Welcome to the K2AK Amateur Radio website

My Journey as an Amateur Radio Operator
Jeffrey Thomas - K2AK

Thank you for visiting the K2AK (KILO-TWO-ALPHA-KILO) Amateur Radio Website. My name is Jeff, and I have been HAM since June 1976. This journey has been a deeply fulfilling and exciting part of my life, filled with milestones, challenges, and countless memorable contacts with fellow enthusiasts around the globe. Beginnings in New Jersey: Novice Class Operator

My first steps into the world of Amateur Radio began in the state of New Jersey, where I was first licensed as a Novice class operator with the call sign WA2QZA. Back then, obtaining a ham license was no small fea, it required proficiency in CW (Morse code). As a determined newcomer, I embraced this necessity and honed my skills in Morse code, pushing myself to meet the requirements of the 13 and 20 WPM tests.

I remember vividly the trip to the FCC office in Philadelphia in August 1976. There, I took both the General and Advanced tests, successfully passing them and earning the call sign N2AEW. This was a significant achievement and marked the beginning of my deepening engagement with Amateur Radio.

Call Sign Evolution and Advanced Licensing
Over the years, my call sign has undergone several changes, each reflecting a new chapter in my Amateur Radio journey. In February 1999, I requested and was granted the vanity call sign W2JRT. This change signified a personal milestone and added a unique identity to my radio communications.

The evolution continued in March 2007, when I adopted the vanity call sign K7WIN. This period was particularly exciting as I upgraded to the Amateur Extra Class, a testament to my continued commitment to mastering the intricacies of Amateur Radio. Eventually, I upgraded to the prestigious 1X2 call sign K2AK, which is based in 2-Land where I was initially licensed. This call sign not only holds sentimental value but also symbolizes my journey's full circle.

HL9JT: Mountaintop Operations in South Korea
One of the most exhilarating chapters of my Amateur Radio adventure took place from November 1983 to January 1985, when I operated under the call sign HL9JT from a mountaintop in Suwon, South Korea. This period was marked by intense activity and incredible experiences as I completed over 15,000 contacts with stations from around the world.

Operating from a mountaintop presented its unique set of challenges and rewards. With just 100 watts and a long wire, I found myself in the midst of chaotic pileups, where the DX end could get quite crazy. Despite the hustle and bustle, it was an immensely fun and busy time, pushing the boundaries of my skills and knowledge.

Current Activities and Interests
Today, I remain actively engaged in the Amateur Radio community, primarily with the HF bands. My interests have grown to encompass digital modes such as FT8, FT4, and CW. Each mode offers a unique way to connect with fellow operators and explore the vast possibilities of radio communication.

Additionally, I have a particular fondness for SIX Meter openings, seizing every opportunity to make contacts whenever conditions allow. The excitement of these fleeting moments of connectivity never fails to thrill me.

Awards and Accolades
Throughout my years as an Amateur Radio operator, I have been fortunate to accumulate numerous awards. These accolades serve as a testament to my dedication and achievements in this beloved hobby. I am currently in the process of creating a dedicated page to highlight these awards, sharing the journey and milestones with others who share my passion.

QSL and Contact Information
For those interested in confirming contacts, I QSL 100% via several platforms including ARRL's LotW, Club Log, HRDLog.net, and hard copy if requested with an SASE to my address. Ensuring accurate and prompt confirmations is important to me, as it reinforces the bonds formed through our shared hobby.

My journey as an Amateur Radio operator has been one of continuous learning, growth, and connection. From my early days as a novice in New Jersey to operating from a mountaintop in South Korea and engaging in digital modes today, each experience has enriched my life in countless ways. I look forward to the future, eager to embrace new challenges and opportunities within the ever-evolving world of Amateur Radio.

Thank you for visiting and sharing this journey.

73 es gud DX,
Jeff - K2AK
DM41un

Please send SASE for QSL Card. I QSL 100% via LoTW.

US - Mexico Border

Coronado National Monument, commemorates the exploration of Francisco Vásquez de Coronado in 1540. Photo by Jeff Thomas.