The Benicia Amateur Radio Club was founded in 1979 by Dick Gaul (above) and is still going strong today. The club recently participated in the annual nationwide emergency simulation test to help assist local fire and police during a crisis.

BENICIA – The Benicia Amateur Radio Club participated in the annual nationwide emergency simulation test sponsored by the American Radio Relay League to enhance the skills of amateur radio operators who assist local fire and police during a crisis.

Amateurs across the country ran their stations with emergency power to simulate a situation where all power and normal means of communications, such as land telephones, mobile phones, TV, and broadcast radio were knocked out.

Since amateurs, also affectionately known as “ham radio operators” operate independently of these other services, they are vital during wide-scale and quickly developing dangerous events.

Even though their equipment is comprised of some of the most sophisticated digital technology, the test proved that trusted and true Morse code was able to get the simulated emergency messages through when other means could not. Fortunately many hams still learn and practice this skill.

The Benicia Amateur Radio Club was founded in 1979 by Dick Gaul, whose radio station callsign is K2GMY. Several Benicia Volunteer Firemen and civilians joined him then to serve our community. He participated in the nationwide exercise from his station which can be self-sustaining by solar, battery, and generator power when commercial power fails.The club has grown since then into one of the most active groups in northern California, with membership approaching one hundred licensed radio amateurs.

A view of the Benicia Amateur Radio Club’s operating equipment. The club has grown over the years to nearly 100 members.

During their growth they have responded to many emergency scenes, including fires, accidents, search and rescue,and many other activities requiring enhanced radio communications skills. They work with Red Cross and Solano County agencies in crisis situations.They volunteer thousands of hours each year doing this.

You can recognize them by their bright yellow jackets with “RADIO” emblazoned on the back during many civic events, such as the 3rd. of July and Christmas parades; among others.

They have established a highly-operational and sophisticated radio station next to the Emergency Operations Center at the downtown Fire Station  in conjunction with the Benicia Fire Department. They are prepared to staff that station around the clock, for as long as it takes, whenever the Benicia Emergency Operations Center calls them in.

Although this ARRL nationwide test occurs once annually, the Benicia Amateur Radio Club continually trains their members who activate their equipment throughout the year.

The club meets on the second Tuesday evening of the month at the downtown Fire Station at 7:00 P.M. However, during Covid-19, the meetings are being held via teleconferencing.

Anyone who might like to join a meeting or become a licensed amateur radio operator and be assisted in having their own radio station is invited to contact the club at k2gmy@yahoo.com.

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