Longtime (99-Year-Old) Ham Radio Operator Gets Lifetime Recognition:

Any licensed ham radio operator in the Carolinas, and across the country for that matter, likely knows the name of 99-year-old Oscar Norris. Norris, who lives in Gastonia, first became a ham radio operator in 1949, transmitting through his unique call sign W40XH on an old military radio. His interest in the subject piqued when a friend shared with him a magazine article in which a blind man received his amateur radio license. Norris, who is also blind, received his license and began a passion that he has practiced for almost seven decades. Norris recalls a memorable early transmission where he chatted with a couple doing missionary work in South America who recently had given birth. The couple asked Norris via amateur radio to share the exciting news with their parents whom lived in California and New York. "I made two telephone calls to announce the birth of the grandchild to the couples' parents," said Norris. "They just thanked me and acted like they were well-pleased to get the message." On Saturday, the Greater Gaston Amateur Radio Society, of which Norris is the oldest charter member, presented Norris with a 'Lifetime Membership' award at his home at Courtland Terrace. The ceremony included the gathering of family, club members and other friends. The plaque includes his call sign and reads in part "For your generous contributions of time, resources and expertise in ham radio."

from Ham Radio Times http://ift.tt/2w5KtD8
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