Ham It Up for 911

On Tuesday September 11, 2007 Amateur Radio Operators in Fort Wayne, Indiana will take the lead in the city's 911 events as Amateur Radio Military Appreciation Day and The Fort Wayne Patriots team-up to sponsor a tribute for the citizens of our area.

The two groups decided to organize the event together after receiving the challenge from The U.S. Defense Department's "America Supports You" division. www.americasupportsyou.org

After a very short notice, about two weeks; the two groups put on a very successful event in 2006 which included local community leaders, and the 3rd Indiana District House Representative Mark Souder.

The event saluted local First Responders as well as those that died during the tragic terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.

Because the event for 2006 turned out very well, even with rain showers, the groups decided to promote FreedomWalk / 911 for 2007.

The 2007 event will be held on 9/11/07 from 5:30 P.M. until 7:30 P.M. There will be guest speakers, music, including a mini concert featuring recording artist Samantha Allen of Texas, local, County, and State Police Officers, officials, and the Fort Wayne Fire department.

The event will kick off with music from DJ Ken Reese of Fort Wayne, and WBYR "The Bear; a local FM Radio station.
We also plan to have a ride-by featuring various patriotic motorcycle Groups.

Amateur Radio Operators will also be on the air running a Special Event Station which will also attempt to contact other 911 Special Event Stations around the country.
For operating information check out www.armad.net and click on the "event info" link.

This event will give Amateur Radio an opportunity to be at the forefront of a community event as Amateur Radio, The Fort Wayne Patriots and Liberty Tax Service of Fort Wayne are the sponsors. Emery Mcclendon, KB9IBW, will EMCEE the program.

Various Amateur Radio operators will also be on the program as speakers letting the people that attend hear topics such as emergency communications, how to become an Amateur Radio Operators, and more.

The event is receiving very good publicity, and news coverage.

Join us on the air as we "Ham It Up" for 911.

Please feel free to contact us during this special time of community service so that we can demonstrate our hobby.

Emery Mcclendon KB9IBW