I am Bob McCollom and was drafted then enlisted in the ARMY as a 31M20, Radio relay carrier operator.  When I was in the Mekong with the 9th Signal battalion at Dong Tam there was an immediate need for an operator.  I knew what a HAM Radio was, I had a neighbor that was a HAM and his name was McDaniel K6PQY. That was enough to get me into the MARS station AB8AZ "The Tower of Power", in a big flat wet place.  We were not supposed to say where we were over the air. We knew where we were, the enemy knew where we were, only we weren't supposed to tell them where we were.  Dong Tam seemed to be this target for mortars and rockets RPGs and any thing else that the VC were willing to kill us with.  I had many great experiences, after working a few weeks making many calls learning the art of one way conversation, I Made a call for a Dr.  MAJ. David Harshaw, He was in surgery and they were trying to find Mrs. Harshaw.  After 3 nail biting hours Maj. Harshaw walked in smiled said hi, and no sooner than that he was talking Mrs. Harshaw who had just delivered their third daughter.  I couldn’t believe the timing.  I got a cigar and a personal guided tour of the 3rd Surgical Field Hospital.  I was given a cup of coffee when ever I wanted a cup 24/7.  I started to prioritize wounded guys at the Hospital some in ICU.  Their moms were so relieved to know that Johnnies O.K.   

I feel that having so many phone patches and so many families that had the fleeting three minutes of “Dont forget to say over”.  I work as a cashier at a Service station at night and I talk to the customers through a one way conversation mike, switch, and drawer, Hi can I help you! (over). 

Robert L McCollom, SP4, AB8AZ 8/67 – 4/68

Link to Tom Boza's AB8AZ Page Click Here

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