American Legion Post 408 Amateur Radio Club

The American Legion has established the American Legion Post 408 Amateur Radio Club (ALARC) as a unique division that serves as a hub for military veterans who are amateur radio operators. This initiative, authorized by the National Executive Committee during the May 2011 Spring Meetings, provides these hobbyists a platform to utilize their skills in emergency communications when conventional systems fail.

In the United States, there are approximately 700,000 federally licensed amateur radio operators, or "hams." Many of these individuals were trained as technicians or engineers during their military service and now continue to leverage these skills in civilian life, combining personal enjoyment with a commitment to public service.

Our Mission

Our mission at the American Legion Post 408 Amateur Radio Club (ALARC) is to enhance community resilience and safety through dedicated amateur radio operations. Operating under the call sign K0AML, our club is committed to providing critical support during emergencies and severe weather conditions by coordinating closely with R.A.C.E.S (Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service).

We are devoted to:

• Emergency Communication: Ensuring reliable communication during emergencies by maintaining operational capabilities even during power outages, thanks to our facility's generator.
• Storm Spotting: Actively participating in the SKYWARN program to provide timely and accurate storm spotting information to R.A.C.E.S., aiding in effective local response efforts.
• Community Support and Shelter: Serving as an emergency meet-up and gathering point offering shelter and distributing supplies to the community in times of need.
• Inclusivity and Engagement: Offering free membership to all amateur radio licenced members of the American Legion family, fostering inclusivity and enabling our members to enhance their amateur radio skills through regular engagement with our station during special events and visits.

Through these activities, ALARC not only enhances the amateur radio experience for its members but also plays a pivotal role in serving and protecting the broader community. Our commitment to community service and emergency preparedness is the cornerstone of our operations, as we strive to be a reliable resource in times of need.

History

January 2005

A pivotal partnership was established when the Legion signed an agreement with the Department of Homeland Security to support emergency disaster preparedness. This collaboration led to the creation of the Disaster Preparedness Booklet, prominently featuring amateur-radio support. This initiative showcased the crucial role of ALARC in disaster response efforts.

February 13, 2011

Brandon Trube (KDØHTI) founded the American Legion Post 408 Amateur Radio Club (ALARC408), with key contributions from Deryk Ramsey (KDØDNU), Charles Winslow (KDØKCL), James Bise (KDØGJY), Aldin Bise (KDØIJJ), TJ Bise (KDØIJK), Michael Paquette (KBØEFQ), Richard Klinge (ACØTT), Marvin Coulter (KS1MBC), and Larry Macionski (W8LM).

At the founding meeting, James Bise nominated Brandon Trube for president, with Richard Klinge seconding the nomination. Brandon accepted the nomination, and following a unanimous vote, he was elected president. James Bise was elected Vice-President, and Marvin Coulter as Secretary.

The club initially operated for just over a year but had to shut down due to a limited operating area, insufficient space for equipment and power, and dwindling interest.

May 2024

With the completion of the new location for Post 408, ALARC 408 was reformed, featuring a dedicated operating space and updated equipment. Founding members Brandon and James were approached to restart ALARC408, revitalizing the club's activities and mission.