In the amateur radio community, an experienced amateur radio operator who mentors a new or prospective ham is commonly referred to as an “Elmer”. According to the ARRL, the first use of the term Elmer first appeared in QST in the March 1971 article, “How’s DX” column by Rod Newkirk, W9BRD (now also VA3ZBB). Newkirk called them “the unsung fathers of Amateur Radio.” I am an Elmer now and this is how I give back to the hobby.

I would like to give a shout out to MY Elmers in my early Amateur Radio experience.

Bill Vickers KN9N and Dave Carlson AA9D and other members of the Elgin Amateur Radio Society which disbanded in the early 2000’s. Thanks to both of you for helping me be a better Amateur Radio Operator, DXer, Contester and Elmer.