About W7VJ — Andrew O. Isar

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I was first licensed on October 5, 1970 after being a shortwave listener for nearly a year. The thrill of talking to others over long distances captivated my thoughts. After begining to send SWL reports to hams, I had to get on the air.

Oddly, in the summer of 1970 when I was still SWLing, I heard a QSO on 80M where the fellow I was just about to QSL said "I hope that if there are any SWLers listening they don't QSL me. These guys should just get their licenses." I was floored! It was time to get licensed. I received WN3PMI courtesy of my Elmer, W3IYI (sadly a SK), in Indiana, PA at the age of 14.

October 5, 1970 was a Monday and a day off due to a teacher workshop day. I knew my license was coming and sure enough, it arrived. I was on the air on my HW-16 and dipole, set up in anticipation, immediately. It was heaven.

Graduated to a Yaesu FT dx 560 and FL 2100 as a general and advanced class. Other rigs later included a Kenwood TS 180, Heath SB line, and Icom 751.

Other calls have included WA3PMI, KB7SC, KT7W, NR6I, and NN7L.