[ADXA] W9WNV at Dayton DX banquet

[Dennis Schaefer]

I  had an interesting experience before the DX banquet at Dayton.   As a kid and new General in the 60's,  I worked some DX, but one afternoon, I heard Don Miller, W9WNV, at  5W1AD burning things up on 20 meter CW.   He was working split, and he was good!    I think it became crystal clear at that moment that DXing was what I wanted to do.   Even though I had low power and simple antennas, I worked Don from several other locations, and also chased Gus Browning and the Colvins.     I've been involved in many ham activities, but DXing is always the first love. 

 Later, Don was in a conflict with the ARRL over some irregularities.   It was alleged that he wasn't where he said he was on some operations.    Later, he got into legal trouble of a more serious nature.    By that time, I was in college and didn't pay that much attention.

At the mixer before the DX banquet at Dayton, I saw a gentleman I didn't recognize.    I looked at his name tag - W9WNV.    He went to someone he  knew and began a conversation.   I waited until there was a lull, and asked him if he was Don Miller.   He was very polite and I told him that I wanted him to know that he got me enthused about DX and I would never forget the excitement of that 5W1AD contact.   He thanked me and I had my picture taken with him.   

Later, I sent him an e-mail thanking him for being so gracious.   He said he appreciated my statement about his influence because he had heard some unfavorable remarks.   After almost 50 years, I thought he should know his early operations  had a positive influence on at least one young ham.

73,
Dennis, W5RZ