Field Day is a huge amateur radio event that performs a large scale test of the use of amateur radio as an emergency communications medium, with particular interest in group or team activity as well as in public relations. From its beginning in 1933 as an event to test the field preparedness and emergency communications abilities of the burgeoning amateur radio community, Field Day has evolved into the largest on-the-air amateur radio operation during the year.
Team activities gain several advantages, including the ability to substitute operators by swapping them out in shifts, having back-up support to provide the radio operators with whatever they may need, and the pooling of material resources for the better of the team. It should be noted that in the event of an actual emergency event, all of these things would come into play, as teamwork is extremely important for efficient EOC operations. Teamwork also improves learning, as the more experienced radio operators work with newer, less experienced operators.
The public relations side of Field Day is also very important. Field Day is a public demonstration on what amateur radio is and how it would come into play should an emergency event occur. It is a "show and tell" event in which the entire amateur radio community brings together its resources to show officials in government and various agencies as well as the general public what amateur radio can do. Information and guidance about how anyone can get involved and help out in these areas is also provided.
Field Day is a very fun and exciting activity that has a serious side to it. For more information on Field Day, check out the ARRL Field Day packet. Check out the Photo Gallery from our many years of previous Field Day events to get a feel for the action!
