[VHFcontesting] Rovers and the Authorites

[Steve Clifford]

My only interaction with the law happened on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and
Tunnel.  One the bridge police stopped by my operating location and started
his conversation like this:  "I'm not here because you're doing anything
wrong, but I've got to ask... what is all of this?"  I explained and while
talking to him, I heard a station near Winchester Va (over 150 miles away)
calling CQ.  I answered and made the QSO with the cop watching.  His eyes
got big.

"You just talked to a guy near Winchester?  I need you to talk to my
captain.  We can barely talk to the other side of this bridge!"

I gave him my contact information as a courtesy, but knew I wouldn't be
called.  He was really impressed and left me alone.

I've seen a number of other cops, but none have bothered to have a closer
look.  I must appear to belong where ever I am.  LOL..

Steve
K4GUN/R



On Thu, Sep 17, 2009 at 6:46 AM, <pipkin29292 at mypacks.net> wrote:

> Concerning inconspicuous rovers, I can offer some comments from experience.
> I have been "interviewed" by the authorities during every contest I have
> been in so far. It has ranged from city police, county deputies, highway
> patrol, a lady MP and even Naval Intelligence in the Florida Keys. ( an ex
> ham - he took pictures ). If you look at my photo on QRZ you will see there
> is no way to be inconspicuous. I run all bands up to 2304 MHZ. All
> interviews turned out well. I just smiled and responded with respect. I did
> add that this was a national exercise to practice emergency communications
> for situations like after a hurricane. In Florida that seems to get
> immediate appreciation. I always operate safely and off the road, but the
> sheriff's deputy offered the comment that a vest and cones would be a good
> addition, although he had no issue with my operation. Another tip, keep a
> copy of your license in the rover. Showing it to the authorities during the
> interview seems to help give an
>  official standing. Civilians also seem as curious as the authorizes and I
> have frequently found myself in the ham radio ambassador capacity with
> civilians as well. In any case, it's been fun.
>
> 73's Bob AH8M/R
>
>