VDF takes part in statewide amateur radio exercise

Members of the Virginia Defense Force take part in the Perfect Storm statewide amateur radio exercise Jan. 19, 2019, in Richmond and Lynchburg, Virginia. In Richmond, VDF personnel trained on voice and data communication modes, methods and procedures and built partnerships with amateur radio operators who support the Virginia Department of Emergency Management at the Virginia Emergency Operations Center. In Lynchburg, VDF members used the high frequency radio equipment in their mobile communications platform trailer to make voice and data contact with operators across the state. Amateur radio can be an invaluable emergency communications resource in providing situational awareness to state and local officials when tradition commercial systems are either unavailable or degraded, such as in a severe weather event. Read more about VDF communication capabilities at go.usa.gov/xEZDR.