The Milton Amateur Radio Club had the privilege of participating in ARRL Field Day 2025 – RADIO CONNECTS – with three incredible days of on-air activity, learning, laughter, and community spirit.

 Held at the historic Bagdad Mill Site Park, our Field Day was set against a backdrop of rich local history—where sawmills once thrived in the 1840s at the confluence of Pond Creek and the Blackwater River.

It’s a place that reminds us how much can be built when we come together with purpose and energy—and that’s exactly what our club did.

Friday Setup & Fellowship

We kicked things off on Friday by setting up tents, campers, operating stations, antennas, tables, and shelters.

As the work wrapped up, members gathered for a delicious evening meal prepared by James – K9JHR, setting the tone for the weekend with good food and even better company.

That first night was filled with laughter, late-night conversations, and last-minute radio prep as anticipation built for the official Field Day start.

Welcoming Community, Rain, Shine or Excessive Heat

Despite forecasts threatening rain, and sweltering temperatures Saturday morning began with a steady stream of visitors.

Some brought boxes of donuts, others brought radios and antennas, but everyone brought enthusiasm.

Warm pots of coffee. ice cold water and early morning QSOs made for the perfect Field Day morning.

We were especially thrilled to be visited by Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Deputies—who turned out to be fellow licensed amateur radio operators.

They stayed to enjoy the event and were warmly welcomed by everyone in attendance.

Building on a Strong Foundation

We owe a special thanks to former President Charlie – KN4VGY, whose vision and hard work just a few short years ago began transforming Field Day from a modest gathering into the large, vibrant community event it is today.

What started with just a handful of participants has grown into a celebration of amateur radio that welcomes many dozens of operators, families, and curious newcomers.

Charlie, your love and dedication to this club have laid the foundation we continue to build on.

Successful VE Testing and New Hams

Our VE team, led by Charlie -KN4VGY, along with Hal – WA5HC and Mary – K4AA, did an outstanding job administering exams.

We’re proud to share that Tillous – KW4TRS successfully upgraded from Technician to General, and Thomas, who originally stopped by as a guest, left as a newly licensed Technician!

In recognition, Thomas received a pre-programmed handheld radio donated by our Vice President Houston – K2TAP, and he’ll receive a one-year club membership with his new callsign at our next meeting.

On the Air with W4VIY

As Saturday rolled on, antennas rose and contacts began flowing.

This year, we used a new cloud-based logging system called World Radio League (WRL)—and it performed very well.

Operators were able to log real-time contacts under the club callsign W4VIY (4 Alpha, North Florida), reducing duplicates and streamlining operations throughout the weekend.

Visitors came and went, and our members stepped up to serve as tour guides and Elmers.

Hal – WA5HC (Treasurer), Steve – W4XSP (Secretary), Michael – W9FTR, and Blevin – W4KMZ did a fantastic job introducing new folks to our radios, antennas, and the world of amateur radio.

Of course, James – K9JHR’s mobile ham shack on wheels was once again a favorite attraction.

Special Thanks to James – K9JHR

No summary of Field Day would be complete without a heartfelt thank you to James – K9JHR, whose tireless work meal planning and prepping and preparing makes events like this feel like home. (If your home was 117 degrees – it was a HOT Field Day)

Preparing amazing meals for the entire club and visitors alike, James puts his whole heart into our operation.

His dedication, humility, and incredible work ethic made this year’s Field Day not only functional, but unforgettable.

The meals he prepared—shared around tables full of laughter and stories—transformed this event from just another activation into a true ham radio experience.

James, thank you for being one of the hardest-working members at our events. We see you, we appreciate you, and we are grateful for all that you do.

Youth Leadership and Club Spirit

A special shoutout to Ronin – KR4CQP, who made history as the youngest ever net controller for the Milton Amateur Radio Club—not once, but twice—at just 13 years old!

Ronin balanced his radio duties, assisting his grandfather with cooking and food prep, along with helping others, reading, and even working on his math for the next school year.

Your maturity and dedication are an inspiration to all of us, and we’re proud to have you as a rising leader in our club.

Breaking Down and Looking Ahead

Sunday brought the close of Field Day, along with some well-earned fatigue—and eventually, the rain.

As skies opened and soaked those of us packing up, spirits stayed high. True to form, our team pulled together, broke it all down, and left the park better than we found it.

To every visitor, operator, volunteer, and club member—whether you stopped in for an hour, a meal, or stayed the full weekend—Thank You!!

Field Day is only possible because of the people who make up this amazing community.

Even though he unfortunately couldn’t make it this year, we want to give a very special thanks to Bob – W5CL—affectionately known as the “Grumpy Old Man”—for his many years of dedication and service to the Milton Amateur Radio Club.

Bob has helped keep this club going strong through the years, and we all look forward to seeing him at Hamfest 2025!

Now, with Field Day in the books, we turn our attention to Hamfest 2025.

We hope to see all of you there!

73,
Paul Stefon – K7PCS
President, Milton Amateur Radio Club
www.MiltonARC.org

PHOTO CREDITS: PAUL – K7PCS | MARY – K4AA – James – K9JHR