A group of local amateur radio enthusiasts is gearing up to prove they can keep the lines of communication open even when modern technology fails. The Delta Amateur Radio Club and Nashoba Amateur Radio Club will be demonstrating their skills at Municipal Park on June 28 and 29 during a 24-hour emergency preparedness drill known as Field Day, which, according to Germantown's official announcement, is free and open to the public.
Beginning at 1 p.m. Saturday, the exercise will highlight how amateur radio—a term more colloquial known as ham radio—operates as a reliable communication alternative during emergencies. This year, a boost comes in form of support from the Shelby County Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, deploying an 80-foot antenna tower to beef up operations on the ground.
Community engagement is a key part of Field Day, with the Germantown Fire Department and the City’s Community Library both pitching in. The Fire Department will be on hand to support these communication experts, while the library is set to enrich the experience with seminars and tours around the simulated emergency response area.
Germantown Fire Chief Eric Grizzard underscored the importance of readiness during crises, stating, "Preparedness is a shared responsibility, and events like Field Day help ensure we're ready to respond when communication systems go down," as reported by the city's news release. Alongside, Joe Plunk, president of the Delta Amateur Radio Club, also noted the event's practical benefits: "Field Day is more than just a drill—it’s an opportunity to show how amateur radio can step in when modern systems fail," he told the city's news team.
These ham radio buffs often back up FEMA, the American Red Cross, and other emergency organizations, thanks to their ability to quickly set up independent communication networks. With capabilities extending to connect with smartphones and tablets, operators can share vital information when traditional channels are compromised. Fred Miller, president of the Nashoba Amateur Radio Club, invited the public for a hands-on experience, saying, "Field Day is a hands-on look at how amateur radio volunteers can serve their communities," in statements obtained by the Germantown News.
