually licensed since 1962. I still listen a lot, true to the "WPE" lot! Interesting article! Regards, Bruce, N1BD, Boston
Bruce <[email protected]>
Boston, MA USA - Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 16:27:25 (EST)

WPE3IBS
Norman C. Dorward <[email protected]>
Reading, PA USA - Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 13:17:17 (EST)

I have a fond remembrance of PE and am grateful for their SWL program which eventually got me interested in ham radio. Bill Richards, N4TDX/WPE4GTH.
Bill Richards <[email protected]>
Durham, NC USA - Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 12:01:27 (EST)

My WPE certificate was WPE4JDH I may still have the certificate at my folks house. Have not seen it in long time.
J. Dalton McCrary <[email protected]>
Murfreesboro, TN USA - Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 10:36:33 (EST)

I was WPE5EWT, I used a Realistic DX-75. I am now WA5WZS and have a Kenwood R-5000 and a Hammarlund HQ-180A.
Gary M. Easter <[email protected]>
Houston, Tx USA - Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 08:28:20 (EST)

I was WPE4ION and ISWL W4-7141 in the late 50's - early 60's - Now AA4A
Tom Ashley <[email protected]>
Marshfield, MA USA - Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 06:06:02 (EST)

I was WPE6EVR. I got the certificate sometime in 1963. Used a Knight Kit Ocean Hopper on SW and an old Zenith table model AM radio for BCB DXing. I still have stored away somewhere Dec. 64 issue in which my logging of PJB. Bonaire, Netherlands Antilles, on 800 khz from northwestern California (lived in sight of ocean) was reported. Am now KE6DII.
Gene Aker/KE6DII <[email protected]>
Pasadena, CA USA - Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 03:21:53 (EST)

I think I had WPE0WNE could be wrong on the suffix. 1964 when I got started SWLing and still have the QSL's from about 40 countries using a Hallicrafters S38E. I was about 15. Jim - N0OR
Jim Broden <[email protected]>
Littleton, CO USA - Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 01:02:02 (EST)

I found my certificate several months ago. I can't believe I have it after all these yrears.
WPE3EXQ <[email protected]>
Amherst, MA USA - Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 00:01:36 (EST)

Forgot to enter my callsign in first entry...WPE5DIE... also Extra Class Amateur WA5IEX Former ops at ET3USA and 9F3USA/P1 SWL'd also in Asmara, Ethopia and Massawa, Ethiopia ( Now Eritrea) with SX-99, R-390A and R-388 with 250 foot longwire on roof of three story barracks building at Kagnew Station
Roland Richter <[email protected]>
Waco, Tx USA - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 22:06:35 (EST)

Gee..Radio Moscow, HCJB, London Calling, and the VOA. And I still have the QSLs from them and many others. And hey, how about the Radio Canada SWL Club? Were you a member?
Dale H. Cole WPE8IYT <[email protected]>
Elkhart, IN USA - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 22:59:08 (EST)

Gee..Radio Moscow, HCJB, London Calling, and the VOA. And I still have the QSLs from them and many others. And hey, how about the Radio Canada SWL Club? Were you a member?
Dale H. Cole <[email protected]>
Elkhart, IN USA - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 22:57:59 (EST)

WPE4IXJ
George W. Schmidt <[email protected]>
Virginia Beach, VA USA - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 22:55:40 (EST)

As WPE9CJF I scoured the airwaves with an Hallicrafters S-107, later upgrading to an SX-110. I then got an SX-111 when I got my ham ticket in 1961 (WN9AQN, now WA9AQN). I finally got my dream machine in 1999, an SX-62a. What great memories, thanks for the site.
John Swartz <[email protected]>
Petersburg, IL USA - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 21:09:32 (EST)

My WPE was WPE8FTK. It was issued on January 7, 1963. The certificate still resided on my wall.
Richard Madison <[email protected]>
Ashtabula, OH USA - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 19:32:39 (EST)

I was WPE2OMD back in the late 60's....what fun
Bob Hejl
Farmingdale, NY USA - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 19:16:05 (EST)

BOY THIS REALLY BRINGS BACK MEMORIES I BUILT MY FIRST RECEIVER, A KNIGHTKIT SPACESPANNER WHEN I WAS ABOUT 12 YEARS OLD. THAT AND A NEIGHBOR W7OKV GOT ME HOOKED IM STILL AT IT WITH MY BOAT ANCHOR HALLICRAFTERS SX100 AND HAVING A GREAT AND INTERESTING TIME I REALLY ENJOY THIS SITE KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK DAN MUNSON WPE7KD
dan munson WPE7KD
portland, or USA - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 18:15:25 (EST)

Hi Joe - What a great coincidence to run across your WPE page. I was just rooting through some old stuff a few days ago and came across my old WPE/WDX certificates. I was WPE/WDX7CZE - introduced to SWLing in junior high by a friend (Mark, WPE7CRG). This was around 1967. A few years later a friend of my father's (Frank, WA7JSY) noticed my interest and introduced me to ham radio. Was licensed as a Novice in '71 and progressed up the ladder to Extra in '89. I'll always have great memories of the WPE program and SWLing as a terrific introduction to radio. 73, Joe, WT0C
Joe Dickinson <[email protected]>
Centennial, CO USA - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 16:47:26 (EST)

73 fm WPE6ADN
William Murphy <[email protected]>
San Angelo, TX USA - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 14:37:35 (EST)

WPE7BBY callsign issued while a resident of Idaho Falls, Idaho
Barry Keating WPE7BBY <[email protected]>
South Bend, IN USA - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 13:58:36 (EST)

Yes, I had a WPE call when I was in 7th or 8th grade in Mentor,Ohio about the 1966-67 timeframe. WPE8JNU I had a Hallicrafters S-53A with longwire.Later a S-38 came along. I just could NOT seem to get CW for a Novice license but then the logjam broke thanks to some helpful hams and I was WN8JQS in 1970 or 71.In 1971 we moved to south florida and I was issued (remember when we had to change our callsign when moving?) WN4YCN.My general came along within one year (remember the 1 year rule?)and as soon as I got WB4YCN I went down and took my Advanced as the code was the same as the general class at 13 WPM.Only in the last 5 years can I finally copy up to 35WPM ok. My older brother used to laugh at my WPE.Last year he drove with me from Florida to Ohio and back twice and my IC706 with hamstick QSOd all over the world.My brother was "impressed." I SURE am glad I do NOT have to go to an FCC office for an exam;that is the reason I kept the license alive all these years even though I was off the air for 15 years doing all kinds of other things. 73 de alan WB4YCN NNNN
Alan J. Horning <[email protected]>
West Palm Beach, Fla USA - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 12:08:10 (EST)

Was WPE7AII in 1959-60-61 era before I got my Novice license (KN7PSU) in 61. I thought I was hot stuff having a SWL callsign, and homemade QSL cards. RT
Rick Tannehill <[email protected]>
Glendale, AZ USA - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 11:34:10 (EST)

WPE10DKR
Terry Martin <[email protected]>
McKinney, Tx USA - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 11:25:27 (EST)

That program brings back lots of memories from the late 50's and early 60's. I was WPE7VI, in Phoenix AZ, and used an old Navy RAL-7 as my reciever. Many a nights were spent in prowling the shortwave bands. This Popular Electronics program eventually led to an interest in amateur radio of which I have been associated with for the past 40 years As one person commented, strange how some things remain in one's mind. 73 Scott Hogin, K7ZEN
Scott Hogin <[email protected]>
Portland , OR USA - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 12:33:46 (EST)

Began listening with a home built regen receiver in 1957, then an old Watterson, then had "dual conversion" receiver that was part of my dad's RTS Correspondance School kit projects ( was a 6 tube superhet with a 12K8 converter in front)...later NC-88. Got my ham ticket in 1962, but have continued SWL Activities, using Drake 2B crystaled for SWL bands, Hallicrafters SX-99, National HRO-7, R-388, R-390, Hallicrafters SX-62 and SX-96, BC-342, RAL ( for longwave) NC-125, NC-190 ( did not have all these at one time...horse traded a lot!) and Realistic DX-440 for portable work. I also use General Coverage receiver capablity of my Icom ham rig for utility DX-ing these days
Roland Richter <[email protected]>
Waco, TX USA - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 10:16:40 (EST)

This site brings back warm fuzzy memories.I was WPE4GVW, assigned on 6/5/63 in Jacksonville FLA.I used a Knight-Kit Ocean Hopper with plug-in coils, I still have it and it still works. It resides in my Ham-Shack, I am currently EXTRA-class HAM...AB0RG.
Bill Stanton <[email protected]>
Olathe, Ks USA - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 10:50:33 (EST)

Wow! The stuff I've thrown away. My WPE certificate I'm afraid went the way of my atomic bomb ring and my stack of comic books. At the time I was in ninth or tenth grade and we had a radio club which made available to me an old navy TRF receiver. With this I was able to do the necessary loggings and get my WPE certificate. I would pay good money for a replica of that certificate.
Richard Quintal <[email protected]>
Mont Vernon, NH USA - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 09:33:04 (EST)

WPE1BZM
Walt Miska
Tampa, FL USA - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 05:52:28 (EST)

Thanks guys! I was an avid SWL DXer through the 70's and alway wondered, with envy, how one recieved their SWL call sign. Many neat stories. Has several radios back then, but a favorite was a Hallicrafters S-40. In the mornings before school, I'd listen to the Tropical Bands. Radio Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, and ABC out of Port Morsby. The best was when I listen to Radio Cook Islands. I guess the bug never went totally a way. Got my ham ticket a few years ago (KJ7WY) and chase DX on 80m. Thanks -- Pete Koehler (KJ7WY)
Peter Koehler <[email protected]>
Flagstaff, AZ USA - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 01:28:40 (EST)

Call was WPE0FJS. I believe I got it after my original WN0TAS amateur call. My friend Gary Guard was WPE0FKQ
Bruce Frahm <[email protected]>
Colby, KS USA - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 01:12:26 (EST)

Yes - I was issued WPE9BPH on 7-14-60 at the ripe age of 16!!
Gene Santoski <[email protected]>
Wisconsin Rapids, WI USA - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 01:44:02 (EST)

I was WPEÿOI and was "Novice of the Month" in the July, 1961 issue of Popular Electronics. I have a copy of the PE page with my novice station photo and writeup on my Web site www.w0tm.com. That was my fifteen minutes of fame. Didn't know I was going to use it up so early in life!
Gary Yantis <[email protected]>
Wolcott, CO USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 22:37:31 (EST)

Received my certificate in 1960 as WPE8CGE. I sent many reports to Broadcast and Amateur stations using that regestration.
Richard L. Swain <[email protected]>
Galion, OH USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 21:41:27 (EST)

My WPE registration was WPE8JMD, and I still have the certificate. I will scan it and put it on my web page once I get it finished. I used a variety of old radios I scrounged up while an SWL back in the mid-1960's. My most memorable QSL is one from the first day transmission of WWV from Ft. Collins, CO. 73, Ron
Ron Ackerman <[email protected]>
Bridgman, MI USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 22:16:00 (EST)

WPE8CMU now WA8GRI
James R. Stutesman <[email protected]>
Saginaw, MI USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 18:42:29 (EST)

Been a long time!
Joe Hutchens <[email protected]>
Austin, TX USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 19:21:37 (EST)

I was WPE0AYH in 1960, got my ham ticket in June of 61: W0DRE, became W1GNC while at ARRL HQ (1971-1995)and am now K0IO. I believe ARRL exec. VP Dave Sumner K1ZZ was a WPE. 73 John
John Nelson <[email protected]>
Newton, IA USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 19:08:23 (EST)

I was WPE6FHZ from Sacramento, CA. Rig was Heathkit GR-91 with Q multiplier, long wire antenna. 73 Jim
Jim Vander Maaten <[email protected]>
San Jose, CA USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 17:29:10 (EST)

Your info and the great comments from WPEs really brought back the memories for me. I spent many happy hours in front of my Hallicrafters 8R40 as WR06AD, WPE6AD and then WDX6AD. With work, kids, etc. intervening, it took me until 1991 to get my ham ticket, and now I'm on the air as KA6T. My old SWL logs, QSL and WPE cards from those days and the ISWL Century Club certificate are here in the shack. Thanks for helping us relive some great days!
Bill Speedie <[email protected]>
Portland, OR USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 15:59:58 (EST)

I was assigned WPE7BPY. Still have one or two of the QSL cards that I had printed to confirm reception of short wave stations.
Don Ingram <[email protected]>
Caldwell , Idaho USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 16:34:27 (EST)

Had one, but it is long gone with all the qsls from those days lost when my parnets moved after I went into the Army in 1967. Also remember the Radio NewYork Worldwide SWL club back in those days.
Bill Graham <[email protected]>
Kempner, TX USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 14:48:29 (EST)

Started in 1960 as WPE9BOD later changed it to WDX9BOD. Was Amateur Section Editor of Newark News Radio Club in early 70's. First licensed as WD9HQQ in 1977; then, changed call to N9AVY in 1978.
Jerry Heien <[email protected]>
Cary, IL USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 14:18:56 (EST)

my "callsign" was WPE0CDU
Michael D. Hagen <[email protected]>
Lexington, KY USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 13:42:30 (EST)

Received call of WPE3BOU on September 02, 1960, however my certificate does NOT have any official seal on it, signed by Oliver Read W1ETI and Ton Kneitel WPE2AB. This perked my interest to Amateur Radio.
J. Yogi Bear <[email protected]>
Lancaster, PA USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 13:40:08 (EST)

I got WPE4HAT in 1963 as a teenager in Sebring, Florida. I used a Lafayette HE-30 receiver, which was my pride and joy at the time. I still have the WPE certificate. I became N1IRZ in 1991, upgrading to Extra in 1993.
Dave Finley <[email protected]>
Socorro, NM USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 13:24:32 (EST)

Boy it has been a long time since I got my "WPE Certificate." So many things have changed since then. I am still interested and amazed by all the new "High TECH" toys today. I'm glad the Internet did not exist back in the early 1960s or I would probably still be in High school today, still trying to graduate. ;-) Thanks for this nice site and best wish to you and all my "WPE Radio Friends"! 73 AL WPE4HHM / KA4ANA PS After all these years my "WPE" certificate still hangs proudly in my shack!
Albert Verdecia WPE4HHM /KA4ANA <[email protected]>
Miami, FL USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 12:50:38 (EST)

Boy it sure has been a long time since I got my "WPE Callsign." And how much things changed since then. I am still interested and amazed by all the new "High TECH" toys today...I am glad the Internet did not exist back in the early 1960s or I would probably still be in High school today still trying to graduate for High School. ;-) Thanks for this nice site and best wish to all my "WPE Radio Friends"! 73 AL WPE4HHM / KA4ANA PS My "WPE" certificate still hangs proudly in my shack as it did may years ago!
Albert Verdecia WPE4HHM /KA4ANA <[email protected]>
Miami, FL USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 12:42:35 (EST)

40+ years ago, I was WPE5AJK. Must have been 60 or 61. Mine was hadwritten with just the call on the paper. I remember I had my mother carefully fill-in my name. Mine was mis-placed many moves ago. I have since had a lifetime of radio, not only as a hobby but as a profession. Richard W5RDF. Ex WN5UTF, WA5UTF, 5N4ROF, DJ0UY. As you can see my profession has taken me to many parts of the world. Too bad the FCC won't authorize the WPE call block.
Richard Fitzgerald <[email protected]>
Claremore, OK USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 12:29:17 (EST)

WPE1GYX... the framed certificate is still hanging on a wall in my ham shack.
Stan Horzepa, WA1LOU <[email protected]>
Wolcott, CT USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 13:32:29 (EST)

WPE9GDQ I had completly forgot about the WPE calls until I saw a reference to this page on the ARRL.
Jim Wardrip <[email protected]>
Jeffersonville, IN USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 13:09:12 (EST)

WPE7COF - Assigned around 1966 or 1967. Now WB7VNF ex WA1RZP/WA6GYT
Everett E. Wittig, Jr. <[email protected]>
Bisbee, AZ USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 11:32:19 (EST)

I was: WPE2NSX
Chris (N2NEH) <[email protected]>
East Greenbush, NY USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 12:34:32 (EST)

I was WPE5ENT,issued 5/16/66. I still have my certificate hanging in my shack! KD5ZD
Steve Bennett <[email protected]>
Arlington, TX USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 09:35:54 (EST)

I got started in radio at age 16 as a SWL with the PE call WPE4IXU. I've held every amateur license except Conditional since with the calls WN4ZVS, WA4ZVS, WB7QGQ, and currently WA7TN. I built my first receiver, a Knight Star Roamer which cost $40, almost a week's salary for bagging groceries. It was one of the best investments I've made in my life (much better than Zenith Electronics for example).
R. Mike Craig <[email protected]>
Snohomish, WA USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 10:40:29 (EST)

While not being a WPE I was involved in the Boys Life Radio Club that helped scouts get active in SWL and eventually Ham radio. If you have any information on the Boys life radio club I owuld like to hear from you. Brian Cieslak K9WIS
K9wis <[email protected]>
Waterford, WI USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 10:37:48 (EST)

I was WPE1CWL and still have my original SWL Log book. I'll have to pull it out of the file cab and flip thru it again. Boy, its been a long time.
John Marchand <[email protected]>
Dracut,, MA USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 08:45:38 (EST)

I remember the WPE program but it was halted before I got started in SWL'ing. I did receive the call WDX2RMH though, in the early 70's. Tom N2CU
Tom <[email protected]>
Hamburg, NY USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 09:37:01 (EST)

WPE8CGW.... NC-188 Rcvr, Folded dipoles First ticket was KN8QMM (1960), now KW8KW...hard to believe it's been 42+ years.
Bill O'Neil <[email protected]>
Cuyahoga Falls, OH USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 08:03:10 (EST)

WPE7CGS
Nick Winter <[email protected]>
Tacoma, WA USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 04:13:34 (EST)

WPE7CGS
Nick Winter <[email protected]>
Tacoma, WA USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 04:13:29 (EST)

I was WPE4IXL in Lewisburg, TN. I migrated to ham radio as WN4ESE, then WB4ESE and now W7ESE, but am not very active. I do remember many nights trying to ascertain what station was what using plus minus tuning until I moved to a Hallicrafters SX110. Somewhere are my QSL cards, but I have lost my little red book of Chairman Mao's which we all received when reporting to Radio Peking.
Joe Rutledge <[email protected]>
seattle, wa USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 00:44:26 (EST)

i was wpe4fsd with a heathkit ar3 and an l shaped long wire approx 80 feet long. this was in 64(pre xerox) and the receiver was given to me by the ham next door in gratitude for me hand drawing 2 schematics of his homebrew 6m am rig on white butcher paper. his name was Jerry E. Jackson,WA4COF,SK. he was my first elmer and lit the fires of curiosity and imagination in me. i will always be grateful for him reaching out to me.
william j. hedgcoth <[email protected]>
nashville, tn USA - Monday, January 21, 2002 at 02:02:19 (EST)

Thanks for a great page and trip down memory lane. 73, Earl, KA5UJC, WPE5BKO
Earl Oster <[email protected]>
Beaumont, TX USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 23:39:08 (EST)

I was WPE4GZW, and I remeber the thirll of hearing Radio Teheran on my Knight Kit SpanMaster.
Robert L West <[email protected]>
Prattville, AL USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 23:50:31 (EST)

I was WPE2RIY, perhaps one of the last WPE calls issued. My "Popular Electronics Short-Wave Monitor" certificate is dated August, 1970, and my "Monitor & DX Headquarters All-Band Radio Monitor" certificate - with the call WDX2RIY - is dated October, 1970. When Popular Electronics dropped its sponsorship of the program, Hank Bennett (WPE2FT/WDX2FT) continued it on his own. I don't recall how long it lasted without the magazine's support. From the same time period (Jan '71), I also have a membership certificate from the Electronics Illustrated DX Club. They didn't issue call signs, though.
Rich Moseson <[email protected]>
Bloomfield, NJ USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 21:51:43 (EST)

I am/was WPE5EKW. Cut my SWL teeth listening to the Central Gulf Coast Hurricane net on 75 meters in the 63-67 time. Had a Knight-Kit Star Roamer. Finally got my Ham radio license in 76 as WB5RNR. Now am AG5AT. August
August Treubig <[email protected]>
Ponchatoula, LA USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 22:31:04 (EST)

WPE4EPE was my SWL "call"
Robert R. Dockery <[email protected]>
Asheville, NC USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 22:26:18 (EST)

My WPE was WPE4KLB. I got it in the mid '60s and was an avid reader of Popular Communications. Back then I used a Hallicrafters receiver and long wire out of the bedroom window. I have been a ham now for about 32 years and have the callsign W4RRR.
Gene Furness <[email protected]>
Temperanceville, VA USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 20:36:42 (EST)

my call was WPE4WK i lived in elberton ga.
mike pressley <[email protected]>
taylors, sc USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 21:43:58 (EST)

Was WPE9FCY back years ago.
Paul D. Besimer <[email protected]>
Chillicothe, Oh USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 21:15:59 (EST)

Was assigned WPE1TP. Havn't heard anything about the WPE stuff for almost 40 years. When I mention anything about it at any ham gathering everybody looks at me like I have two heads. I'm glad somebody remembers it. It was one of the catylists that lead to my ham license
Warren "Bud" Hartman <[email protected]>
Beverly, Ma USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 21:01:16 (EST)

I remember being WPE1GFK I think in 1964 I had build a Heathkit general coverage receiver and a year later got my novice ticket and became WN1DWE...
Dave Sarault <[email protected]>
Ligonier, PA USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 20:46:09 (EST)

My SWL call sign was WPE4APH. I had almost forgotten about that! Thanks for the article. 73, Charles K4GK
Charles A. Pennington <[email protected]>
Sandersville, GA USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 19:12:35 (EST)

WPE1EKO -- now K1ZZ
Dave Sumner <[email protected]>
Coventry, CT USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 16:23:04 (EST)

Still have my WPE9BAK certificate. Got it when I was a teenager and verified some pretty good dx with my alied radio Space Spanner (3 tube regen) and some wire. My dream of being a ham came true at age 26 when WN9DVQ fired up with a vertical. I remember how great my Drake 2C worked compared to the Knight kit. Now AA9F, am amazed at how good the new equipment is. OK, my new equipment is 20 years old. Anyway,when asked how it can be possible I have 225 confirmed using 100 watts and a G5RV, my response is that I learned radio on a 3 tube regen set. In comparison 100 watts and a dipole is "big time"
ray good <[email protected]>
oak park, il USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 16:19:24 (EST)

WPE0ETU--What a blast it was, too!
George Diekhoff
Henrietta, TX USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 16:51:03 (EST)

WPE8KBZ in late 60's when I was in high school. Used a Knight-Kit Star Roamer (best $40 ever spent) and received QSL's from hams in over 200 countries. Still have all of them along with some of my WPE cards. Went to work in radio communications business in 1972 and put the hobby away for awhile. Got ham ticket in Feb 2000 and now having as much fun as I did when I was a kid. Still like QSLing and really enjoyed sending cards out to a few European SWLs that sent me reports last year. Great memories. Thanks Ed, K8NVR.
Ed Eyerdom <[email protected]>
Medina, OH USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 14:50:33 (EST)

WPE5EIA KWW0315 (CB) KD5QFB What a trip
Gary Burchett <[email protected]>
Valley View, Tx USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 14:40:47 (EST)

Saw your article on arrl website,deja vu.wpe5csp/kc5yaj 73.
Carl Koterba <[email protected]>
San Antonio, Tx USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 14:26:19 (EST)

As WPE4CN (Crazy Nut!), I snagged QSL cards from OA4IGY (Lima, Peru), CE3AGI (Santiago, Chili), XQ8AG (Antofagasta, Chili), and CO3IGY (Havana, Cuba). All were US stations participating from Minitrack sites for Project Vanguard.
John Warne, K4KAM
Gainesville, FL USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 14:17:03 (EST)

I was WPE2HDC.
Gerry Skloot K1NY <[email protected]>
Wantagh, NY USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 13:14:10 (EST)

I was WPE0CIZ. Seeing this site brought back memories of listening to Radio Moscow, HCJB, BBC, AFRTS, and others on my S38E and long wire. Shortly after I start SWLing, I received my novice license, WN0EMG. Since then I have held WA0ILF, WA6IET, and N6WS amateur callsigns. I still have a few of my old QSL cards. 73, Bill N6WS
Bill Shell <[email protected]>
Nipomo, CA USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 14:36:57 (EST)

Shortwave listening sparked a life-long interest in radio. I now have my extra class ham licence and am Chief Engineer of a radio/TV station WPE8IIR
Dave Maley <[email protected]>
Cedar Rapids, Ia USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 14:01:39 (EST)

Brings back memories I was WPE7BAP NOW I'M HS0ZCM THAI CALL and my home call is NH0U moved out of the 7th call district many years ago. 73's Martin Smith Bangkok Thailand
Martin Smith <[email protected]>
Bangkok, Thailand - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 13:36:58 (EST)

WPE4GFY Mosely even sent me one of their pencil holders with the call. Originally WN4NJI when I got licensed ('63), spent 20 years as N9AKE, now K4QG.
Rod Peterson <[email protected]>
FL USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 11:57:17 (EST)

WPE9DUO, about 1960 or 61 until graduation from H.S. in 1964. Not very active after that until about 1980, and got Ham ticket in 1991.
Dave Jarvis <[email protected]>
Indianapolis, In USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 12:11:27 (EST)

Yes, I was wpe4fnb(now wa4lxk) and my nephew was wpe4fsy(now wn4pfi). Good luck and 73. kerry
william cheatwood <[email protected]>
montgomery, al USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 10:41:53 (EST)

I had a WPE call in the late 50's I have no idea what became of it, or what the call was, I know it would have been either 1958 or 1959 I was in Hi-school at the time. I would like to see a data base showing all the WPE calls. I got my Novice ticket March 1960 at that time I was K0ZIW then in 1964 I moved acrosse the Mississippi river and at that time one had to change there call to the district you were living in, my new call then was and still is W9HWQ. 73 Duane
Duane Fruechte <[email protected]>
Trempealeau, wi USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 07:53:51 (EST)

I was issued WPE4DES while living in Richmond, Virginia in 1961. I had my own QSL cards printed. I remember receiving a QSL card from Radio Moscow and my concern that the government might put me on a "list" if they knew I listened to such broadcasts. I used an old Philco "Cathederal" style receiver with medium and shortwave bands. Later I built a Heathkit AR-3 receiver. That led to my Novice ham license as WN4HVB in 1962 and General class ticket in 1963. Shortwave listening started me in ham radio. Now, 40 years later, I am W4JX. I still enjoy tuning the shortwave bands and hearing the different languages on the air. Great memories.
Jerry Privette <[email protected]>
Jacksonville, FL USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 06:29:00 (EST)

Back in the mid sixties when I was about 14 years old I was WPE4KTL. Tuning in the world on my Knight Kit Span Master eventually led to years of enjoyment as a ham radio operator. My SWL activities actually attracted the attention of the FBI back in those Cold War days. One afternoon there was a knock at the door and a man identified himself as an FBI agent to my mom. He asked if Michael Lynch resided here. My mom replied with something like "what's he done now?" (I was the prototypical "pocket protector nerd" in those days and was always getting in trouble as a result of my wierd science experiments going awry. The FBI agent told my mom that the local postmaster had informed the Bureau that I was recieving correspondence from Moscow and asked if he could see my room!! She led him to my room/radio shack/laboratory/world headquarters and he looked around for a moment and spotted the QSL cards on the wall. When he saw the one from Radio Moscow he laughed and told my mom that everything was OK. Fortunately he knew a little bit about radio and QSL cards and determined on the spot that I was no threat to civilization. He told my mom that he kinda sorta figured all this out the minute he pulled into our driveway and saw all my antennas on the roof. He assured her that everything was just fine and that maybe one day I too would be working for the FBI! Ah, the sixties! Thanks for the memories all you WPE'ers. 73, Mike AC4NS
Mike Lynch <[email protected]>
Lake Worth, FL USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 00:50:55 (EST)

I was 9M2PE1D back in High School in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Kok Chen <[email protected]>
Portland, OR USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 01:52:00 (EST)

I don't remember the year I got my number WPE2MKR. At that time I had a Lafayette HE-40 reciever and later a Heathkit CB-1 (Lunchbox).
Ray Keefe <[email protected]>
Jackson, NJ USA - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 00:33:21 (EST)

Got my WPE7BYR call in the early '60s while living in Palouse, Washington. Chased a lot of SW DX and had mega-fun. In the early '80s Vern Weiss, WPE9GHF started the Great Circle Shortwave Society. I was part of the newsletter crew along with Harold "Dr. DX" Cones, WPE4OO. The club didn't last but a few years, but it was a lot of fun to meet other WPE call sign holders. (Unfortunately Popular Electronics did not keep a listing of WPE calls). Still get some time on the SW bands every now and then. Have a Halli S-38 (original 6-tube w/BFO from 1946) and a Halli SX-100 to play with. 73 Rich K7SZ
Rich Arland <[email protected]>
Wilkes-Barre, PA USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 22:56:05 (EST)

Sure enought, I found mine - WPE8AIK, 9/22/59, but info was hand lettered in ink, by me? First short wave radio was rescued from someone's trash sans cabinet. Was first licensed as KN8HBN in 1957 and then W8GS in '77. Still fun to listen and thanks for your efforts!
Scott Henninger <[email protected]>
Loveland, OH USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 22:50:37 (EST)

THIS IS WPE1EWS / WB1HIB I WAS A WPE BACK IN THE EARLY SIXTIES AND STILL HAVE MY WPE CERTIFICATE FROM POP ELECTRONICS I STARTED WITH A CROSLEY RADIO THEN HALLICRAFTERS S120 AND TODAY I USE MY KENWOOD RIG FOR HAM AND SWL. I HAVE ENJOYED RADIO SINCE I WAS 12 YRS OLD AND STILL DO TODAY.I WORKED SEVERAL COUNTRYS AS WPE AND HAVE QSL'S FROM THEM I WAS GLAD TO SEE THIS ON ARRL THANKS
JERRY <[email protected]>
FITCHBURG, MA USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 22:24:31 (EST)

I was WPE9PH. I am now WA9RD(Extra)
Dennis Hutchins <[email protected]>
Bethalto, Il. USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 22:16:01 (EST)

Wow! What a trip down memory lane. I am WPE5ECA and still have the certificate stored away with other memorabilia. It was issued in the mid-1960's when I was a pre-teen and I was proud. I was later WN5CLS, then WB5YLC and now KE5WJ. I still have the Hallicarafters receiver I used back then, but haven't turned it on in a long time.
Walt Fair, Jr. <[email protected]>
Houston, TX USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 22:04:10 (EST)

WPE9QA 1960?
Vernon Austermiller
Mooresville, Indiana USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 20:54:02 (EST)

LATER I BECAME WDX5EZA, AFTER PE STOPPED ISSUING CALLS..........HANK BENNET CONTINUED USING WDX
EVAN R. NEWLON <[email protected]>
ALBUQUERQUE, NM USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 19:22:53 (EST)

I have fond memories of the WPE days. It had started me in my amateur radio hobby. I some times would love to go back to those days.
Bert Bruins <[email protected]>
Rensselaer, NY USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 18:54:42 (EST)

WPE8JMK
Bob Norgard <[email protected]>
Anchorage, AK USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 18:42:45 (EST)

I still have my framed certificate from way back then...still in good shape..was just a kid at the time, jr high school i think...WPE5EQR
stan jones <[email protected]>
Avon, MS USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 18:19:29 (EST)

I still have my WPE0BKC certificate dated January 10, 1961 with Tom Kneitel and Oliver Read signatures. My name, BKC, and date are all hand written. The WPE0 prefix was preprinted. My equipment was a Sparton 1197, and later a National NC-60. I was then licensed in 1963 as WN0GNQ, later WA0GNQ, and finally K0GY.
George Yantis <[email protected]>
Olathe, KS USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 18:17:15 (EST)

I was/am(?) WPE2AWO, fondly remembering my inked-in certificate and plastic call letter sign. My first SWL receiver at that time (late 50s) was a stand-alone AM/shortwave chassis made by United States Television, to which I added an outboard tuning capacitor to give me some bandspread capability. Ah, what memories! 73 - Roy, WA2JVL
Roy Murray <[email protected]>
Freehold, nj USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 16:22:27 (EST)

I was WPE3MW (imagine, a TWO-LETTER call sign!) when I lived in Pittsburgh, PA years ago. I've lost the certificate, and the cards I had printed, but I still like SWLing as much as ham radio.
Jim Vecchiola Ham KR2T SWL WPE3MW <[email protected]>
Voorhees, NJ USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 16:55:38 (EST)

was WPE2BLV!.....long ago!...still got pics of station and certificate squirreled away somewhere
bob voss
plano, tx USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 16:35:33 (EST)

I received my WPE call in late 1958 or early 1959. It was WPE0MA. I was in the U.S. Air Force stationed at Olathe, KS. Since then I have lived in many different places and had various Amateur Radio callsigns. I currently work for the International Broadcasting Bureau (VOA) at Delano, CA. 73, Ray
Ray Crites <[email protected]>
Bakersfield, CA USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 15:00:33 (EST)

I received My WPE call in late 1958 or early 1959. It was WPE0MA. I was in Olathe, KS. Since then I have lived in many different places and had various Amateur Radio callsigns. i currently work for the International Broadcasting Bureau (VOA) at Delano, CA. 73, Ray
Ray Crites <[email protected]>
Bakersfield, CA USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 14:58:05 (EST)

I was "WPE9JAC." First licensed in 1981 as KA9LTR, I changed my callsign to N9EN when the FCC instituted the Vanity Call- sign program. 73 de Brad, N9EN
Brad Anbro <[email protected]>
Roscoe, IL USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 13:40:41 (EST)

I was VE3PE2PG (and later VE3DX2PG) in 1968. Brings back lots of fond memories. Looked thru my stuff for my old certificate but couldn't find it. Did find the October 1969 issue of Popular Electronics however, sporting a picture of yours truly (oh, to be that young again!)......Jeff Falconer, VA3NN
Jeff Falconer <[email protected]>
Clinton, ON CANADA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 14:58:14 (EST)

Was an SWL with the WPE1DXH designation. Went from SWL to Hamming. Held calls WN2FQT, WB2FQT, WD4DEC and now KB4IP. Got into SWL with an old Philco Cathedral Radio and the moved to a Hallicrafters S38E
John Parmenter - Now KB4IP <[email protected]>
Raleigh, NC USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 13:26:13 (EST)

My certifcate number was WDX4KQK not a WPE prefix , but I think it was the same program from Popular Electronics . Back in the Good Old days , lots of fun back then ! 73/DX/N4USG
Robert Couch <[email protected]>
Shelbyville, TN USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 14:20:28 (EST)

I got WPE0AAI in 1959 in Warrensburg MO... I was 12 and thought it was great! When we moved to WV the next year I reapplied (couldn't have a zero in 8-land) and got WPE8CAY. Much much later Hank Bennett sent me a WDX8CAY certificate. I still have the certificates. And I found some certificates from the Boy's Life Radio Club when looking for them. Thanks for the little piece of history. (and I see some calls I recognize in guestbook.) 73 Lou, KJ8J
Lou Horacek <[email protected]>
Moundsville, WV USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 12:48:37 (EST)

My WPE call sign was WPE1FDD
Donald M. Roog <[email protected]>
Shelton, CT USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 11:34:25 (EST)

I was (am) WPE6HDD. I acquired the call sometime in the mid-1960s after becoming an amateur radio operator. I don't believe I have the certificate anymore but it's amazing what kinds of trivia stick in the memory. I once asked for a QSL from Radio Roma (Italy) and they started sending a complete TV and radio broadcast guide for the station on a monthly basis for the next 20 years! A QSL request to Radio Moscow earned me a subscription to "Soviet Life" for about 5 years! When I entered the Navy in 1968 I underwent a background investigation for a top-secret security clearance. Try explaining away a subscription to a Soviet propaganda piece to a Federal investigator sometime! Mike McCrackin - K7DER
Mike McCrackin - K7DER <[email protected]>
Missoula, MT USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 10:53:50 (EST)

Thanks for the memories. Before I was a ham I SLW's as WPE2NQT. My CB calls were KBI9163 (I think that this was class D) and KAI5813 for remote control.
Robert Mitilieri <[email protected]>
Carol Stream, IL USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 11:30:47 (EST)

Sure brings back memories for me. I was issued: WPE0BHO on 23 nov, 1960.--- I started my swl'ing in 1959 and later become a ham operator, now K0KG --- Still do some swl'ing for fun and propagation study. 73, Keith
keith gilbertson <[email protected]>
rochert, mn USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 09:49:42 (EST)

I was WPE0MJ (certificate dated April 6, 1959). At that time I was also K0LES. I am now WS7R. I was living in Denver, CO and I was a senior in high school. My certificate is a completely different design from the one shown for N3DQO. It is not as fancy. It is signed by Oliver Reed, W1ETI, and Tom Kneitel, WPE2AB. I'm not sure when this program started but I think I was one of the first stations licensed in Denver. I think it is a wonderful idea that you have brought back a piece of nostalgia to a lot of us old timers. I have been SWLing since about 1950 and got my first license, KN0LES, in 1957. I have been continuously licensed since then.
Stephen R. Bird <[email protected]>
Wickenburg, AZ USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 10:16:56 (EST)

Was WPEÿFQQ in 1970.
Tom Farland NÿJMY <[email protected]>
Fredericksburg, IA USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 09:52:13 (EST)

Those WPE8DOA days are still warm in my memory. Found a Knight Kit "Ocean Hopper" at Dayton a few years back and hope to re-live some of those times once it is up and running. Thanks and 73!!
Tom Ebeling <[email protected]>
Morgantown, WV USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 06:46:20 (EST)

WPE8CSN
Wade Davis <[email protected]>
Dayton, OH USA - Saturday, January 19, 2002 at 03:23:55 (EST)

Hello ! Received WPE2RDF in 1968, and my brother was WPE2RDG, later (1969) became hams, WN2LYM, and WN2LYN. My brother still holds WA2LYM, general class, and I am now WA3SAM, Extra class. STILL SWLing after all these years !!Great times Great memories... 73's Mike WA3SAM/WPE2RDF
Michael H. Weymer <[email protected]>
Williamsport, PA USA - Friday, January 18, 2002 at 10:59:25 (EST)

Very cool!!
William Burnap <[email protected]>
Livermore, CA USA - Tuesday, January 15, 2002 at 18:50:14 (EST)

It is great fun reading the WPE comments I can't remember my call, but I'm sure the certificate and QSL cards are long gone. Michael, N9OGC
Michael Moreth <[email protected]>
Bensenville, IL USA - Friday, January 04, 2002 at 17:16:13 (EST)

WPE0ETW
JOHN ENGLAND JR. <[email protected]>
Lincoln, ri USA - Tuesday, December 25, 2001 at 11:27:17 (EST)

Was WPE3FHG in Philadelphia PA in high school. SWLing got me into amateur radio and was licensed in college in 1964. Now N7FG in Arizona. Still have my WPE QSL/report cards. Ran into your site doing a search for SWBC info since I'm making one of my periodic forays back on the broadcast bands.
Frank Wargocki <[email protected]>
Tucson, AZ USA - Sunday, December 23, 2001 at 21:34:32 (EST)

cvcvc
dfsdasdff <[email protected]>
1234567, 11 USA - Sunday, December 23, 2001 at 07:06:19 (EST)

WDX0KFK DX150A 75' copper wire (whoo!) still active with 138 countrys qsl now with kenwood R5000 500'home brew beverage running noth/south hope too some day build a east/west but land will only alow about 300'. just picked up a working hallicrafters sx130 tonight at action in olathe for $20. + tax will clean it up and sell at swap meet next spring i still have two friends that were wdx also they are full blown hams but i am just swl one ownes D&L ANTENNA SUPPLY CO. check him out on the webb. i have not though about hank bennit in a long time brings back good times happy holidays 73s 88s 12/21/01
scott helm <[email protected]>
olathe , ks USA - Friday, December 21, 2001 at 23:15:31 (EST)

Yep, Remember it well. WPE9EFX. I was a kid in the early sixties listening to the exotic far off land on my trusty Philmore CR-5AC. Five tube baby that glowed a soft warm light from behind the whide face plate.. and from the sides and top and back.. No cover.. Strung about 150 of copper wire that I had srtipped out of an old car generator for an antenna. Spent many a night with that old radio and a pair of headphones trying to be real quite so the old man would'nt wake up and tell me to get to bed.. I loved it then and still do, althought I get to bed a little earlier now.. Hi Hi....
Joe Widner <[email protected]>
Ponca City, OK USA - Thursday, December 20, 2001 at 02:31:16 (EST)

Yes, Joe I was a WPE guy too, although I dont remember my callsign, I obtained it in 1966 or so, at the age of 12. Those were the days...a few table radios with token short wave coverage, and in '67 my first General Coverage...a Hallicrafters S-120. Three SWL friends and I started our own 'Ears of The World DX Club'. In all the years of DXing, I have come to the conclusion that the little boy with limited equipment and even less knowledge had more fun and excitment back then, than the 'grown up' who buys the boat anchors I could only dream of then, and the Drake R4B which does it all with very little effort. I love our hobby, always will, and am thankful for the years of pleasure and the good friends I've known along the way. 73 Herb Shatz Warwick NY
Herb Shatz <[email protected]>
Warwick, NY USA - Wednesday, December 19, 2001 at 10:06:41 (EST)

W P E 5 A V L
Paul Moratto <[email protected]>
Los Angeles, Ca US - Sunday, December 02, 2001 at 21:22:35 (EST)

WPE6AKQ - started out SWLing 1n 1957 from USNAS Agana, Guam with a GE X-226, and Hallicrafters S-38E. Later picked up a Hammarlund RBG-2, BC-348, BC-342, and a few SCR-246 and ARC-5 rcvr's...... Finally became WA6KNW in Fremont, CA 1967. Then was DL4MC, HP2XNW, KZ5MZ,and HL9KN. Still listen more than xmit. Use R-390(*)'s mostly. RICH WA6KNW/WPE6AKQ
Richard M. MC CLung <[email protected]>
San Jose, CA USA - Wednesday, November 21, 2001 at 20:20:25 (EST)

Very interesting page...like many of those who have left comments, I also remember my WPE call...WPE3HZI...and still have the certificate issued to me in 1969. At the time I was a 15 year old SWL with a Heathkit GR-54. Later upgraded to a National NC-183 and had a great time. Eventually got my ham ticket in the 1980's, and am now licensed as W3WJM. Still listen to the shortwave bands from time to time. A great hobby!
Bill Martin <[email protected]>
Wilmington, DE USA - Sunday, November 11, 2001 at 00:22:28 (EST)

WPE2COV, June 28, 1959. Still have the piece of wall paper hanging. Regards, Helm.
Helm Usbeck, WB2ADT <[email protected]>
Queens Village, NY USA - Saturday, November 10, 2001 at 11:15:30 (EST)

By the way, my WPE certificate, issued May 20th 1959, is different than the example shown on this Web site. Mine shows Oliver Read, not Oliver Ferrell, as the Editor of Pop'tronics. My WPE certificate is also quite different-looking. It's also signed by Tom Kneitel, not Hank Bennett, as Director of Monitor Station Registration. -- 73, AI2Q, Alex in Kennebunk, Maine
AI2Q, Alex <[email protected]>
Kennebunk, ME USA - Sunday, November 04, 2001 at 11:28:12 (EST)

You inspired me to dig up old documents here, and -- lo and behold -- there in my junk was the slightly yellowed WPE Short Wave Monitor Certificate of Registration issued on May 20th, 1959. I was WPE2AJI in Elmont, New York. I recall delivering a lot of newspapers in order to get the $29 for a Heathkit AR-3 receiver kit that I used in those days. I wish I still had that little set! -- 73, AI2Q, Alex in Kennebunk, Maine .-.-.
AI2Q, Alex <[email protected]>
Kennebunk, ME USA - Sunday, November 04, 2001 at 11:19:58 (EST)

Got WPE2PPA in 1965 I believe. Still an ocasional SWL
Frank J. Hentschel <[email protected]>
Mainland, PA USA - Friday, November 02, 2001 at 14:05:55 (EST)

Paul Harden NA5N - also WPE0DRZ when living in Pueblo and Alamosa, CO
Paul Harden NA5N <[email protected]>
Socorro, NM USA - Wednesday, October 31, 2001 at 10:02:37 (EST)

I had WPE0DIG for a while. I dont know if it ever expires. also WN0ODU before getting my present call. cliff
CLIFF CRAFT <[email protected]>
AUGUSTA , KS USA - Thursday, October 11, 2001 at 14:58:12 (EDT)

WDX2KEN, KV1R When I was in high school back in the early to mid 70's, I edited the cardswapping column for the Newark News Radio Club! I have a bunch of old WDX and WPE cards around here somewhere.... 73's Ken
Ken VanTassell <[email protected]>
Chelmsford, MA USA - Sunday, September 23, 2001 at 22:49:45 (EDT)

Was WPE8WYZ back in the early 60's. Started with a Knight Kit Span Master and up graded to a Hallicrafters S119 Sky Buddy II. Still have both radios (see photo on QRZ under my current call WA8UEG) I believe all the SWL'ing I did helped make me a better op when I got my license.
Steve Fetter <[email protected]>
Carmel, IN USA - Tuesday, September 11, 2001 at 15:26:10 (EDT)

I am WPE6HDN. (Still have it on the shack bulkhead.) Now am also N6XBH which I finally got after 35 yrs. of SWLing! I still do A LOT more listening than talking. I still have a liking for the older receivers and would be interested in working some of the guys who are WPE'S and are now hams. Maybe we could get a net going. TNX for having this site. Brent, N6XBH
J. Brent Johnson <[email protected]>
Vallejo, CA USA - Saturday, September 08, 2001 at 02:29:30 (EDT)

WOW, I do remember this in Popular Electronics. I had the sign of WPE2AEI and was in two issues of PE in 1968, was using a Hallicrafters S120 and a Knight Kit R100A
John Easterly <[email protected]>
Coloraado Springs, CO USA - Friday, September 07, 2001 at 15:19:52 (EDT)

WOW, I do remember this in Popular Electronics. I had the sign of WPE2AEI and was in two issues of PE in 1968
John Easterly <[email protected]>
Coloraado Springs, CO USA - Friday, September 07, 2001 at 14:06:39 (EDT)

It was in the late 50's, reading i believe it was Popular Electronics that i saw the SWL Monitor Certificates, and i applied, actually for 3 and i believe they were issued as WPE4CGA, WPE4CGB,WPE4CGD..used those on many a letter to radio stations asking for QSL confirmation, still have a box full of those confirmations going back to about 1955 or so...what a wonderful time, what a wonderfull thrill to listen to the short wave bands back there, i still have the old radio, it isn't working but just looking at it sitting on the desk evokes many memories.. Clinton M Bailey NT4E
Clinton Bailey <[email protected]>
Nashville, GA USA - Thursday, September 06, 2001 at 19:34:49 (EDT)

I was using an 1937 GE F-70 receiver in 1968 when I received WPE0FAF. Staill have the "Certificate of Membership". I sure looked forward to when I could afford to buy a Popular Electronics or Electronics Illustrated magazine! 73, John W0DC
John W0DC
MN USA - Saturday, September 01, 2001 at 11:12:39 (EDT)

I was issued WPE5EMN! The SWL hobby led me directly into Ham Radio and a career in the electronics industry!
Sam Barricklow <[email protected]>
Garland, TX USA - Tuesday, August 28, 2001 at 19:47:11 (EDT)

What a flashback. WPE2FHL with a Halicrafters S-120 and later a converted ARC-5. Got my ticket in '61 as WA2RXH. Dave, K3FHP (ex WB4DTC)
Dave Weinstein <[email protected]>
USA - Tuesday, August 28, 2001 at 14:27:39 (EDT)

My old WPE call was WPE8HLX. Not exactly a designer call, obviously.
George Zeller <[email protected]>
Cleveland, OH USA - Sunday, August 26, 2001 at 19:34:28 (EDT)

I got my WPE certificate back in the mid 1960's as a young teen,thought it was the greatest thing - - still do.. 73 Greg WPE7CYP KF7T
Greg Fox <[email protected]>
Everett, WA USA - Tuesday, August 21, 2001 at 15:46:49 (EDT)

WPE2QEU was my monitor callsign. Circa mid 60's I suppose. Still messing with radios a bit! hi hi.
Fred Osterman <[email protected]>
Reynoldsburg, OH USA - Thursday, July 26, 2001 at 16:24:16 (EDT)

Although I don't do much listening anymore, I was active from 1947 into the 1990s. At one time I edited COMMUNICATIONS WORLD magazine, and along the way wrote DX columns and sometimes radio features for magazines such as POPULAR ELECTRONICS, early POP COM, plus RADIO TV EXPERIMENTER, ELECTRONICS ILLUSTRATED, ELEMENTARY ELECTRONICS and other long defunct titles. Before all that, though, I was WPE9EZ. --Don Jensen, [email protected]
Don Jensen <[email protected]>
Kenosha, WI USA - Wednesday, July 18, 2001 at 22:05:35 (EDT)

om
michelle l. elmore <[email protected]>
new orleans, la USA - Thursday, July 12, 2001 at 22:53:01 (EDT)

De; W P E 9 G J N Hi, yes I remember getting my call WPE9GJN as a 14 year old high school student in Aurora,Illinois . When the certificate came I went to the local printer to have "my" QSL cards printed. Gave the printer all the information and went home only to realize I gave him the wrong call sign. Talk about a fast bike trip back to the printer!! Still SWL'ing. Started out with a Hallicrafters S-107. Recently purchased on to duplicate my first station. Have run the gamut of receivers over the years. It's a liftime hobby that I've totally enjoyed. Everyone says the interneet will replace radio. I don't believe it's a replacement, but an additional tool in the magic box of things we need to enjoy radio even more. Guess I,ve rambles long enough. Regards, MIke K8SWL (WPE9GJN)
Mike Wagner <[email protected]>
Warren, Mi USA - Wednesday, July 04, 2001 at 11:36:53 (EDT)

My WPE callsign is WPE2GFN issued circa 1960-61. SWL was my first interest in radio that lead to getting my ham ticket as WV2YTX in 1962. Still at it as KA2X. Thanks for the memories!!!
Tom Krieger <[email protected]>
Perinton, NY USA - Sunday, July 01, 2001 at 21:36:43 (EDT)

WPE9JQO
Marty <[email protected]>
Milwaukee, WI USA - Sunday, July 01, 2001 at 03:07:47 (EDT)

I am a registered "all band monitor", WDX4CJ, dated 3/11/1984. Issued by Hank Bennett.
Albert Arnold <[email protected]>
Chesterfield, VA USA - Sunday, June 24, 2001 at 15:29:44 (EDT)

Glad to see I'm not the only one who remembers the old Popular Electronics SWL program! There is a picture of my early ham shack (with the same receiver I used in the WPE listening post)at: http://www.n6hb.org/early.html (WPE1HFL since 1966, N6HB since 1997)
Bob Wilson
Orange, CA USA - Sunday, June 10, 2001 at 14:09:02 (EDT)

I was WPE9HQK
Bob Lambke <[email protected]>
elmhurst, il USA - Tuesday, June 05, 2001 at 00:06:41 (EDT)

My dad was WPE4JXX. I didn't fully know what that meant (I was about 11 years old), but it was cool, whatever it was. He's now KB4ST.
Dave Grubbs <[email protected]>
Altamonte Springs, FL USA - Sunday, June 03, 2001 at 09:35:37 (EDT)

Today, I'm KC2HHB, but back then (mid-1960s) I was WPE2LTE (Oneonta, NY). As an SWL I got a WAC certificate, and was the first North American SWL to successfully hear (and get a QSL card from) Radio Ulan Bator, Outer Mongolia in 1966. Before going away to school and having to give up SWLing, I got a kick out of listening to CW marine traffic stations in Central America. Unfortunately, the certificates and QSL card collection were all destroyed in a flood some years ago.
Paul Goodman <[email protected]>
Maine, NY USA - Friday, June 01, 2001 at 15:32:49 (EDT)

I was WPE4EDU, way back as a teenager. I think I got the WPE "call" before I got my novice ticket, as WN4MZZ, about 1964. I eventually upgraded to WA4MZZ, my present call. My first (decent) radio was a Hallicrafters S-107, which I still have and still works. Currently living in Baguio City, Philippines, working for VOA.
Sheldon Daitch <[email protected]>
Baguio City, Philippines - Friday, May 25, 2001 at 03:19:40 (EDT)

WPE4JCW
Paul Hill <[email protected]>
Suffolk, VA USA - Wednesday, May 23, 2001 at 18:53:59 (EDT)

My "call sign" was WPEJHR
KEN WEBB <[email protected]>
Oviedo, FL USA - Monday, April 23, 2001 at 12:31:15 (EDT)

I started out with a Knight-Kit "Ocean Hopper" for SWLing at Xmas 1958. I got WPE5ABW assigned before I "upgraded" to a Philmore CR-5AC superhet (kit) by the next Xmas. Three years later it was an SX-110, and a year after that I got the Tech Ticket as WA5IYX. My WPE certificate was one of those filled in by hand. I wish that I could find a few of my leftover 100 QSL cards that I got printed up by Walter Ashe. 73, Pat - WA5IYX
Patrick Dyer <[email protected]>
San Antonio, TX USA - Thursday, April 05, 2001 at 14:42:55 (EDT)

MY WPE WAS WPE1EWS MY HAM CAL IS WB1HIB THOSE WERE THE GOOD OLD YRS STARTED WITH A CROSLY THEN GOT HALLICRAFTERS S120 REC
jerry b <[email protected]>
fitchburg, ma USA - Wednesday, April 04, 2001 at 00:18:32 (EDT)

I received my WPE while in high school in 1966-WPE3GQN. For a SWL/Novice wanna-be that was a great piece of wallpaper to show off in "MY Radio Shack". I don't remember whatever happened to it, but I do remember my call. 73's Bob WA3IRG Lived in Erie, PA. until 1988. Started out with a Laafayette HE-90,15 tube superhet, then got a HQ-110 and a DX-100. Have all the QSL cards yet, even one from K7UGH, SEN Barry Goldwater.
Bob Kiehlmeier <[email protected]>
wilmington, nc USA - Tuesday, April 03, 2001 at 21:27:34 (EDT)

I received my WPE while in high school in 1966-WPE3GQN. For a SWL/Novice wanna-be that was a great piece of wallpaper to show off in "MY Radio Shack". I don't remember whatever happened to it, but I do remember my call. 73's Bob WA3IRG
Bob Kiehlmeier <[email protected]>
wilmington, nc USA - Tuesday, April 03, 2001 at 22:11:43 (EDT)

Hi Joe. You have a beautiful web page.Having many years listening radio without any tecnical information, I found The Complete shortwave listener handbook by Bennet& Helms and read about he callsign program for listeners. I wrote to Hank Bennett and I receive my WDX certificate with the call: XE0DX1E.I think it was the first for anybody in Mexico. It was signed by Amelia J. Greenwald WDX2BA and Hank Bennett WDX2FT, dated january 23, 1983.Today it still on the wall of my radio-shack. Thank very much for the memories. 73, David, XE3D
David A. PÈrez <[email protected]>
Merida, Yuc Mexico - Thursday, March 29, 2001 at 00:04:34 (EST)

Starting as a WPE got me to be a ham today!
Dallas Seifts N3JVD/WPE3PIM <[email protected]>
Transfer, Pa USA - Thursday, March 22, 2001 at 23:41:09 (EST)

Was WPE9YU in the late 1950s
Glen E. Zook, K9STH <[email protected]>
Richardson, TX USA - Thursday, March 22, 2001 at 11:50:21 (EST)

This brings back memories! I was WPE5GF. I lost the certificate and asked for a replacement and was issued WPE5DGF which is hopelessly buried in the paperwork around here somewhere. I stated out with a homemade super-regenerative receiver with one tube, a 3S4 and later got a Hallicrafters SX-16 and a Hallicrafters SX-99. 73, Sam Neal N5AF
Sam Neal <[email protected]>
Cleveland, TX USA - Thursday, March 22, 2001 at 10:15:41 (EST)

I was an avid 12 year old short wave listener in the mid 1960's during the WPE days and I used a Heath GR-91 and Hallicrafters S-85. I remember seeing the WPE station photo's in Pop Elec and reading about their stations. For some reason I never got a WPE callsign. Today I feel a bit sad about that and wish they (PE) still had the program running as I would sign up in an instant. 73, Scott WA9WFA
Scott Freeberg <[email protected]>
Saint Paul, MN USA - Thursday, March 22, 2001 at 10:40:15 (EST)

I was WPE7COK. Unfortunately I lost my certificate when I moved from Utah to Ohio after high school.
Ray Friess <[email protected]>
Salt Lake City, ut USA - Thursday, March 22, 2001 at 09:36:48 (EST)

I got my SWL "Call" - VE2PE1LH, in 1965. RX was a TRIO 9R59 and 50' of wire strung out to the clothesline. Ah, the memories! 73, de Ed, VA3ES, VE2SS, VE2BAQ and of course, VE2PE1LH!
Ed Sieb <[email protected]>
Ottawa, ON Canada - Thursday, March 22, 2001 at 09:28:15 (EST)

WPE3AAH was my call, issued in the beginning of the program, 1959, I believe. Got that certificate before my Novice call.
Tom Bowman, WA3REY <[email protected]>
Mt. Gretna, PA USA - Thursday, March 22, 2001 at 07:53:48 (EST)

I was WPE9BOB when I was growing up in Illinois. I obtained the certificate as soon as Hank Bennett said they were available. Unfortunately I no longer have the certificate. Also had cards printed by RusPrint in Kansas City.
Bob Cole <[email protected]>
Fairfax, VA USA - Wednesday, March 21, 2001 at 22:52:06 (EST)

Was WPE9QH (Rare 2 letter call!) Then I got my Tech as W9CTJ. Later calls were W0IHR, W9MIT, and finally W6MKA today. Nice web site. 73 David
David Dunkelberger <[email protected]>
Rustburg, VA USA - Tuesday, March 20, 2001 at 17:05:47 (EST)

i had a heathkit ar3 and a bent longwire. i was wpe4fsd.
william j. hedgcoth <[email protected]>
nashville, tn USA - Monday, March 05, 2001 at 03:37:18 (EST)

I was issued DL4PE1AC in the early sixties while living in Germany where my Dad was stationed
Jim Stoneback <[email protected]>
Alexandria, VA USA - Sunday, March 04, 2001 at 14:10:45 (EST)

WPE0FEC
Clair Claiborne <[email protected]>
Apex, NC USA - Saturday, March 03, 2001 at 12:23:48 (EST)

My number was WPE9FBR....It was great stuff for a 10 year old kid and a home made radio shack shortwave radio to have. Made you feel like the big guys. I still have the certificate and still rember the number also. Great stuff.
Ron Riesbeck`` <[email protected]>
Lake Villa, IL USA - Saturday, March 03, 2001 at 11:36:48 (EST)

Greetings, I was WPE4IRV in the mid 60's. Remember it like it was yesterday. The certificate did not survive the transition to married life but my interest in radio did. Went on to CB and later scanning. Am now KF4UUQ, 73's. Jerry, Manassas, Virginia.
Jerry Belcher <[email protected]>
Manassas, Va USA - Monday, February 26, 2001 at 22:34:54 (EST)

Greetings from WPE4ALP. Yes, I remembered the call and was even able to dig out the original certificate! The callsign was finished with a ball point pen. (Hey, Tom Kneitel & Oliver Reed - you did not even put my name nor the date on it!!!). As for the date, it would have been while I was still in high school which means 1959 - 61. I was using a trusty National NC-240, not the 240D, which seems to have been made for commercial / government use; it is still around. Many thanks for the "WPE" web site and to "Pop Comm" for bringing it to my attention - I would never have thought to look for such a site. 73, Paul WA4FHY, ex-KN4KYN
Paul Spurlock <[email protected]>
tn USA - Monday, February 26, 2001 at 09:57:59 (EST)

Greetings from WPE4ALP. Yes, I remembered the call and was even able to dig out the original certificate! The callsign was finished with a ball point pen. (Hey, Tom Kneitel & Oliver Reed - you did not even put my name nor the date on it!!!). As for the date, it would have been while I was still in high school which means 1959 - 61. I was using a trusty National NC-240, not the 240D, which seems to have been made for commercial / government use; it is still around. Many thanks for the "WPE" web site and to "Pop Comm" for bringing it to my attention - I would never have thought to look for such a site. 73, Paul
Paul Spurlock <[email protected]>
tn USA - Monday, February 26, 2001 at 09:55:45 (EST)

Great site.....I am WPE8AEN... got my certificate sometime in the 60's it had the name and call handwritten in ballpoint pen. Don't remember what ever happened to it. Used to listen on an old Majestic console radio hooked to about 50 or 60 feet of wire strung from the house to the garage. Was finally licensed as a ham in '81, my call is KA8HCW. Still look back fondly on the "good old days" of shortwave radio...keep up the good work. 73....Carl WPE8AEN/KA8HCW/KHZ5516
carl rouse <[email protected]>
findlay, oh USA - Tuesday, February 20, 2001 at 21:58:36 (EST)

Sir, I did SWL-DX in the 60's is really made a difference in what one learns about radio overall. My WPE was WPE-3EXU My current call is K3LYE/KH2 Old call-KF6ZJM
Captain Blane M. Wilson <[email protected]>
FPO, AP USA - Tuesday, February 20, 2001 at 22:31:17 (EST)

Man your pages are a real hoot. Geez and I thought I was a geek back in the 60's! Yep I had a WPE certificate too, still have it. VE3PE1FB. What a trip back in time.
Mike <[email protected]>
Keswick, On Canada - Monday, February 19, 2001 at 20:04:36 (EST)

WPE6HGG here. (Also known as WA6GON, KAF9830)
Doug Smith <[email protected]>
Pleasant Hill, CA USA - Monday, February 19, 2001 at 00:51:43 (EST)

Greetings! I don't see too many 2-letter WPE calls in the guestbook so I guess that makes me a real Olde-Tymer. Mine is WPE1GH. I got it when I was still in elementary school and spent many hours tuning around on a real boat anchor of a receiver. From that early beginning, I turned a hobby into a successful career in electronics and broadcasting. Along the way, I've picked up a few more "certificates" and licences but none more valuable than that WPE parchment! Thanks for rekindling some great memories!! Rich - K1WOW >>
Rich Peters <[email protected]>
MA USA - Friday, February 16, 2001 at 10:28:03 (EST)

WPE3ELK was my # back in the late 50's or early 60's
Ron Angstadt <[email protected]>
Kutztown, PA USA - Thursday, February 15, 2001 at 12:54:02 (EST)

I was formally WPE1HQE and subsequently WDX1HQE when the program changed hands. I was mostly active from 1968 through 1971, eventually becoming a ham in 1990 with the call KA1VEW. After that I briefly held the call N1ILG and eventually WX1N. I have very fond memories of those SWL'ing days and have recently begun compiling an album with some of the items from that period such as my first QSL, etc. I remember having my picture in Popular Electronics and would love to find that issue someday. If anyone out there knows which issue (1970?, 1971?) I would be grateful for that information so I could attempt to acquire it.
Tom Phillips <[email protected]>
Calais, VT USA - Thursday, February 15, 2001 at 12:27:51 (EST)

I was registered as WPE4CL in February 1959. Prior to the certificate I was listed as CF from Fayetteville, NC. I started send reports to Hank Bennet in 1955. I continue to use the WPE4CL in acknowledging stations on a special QSL I had printed. TNX for setting up this page.
Creed B. Freeman <[email protected]>
doylestown, pa USA - Wednesday, February 14, 2001 at 23:32:43 (EST)

I was WPE3KX also DU1PE1H
Larry E. Myers <[email protected]>
Eldersburg, Md USA - Wednesday, February 14, 2001 at 16:38:08 (EST)

Yes I was! WPE4HUU
Lloyd Creech <[email protected]>
Augusta, GA USA - Monday, February 12, 2001 at 19:39:05 (EST)

I was WPE9CDI
Ted H Osborn <[email protected]>
Champaign, il USA - Monday, February 12, 2001 at 09:27:42 (EST)

WPE4IJK
Bob Zabot <[email protected]>
Va Beach, VA USA - Sunday, February 11, 2001 at 22:34:40 (EST)

Normally, I am not a reader of "POPULAR COMMUNICATIONS",
John Freiberger III <[email protected]>
Macedon, NY USA - Sunday, February 11, 2001 at 17:01:34 (EST)

My call sign was WPE2ORY. I remember this off the top of my mind. I still have some of the QSL cards I recieved back in the early to mid sixtys. I lived in Kings Park, NY at the time, I was in my early teens. I used an Allied Star Roamer Reciever With a long wire antenna strung to a tree out my bedroom window. It was something I enjoyed very much.
Ron Deming <[email protected]>
Bozeman, MT USA - Saturday, February 10, 2001 at 09:39:08 (EST)

I remember the callsigns well. I agree on "funny how we remember these things." I was VE7PE7P. I have that certificate around someplace but where I am not sure. Will have to do some searching. 73's Ron
Ron Hopkins <[email protected]>
Trail, BC Canada - Saturday, February 10, 2001 at 00:41:53 (EST)

I was WPE8EKZ in the late '50's; a young kid of 12. I started with a Hallicrafters S-38C. Radio has been a major part of my life. Since 1985 I have been a ham. I am now K8SG.
Speed Gray <[email protected]>
Grand Rapids, MI USA - Thursday, February 08, 2001 at 16:35:14 (EST)

Just took a revisit down memory lane and it was great. I posted to the original page and enjoy the new set-up. My first call sign was WRO1AA by Joe P.when I lived in Boston-Roxbury, Massachusetts in the 1950's. I also was a memeber of the NNRC and a subscriber to PE. By the 1960's I was living in California and hence became WPE6AA and later on WDX6AA. I used a Hallicrafters S38C as my first rcvr. My current team is a Kenwood R5000 and a Grundig Satellit 650. The WDX Monitor Services is still in operations by Hank Bennett, W2PNA at PO Box 9, Collingswood NJ 08108
Stewart MacKenzie - WDX6AA <[email protected]>
Huntington Beach, 92649, CA USA - Wednesday, February 07, 2001 at 15:42:01 (EST)

Mine was WPE0BO somehow I lost the certificate thru the years.
Robert Cronberg <[email protected]>
Coon Rapids, MN USA - Wednesday, February 07, 2001 at 13:04:56 (EST)

WPE3GXI here...glad to be a part of your WPE site Joe...looks like you touched on the memories of many, many people out there...tnx es 73. Jay.
Jay Budzowski <[email protected]>
New Castle, PA USA - Wednesday, February 07, 2001 at 00:47:28 (EST)

I was issued a certificate WPE8WP in the mid to late 50's in Detroit. Thanks for the memories. Dick Mondro W8FQT
Dick Mondro <[email protected]>
Dearborn Hts., MI USA - Tuesday, February 06, 2001 at 15:53:05 (EST)

I was WPE9JHM, now call is KB9TUZ
ALAN STAPLETON <[email protected]>
eaton, in USA - Tuesday, February 06, 2001 at 03:12:06 (EST)

Sure brought back memories - ran across the article about the certificates in Popular Communications - had forgotten about them until now! - found my certificate - issued 6/18/62 WPE6DQP - it will now go back upon my wall in my PC / radio room.
Barry Manfrina <[email protected]>
Lompoc, CA USA - Sunday, February 04, 2001 at 23:56:32 (EST)

WPE1CBV. I still have an original QSL card I would send amateurs in my swl days. Many years ago, the Great Circle Shortwave Club was formed for WPEers, Newsletters and everything. It "went dark" around 1986 or so. Many fond memories of those days, learning about the world, QSLing and receiving all the mail from foreign countries.
Pete <[email protected]>
Bethel, CT USA - Sunday, February 04, 2001 at 19:28:49 (EST)

The recent paragraph and picture of the "Short-Wave Monitor" Certificate of Registration in the March 2001, Popular Communications magazine prompted me to take a look at this site and go back through my old files. Sure enough I have the certificate with the assigned registration of VE3PE2OI, dated May, 1968. I also found a number of other certificates in my files from that era. Electronics Illustrated issued certificates for confirmed reception of continents, UN countries, outposts, etc. I have 5 of these. I also found another certificate signed by Hank Bennett. This was the "All-Band Radio Monitor" Certificate of Registration, which gave my station identification of VE3DX1DIJ and is dated 12/4/83. The equipment used at that time was a Hammarlund SP-600 and a Hammarlund HQ-170. Terry Moorby, VE3PE2OI, VE3DIJ
Terry Moorby <[email protected]>
Ottawa, Ontario Canada - Sunday, February 04, 2001 at 15:04:34 (EST)

WPE2QAZ What a blast from the past! I still have the Hallicrafters S-53A that I used back when to earn the PE certificate.
John Bosco <[email protected]>
Farmingdale, NY USA - Saturday, February 03, 2001 at 23:01:22 (EST)

WPE3DVP
Edward j White <[email protected]>
Bear, DE USA - Saturday, February 03, 2001 at 21:01:08 (EST)

Of course, the idea of another publication re-starting the program would be something to be considered. Could WPE3CKR become something such as WPC4CKR? -Paul, AD4IE, WPE3CKR
Paul D. Ponak <[email protected]>
Charlotte, NC USA - Saturday, February 03, 2001 at 10:42:27 (EST)

I was WPE3CKR along with my Hallicrafter's S-108 receiver. I am now AD4IE and couldn't help but notice how many of us went on to become hams. Even had SWL cards to mail out to stations that I heard. -paul
Paul D. Ponak
Charlotte, NC USA - Saturday, February 03, 2001 at 10:37:52 (EST)

HELLO FROM WPE4ESK. RECALL THE DAYS OF POPULAR ELECTRONICS. HAD A PICTURE OF LISTENING POST IN THE SEPTEMBER 1964 ISSUE, AND WAS A REGULAR REPORTER FROM CENTRAL FLORIDA. SPECIALIZED IN KNIGHT EQUIPMENT, HAVE RECENTLY REVITALIZED A FEW UNITS (R-100, R-100A, SPAN MASTER), SO I MIGHT AGAIN BECOME ACTIVE. POPULAR ELECTRONICS HAD QUITE A FOLLOWING, BACK DURING THE 60'S--REMEMBER SUCH TIMES AS 'CAPE COM' ON 15.013+-, AND OTHERS--RADIO SWAN, ETC. STILL ENJOY LIGHTING UP THE 'TUBE' UNITS AND MEASURING AGAINST THE MODERN STUFF. WILL PROBABLY PUT TOGETHER A 'SPECIAL PRESELECTOR' AND GET THE R-100A BACK IN THE DX RUNNING. BEST TO ALL, ROGER BOWMAN/WINTER PARK, FLA.
Roger D. Bowman <[email protected]>
Winter Park, Fl USA - Friday, February 02, 2001 at 21:49:22 (EST)

Wish these were still available, I am 44 and have been into SWL for over 25 years. Would be fun to have such a call sign cert hanging around. Best regrads, Randall
Randall Shreve <[email protected]>
Hooper, UT USA - Friday, February 02, 2001 at 19:56:51 (EST)

I WAS WPE2HHS BACK IN 1962 STILL HAVE MY CERTIFICATE ON THE WALL, THE CALL WAS LATER CHANGED TO WDX2HHS,I WAS USING A NATIONAL NC-60 DURING THAT PERIOD, ALTHOUGTH I DO NOT DABLE IN SWL AS I USE TO I STILL AM FOND OF THE OLD BOAT ANCHORS I STILL HAVE A HAMMARLUND HQ-100 WHICH WAS GIVEN TO ME AND AM VERY FOND OF. DXING WAS I GIFT AND A SKILL IN THOSE DAYS. REALY ENJOYED YOU SITE AND THANKS FOR THE BLAST FROM THE PAST IF BRINGS BACK OLD AND GOOD MEMORYS. THANKS NICK
NICK NICASTRO <[email protected]>
SPOTSWOOD, NEW JERSEY USA - Friday, February 02, 2001 at 02:29:38 (EST)

I got my callsign June 6,1962 WPE0CQX in Wichita,KS, and when I move to Texas I received WPE5DRL Jan. 1964. After Popular electronics drop the program. I got callsign from Hank Bennett, WDX5DRL November 1971. I still have all of my certificates.
Leslie Nice <[email protected]>
Rowlett, TX USA - Thursday, February 01, 2001 at 21:44:14 (EST)

I recieved my WPE certificate sometime in the early 1960's and had forgotten about it until seeing the mention of it in PopCom Magazine for Mar. 2001. Had a Knight Span Master along with a 1940's AM & SW Band table radio for SWLing then. Got on CB in 1964 as 2Q4574 with a Gonset G11 and still have most of the QSL cards from then. AS time went on I had a National NC125, Hammerlund Super Pro. SWLing RTTY using a homebrew W2PAT style T.U. and Teletype model 15 was the incentive to being licensed as KA2BCD in the late 70's and enjoyed that mode for about 10 years using Model 15, 19, 28, and 35 equipment with a Collins S Line and later Kenwood 430 & 440. For me the fun of operating the electro-mechanical Teletype machines was the best. Although I still enjoy radio, it seems to have taken a back seat since I got on the internet with a WebTV Terminal a couple of years ago. Since then it is easier for me to understand how Ham Radio seems to be fading away somewhat especially with todays computer / internet savy youth. With transatlantic phone calls costing about 5 cents a minute that also can make DX Contacts a bit less exciting than they used to be. I still enjoy Radio and a few years ago acquired a Hammerlund HQ 100 in near mint condition in trade for a D104 Mic I hadn't used in years. For me, the analog illuminated Dials make SWLing a bit more real to me. I have found a lot of interesting internet sites such as this that have brought back many of the fond memories of my childhood that have been dormant for years. Popular Electronics & Electronics Illustrated were fun mags then. Remember the Carl & Jerry stories ? Best 73, Bob Schappert 2Q4574 formerly of Armonk NY KA2BCD
Bob Schappert <[email protected]>
USA - Thursday, February 01, 2001 at 04:33:01 (EST)

Ended up with call, K7YD. Spent lots of nights with the "cans" on, listening to static crashes on the ARC5 rcvr. Good to see some of the others coming out of the woodwork. 73 Doug
Doug Dunn <[email protected]>
Livingston, MT USA - Wednesday, January 31, 2001 at 23:33:01 (EST)

Was issued WPE2CLD (with the "cld" hand-written in) when I lived near Endicott, NY, many, many years ago. Re-registered as WPE6FKF after moving to California in late 1963. Still have both certificates somewhere.
John T. Arthur <[email protected]>
Belfast, NY USA - Wednesday, January 31, 2001 at 23:11:33 (EST)

Greetings from WPE2CXG & WPE@CZM! Bob N6OJZ
Bob LaRose <[email protected]>
USA - Wednesday, January 31, 2001 at 23:39:29 (EST)

Yep, 1st it was: WPE1HRB then WN1NMW WA1NMW, then K1BZ. It was a lot of fun, actually I spend more time doing MW and LF now than I do Ham Radio. Back to basics I guess !
Dave Larrabee <[email protected]>
Columbia, MD USA - Wednesday, January 31, 2001 at 16:03:37 (EST)

Got my swl call wpe9efq back in the early sixties. Used a Philmore CR-5ac receiver and folded dipole ant. 73, Lon W9XU
Lon Richoz <[email protected]>
Wind Lake, wi USA - Wednesday, January 31, 2001 at 13:47:21 (EST)

I was WPE8DKN. Somewhere I have a copy of the WPE QSL card that my father printed for me all them many years ago. When I got into ham radio, my first call was WP4DKA. Close, ain't it? 73 Nils
Nils R. Bull Young <[email protected]>
Medway, OH USA - Wednesday, January 31, 2001 at 13:39:21 (EST)

I was WPE1FKZ, and after the program was shifted away from Popular Electronics, I became WDX1DG and finally KDX1A. After it became impossible to reach Hank Bennett, I shifted to CRB Research's KMA1JL. I've been an SWL since January 1963. I am now also amateur radio AA1VX.
Dave Glow <[email protected]>
Townsend, MA USA - Wednesday, January 31, 2001 at 08:45:31 (EST)

Present Callsign: K8FF WPE Callsign: WPE8HE
Wayne Smith <[email protected]>
Aurora, Oh USA - Wednesday, January 31, 2001 at 08:20:51 (EST)

I became WPE4FYX in December of 1962, and WN4MSD in March of 1963. I'm now KF4AR and have met many hams who got their start as WPEs. Thanks for your great web page.
Rick Robinson <[email protected]>
Charlotte, NC USA - Wednesday, January 31, 2001 at 08:57:49 (EST)

WPE1HIC (still have the cert)
Peter Simpson <[email protected]>
Holliston, MA USA - Wednesday, January 31, 2001 at 08:26:54 (EST)

I don't remember my WPE call sign ... wish I did but over many years (and many duty station changes) all of that got lost. However, I remember being very proud with the WPE designation. I remember well the certificate on the wall next to my station license as WA9HNI.
Terry Dettmann <[email protected]>
Kirkland, Wa USA - Wednesday, January 31, 2001 at 01:50:45 (EST)

WPE6FFK and WPE7FCL
Jim Pruitt <[email protected]>
Ellensburg, WA USA - Wednesday, January 31, 2001 at 02:00:08 (EST)

Mine was WPE5FGK, issued in 1970.
Alan Johnson <[email protected]>
Reno, NV USA - Wednesday, January 31, 2001 at 00:55:09 (EST)

I was WPE3BCQ in my home town of Pottstown, PA. I DX'ed with a National NC-60. Amazing how many countries and how many memories are tied in with that radio.
Brian D. Kassel <[email protected]>
Peoria, AZ USA - Tuesday, January 30, 2001 at 23:14:24 (EST)

WPE4AVY
Ray Colbert <[email protected]>
El Paso, Tx USA - Wednesday, January 31, 2001 at 00:10:53 (EST)

Joe P. Morris originaly issued the WR0 calls, and did issue certificates. I run across mine every few years - WR04AQ. Popuar Electronics took over the program and issued the WPE cals. Mine was WPE4AUL. When Popular Electronics dropped the program, their shortwave editor, Hank Bennett, took it over and issued the WDX calls. Dan Ferguson - K4VOA
Dan Ferguson
USA - Tuesday, January 30, 2001 at 22:19:21 (EST)

Was WPE1HWY and later WDX1HWY.
Tom Ziko <[email protected]>
Erie, PA USA - Tuesday, January 30, 2001 at 18:11:53 (EST)

WPE7COH here! Fun stuff...really enjoyed your site. Check out my WPE7COH **WEBSITE** for my latest listen post catches... (forgot that!) http://www.teleport.com/~cqdx/shortwave.htm
John <[email protected]>
Seal Rock, OR USA - Tuesday, January 30, 2001 at 17:11:26 (EST)

WPE7COH here! Fun stuff...really enjoyed your site. Check out my WPE7COH for my latest listen post catches...
John <[email protected]>
Seal Rock, OR USA - Tuesday, January 30, 2001 at 17:10:04 (EST)

I got my certificate (WPE3DCD, if memory serves) more than 37 years ago, in high school, when in the radio club. Just recently got back into radio and picked up a tech plus ticket, but still do a lot more listening than talking!
Harold Smith <[email protected]>
Jessup, MD USA - Tuesday, January 30, 2001 at 08:21:37 (EST)

Was WPEÿFQQ in 1969 or '70. Now am NÿJMY, a BA fan.
Tom Farland <[email protected]>
Fredericksburg, IA USA - Sunday, January 28, 2001 at 23:52:41 (EST)

WPE4DPT! Still have an old log book with the letters plastered on the cover! First entry is R. Canada on 11720 kHz, in Sept of 1961. I was using a National SW-54 at the time, in Miami FL. What a piece of junk, but it had got me started in high school. Some interesting enties in that old log, including KQA387 Cincinnati Police radio on 1706 kHz! That was on a Hammarlund HQ-100. I never got one of those WDX certificates, but I still have my KNC4CG registration. Thanx for the nostalgia trip! -73- Lew
Lew Graves <[email protected]>
Goldsboro, NC USA - Sunday, January 21, 2001 at 23:19:07 (EST)

SWL since 1952. Inactive 1957-1962 while attending Naval Academy and Flight Training in Pensacola. Mostly active since then. Had call sign WPE4EVD.
Bruce Churchill <[email protected]>
Escondido, CA USA - Sunday, January 07, 2001 at 02:34:54 (EST)

SWL since 1952. Inactive 1957-1962 while attending Naval Academy and Flight Training in Pensacola. Mostly active since then.
Bruce Churchill <[email protected]>
Escondido, CA USA - Sunday, January 07, 2001 at 02:34:08 (EST)

Was WPE9JOW...since updated to WDX9ZJ
James Ziegler <[email protected]>
West Allis, WI USA - Monday, January 01, 2001 at 23:54:34 (EST)

Crystal radio at age 9 (1956) led to BCB DX'ing, then on to SWL'ing, then WN4DOU in Oct.1961 and WA4DOU in May 1962. My "PE" call was WPE4CHQ, funny, i haven't thought about that in so long that i didn't even know i'd remember such a thing.
Roy Lincoln <[email protected]>
Elm City, NC USA - Monday, January 01, 2001 at 01:46:15 (EST)

Forgot to mention, first rig was old zenith console followed by an S-38E. Sold the S-38E and got a National NC-88. Replaced the NC-88 with a Hammarlund HQ-100 (good rig) then a HQ-180 (great rig!!) Still have both Hammarlunds. The 180 will still run rings around most new stuff, especially on the mediumwave. I can copy sigs on every kilocycle (,er kiloHertz, sorry) between the US broadcast stations. How about a WPE directory? or let's revive the Great Circle club.. Robb WB8BHU
Robb Leamy <[email protected]>
Granville, OH USA - Friday, December 29, 2000 at 20:38:25 (EST)

I was WPE3OM while living in Erie, PA Great site! Robb WB8BHU
Robb Leamy <[email protected]>
Granville, OH USA - Friday, December 29, 2000 at 20:20:52 (EST)

Still have my original WPE9BOD & later WDX9BOD certificates.
Jerry Heien <[email protected]>
Marengo, IL USA - Thursday, December 28, 2000 at 01:24:01 (EST)

I was WPE4JPB and still have the certificate !!
David Lewis <[email protected]>
Nashville, TN USA - Thursday, December 21, 2000 at 22:08:19 (EST)

Wow - what a blast from the past. I was WPE2NYK. I used a Lafayette HA-230 ( long gone) that I bought with paper route money in Plainfield. Still have a 1938 Magnavox that still works! Got my certificate with 25 country award in 1965. I sent for the 50 countries award but never got it - I guess they stopped by then (date unknown). I think they sent the mail from Cherry Hill (southern) NJ. I dropped out of SWLing in the 60's detoured into electronics and eventually landed in computers. What is really cool is that I just got back into SWLing. Got a ICOM IC-R75 and love it. Radios and computers - I'm in hog heaven! Great stuff to remember cold winter nights listening to foreign broadcasts while waring my hands over the tubes so I could take notes for a QSL. Just got a chill... Rich, WPE2NYK
Rich <[email protected]>
NJ USA - Saturday, December 16, 2000 at 22:12:37 (EST)

WPE9JQN, March 1969
Don Bevis <[email protected]>
Indianapolis, IN USA - Saturday, December 09, 2000 at 14:23:54 (EST)

WPE9GJN, I thought that was the coolest thing. Think I was in 8th grade. Using my first receiver, Hallicrafters S-107 with a different wire antenna every week. Bought the receiver from Allied radio warehouse outlet on Washington Ave in Chicago. The biggest memory I remember about that call was when I went to the local printer to get QSL cards printed. Got there, couldn't remember the call. Guessed at it, Got home, realized I gave the printer the wrong call. Talk about a quick bicycle ride back to the print shop!! Fond memories. Still listening. Mike K8SWL AKA WPE9GJN
Mike Wagner <[email protected]>
Warren, MI USA - Thursday, November 30, 2000 at 14:33:47 (EST)

One of my proudest moments was receiving my WPE9GPI certificate to proudly hang above my Knight Star Roamer and Hallicrafters S-19R. My most paranoid moments were hanging the Radio Havana Cuba banner and QSL card over my operating table in those politically-charged early-60s. Best to all, Bill, KD0HG, ex-WA9OZC, WPE9GPI
Bill
Loveland, CO USA - Friday, November 24, 2000 at 10:32:23 (EST)

Hello all, what a great site! I am WPE9GIZ and do even know if I have my certificate any more. Started SWL'ing in the 60's with a National NC-60, graduated through the years to Drake SW-4A, FRG-7, Kenwood R-2000 and finally an ICOM R-71A. I recently pulled the R-71A out of storage, had it repaired and started SWL'ing again. Love the memories everyone is sharing here. I surely miss those golden years of DX.
John Mosman <[email protected]>
Madison, WI USA - Friday, November 24, 2000 at 08:42:09 (EST)

It must have been in the late 50's when I received my certificate with the call WPE0EH. It's buried around here somewhere, but haven't seen it for years. I was DX-ing with a Hallicrafters S77a in Wheat Ridge,CO. Had several reports published in Popular Electronics. What a kick to run across this site - brings back some great listening memories: Radio Omroep Niuew Guinea, Belgian Congo, 4VEH, ELWA, the Windward Islands. Does anyone remember the Nibi Nibi hoax?
Dick Schreiber <[email protected]>
Buckeye, AZ USA - Saturday, November 18, 2000 at 00:33:03 (EST)

I can remember mine, it was WPE5ENS, had to be back around 1966. I thought I was really lucky to have an old S-20R given to me. Many fond memories.
Jerry Felts <[email protected]>
Box Elder, SD USA - Friday, November 17, 2000 at 02:23:21 (EST)

WPE4JB
Alan Merriman
Chincoteague Island, VA USA - Thursday, November 16, 2000 at 18:18:55 (EST)

At the time of registration with Popular Electronics, I live in The Bronx, NY and was issued WPE2GXL.
Ken Maltz <[email protected]>
Syosset, NY USA - Thursday, November 16, 2000 at 16:24:30 (EST)

I was issued a WPE1DL certificate from Popular Electronics in the late 1950's. I do seem to recall the WRO calls, but I don't remember whether I got one or not. I later received a WDX1DL certificate, dated Oct.1970. I belonged to the NNRC and NRC. I have always been a "listener" only. All of of my old receivers, logs, and verifications, all on BCB, have been long gone. All I have left from the "old" listening days is the WDX1DL certificate. (I think I sent in the WPE certificate to get the WDX certificate, I'm not sure). I had not done any serious radio listening for about 25 years, until this year. I didn't think many people did much DXing anymore. I was quite surprised to find so many websites on the internet related to DXing. I have now started listening again. Smitty Forest L. Smith, Jr. Portland, Maine
Forest L. Smith, Jr. <[email protected]>
Portland, ME USA - Thursday, November 16, 2000 at 13:33:25 (EST)

Joe, It sure was great reliving childhood memories when I was reading the comments from the other holders of WPE certificates. I was issued WPE8JVE back in 1967. I was (and still am) an avid SWL. It all started in Elementary School, in the early-60s. I was crazy about airplanes. My parents would take me to any airshow that was in the Metro Detroit area. Then, I discovered that pilots and controllers communicated on VHF. I then had to have a receiver to hear them. Years later, my parents finally bought me a transistorized VHF Airband receiver for a Christmas present. I quickly learned about "line of sight", because once I was out of the immediate vicinity of the airport, I didn't hear much on the Airband. That's when I discovered the Shortwave band that was also covered by that receiver. Pretty soon, I discovered WWV, SW Broadcast Stations and Ham Radio Operators! Within a couple of years, I built a Heathkit SB-310 (the SWL version of the SB-301), and logged thousands of hours on that rig for years afterwards. I received QSL cards from all over the world during that period; and I proudly signed my WPE "callsign" with every signal report that I sent! I've attached a copy of that certificate with this e-mail. I proudly display it in my shack to this day! Something else that I became enamored with in the 60s was Collins Radio equipment. It was too expensive for a kid to own back then, but I am still making up for that now. My Ham gear is all Collins in the shack, but I still SWL with a R-390A and KWM-380, along with my trusty SB-310. Thanks for the stroll down memory lane! -- 73, Floyd Soo, W8RO, "WPE8JVE" President, HI-RES Communications, Inc. VP, Collins Collectors Association, #2 QRP-L #392 [email protected] http://www.hi-rescom.com
Floyd Soo, W8RO <[email protected]>
Clarkston, MI USA - Thursday, November 16, 2000 at 10:23:39 (EST)

I am WPE8JVE. I still have my original certificate from 1967!
Floyd Soo <[email protected]>
Clarkston, MI USA - Thursday, November 16, 2000 at 00:10:03 (EST)

WPE4IDS issued in about 1967. I got a few of the certificates. My neighbor WPE4FXb? had his QSL card featured in one of the 'communications digest' or something of that similar name.
Bill Meacham <[email protected]>
Vieques, PR USA - Wednesday, November 15, 2000 at 23:47:56 (EST)

WPE1HNS
Craig Seufert <[email protected]>
Meredith, NH USA - Wednesday, November 15, 2000 at 22:57:37 (EST)

Back in Jr. High School, I got WPE1EUV from Popular Electronics. Strange, later on one of my high school friends received WA1EUV as an amateur callsign and I later received WA1EKV. The rest is history.....
Chuck O'Neal - K1KW <[email protected]>
Bolton, MA USA - Wednesday, November 15, 2000 at 22:44:07 (EST)

Was WPE3BOZ as a kid in Maryland. Used and S-38E. Ham call sign is still K3YAZ after 37 years.
Frank Cathell <[email protected]>
Tucson, AZ USA - Wednesday, November 15, 2000 at 22:06:17 (EST)