(September 2001) Fellow ARES/RACES members, volunteers Hams, and regular folks trying to lend a hand during the first weeks of madness and chaos. Our actions strengthened our resolve as volunteers, public servants, and as patriotic Americans.
Click on thumbnails for larger photos courtesy of Joe, N2TEE.
On the side rail, you may be able to pick out the dual band J-Pole clamped in place.
The days began early before the flood of well intentioned local folks drop by with donations and supplies at the Staten Island chapter of the American Red Cross.
I arranged myself in a good spot where the coax run could be as short as possible. This placement also allowed the coax to make fewer bends through the false ceiling. I also make it a point to have some sort of signage, so folks know exactly who I am and what I'm there for.
Staten Islanders come out in force to make momentary donations and drop off needed supplies for the heroes at Ground Zero. The generosity displayed was almost overwhelming at times. Most evenings we would stay an extra hour or so since most folks would keep bringing supplies even as the doors were closing. We never turned anyone down who was willing to perform their civic duty and support their fellow man.
About half my "Go Bag" equipment is set up for long term operation. In my wheeled carry-on bag not shown, you'd find two Power Stations, spare 1/4 wave mag-mount, 50ft RG-58 coax, HD extension cords, flashlight, spare alkaline batteries, etc...The desktop microphone may seem like a luxury, but when the action is fast and furious, you're glad to have it on hand.
Gab, N2GAB shows up for some needed relief at the station. Gab and I shared the duties of keeping the station going for about 12 - 14 hours per day for the first week after the disaster.Gab had his own station set up as well, yet the space was needed for the cases of bottled water and soft drinks that were being stacked floor to ceiling. Every inch of office turned into temporary warehouse space after only two days.
With the help of the Parks Department, New York's Finest retired and off duty officers helped convert an airplane hanger at an unused old airport which was converted to public park space into a short term warehouse. This location became the new primary focus for the area, so we were asked to set up shop there. The stacked station to the left of mine belong to Paul, N2QXB, who arrived earlier that morning to help with coordinating the effort.