On June 2, 2024, the Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES) of Douglas and Elbert Counties showcased their dedication and expertise at the RRMMC Poker Run. With 18 volunteers at the helm, equipped with advanced communication technologies like Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) and LoRa tracking, the event was a testament to preparedness, collaboration, and community service.
The backbone of any ARES mission is its volunteers, and the R1D5 (Region 1, District 5) team exemplified this truth with their unwavering commitment at the RRMMC Poker Run. From seasoned radio operators to medical professionals, each volunteer brought a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, ensuring that all aspects of emergency response were covered. Their selflessness and dedication to serving their community underscored the noble spirit of amateur radio emergency services.
At the heart of the RRMMC Poker Run operations lay advanced communication technologies, chief among them being Digital Mobile Radio (DMR). DMR offered volunteers superior audio quality, efficient spectrum utilization, and enhanced coverage, enabling seamless communication even in the most challenging environments. Additionally, the integration of Long-Range (LoRa) tracking systems provided real-time location data, enhancing situational awareness and facilitating swift response to emergent scenarios.
Centralized command and control are paramount in managing complex emergency situations effectively. To this end, the ARESDEC used their custom trailer command post, equipped with state-of-the-art communication and monitoring capabilities. This command post served as the nerve center of the operation, allowing mission coordinators to oversee activities, coordinate response efforts, and promptly address any emergent issues. Its versatility and robust infrastructure were instrumental in ensuring operational efficiency and effectiveness throughout the event.
The RRMMC Poker Run served as a shining example of the dedication, preparedness, and collaborative spirit embodied by the volunteers of ARES R1D5. Through their collective efforts, supported by advanced communication technologies and a custom trailer command post, they demonstrated their readiness to confront emergent challenges head-on. R1D5 volunteers continue to inspire confidence and gratitude, ensuring that when disaster strikes, help is always just a radio call away.
