FAIRS Directors David and Gaynell Larsen embarked on travel to St.
Lucia to meet with friends and foreign delegates of Hamboree 2005. The
following are excerpts from an article by Director and host, Senator Rosemond
Clery J69BB, sent to us via email:
…Amateur radio involves the self-operation of radio frequency
by experienced and qualified amateur radio operators. As the name implies,
amateur radio does not operate on a commercial basis and is a volunteer
activity by amateur radio enthusiasts.
Amateur radio is greatly utilized during the hurricane season and
in other times of disasters. Many times, amateur radio operators have been
responsible for providing the sole form of communication to countries that
have suffered natural disasters. In these instances where radio, TV stations
and phones are not functional, amateur radio is always counted on for maintaining
communication around the globe.
…This year is the tenth anniversary of [“Hamboree”],
which takes place during the Easter weekend every year, in a different
host country since its creation. This brilliant concept of “Hamboree”
was the brainstorm of an Amateur radio operator right here in St. Lucia.
The objective is to foster greater ties amongst Amateur radio operators
from around the globe…Participants are introduced to areas of interest
in the host country and discuss matters of importance to their duties as
emergency radio personnel.
…this year’s activity brought visitors from Sweden, Canada,
USA, Caribbean islands of Dominica, Martinique, Grenada, Guyana, Anguilla
and St. Martin.
…On behalf of all who are passionate and dedicated to Amateur
radio, I appeal to society, government and the business sector to recognize
amateur radio for the vital and valuable role it plays, and to openly embrace
the amateur radio fraternity, as we work towards strengthening amateur
radio around the world.