I was on Palau back in '82 as KC6CO. My mission there
was the chief radio operator on a USCG cutter that
tended the buoys and navigational aids.
Some problems I encountered were lack of parts
availibility, no tall trees, and extremely rough
volcanic rock/soil. I had a big problem getting
a good earth ground inland. The only low band
antenna I could manage was a random length wire
thrown up between the coconut trees. I tossed a
wire into the salt water lagoon for a ground.
Visions of the WWII coast watchers constantly
went through my mind.
Not many QSOs were made this way, but I could not
get permission to put up anything better. I did
have a wonderful visit with Mr. Joe Anson, KC6JA,
who was a retired USCG electronics tech who lived
there. I lost touch with Joe after a few years.
Wonderful diving, boonie stomping, and WWII history.
73 & Best DX
Charlie
WD5BJT
See September 2006 CQ Magazine for a published work.
www.qsl.net/wd5bjt
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