While in Brunswick the last few days, I was able to monitor some of the USS Truman CSG activity from both the Brunswick and St. Mary's areas using the mobile Monitoring Post. While there is much more activity out of the Strike Group than what I list below (i.e. Pinecastle Range), what I could hear was the activity immediately around Jacksonville: the "Headless Stack" and "Casey Stack." F/A-18s from the Truman were working those areas for Close Air Support and Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance related missions.
Frequencies
351.800 - Jacksonville Approach/Departure
307.250 - Jacksonville ARTCC St. Augustine
267.500 - SEALORD South Primary
328.425 - USS Truman Marshal
314.500 - USS Truman, "Casey Stack" frequency?
342.250 - USS Truman, "Headless Stack"
Callsigns
CANYON - F/A-18E (VFA-105)
CHECK - F/A-18A+ (VMFA-312)
GYPSY - F/A-18F (VFA-32)
RAGIN - F/A-18C (VFA-37)
ADVANCE - JTAC
HARDROCK - JTAC
SPARTAN - JTAC
Mac McCormick III, KF4LMT
31 January 2010
29 January 2010
USS Harry Truman (CVN-75) Carrier Strike Group
Location: Brunswick
The USS Truman CSG is currently operating off of the Florida Coast for training. I'll post more along with frequencies as soon as I get the chance.
Mac McCormick III
KF4LMT
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
27 January 2010
Winter Field Day
Hello fellow HAMs,
All Savannah area amateur radio operators are invited to participate in an outing that we are having in conjunction with the Winter Field Day. Here is a link to the outfit that is sponsoring the Field Day nationally.
http://www.spar-hams.org/contests/winterfd/index.php?pg=2.
We have reserved the pavillion at the Lott's Island Recreation Area on Hunter Army Airfield for all day Saturday, Jan 30th. Folks will begin arrivng to set up as early as 0830 or 0900. Bring a radio, a power source, and an antenna, or just bring yourself and get on the air! You will need to get a vehicle pass at the Stephenson or Montgomery St. gate before you can enter the recreation area via the Rio Gate. You'll need your drivers license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. Tell the guard that you are going to the amateur radio outing at Lott's Island. Here is some info on Lott's Island Rec Center.
http://www.militarycampgrounds.us/component/content/article/49-georgia/94-lotts-island-army-airfield-rv-park
Guy McDonald, K4GTM
ARES Emergency Coordinator Chatham County GA
www.k4gtm.blogspot.com/
All Savannah area amateur radio operators are invited to participate in an outing that we are having in conjunction with the Winter Field Day. Here is a link to the outfit that is sponsoring the Field Day nationally.
http://www.spar-hams.org/contests/winterfd/index.php?pg=2.
We have reserved the pavillion at the Lott's Island Recreation Area on Hunter Army Airfield for all day Saturday, Jan 30th. Folks will begin arrivng to set up as early as 0830 or 0900. Bring a radio, a power source, and an antenna, or just bring yourself and get on the air! You will need to get a vehicle pass at the Stephenson or Montgomery St. gate before you can enter the recreation area via the Rio Gate. You'll need your drivers license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. Tell the guard that you are going to the amateur radio outing at Lott's Island. Here is some info on Lott's Island Rec Center.
http://www.militarycampgrounds.us/component/content/article/49-georgia/94-lotts-island-army-airfield-rv-park
Guy McDonald, K4GTM
ARES Emergency Coordinator Chatham County GA
www.k4gtm.blogspot.com/
20 January 2010
More USCG Activity is Being Heard on UHF
Chris Parris' Monitoring Times Fedcom Blog reports more USCG activity in the 405-420 MHz band. 413.000 has been logged active as "CG 410" here in Savannah; now 412.975 has been logged active as "CG 409" in San Francisco. Additionally, 416.550 has also been heard in California but no designator has been ascertained. He also indicates that these UHF frequencies are part of the USCG SCRU (Short Range Communications Upgrade system). For more info on what is being heard, check out the MT Fedcom Blog at the link above.
As I've mentioned several times before, it is time to start searching for new USCG frequencies; their communications are in a state of change. One of the fun things about the radio hobby is searching down new communications systems!
Mac McCormick III, KF4LMT
As I've mentioned several times before, it is time to start searching for new USCG frequencies; their communications are in a state of change. One of the fun things about the radio hobby is searching down new communications systems!
Mac McCormick III, KF4LMT
17 January 2010
Robins AFB TRS
On 14 January, I took a trip to the Museum of Aviation in Warner Robins with my friends Dan, KF4MND and Guy, K4GTM. It had been awhile (apparently since 2007 as near as I can tell) since I had been to the museum and they have had some changes for the good since that last visit. They have built a built a third hangar and have been able to move even more aircraft inside out of the elements. A Thunderbirds F-16 and an MH-53J Pave Low have been added to their inventory. A neat feature has been added to the second hangar - a second level houses the Georgia Aviation Hall of Fame and allows you to look down upon the SR-71 and U-2 and level with the MH-53J! A great museum just continues to get better; if you've never been there plan a trip - you'll enjoy it.
While there at the museum, I took the opportunity to monitor the Robins AFB TRS. Since my last visit, the system has become mixed mode; they are now incorporating P25 digital talkgroups. The digital talkgroups were in the 4#### range and appear to be used by the 116th Air Control Wing. All of their previously heard 8### talkgroups were silent. With the demise of the 19th ARG, their talkgroups in the 16### range were also silent. I have combined this trip with previous monitoring of the system to form this list:
406.3625, 406.7625, 407.1625, 407.3625, 407.9625, 408.1625, 408.7625, 409.1625, 409.5625
TG 2544
TG 2576
TG 2960
TG 3248 - ALC, ROGUE CONTROL
TG 3344 - ALC?
TG 3376 - ALC
TG 3408 - ALC?
TG 3472 - ALC
TG 3504 - ALC
TG 3536 - ALC
TG 3568 - ALC
TG 3600 - ALC
TG 3632 - ALC
TG 3696 - ALC
TG 3760 - ALC
TG 3792 - ALC
TG 3856 - ALC
TG 3888 - ALC
TG 4912 - Tower/Ground Control
TG 4944 - Crash/Fire
TG 6448 - Security Control
TG 6480 - Police Control
TG 11280
TG 13648
TG 13680
TG 13712
TG 40048 - 116 ACW (P25)
TG 40528 - 116 ACW (P25)
TG 40784 - 116 ACW (P25)
While there at the museum, I took the opportunity to monitor the Robins AFB TRS. Since my last visit, the system has become mixed mode; they are now incorporating P25 digital talkgroups. The digital talkgroups were in the 4#### range and appear to be used by the 116th Air Control Wing. All of their previously heard 8### talkgroups were silent. With the demise of the 19th ARG, their talkgroups in the 16### range were also silent. I have combined this trip with previous monitoring of the system to form this list:
406.3625, 406.7625, 407.1625, 407.3625, 407.9625, 408.1625, 408.7625, 409.1625, 409.5625
TG 2544
TG 2576
TG 2960
TG 3248 - ALC, ROGUE CONTROL
TG 3344 - ALC?
TG 3376 - ALC
TG 3408 - ALC?
TG 3472 - ALC
TG 3504 - ALC
TG 3536 - ALC
TG 3568 - ALC
TG 3600 - ALC
TG 3632 - ALC
TG 3696 - ALC
TG 3760 - ALC
TG 3792 - ALC
TG 3856 - ALC
TG 3888 - ALC
TG 4912 - Tower/Ground Control
TG 4944 - Crash/Fire
TG 6448 - Security Control
TG 6480 - Police Control
TG 11280
TG 13648
TG 13680
TG 13712
TG 40048 - 116 ACW (P25)
TG 40528 - 116 ACW (P25)
TG 40784 - 116 ACW (P25)
15 January 2010
Hawks Return From Japan
I have not heard the HAWKs return, but I look forward to hearing them back in the air and training in the Coastal Georgia area soon. They work Townsend Range frequently and that is something I should be able to hear pretty easily from Brunswick. - Mac
After six months of deployment, approximately 190 Marines and two corpsman with Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 533, also known as the Hawks, returned to the Air Station, Tuesday from Iwakuni, Japan.
The Hawks conducted a Western Pacific deployment to Iwakuni and provided 1st Marine Aircraft Wing with additional operational capability, including flight support and disaster relief.
"The Hawks provided 1st MAW with additional assets to conduct inter-service operation in order to exercise systems as well as provide valuable experience for all aircrew and maintainers," explained Capt. Matt Humphries, a weapons systems officer with VMFA(AW) – 533.
The Hawks worked with numerous units from the Marine Corps, the Air Force, Japanese Air Self Defense Force and the Philippine Air Force.
During the deployment, the Hawks pilots were able to successfully train with various types of F/A-18 Hornets, train in Dissimilar Air Combat Training with Mitsubishi F-2's and F-15 Eagle's from the JASDF and provided real-time imagery and reconnaissance in support of humanitarian and disaster relief operations in the Philippines as a result of Super Typhoon Ketsana.
"We were able to send individual Marines to work with the Army and Air Force in South Korea and Japan as part of annual bi-lateral exercises," Humphries said.
While the Marines were deployed, their spouses were able to participate in various activities such as movie night, bowling night and a yellow ribbon cruise to pass time with others who are experiencing the same thing, explained Jennifer Scherr, the VMFA(AW) – 533 family readiness officer.
"Although deployments can be demanding on families, the support of other spouses helps us know that we're not going through this alone," said Maura Quinn, spouse of a Fightertown Marine. "When you're having a rough time during a deployment, it's nice to know that others are going through the same thing and are there for you."
Spouses will continue to have support for each other and gatherings during future deployments, according to Sherr.
"As a whole, the deployment was extremely successful, with all of the Marines gaining valuable experience in all aspects of aviation and maintenance," Humphries said. "We hope to take all that we have learned and translate it into an even greater success in the United States."
The Hawks will continue training for their upcoming deployment, scheduled for early 2011.
Story by Lance Cpl. Courtney White
Date: 01.14.2010After six months of deployment, approximately 190 Marines and two corpsman with Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 533, also known as the Hawks, returned to the Air Station, Tuesday from Iwakuni, Japan.
The Hawks conducted a Western Pacific deployment to Iwakuni and provided 1st Marine Aircraft Wing with additional operational capability, including flight support and disaster relief.
"The Hawks provided 1st MAW with additional assets to conduct inter-service operation in order to exercise systems as well as provide valuable experience for all aircrew and maintainers," explained Capt. Matt Humphries, a weapons systems officer with VMFA(AW) – 533.
The Hawks worked with numerous units from the Marine Corps, the Air Force, Japanese Air Self Defense Force and the Philippine Air Force.
During the deployment, the Hawks pilots were able to successfully train with various types of F/A-18 Hornets, train in Dissimilar Air Combat Training with Mitsubishi F-2's and F-15 Eagle's from the JASDF and provided real-time imagery and reconnaissance in support of humanitarian and disaster relief operations in the Philippines as a result of Super Typhoon Ketsana.
"We were able to send individual Marines to work with the Army and Air Force in South Korea and Japan as part of annual bi-lateral exercises," Humphries said.
While the Marines were deployed, their spouses were able to participate in various activities such as movie night, bowling night and a yellow ribbon cruise to pass time with others who are experiencing the same thing, explained Jennifer Scherr, the VMFA(AW) – 533 family readiness officer.
"Although deployments can be demanding on families, the support of other spouses helps us know that we're not going through this alone," said Maura Quinn, spouse of a Fightertown Marine. "When you're having a rough time during a deployment, it's nice to know that others are going through the same thing and are there for you."
Spouses will continue to have support for each other and gatherings during future deployments, according to Sherr.
"As a whole, the deployment was extremely successful, with all of the Marines gaining valuable experience in all aspects of aviation and maintenance," Humphries said. "We hope to take all that we have learned and translate it into an even greater success in the United States."
The Hawks will continue training for their upcoming deployment, scheduled for early 2011.
14 January 2010
Haiti Earthquake Relief Communications
On Wednesday, I devoted the majority of my radio monitoring time to the Haitian Earthquake. While friends of mine were monitoring the Amateur Radio nets associated with relief operations, I decided to monitor USCG relief operations. I concentrated on the COTHEN ALE Net, listening to HH-60s doing medevacs and HC-130s doing evacuations and medevacs from the Port Au Prince Airport. HH-60s using the callsigns ##C and J## and HC-130s using the callsigns 15## and 17## were working through ground stations CAMSLANT (Communications Master Station Atlantic), PANTHER (Operation Bahamas and Turks), and USCG District 7 Miami Ops (via phone patch through SERVICE CENTER). Most of the activity I heard was on the following frequencies:
5.732 USB
7.527 USB
8.912 USB
10.242 USB
11.494 USB
15.867 USB
As far as Amateur Radio Nets are concerned, there are IARU nets in operation on 7.045 LSB and 3.720 LSB. Amateur Radio Operators are asked to monitor these nets, but make sure they are kept clear for essential traffic. SATERN (Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network) also has nets active on 14.265 USB, 7265 LSB, and 3977.7 LSB. There are also some Echolink VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) nets in operation. In the Savannah area, these can be monitored on the 146.700 and 442.700 repeaters when Jerry, W4SGA and Dan, KF4MND have their echolink nodes connected to the repeaters.
Local VHF/UHF monitoring has indicated multiple large helicopters such as US Navy CH-53s moving southbound and airlift assets departing Charleston AFB for Haiti. Hunter AAF has been used for refueling stops for CH-53s in the past; you may be able to hear them come and go on 124.975/279.575 with communications also possible on Base Ops, 126.200. Aircraft departing Charleston AFB for Haiti can be heard on 134.100/349.400.
Please Pray for the People of Haiti and for the Military Personnel, Government Employees, and NGO workers that are trying to help them.
Mac McCormick III, KF4LMT
5.732 USB
7.527 USB
8.912 USB
10.242 USB
11.494 USB
15.867 USB
As far as Amateur Radio Nets are concerned, there are IARU nets in operation on 7.045 LSB and 3.720 LSB. Amateur Radio Operators are asked to monitor these nets, but make sure they are kept clear for essential traffic. SATERN (Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network) also has nets active on 14.265 USB, 7265 LSB, and 3977.7 LSB. There are also some Echolink VOIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) nets in operation. In the Savannah area, these can be monitored on the 146.700 and 442.700 repeaters when Jerry, W4SGA and Dan, KF4MND have their echolink nodes connected to the repeaters.
Local VHF/UHF monitoring has indicated multiple large helicopters such as US Navy CH-53s moving southbound and airlift assets departing Charleston AFB for Haiti. Hunter AAF has been used for refueling stops for CH-53s in the past; you may be able to hear them come and go on 124.975/279.575 with communications also possible on Base Ops, 126.200. Aircraft departing Charleston AFB for Haiti can be heard on 134.100/349.400.
Please Pray for the People of Haiti and for the Military Personnel, Government Employees, and NGO workers that are trying to help them.
Mac McCormick III, KF4LMT
11 January 2010
Joint basing at Charleston moves forward with activation of 628th ABW
by Staff Sgt. Daniel Bowles
628th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
1/11/2010 - CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. (AFNS) -- Eighteenth Air Force officials activated the 628th Air Base Wing during an assumption-of-command ceremony Jan. 8 at Charleston AFB.
The activation of the 628th ABW is the latest step toward the stand up of Joint Base Charleston Jan. 31.
The joint base stand up in late January will begin the next phase in an ongoing process to merge Charleston AFB with Naval Weapons Station Charleston as a result of the Base Realignment and Closure Program.
A total of 12 joint bases across the Department of Defense will have been established when the last one stands up.
The activation ceremony for the 628th ABW was accompanied by the inactivation of two groups under the 437th Airlift Wing, the prior host unit, and their immediate activation as the new 628th Mission Support and 628th Medical Groups under the 628 ABW.
The 437th Airlift Wing had served as the base's host unit since 1991.
Aside from the inactivation of the two groups previously under the 437th AW, the 437th Aerial Port Squadron was realigned under the 437th Maintenance Group. Also, many wing staff agencies previously assigned to the 437th AW will now operate under the 628th ABW.
The organizational structure of other the tenant units on Charleston AFB will remain unchanged.
The leaders of the 437th AW will continue their mission to command assigned airlift and supporting units, providing for the airlift of troops and passengers, military equipment, cargo and aeromedical airlift; and to participate in operations involving the airdrop of troops, equipment and supplies when required.
As the general officer officiating the activation ceremony for the 628th ABW, Lt. Gen. Robert Allardice, 18th Air Force commander, formally introduced Col. Martha Meeker, the first commander of the 628th ABW, citing the depth of her intellect, warrior spirit and capacity for leadership.
"For the complexities of this great merger that we have, pulling together the best of what the Navy has to offer and the best of what the Air Force has to offer, we in the Air Force chose one of our great leaders, Col. Martha Meeker, to come down to Charleston ... so that this great day today, she could take command of the now-established 628th ABW," he said.
As the 628th ABW commander, Colonel Meeker will direct host unit duties for the tenant units of Charleston AFB, and after Jan. 31, for Naval Weapons Station Charleston tenant units as well, as they are merged into Joint Base Charleston.
With the activation of two groups under the 628th ABW, the air base wing's primary duties will be to provide base support for approximately 80,000 personnel, including active-duty and Reserve military members, civilian government employees and contractors, military family members and retirees.
Services provided by the 628th ABW will include base support provisions, such as housing and facilities maintenance, security, childcare, public works, communications, finance, logistics, medical support, personnel, public affairs, legal, food service, contracts and recreation.
The servicing agencies under the wing will employ approximately 2,100 personnel.
In her first public address as 628th ABW commander, Colonel Meeker spoke about heritage, continued commitment and hard work.
"On this day in 1790, George Washington gave the nation's first State of the Union address. A fledging institution itself, the United States had fought hard for its freedom, and President Washington began his remarks by reaffirming his belief in the common defense that made that freedom happen. For as in his words, preparing for war is the most effectual means to preserving the peace," said Colonel Meeker.
"When we look at his words today, all our Airmen, our Sailors, our Soldiers and Marines, and everyone here who makes up Joint Team Charleston, are taking their place today in our common defense. At the center of that Joint Team Charleston, you'll find now the 628th (ABW)," she said.
General Allardice also remarked on the impact the Charleston military community has had, which dates back to the Revolutionary War, and its current role in supporting military and humanitarian operations anywhere in the world.
Joint Base Charleston, he said, will continue that impact with greater efficiency.
"Nothing happens in the world without Charleston from a military perspective," he said. "This is a national treasure here at Charleston ... I know you are focused on preserving that, on building that and on establishing more and more of this great power projection platform that you represent here at Charleston."
628th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
1/11/2010 - CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. (AFNS) -- Eighteenth Air Force officials activated the 628th Air Base Wing during an assumption-of-command ceremony Jan. 8 at Charleston AFB.
The activation of the 628th ABW is the latest step toward the stand up of Joint Base Charleston Jan. 31.
The joint base stand up in late January will begin the next phase in an ongoing process to merge Charleston AFB with Naval Weapons Station Charleston as a result of the Base Realignment and Closure Program.
A total of 12 joint bases across the Department of Defense will have been established when the last one stands up.
The activation ceremony for the 628th ABW was accompanied by the inactivation of two groups under the 437th Airlift Wing, the prior host unit, and their immediate activation as the new 628th Mission Support and 628th Medical Groups under the 628 ABW.
The 437th Airlift Wing had served as the base's host unit since 1991.
Aside from the inactivation of the two groups previously under the 437th AW, the 437th Aerial Port Squadron was realigned under the 437th Maintenance Group. Also, many wing staff agencies previously assigned to the 437th AW will now operate under the 628th ABW.
The organizational structure of other the tenant units on Charleston AFB will remain unchanged.
The leaders of the 437th AW will continue their mission to command assigned airlift and supporting units, providing for the airlift of troops and passengers, military equipment, cargo and aeromedical airlift; and to participate in operations involving the airdrop of troops, equipment and supplies when required.
As the general officer officiating the activation ceremony for the 628th ABW, Lt. Gen. Robert Allardice, 18th Air Force commander, formally introduced Col. Martha Meeker, the first commander of the 628th ABW, citing the depth of her intellect, warrior spirit and capacity for leadership.
"For the complexities of this great merger that we have, pulling together the best of what the Navy has to offer and the best of what the Air Force has to offer, we in the Air Force chose one of our great leaders, Col. Martha Meeker, to come down to Charleston ... so that this great day today, she could take command of the now-established 628th ABW," he said.
As the 628th ABW commander, Colonel Meeker will direct host unit duties for the tenant units of Charleston AFB, and after Jan. 31, for Naval Weapons Station Charleston tenant units as well, as they are merged into Joint Base Charleston.
With the activation of two groups under the 628th ABW, the air base wing's primary duties will be to provide base support for approximately 80,000 personnel, including active-duty and Reserve military members, civilian government employees and contractors, military family members and retirees.
Services provided by the 628th ABW will include base support provisions, such as housing and facilities maintenance, security, childcare, public works, communications, finance, logistics, medical support, personnel, public affairs, legal, food service, contracts and recreation.
The servicing agencies under the wing will employ approximately 2,100 personnel.
In her first public address as 628th ABW commander, Colonel Meeker spoke about heritage, continued commitment and hard work.
"On this day in 1790, George Washington gave the nation's first State of the Union address. A fledging institution itself, the United States had fought hard for its freedom, and President Washington began his remarks by reaffirming his belief in the common defense that made that freedom happen. For as in his words, preparing for war is the most effectual means to preserving the peace," said Colonel Meeker.
"When we look at his words today, all our Airmen, our Sailors, our Soldiers and Marines, and everyone here who makes up Joint Team Charleston, are taking their place today in our common defense. At the center of that Joint Team Charleston, you'll find now the 628th (ABW)," she said.
General Allardice also remarked on the impact the Charleston military community has had, which dates back to the Revolutionary War, and its current role in supporting military and humanitarian operations anywhere in the world.
Joint Base Charleston, he said, will continue that impact with greater efficiency.
"Nothing happens in the world without Charleston from a military perspective," he said. "This is a national treasure here at Charleston ... I know you are focused on preserving that, on building that and on establishing more and more of this great power projection platform that you represent here at Charleston."
Glynn County FD Agency Overview
The Glynn County Fire Department provides fire, rescue, and emergency medical services for the unincorporated areas of Glynn County, St. Simons Island, and the two airports in Glynn County: the Glynco Jetport and Malcolm McKinnon airport. They have a very good website at www.glynncountyfiredept.org that has a further description of the department and their services. Judging by their website, the department is also scanner friendly; they list the frequencies for the Glynn County TRS and the conventional VHF repeater that simulcasts their traffic. It is important for those that don't monitor Glynn County frequently that Glynn County FD uses Squad in a different fashion than many areas; in Glynn County a Squad is an EMS unit (ambulance).
The Glynn County Fire Department is organized into 8 fire stations with at least two unit riding out of each station. For the most part, unit numbering is based off of the station they are based out of. Supervisors and other units such as inspectors use 5#, 6#, and 7# unit numbers. The Fire Chief is Car 57 and the Deputy Chief is Car 59. Each Platoon (1st, 2nd, and 3rd) has a Deputy Chief whose unit numbers are Cars 52, 51, and 53 respectively. Other supervisors are the Captain of Prevention, Car 58; the Captain of Rescue, Car 64; and the Captain of Training, Car 66. The two inspectors are Cars 68 and 78.
They are dispatched by Glynn County 911 but they also work with Fire Control, which is a departmental station that provides information on hydrant locations, makes changes to responses, and coordinates departmental activity. Although they have multiple talkgroup assignments on the Glynn County TRS, most all of their communications are on the F-1 talkgroup; for some unit-to-unit communications they will switch to the F-2 talkgroup. So far, I've not heard them move off of F-1 for fireground communications. As mentioned previously, the F-1 talkgroup is also simulcast on the 154.385 Glynn County FD repeater.
Station 1 (Headquarters) - 4310 Community Rd, Brunswick
Deputy Chiefs, Car 51, 52, 53
Engines 1 and 11
Ladder Tower 1
Rescue 1
Tanker 1
Squad 1
Haz Mat 1
Support Unit 109
Station 2 - 1929 Demere Rd, St. Simons (Near Malcolm McKinnon)
Engine 2
Rescue 2
Squad 2
Support Unit 107
Station 3 - 127 Grants Ferry Rd, Brunswick
Engine 3
Squad 3
Station 4 - 3581 Frederica Rd, St. Simons
Engine 4
Ladder 4
Squad 4
Engine 32
Station 5 - 500 Connole St, Brunswick (Glynco Jetport)
Engine 5
Crash Fire Rescue 5
Crash Fire Rescue 12
Station 6 - 3320 Hwy 17 South, Brunswick
Engine 6
Squad 6
Station 7 - 2911 Lawrence Rd, St. Simons
Engine 7
Tanker 7
Station8 - Public Safety Blvd
Engine 8
Squad 8
Tactical Support 65
Investigation Unit A1
Reserve Units
Engine 9
Engine 10
Engine 12
Snorkel 21
Ambulance
Sources:
Glynn County FD Website
http://www.glynncountyfiredept.org
Personal Monitoring Experience
Mac McCormick III, KF4LMT
The Glynn County Fire Department is organized into 8 fire stations with at least two unit riding out of each station. For the most part, unit numbering is based off of the station they are based out of. Supervisors and other units such as inspectors use 5#, 6#, and 7# unit numbers. The Fire Chief is Car 57 and the Deputy Chief is Car 59. Each Platoon (1st, 2nd, and 3rd) has a Deputy Chief whose unit numbers are Cars 52, 51, and 53 respectively. Other supervisors are the Captain of Prevention, Car 58; the Captain of Rescue, Car 64; and the Captain of Training, Car 66. The two inspectors are Cars 68 and 78.
They are dispatched by Glynn County 911 but they also work with Fire Control, which is a departmental station that provides information on hydrant locations, makes changes to responses, and coordinates departmental activity. Although they have multiple talkgroup assignments on the Glynn County TRS, most all of their communications are on the F-1 talkgroup; for some unit-to-unit communications they will switch to the F-2 talkgroup. So far, I've not heard them move off of F-1 for fireground communications. As mentioned previously, the F-1 talkgroup is also simulcast on the 154.385 Glynn County FD repeater.
Station 1 (Headquarters) - 4310 Community Rd, Brunswick
Deputy Chiefs, Car 51, 52, 53
Engines 1 and 11
Ladder Tower 1
Rescue 1
Tanker 1
Squad 1
Haz Mat 1
Support Unit 109
Station 2 - 1929 Demere Rd, St. Simons (Near Malcolm McKinnon)
Engine 2
Rescue 2
Squad 2
Support Unit 107
Station 3 - 127 Grants Ferry Rd, Brunswick
Engine 3
Squad 3
Station 4 - 3581 Frederica Rd, St. Simons
Engine 4
Ladder 4
Squad 4
Engine 32
Station 5 - 500 Connole St, Brunswick (Glynco Jetport)
Engine 5
Crash Fire Rescue 5
Crash Fire Rescue 12
Station 6 - 3320 Hwy 17 South, Brunswick
Engine 6
Squad 6
Station 7 - 2911 Lawrence Rd, St. Simons
Engine 7
Tanker 7
Station8 - Public Safety Blvd
Engine 8
Squad 8
Tactical Support 65
Investigation Unit A1
Reserve Units
Engine 9
Engine 10
Engine 12
Snorkel 21
Ambulance
Sources:
Glynn County FD Website
http://www.glynncountyfiredept.org
Personal Monitoring Experience
Mac McCormick III, KF4LMT
Military Monitoring Recap; December 2009
Hunter AAF
124.975 - Tower
279.575 - Tower
285.425 - Tower
121.800 - Ground
291.675 - Ground
126.200 - Base Ops
309.000 - PMSV
406.1625 - Tower/Base Ops
406.7625 - POL
415.1625 - Trans Alert
77.725 - 224 MI Bn "SUNNY OPS"
345.000 - USCG Air Station Savanah Ops
157.175 - Marine VHF Ch. 83, Savannah Air MX Control
323.125 - Hunter AAF ATIS
127.525 - Hunter AAF ATIS (New)
ARMY 35359 (AH-64D, 1-3 AVN)
ARMY 26286 (MH-60L, 3-160 SOAR)
ARMY 26417 (MH-60L, 3-160 SOAR)
ARMY 26961 (MH-60L, 3-160 SOAR)
ARMY 03751 (MH-47G, 3-160 SOAR)
ARMY 03752 (MH-47G, 3-160 SOAR)
SUNNY ## (RC-12N, 224 MI Bn)
TESTHAWK ## (H-60, OLR)
TESTHOOK ## (H-47, OLR)
COAST GUARD 6510 (MH-65C, Savannah)
COAST GUARD 6542 (MH-65C, Savannah)
COAST GUARD 6545 (MH-65C, Savannah)
COAST GUARD 6565 (MH-65C, Savannah)
COAST GUARD 6604 (MH-65C, Savannah)
ADDIS(ATTIS?) (E-6, visual ID)
BLUE 62 (C-17, Charleston, visual ID)
BOXCAR 10 (C-130)
NAVY AJ 702 (H-60, HS-3)
PEACH 35 (E-8C, 330 CTS)
PEACH 67 (E-8C, 16 ACCS)
PIKE 25 (E-6)
SCEPTER 15 (HC-130, 71st RQS)
SCEPTER 17 (HC-130, 71st RQS)
SUNNY 483 (C-12, MCAS Cherry Point)
TEAL 56 (WC-130, 53rd WRS)
YANKEE 62 (KC-130, VMGR-452)
Savannah IAP/CRTC
119.100 - Tower
257.800 - Tower
121.900 - Ground
348.600 - Ground
120.400 - Approach/Departure
353.775 - Approach/Departure
125.300 - Approach/Departure
371.875 - Approach/Departure
118.400 - Approach/Departure
307.225 - Approach/Departure
225.750 - 165th AW CP
DAWG ## (C-130H, 165th AW)
ARMY 50501 (C-12)
TEAL 56 (WC-130, 53rd WRS)
EAGLE 1 (MD-500, Chatham County)
GULF TEST ## (Gulfstream Test)
Fort Stewart/Wright AAF
127.350 - Marne Radio
279.626 - Marne Radio
126.250 - Wright AAF Tower
269.275 - Wright AAF Tower
GUARD 26415 (UH-60, SC ARNG?)
MCAS Beaufort
328.425 - Approach/Departure
292.125 - Approach/Departure
281.800 - Base Ops
264.500 - PMSV
253.100 - VMFA-122 Base
283.400 - VMFA-122 Tac 1
354.325 - VMFA-122 Tac 2
269.700 - VMFA-122 Tac 3
250.300 - VMFA(AW)-224 Tac 1
228.200 - VMFA-312 Base
301.950 - VMFA-312 Tac 1
320.300 - VMFA-312 Tac 2
NIKEL 3# (F/A-18C, VMFA-122)
BENGAL 4# (F/A-18D, VMFA-224)
CHECK 6# (F/A-18A+, VMFA-312)
FOX 515 (C-12, MCAS Beaufort)
DEVIL 01 (T-34, USN)
SNIPER ## (F-5, VMFT-401)
Charleston AFB
306.925 - Charleston App/Dep
349.400 - Charleston AFB "PALMETTO OPS"
134.100 - Charleston AFB "PALMETTO OPS"
233.950 - PMSV
372.200 - PTD
238.650 - 437/315th AW air-to-air
GRITS ## (C-17, 437/315th AW)
MOOSE ## (C-17, 437/315th AW)
Shaw AFB
311.200 - 55th FS "SHOOTER OPS"
139.900 - 55th FS air-to-air
141.650 - 55th FS air-to-air
273.700 - 77th FS "GAMBLER OPS"
138.200 - 77th FS air-to-air
139.975 - 77th FS air-to-air
140.375 - 77th FS air-to-air
141.950 - 77th FS air-to-air
MOJO (F-16C, 55th FS)
SNAKE (F-16C, 55th FS)
CAESER (F-16C, 77th FS)
MUSTANG (F-16C, 77th FS)
NAIL (F-16C, 77th FS)
ROULETTE (F-16C, 77th FS)
RUDE (F-16C, 77th FS)
McIntire JNGB
298.300 - 169th FW "SWAMP FOX OPS"
141.825 - 169th FW V14
143.625 - 169th FW V15
141.925 - 169th FW V17
MACE ## (F-16C, 169th FW)
VIPER ## (F-16C, 169th FW)
DEMON ## (F-16C, 169th FW)
Jacksonville IAP
322.400 - App/Dep
351.800 - App/Dep
377.050 - App/Dep
251.250 - 125th FW Maintenance/Ops
273.900 - 125th FW SOF
234.800 - 125th FW Aux 6
253.700 - 125th FW Aux 7
314.200 - 125th FW Aux 8
343.000 - 125th FW Aux 9
FANG (F-15, 125th FW)
SNAKE (F-15, 125th FW)
RATTLER (F-15, 125th FW)
NAS Jacksonville
322.400 - App/Dep
351.800 - App/Dep
377.050 - App/Dep
264.200 - VP-8 Base, NAS Jax
NAVY LF ## (P-3C, VP-16)
NAVY LL ## (P-3C, VP-30)
BUZZARD ## (P-3, VPU-1)
LANCER 39 (P-3C, VP-10)
MAD FOX ## (P-3C, VP-5)
TIGER ## (P-3C, VP-8)
Robins AFB/JSTARS
293.525 - 116th ACW "PEACHTREE OPS"
225.725 - JSTARS Discrete
228.050 - JSTARS Discrete
276.075 - JSTARS Discrete
318.300 - JSTARS Discrete
335.975 - JSTARS Discrete
346.675 - JSTARS Discrete
355.250 - JSTARS Discrete
372.150 - JSTARS Discrete
381.000 - JSTARS Discrete
395.150 - JSTARS Discrete
PEACH 3# (E-8C frontend, 330th CTS)
STARGATE (E-8C backend, 330th CTS)
PEACH 6# (E-8C frontend, 16th ACCS)
STRIKESTAR (E-8C backend, 16th ACCS)
PEACH 8# (E-8C frontend, 128th ACCS)
ALLEYCAT (E-8C backend, 128th ACCS)
Ranges/Military Operating Areas
119.225 - Townsend Range
228.400 - Townsend Range
252.900 - Townsend Range
343.750 - Bulldog MOA
354.300 - Beefeater ECM Range (Poinsett)
SEALORD (USN FACSFAC Jax)
120.950 - North Primary
284.500 - North Primary
267.500 - South Primary
133.950 - South Primary
313.700 - North Secondary
385.300 - W-157 Discrete
376.900 - W-157 Discrete
349.800 - W-157 Discrete
DOUBLESHOT (W-161/177)
127.725 - Primary
381.350 - Primary
258.400 - Discrete
279.725 - Discrete
Miscellaneous
CHALICE (E-3 backend, 963rd ACCS)
DEUCE (MACS-2)
DRAGNET (E-3 backend, 966th ACCS)
DOOM ## (B-52H, 2nd BW)
EMPIRE 11 (F/A-18, VFA-106)
HUNTRESS (NORAD EADS)
INDY 51 (KC-135, 434th ARW)
SKULL ## (B-52H, Barksdale)
STEALTH (117th ACS)
364.200 - NORAD AICC
293.600 - NORAD Discrete
316.300 - NORAD Discrete
228.275 - 2nd BW air-to-air
ARTCC
256.900 - Jax Center
269.550 - Jax Center Columbia Low
277.400 - Jax Center Brunswick Low
281.550 - Jax Center Columbia Low
282.200 - Jax Center Jekyll Low
282.300 - Jax Center Alma High
285.650 - Jax Center Statesboro High
290.400 - Jax Center Waycross Low
319.200 - Jax Center Aiken High
322.500 - Jax Center Savannah Low
346.250 - Jax Center St. Augustine
351.700 - Jax Center Summerville High
363.200 - Jax Center Allendale Low
370.950 - Jax Center Georgetown High
379.100 - Jax Center Charleston Low
256.900 - Atlanta Center
323.000 - Atlanta Center Macon
Mac McCormick III, KF4LMT
124.975 - Tower
279.575 - Tower
285.425 - Tower
121.800 - Ground
291.675 - Ground
126.200 - Base Ops
309.000 - PMSV
406.1625 - Tower/Base Ops
406.7625 - POL
415.1625 - Trans Alert
77.725 - 224 MI Bn "SUNNY OPS"
345.000 - USCG Air Station Savanah Ops
157.175 - Marine VHF Ch. 83, Savannah Air MX Control
323.125 - Hunter AAF ATIS
127.525 - Hunter AAF ATIS (New)
ARMY 35359 (AH-64D, 1-3 AVN)
ARMY 26286 (MH-60L, 3-160 SOAR)
ARMY 26417 (MH-60L, 3-160 SOAR)
ARMY 26961 (MH-60L, 3-160 SOAR)
ARMY 03751 (MH-47G, 3-160 SOAR)
ARMY 03752 (MH-47G, 3-160 SOAR)
SUNNY ## (RC-12N, 224 MI Bn)
TESTHAWK ## (H-60, OLR)
TESTHOOK ## (H-47, OLR)
COAST GUARD 6510 (MH-65C, Savannah)
COAST GUARD 6542 (MH-65C, Savannah)
COAST GUARD 6545 (MH-65C, Savannah)
COAST GUARD 6565 (MH-65C, Savannah)
COAST GUARD 6604 (MH-65C, Savannah)
ADDIS(ATTIS?) (E-6, visual ID)
BLUE 62 (C-17, Charleston, visual ID)
BOXCAR 10 (C-130)
NAVY AJ 702 (H-60, HS-3)
PEACH 35 (E-8C, 330 CTS)
PEACH 67 (E-8C, 16 ACCS)
PIKE 25 (E-6)
SCEPTER 15 (HC-130, 71st RQS)
SCEPTER 17 (HC-130, 71st RQS)
SUNNY 483 (C-12, MCAS Cherry Point)
TEAL 56 (WC-130, 53rd WRS)
YANKEE 62 (KC-130, VMGR-452)
Savannah IAP/CRTC
119.100 - Tower
257.800 - Tower
121.900 - Ground
348.600 - Ground
120.400 - Approach/Departure
353.775 - Approach/Departure
125.300 - Approach/Departure
371.875 - Approach/Departure
118.400 - Approach/Departure
307.225 - Approach/Departure
225.750 - 165th AW CP
DAWG ## (C-130H, 165th AW)
ARMY 50501 (C-12)
TEAL 56 (WC-130, 53rd WRS)
EAGLE 1 (MD-500, Chatham County)
GULF TEST ## (Gulfstream Test)
Fort Stewart/Wright AAF
127.350 - Marne Radio
279.626 - Marne Radio
126.250 - Wright AAF Tower
269.275 - Wright AAF Tower
GUARD 26415 (UH-60, SC ARNG?)
MCAS Beaufort
328.425 - Approach/Departure
292.125 - Approach/Departure
281.800 - Base Ops
264.500 - PMSV
253.100 - VMFA-122 Base
283.400 - VMFA-122 Tac 1
354.325 - VMFA-122 Tac 2
269.700 - VMFA-122 Tac 3
250.300 - VMFA(AW)-224 Tac 1
228.200 - VMFA-312 Base
301.950 - VMFA-312 Tac 1
320.300 - VMFA-312 Tac 2
NIKEL 3# (F/A-18C, VMFA-122)
BENGAL 4# (F/A-18D, VMFA-224)
CHECK 6# (F/A-18A+, VMFA-312)
FOX 515 (C-12, MCAS Beaufort)
DEVIL 01 (T-34, USN)
SNIPER ## (F-5, VMFT-401)
Charleston AFB
306.925 - Charleston App/Dep
349.400 - Charleston AFB "PALMETTO OPS"
134.100 - Charleston AFB "PALMETTO OPS"
233.950 - PMSV
372.200 - PTD
238.650 - 437/315th AW air-to-air
GRITS ## (C-17, 437/315th AW)
MOOSE ## (C-17, 437/315th AW)
Shaw AFB
311.200 - 55th FS "SHOOTER OPS"
139.900 - 55th FS air-to-air
141.650 - 55th FS air-to-air
273.700 - 77th FS "GAMBLER OPS"
138.200 - 77th FS air-to-air
139.975 - 77th FS air-to-air
140.375 - 77th FS air-to-air
141.950 - 77th FS air-to-air
MOJO (F-16C, 55th FS)
SNAKE (F-16C, 55th FS)
CAESER (F-16C, 77th FS)
MUSTANG (F-16C, 77th FS)
NAIL (F-16C, 77th FS)
ROULETTE (F-16C, 77th FS)
RUDE (F-16C, 77th FS)
McIntire JNGB
298.300 - 169th FW "SWAMP FOX OPS"
141.825 - 169th FW V14
143.625 - 169th FW V15
141.925 - 169th FW V17
MACE ## (F-16C, 169th FW)
VIPER ## (F-16C, 169th FW)
DEMON ## (F-16C, 169th FW)
Jacksonville IAP
322.400 - App/Dep
351.800 - App/Dep
377.050 - App/Dep
251.250 - 125th FW Maintenance/Ops
273.900 - 125th FW SOF
234.800 - 125th FW Aux 6
253.700 - 125th FW Aux 7
314.200 - 125th FW Aux 8
343.000 - 125th FW Aux 9
FANG (F-15, 125th FW)
SNAKE (F-15, 125th FW)
RATTLER (F-15, 125th FW)
NAS Jacksonville
322.400 - App/Dep
351.800 - App/Dep
377.050 - App/Dep
264.200 - VP-8 Base, NAS Jax
NAVY LF ## (P-3C, VP-16)
NAVY LL ## (P-3C, VP-30)
BUZZARD ## (P-3, VPU-1)
LANCER 39 (P-3C, VP-10)
MAD FOX ## (P-3C, VP-5)
TIGER ## (P-3C, VP-8)
Robins AFB/JSTARS
293.525 - 116th ACW "PEACHTREE OPS"
225.725 - JSTARS Discrete
228.050 - JSTARS Discrete
276.075 - JSTARS Discrete
318.300 - JSTARS Discrete
335.975 - JSTARS Discrete
346.675 - JSTARS Discrete
355.250 - JSTARS Discrete
372.150 - JSTARS Discrete
381.000 - JSTARS Discrete
395.150 - JSTARS Discrete
PEACH 3# (E-8C frontend, 330th CTS)
STARGATE (E-8C backend, 330th CTS)
PEACH 6# (E-8C frontend, 16th ACCS)
STRIKESTAR (E-8C backend, 16th ACCS)
PEACH 8# (E-8C frontend, 128th ACCS)
ALLEYCAT (E-8C backend, 128th ACCS)
Ranges/Military Operating Areas
119.225 - Townsend Range
228.400 - Townsend Range
252.900 - Townsend Range
343.750 - Bulldog MOA
354.300 - Beefeater ECM Range (Poinsett)
SEALORD (USN FACSFAC Jax)
120.950 - North Primary
284.500 - North Primary
267.500 - South Primary
133.950 - South Primary
313.700 - North Secondary
385.300 - W-157 Discrete
376.900 - W-157 Discrete
349.800 - W-157 Discrete
DOUBLESHOT (W-161/177)
127.725 - Primary
381.350 - Primary
258.400 - Discrete
279.725 - Discrete
Miscellaneous
CHALICE (E-3 backend, 963rd ACCS)
DEUCE (MACS-2)
DRAGNET (E-3 backend, 966th ACCS)
DOOM ## (B-52H, 2nd BW)
EMPIRE 11 (F/A-18, VFA-106)
HUNTRESS (NORAD EADS)
INDY 51 (KC-135, 434th ARW)
SKULL ## (B-52H, Barksdale)
STEALTH (117th ACS)
364.200 - NORAD AICC
293.600 - NORAD Discrete
316.300 - NORAD Discrete
228.275 - 2nd BW air-to-air
ARTCC
256.900 - Jax Center
269.550 - Jax Center Columbia Low
277.400 - Jax Center Brunswick Low
281.550 - Jax Center Columbia Low
282.200 - Jax Center Jekyll Low
282.300 - Jax Center Alma High
285.650 - Jax Center Statesboro High
290.400 - Jax Center Waycross Low
319.200 - Jax Center Aiken High
322.500 - Jax Center Savannah Low
346.250 - Jax Center St. Augustine
351.700 - Jax Center Summerville High
363.200 - Jax Center Allendale Low
370.950 - Jax Center Georgetown High
379.100 - Jax Center Charleston Low
256.900 - Atlanta Center
323.000 - Atlanta Center Macon
Mac McCormick III, KF4LMT
10 January 2010
NS Kings Bay TRS Site 1 Search and Store
Location: Kingsland, GA
While I was sleeping last night, I let the BC396 run a Search and Store on the NSB Kings Bay TRS Site 1 (386.050 CC). Only three talkgroups came up that I haven't logged on the site previously, but they are very interesting ones; I wish I had been awake to hear what traffic was on them (if they weren't encrypted):
2016
2048
8410
I have not seen any 4 digit talkgroups come up on the SE DOD TRS sites I've monitored thus far. Additionally, I've not seen any 4 digit talkgroups listed on the Radio Reference website either. For that reason, I'm not convinced that these are legitimate talkgroup IDs. It will take more monitoring to determine if these were actual talkgroups or errors in the Search and Store
Mac McCormick III, KF4LMT
While I was sleeping last night, I let the BC396 run a Search and Store on the NSB Kings Bay TRS Site 1 (386.050 CC). Only three talkgroups came up that I haven't logged on the site previously, but they are very interesting ones; I wish I had been awake to hear what traffic was on them (if they weren't encrypted):
2016
2048
8410
I have not seen any 4 digit talkgroups come up on the SE DOD TRS sites I've monitored thus far. Additionally, I've not seen any 4 digit talkgroups listed on the Radio Reference website either. For that reason, I'm not convinced that these are legitimate talkgroup IDs. It will take more monitoring to determine if these were actual talkgroups or errors in the Search and Store
Mac McCormick III, KF4LMT
09 January 2010
NSB Kings Bay Sites of the Southeast DOD TRS
Location: Kingsland, GA
This afternoon and evening have found me spending time in Kingsland, GA. In my down time, I've been monitoring the NSB Kings Bay site of the Southeast DOD TRS and a site that I believed is a second NSB Kings Bay site.
The site I thought to be the second Kings Bay site, using the control channel 386.1875 is definitely at or near NSB Kings Bay. The signals from the site are extremely strong on and around NSB Kings Bay and the talkgroup activity practically mirrors the already known NSB Kings Bay site. It is pretty safe identifying the site as NSB Kings Bay.
This being a Friday afternoon/evening, there has not been a great deal of talkgroup activity. Here is an overview of the talkgroup activity I've heard (it seems that the two have been simulcasting the same activity):
28053 - encrypted
28058 - encrypted/clear
28081 - encrypted
28087 - encrypted/clear
28563 - encrypted
28050 - Waterfront Security, encrypted
28562 - Police, encrypted/clear
28557 - Fire, encrypted/clear
Throughout the evening and afternoon I have heard nothing on the NSB Kings Bay 406 MHz TRS. I have heard some traffic on it during the daytime on weekdays before but it has almost always sounded civilian in nature.
Tomorrow I hope to have some more time to monitor the Kings Bay sites and some time to monitor the NS Mayport site. I doubt I'll be close enough to hear the NAS Jax site, but I'll definitely take some notes if I'm lucky enough.
Mac McCormick III, KF4LMT
This afternoon and evening have found me spending time in Kingsland, GA. In my down time, I've been monitoring the NSB Kings Bay site of the Southeast DOD TRS and a site that I believed is a second NSB Kings Bay site.
The site I thought to be the second Kings Bay site, using the control channel 386.1875 is definitely at or near NSB Kings Bay. The signals from the site are extremely strong on and around NSB Kings Bay and the talkgroup activity practically mirrors the already known NSB Kings Bay site. It is pretty safe identifying the site as NSB Kings Bay.
This being a Friday afternoon/evening, there has not been a great deal of talkgroup activity. Here is an overview of the talkgroup activity I've heard (it seems that the two have been simulcasting the same activity):
28053 - encrypted
28058 - encrypted/clear
28081 - encrypted
28087 - encrypted/clear
28563 - encrypted
28050 - Waterfront Security, encrypted
28562 - Police, encrypted/clear
28557 - Fire, encrypted/clear
Throughout the evening and afternoon I have heard nothing on the NSB Kings Bay 406 MHz TRS. I have heard some traffic on it during the daytime on weekdays before but it has almost always sounded civilian in nature.
Tomorrow I hope to have some more time to monitor the Kings Bay sites and some time to monitor the NS Mayport site. I doubt I'll be close enough to hear the NAS Jax site, but I'll definitely take some notes if I'm lucky enough.
Mac McCormick III, KF4LMT
Firefighter Michael Cooper Recovery Fund
From the Savannah Morning News:
Richmond Hill Fire Department Firefighter Michael Cooper lost his home and all his possessions in a house fire early Friday morning. He and his family have need of clothes for two and four year-old males; female size 14 and size 24 pants, extra large and 2 XL shirts, plus male size 36 x 30 pants and large shirts. Clothing donations may be dropped at the Richmond Hill Fire Station at 722 Timber Trail.
A fund in the name of Firefighter Michael Cooper has been set up at Bryan Bank and Trust.
Donations can be mailed to :
Firefighter Michael Cooper Recovery Fund
C/O Sheena Holmes
P.O. Box 1299
Richmond Hill, Ga. 31324
For more on the fire that destroyed Firefighter Cooper's home, see the Bryan County News: http://www.bryancountynews.net/news/article/4901/
Richmond Hill Fire Department Firefighter Michael Cooper lost his home and all his possessions in a house fire early Friday morning. He and his family have need of clothes for two and four year-old males; female size 14 and size 24 pants, extra large and 2 XL shirts, plus male size 36 x 30 pants and large shirts. Clothing donations may be dropped at the Richmond Hill Fire Station at 722 Timber Trail.
A fund in the name of Firefighter Michael Cooper has been set up at Bryan Bank and Trust.
Donations can be mailed to :
Firefighter Michael Cooper Recovery Fund
C/O Sheena Holmes
P.O. Box 1299
Richmond Hill, Ga. 31324
For more on the fire that destroyed Firefighter Cooper's home, see the Bryan County News: http://www.bryancountynews.net/news/article/4901/
Radio Shack Pro-107 Handheld Scanner
Awhile back I had an extended conversation with my friend Dan Scott, KF4MND on the 146.970 repeater here in Savannah about a new scanner he had just purchased: the Radio Shack Pro-107. He had some concerns about it and we discussed its features and capabilities. I have to admit that I wasn't all that familiar with this "iScanner" and my conversation with Dan and subsequent research have led me to some conclusions on how useful this radio would be to the coastal Georgia scanning hobbyist. I've divided them into two categories: positive and negative; some of them, as you read, will be contradictory but this is indicative of my conflicted opinions on the radio. I see some good points and bad points to a radio of this nature and they go beyond the radio's capabilities.
Let's start off with the positive conclusions:
Mac McCormick III, KF4LMT
Let's start off with the positive conclusions:
- The Pro-107 is designed to be an easy to use radio that one doesn't have to program. It operates off of the Radioreference.com database through the use of an SD card. This is certainly a bonus for the casual scanner listener, many of whom have problems programming a lot of the newer scanners. This eliminates the programming process and gets them directly to what they want to do and that is listen - usually to the local PD or FD.
- Another bonus for the casual listener is that from what Dan describes to me and what I've seen it is fairly easy to operate; essentially if you can listen to your music on an iPod or MP3 player, then you can listen to and operate this scanner.
- I think this may be a good radio to get new folks into the hobby. This could very well be a radio to whet their appetite for the hobby and eventually lead them to purchase a more capable radio and get deeper into the hobby.
- This is not a good radio for the Savannah metropolitan area. Most police communications in Chatham and Effingham Counties are digital and all police communications in Bryan County are digital. This radio is Analog Only. That means if you like listening to the Police, this radio is not going to let you do it. At current, you would be able to monitor most all of the Fire/EMS radio communciations in Chatham and Effingham Counties and very little in Bryan County. In the not too distant future, the Chatham-Effingham TRS will be upgraded and it too will be all digital; at that point this radio will allow you to monitor very little public safety radio traffic in the Savannah metropolitan area. Most all new systems being introduced in urban areas and future upgrades for current systems in urban areas are All Digital. Being analog only is a serious weakness for this radio.
- Following that, if a new scanning hobbyist bought this radio and was looking forward to listening to the Savannah area PDs, their experience with this radio could turn them off to the hobby. If they area Bryan County resident and bought the radio, it could really turn them off to the hobby!
- A radio like this could lead to the "dumbing down" of the hobby. Already very few hobbyists are interested in putting their radios into search mode to look for new things and help build up the knowledge base on their area. By this radio's nature it will simply feed this trend. I know that in some respects, this conflicts with #3 in the positive conclusions but I see both sides of this issue and feel compelled to include both views here.
Mac McCormick III, KF4LMT
Savannah Amateur Radio License Classes
I'm reposting this from my friend Guy's Blog. Guy is one of the instructors for the Technician Level Amateur Radio Classes. If you know anyone who is interested in becoming an Amateur Radio Operator steer them Guy's way.
We have settled on dates for the next Amateur Radio License class here in Savannah. This will be the entry level license called Technician. No radio or electronics experience is required. This class is delivered by Extra Class Amateur Radio Operators who are American Radio Relay League Registered Instructors. We'll teach you everything you need to know to get your license. If you are interested in attending the class just send me an email or give me a call. If you know someone else who may be interested please pass this info on to them as well. If you would like some more detail or just to ask me some questions please feel free to contact me. Here are the particulars:
Date: Jan 28, Feb 4, Feb 11, Feb 18
Time: 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Place: Memorial University Medical Center, Hoskins Building
Cost: Free
Study Guide: Get one at http://www.amazon.com/ARRL-Ham-Radio-License-Manual/dp/0872599639/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1262826447&sr=8-1
Test Session: Feb 20 at 9:00am at Memorial Medical Center, Hoskins Building. Cost is $15
Guy McDonald, K4GTM
We have settled on dates for the next Amateur Radio License class here in Savannah. This will be the entry level license called Technician. No radio or electronics experience is required. This class is delivered by Extra Class Amateur Radio Operators who are American Radio Relay League Registered Instructors. We'll teach you everything you need to know to get your license. If you are interested in attending the class just send me an email or give me a call. If you know someone else who may be interested please pass this info on to them as well. If you would like some more detail or just to ask me some questions please feel free to contact me. Here are the particulars:
Date: Jan 28, Feb 4, Feb 11, Feb 18
Time: 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Place: Memorial University Medical Center, Hoskins Building
Cost: Free
Study Guide: Get one at http://www.amazon.com/ARRL-Ham-Radio-License-Manual/dp/0872599639/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1262826447&sr=8-1
Test Session: Feb 20 at 9:00am at Memorial Medical Center, Hoskins Building. Cost is $15
Guy McDonald, K4GTM
ARES Emergency Coordinator
Chatham County GA
President, Coastal Amateur Radio Society
Chatham County GA
President, Coastal Amateur Radio Society
06 January 2010
Hot Calls and Cold Calls in Chatham County
Earlier today I got an email asking about the use of Hot and Cold Calls in Chatham County EMS dispatches. This is something I should have posted about some time ago but it didn't come to mind.
Basically Hot Call and Cold Call replaced Code 3 and Code 1 after Chatham County transitioned to plain English dispatching. A Hot Call is the old Code 3 response with lights and siren activated. A Cold Call is the old Code 1 response with no lights and siren.
You'll hear Metro dispatch use the terms Hot or Cold Call in their initial dispatch as well as by MedStar and Southside when they re-dispatch 911 calls.
Mac McCormick III, KF4LMT
Basically Hot Call and Cold Call replaced Code 3 and Code 1 after Chatham County transitioned to plain English dispatching. A Hot Call is the old Code 3 response with lights and siren activated. A Cold Call is the old Code 1 response with no lights and siren.
You'll hear Metro dispatch use the terms Hot or Cold Call in their initial dispatch as well as by MedStar and Southside when they re-dispatch 911 calls.
Mac McCormick III, KF4LMT
05 January 2010
Heavy weapons at Savannah airport aren't part of increased security
From Savannah Morning News
By Pamela E. Walck
It's hard to miss a bunch of Humvees armed with Avenger Air Defense Systems, parked near the Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport, guns aimed skyward.
It's even harder to ignore the 450 extra soldiers and airmen milling around the airport and nearby Georgia Air National Guard's Combat Readiness Training Center - all of whom will be highly visible over the next 10 days as part of an Exercise America Drill led by the 263rd Army Air and Missile Defense Command, South Carolina Army National Guard.
"There are no 'live' fires scheduled," said Lt. Col. Bill Berry, deputy operations officer for the 263rd Army Air Missile Defense Command. "It's just soldiers on systems, doing tracking drills, that sort of thing."
Regardless, the extra activities on the airport property didn't go unnoticed by county residents en route to work at nearby businesses, such as Gulfstream.
Lori Lynah, the airport's director of marketing and public relations, said with close proximity to the Air Guard's training center, Fort Stewart and Parris Island, it isn't unusual for military organizations to use the area for training purposes.
"We actually get a lot of stuff like this," she said.
Read the full story in Wednesday's Savannah Morning News.
Mac McCormick III
KF4LMT
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
By Pamela E. Walck
It's hard to miss a bunch of Humvees armed with Avenger Air Defense Systems, parked near the Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport, guns aimed skyward.
It's even harder to ignore the 450 extra soldiers and airmen milling around the airport and nearby Georgia Air National Guard's Combat Readiness Training Center - all of whom will be highly visible over the next 10 days as part of an Exercise America Drill led by the 263rd Army Air and Missile Defense Command, South Carolina Army National Guard.
"There are no 'live' fires scheduled," said Lt. Col. Bill Berry, deputy operations officer for the 263rd Army Air Missile Defense Command. "It's just soldiers on systems, doing tracking drills, that sort of thing."
Regardless, the extra activities on the airport property didn't go unnoticed by county residents en route to work at nearby businesses, such as Gulfstream.
Lori Lynah, the airport's director of marketing and public relations, said with close proximity to the Air Guard's training center, Fort Stewart and Parris Island, it isn't unusual for military organizations to use the area for training purposes.
"We actually get a lot of stuff like this," she said.
Read the full story in Wednesday's Savannah Morning News.
Mac McCormick III
KF4LMT
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
04 January 2010
Coming Soon
I'm in the process of working on two new posts that should be posted sometime this weekend or next week. One of them is the monthly MilCom recap for December; I've not forgotten about it, it will just be delayed in posting. The other post will be a Glynn County FD monitoring overview. The differences between how they operate and how Savannah area FD's are interesting.
Portable in Brunswick
Mac McCormick III
KF4LMT
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
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