(formerly WN6FYD, 1960) I was a seasoned CW intercept operator when I decided to get my ham license in 1960. Since 1948 I had spent my career in the Army Security Agency copying code. I was only involved in copying but I had taken a course in sending at Ft.…

(formerly WV6MUY, 1960) As a Novice I built a one-tube 6146 oscillator transmitter from either the handbook or qst, plus separate power supply; the latter was mostly from the radio shop junk box. I also built a mechanical (used a relay) 1-tube cw keyer from probably qst; later a Heathkit…

(formerly KN3MMB, 1960) [Editor’s Note – The story that follows is told by Donald’s brother, Dick Bender, W3SYY; 1952 Novice WN3SYY]   My younger brother KN3MMB, was Donald A. Bender.  He was licensed in 1960 and later upgraded to Technician, dropping the "N" from his call.  He used our father…

(formerly KN1QKQ, 1960) KN1QKQ ShackGetting my Novice license  (KN1QKQ) was no doubt the biggest thrill in my life  ...or so it seemed to a 12 year old. My sister who was already in high school told me her physics teacher could give me the test.  Some how I got enough…

(formerly KN4ZDH, 1960) As a ten year old I became interested in shortwave broadcasts listening to my Uncle's Zenith shortwave receiver.  He had been a radioman in the Army in WW II and loved radio, but was not an Amateur operator.  After a motor scooter accident I sold the scooter,…

(Formerly WV6MRK, 1960) I have always been interested in electronics from the age of 6 and on.  I couldn't wait to visit my older cousin to see him work with a new invention, the transistor.  I also was totally fascinated when my family visited my father's college friend's family whose…

(formerly KN5FNQ, 1960) Novice Roundup Section Award, 1961 (Editor's Note - The Novice Roundup was a yearly contest for Novices sponsored by the American Radio Relay League (ARRL). This was a highly coveted award. Art won Lousiana Section by working 147 stations in 43 sections. Congratulations Art!].