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Written by Special to Clay Today Thursday, June 28, 2012 – 06:00
ORANGE PARK –The North Florida Council of the Boy Scouts is creating an amateur radio station, KB4SA. KB4SA encourages, equips and prepares young people to be vibrant citizens and dynamic community leaders through the use of amateur radio and the practice of emergency communication guided by the Scout Oath and Scout Law.
The inaugural event of KB4SA was held in May at Camp Echockotee, 2513 Doctors Lake Drive.
Scouts will see local amateur operators in action and also communicate, via radio, with other amateur radio operators, local and around the world.
During future events, Scouts will earn merit badges related to radio, communications and science; receive a FCC Amateur Radio license; participate in local emergency communications drills; and provide communication support for community charity events such as bike-a-thons.
“Amateur radio is a rewarding hobby that allows Scouts to learn, not only about radio and electronics, but also that it goes hand-in-hand with duty to country and community,” said Peter Duzant, the station founder.
Chuck Courson, director at Camp Echockotee, adds his support, “The starting of Amateur Radio Club, KB4SA, will al- low us to be able to help scouts be better prepared to give back to their community in a very meaningful way. We are excited about the opportunities that this will provide for the scouts.”
Sponsors for the Amateur Radio Club KB4SA include Clay County Amateur Radio Emergency Service and Journey Church.