The Fort Myers Amateur Radio Club (FMARC) is proud to announce the return of “Hamwaves of History,” a live commemorative Amateur Radio Event taking place from March 17–19, 2026. This unique tribute honors the brave men and women who served at Buckingham Army Airfield (BAAF) during World War II, a site that was once the largest airfield in Florida.
Members of the public are invited to join us at the Lee County Mosquito Control District Homestead House (the former site of the airfield) to witness history in action.
Event Details
- Dates: March 17 & 18, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
March 19, 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM - Location: Homestead House 15140 Homestead Rd, Lehigh Acres, FL 33971
- Admission: Free and open to the public
A Legacy of “Flexible Gunnery”
Established in 1942, Buckingham Army Airfield served as a premier “School of Aerial Gunnery”. At its peak, the base was a massive military city of 16,000 personnel, dedicated to training “flexible gunners”. These specialists manned the movable machine guns on B-17 and B-24 bombers, providing a critical 360-degree defense known by the motto “Death from the Corners”.
During the event, FMARC operators will operate live from the historic grounds with an event call sign of XXXX where nearly 50,000 gunners graduated to defend Allied bombers in the skies over Europe and the Pacific. Visitors can watch operators use modern and vintage radio technology to connect with other enthusiasts worldwide, sharing the story of Buckingham’s pivotal role in achieving Allied air superiority.
Experience History in Action
Attendees will have the opportunity to:
- Watch Live Transmissions: See how amateur radio connects people globally without the need for commercial infrastructure.
- Explore Local History: Learn about the base’s innovative training techniques, such as “jeep tracks” and the “Wall of Death” skeet ranges.
- Discover Amateur Radio: Learn about the club’s mission to provide public service during emergencies and foster international friendship.
“This event is more than just a radio broadcast; it’s a bridge between generations,” said Daniel Eaton, Public Information Officer for FMARC. “We are keeping the frequency open for the heroes of Buckingham Field”.
About Fort Myers Amateur Radio Club, Inc. Established in 1957, the Fort Myers Amateur Radio Club, Inc. has been dedicated to fostering camaraderie among individuals with a shared passion for Amateur Radio. With a commitment to facilitating the exchange of information, promoting electronics and amateur radio knowledge, advocating for good radio operating practices, and advancing the art of Amateur Radio, the club strives to create a vibrant community. Additionally, the club actively sponsors and promotes various activities related to amateur radio, provides crucial public service during emergencies, and actively engages in other community initiatives. FMARC is affiliated with and sponsored by the American Radio Relay League (ARRL), which is the national association for amateur radio, connecting hams around the U.S. with news, information, and resources. The club meets at 7 pm on the last Tuesday of the month. Call 941-275-9145 to attend a meeting or visit www.fmarc.net to learn more.
