Auxiliary Communications (AuxComm)
The Auxiliary Communications (AuxComm) team consists of licensed amateurs who have voluntarily registered their qualifications and equipment, with their local AuxComm leadership, for communications duty in the public service when disaster strikes.
AuxComm Team Membership Requirements
Every licensed amateur in Marion County, IL, and adjoining counties, regardless of membership in ARRL or any other local or national organization may apply for membership in Marion County AuxComm. Training is required to participate fully in AuxComm. Because AuxComm is an Amateur Radio program, only licensed radio amateurs are eligible for membership. A General or higher license class is preferred. The possession of emergency-powered equipment is desirable, but is not a requirement for membership.
Required Training
Marion County AuxComm team members are required to self-study and complete The ARRL Introduction to Emergency Communication Course and demonstrate proficiency in Public Service Communications to participate fully in AuxComm. Members who cannot demonstrate effective communication skills may not be used in the field or may have limited roles in the AuxComm program. Members are not required to pass the final exam with the ARRL nor receive the certificate of successful completion. Additionally, PR-101: ARRL Public Relations is strongly recommended for all radio amateurs. Members should also attend the MC AuxComm meetings where training information will be provided and discussed.
Get Involved
Fill out the AuxComm Registration form and submit it to Robert Dailey, NV9S, your local AuxComm Coordinator (ACC).
Emergency Net
During an emergency, an emergency net will be called on the W9CWA repeater on 147.270 MHz, + offset, PL tone 103.5 Hz, for as long as the repeater remains on the air. If the repeater goes off the air, stations are directed to meet on the repeater output frequency of 147.270 MHz SIMPLEX mode. Alternate operations will be on the Marion County AuxComm VHF simplex frequency of 147.420 MHz.