WB8LMC - Robert W. Rickel WB8LMC

Robert W. Rickel
Palm Harbor, FL

QCWA # 36082

I was licensed in 1971 (WN8LMC). In 1972, built my first rig, a Heathkit HW-16A CW transceiver. Currently, I'm a member of ARRL, West Central Florida Group (NI4CE) and QCWA (Quarter Century Wireless Association).

I retired in 2013 from WFTS TV-28 (ABC) in Tampa, Florida, where I was employed as an engineer.

My current activity includes working phone on HF, 80-10 meters (Kenwood TS-570DG, Dentron GLA 1000B amplifier and Dentron Super Tuner plus using attic mounted antennas). Am also active on 2 meters and 70 cm (Home: Kenwood TM-G707 & Mobile TMV-708). I enjoy ragchewing and working DX.

There are two other hams in my family; my brother Richard, WA8OEY, now a SK, passed on Oct. 28,2013, (licensed at age 14), and my eldest son Kevin, N4USP.

In 1973 I earned my general at the Detroit field office of the FCC and also hold a General Class Radiotelephone license earned before the 1st phone was eliminated.

Outside of radio, I have a B.A. in music (most credits earned at Kent State), play trumpet and sing.

A U.S. Air Force veteran from 1967-1971, was solo cornet player (1st chair) with the 527th (9th) USAF Band at Shaw AFB, SC. From 1997 -2000, I was a member of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Chorus.

August 29, 2015