Today marks my 71st year as a ham; I think that may qualify me as the longest licensed ADXA member, as well at 84, perhaps the oldest, OF (old fart) in ADXA! I am so grateful that late in 1954, my Elmer, Bob, W5UQ, put up with a 13-year-old snot nose kid hanging around asking stupid questions – T U, brother.
There are so many of you whom I have known for over 50 years. I am humbled by this hobby that has brought me so much joy, the friendships I have made among all of you, the hams I have visited in the 25+ countries where I have operated, the DXCC #1 I managed to achieve as well as being on DXpeditions where during contests we have won or in one case, scored a world record, being fortunate to serve as president of the Lone Star DX Association and the Arkansas DX Association, and of course, being inducted into First Class Operators Club (FOC). Being invited into ham’s homes in so many countries, forging lifetime friendships is just one more reason why this is the greatest hobby in the world! TKS for being a part of my ham radio journey 😊
Vy 73, Bill
Bill Priakos - W5SJ
FOC # 2155
10 Free Ferry Heights
Fort Smith, AR 72903
479.461.8368
