Ham Radio Operators to Join Nationwide Field Day Event, June 28–29 in Marysville

The Union County Amateur Radio Club (UCARC) invites the public to experience the excitement and importance of ham radio at ARRL Field Day 2025, taking place from 2:00 PM Saturday, June 28, to 2:00 PM Sunday, June 29. The event will be held at:

Keckley Park / Rural Life Center
20965 Bear Swamp Road
Marysville, OH 43040

ARRL Field Day is the largest amateur radio exercise in North America, organized annually since 1933 by the ARRL – The National Association for Amateur Radio. The goal is to demonstrate how amateur radio operators, also known as “hams,” can provide vital communications in times of need—independently of the internet, phone lines, or cell networks.

What to Expect

Visitors will see live demonstrations of long-distance radio communication, including voice, digital, and Morse code modes. There will also be antenna-building displays, interactive stations, and opportunities to learn how amateur radio works—and why it matters.

“This isn’t just a hobby; ham radio is a lifeline when disaster strikes,” said Ed Liddle, UCARC President (Call Sign: KE8ANU). “We can set up a working radio station in minutes, almost anywhere, using just a wire in a tree and a portable power source. In a world that depends heavily on fragile communication infrastructure, amateur radio remains a proven, resilient backup.”

Why It Matters

This year’s Field Day takes on added significance as forecasters predict an active hurricane season. Amateur radio operators often play a critical role during emergencies when traditional communication systems fail. Field Day provides a valuable opportunity for operators to test their equipment, sharpen their skills, and engage the public in learning about this powerful, decentralized network.

In 2024, more than 31,000 hams participated across thousands of locations. With over 750,000 licensed amateur radio operators in the U.S. and an estimated 3 million worldwide, the amateur radio community continues to grow as it embraces new technologies while staying true to its core mission of service.