Dedication to Carl Gardenias, WU6D

When identifying this year’s ARRL Southwestern Division Convention honoree, the selection committee asked but one question, “Who among us has demonstrated exceptional commitment to the promotion and advancement of the art, science and enjoyment of Amateur Radio?” Answer: “Why, the manager of the ‘most colorful and juiciest section in the nation’ of course!” Representing ARRL as the Orange Section Manager in the Southwestern Division since 2003, Carl Gardenias WU6D is one example of excellence.

A California native, Mr. Gardenias was raised in Redondo Beach and Perris. He continued his education by earning an Associate of Arts in Business while stationed in Illinois and a Bachelor of Arts in Business from Redlands University and Facility Management from University of Riverside. From an early age, Mr. Gardenias has had a curiosity in electronics. Like many, his interest in building the crystal radio motivated him to become a Ham Radio Operator in 1969.

A proud veteran, Mr. Gardenias joined the Air Force in 1967 and retired in 1991 as a Master Sargent. He collected training that would later transfer into his service as a Ham. While serving, Mr. Gardenias used his skills to connect soldiers with their families. He joined the Air Force Military Auxiliary Radio System (MARS) team and served as Base MARS Director from 1978 to 1980. Additionally, he has assisted in emergency operations while stationed in South Dakota when a major flood placed the city under Marshal Law, further laying the groundwork for his passion in Amateur Radio.

Over the years, Mr. Gardenias has worked towards expanding public service, advocacy, education, technology and membership within the Amateur Radio community. His interest developed as he assisted with the ARRL National Convention in Los Angeles and Southwestern Division Convention at Disneyland. He has been an instructor for Amateur Radio classes and is still currently an ARRL VE and W5YI VE. Mr. Gardenias has also served as a member of the ARRL ADHOC committee, aided with RFI troubleshooting and has been published in ARRL’s RFI book. He continues to provide presentations on emergency operations and topics for volunteers in the 21st century.

Notably, Mr. Gardenias has a legacy of inspiring others to work together. In 1991, he helped with the International DX Convention in Visalia. Since 1996, he has served every other year to date as either chair or co-chair to the International DX Convention in Visalia. With the cooperation of dedicated volunteers, they were able to secure thousands of dollars in donations for the Northern California DX Foundation and additional clubs. Recently, SCDXC, through the International DX Convention Visalia 2014, added the California Antenna Organization 501c (3) to the donation list to support all Amateur Radio operators in California with antenna issues by giving approximately $4,500 and $12,000 to NCDXF.

As a leader and as a member of the Ham community at large, Mr. Gardenias exemplifies enthusiasm. His efforts are demonstrated in his roles, partnerships and participation with various organizations and events including, but not limited to, Kids Fairs with Home Depot, Amateur Radio Expos and Hamfests throughout the region, Be Ready in Oceanside and LA Fairgrounds, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, and The Salvation Army. He has focused on encouraging and inspiring other volunteers to pursue educating the public about Amateur Radio while sharing his knowledge and excitement for the people that volunteer their time to educate, promote and participate in our hobby.

Tassandra Rios-Scelso, KI6FIH