Radio-Club de Saint Maur: Four Decades of Connecting Val-de-Marne

SAINT MAUR, Val-de-Marne — In a testament to enduring community spirit and technological curiosity, the Radio-Club de Saint Maur (F6KMX), the local REF (Réseau des Émetteurs Français) association for Val-de-Marne (94), marked its 40th anniversary in 2018. From its humble beginnings in 1978, this club has evolved into a cornerstone for amateur radio enthusiasts in the department, fostering technical expertise, community engagement, and a vibrant network of communication.

Located at 78, rue du Docteur Roux in 94100 Saint Maur, the club is currently led by M. Jean-Luc Claude (F5JCH), whose long-standing involvement traces back to his entry into the bureau in 1986. For the critical task of managing QSL card exchanges, M. Bruno Royer (F6BOR) serves as the dedicated QSL Manager, facilitating global connections for members. Further information about the departmental activities can be found at http://refed94.free.fr.

A Legacy of Leadership and Growth

The club's journey began on February 18, 1978, founded by a dedicated group including Georges F3FW, Philippe F6BXE, Alain F6EUO, René SWL, and André F6DOP. Over the decades, the leadership has seen a succession of passionate individuals, each contributing to the club's growth and reputation. The transfer of the headquarters to its current address on April 29, 1978, marked an early step in its establishment. Notable presidencies include René F1FJN from 1980, and eventually Jean-Luc F5JCH (then FD1JCH) in 1997, who continues to guide the club today.

Many operators (OMs) have dedicated their time and effort to animate, manage, and elevate the club's standing. While too numerous to name individually, their collective contributions have been instrumental in making F6KMX the prominent club it is today. This sustained dedication has also solidified its role as the local REF association for department 94, representing and animating the national REF network.

Beyond the Airwaves: Community Engagement and Technical Prowess

The Radio-Club de Saint Maur boasts approximately fifty active members, including two highly engaged female operators (YLs), Sylvie F4HJC and Maryse F4HBC. More impressively, the club has been responsible for training over 100 amateur radio operators, a testament to its commitment to nurturing new talent.

Their activities extend far beyond mere radio contacts, showcasing a strong commitment to public engagement and technical education:

• TM40KMX (40th Anniversary Special Event): Commemorating their milestone in 2018.
• TM6MM (Mickey Mouse): Inaugural operations for the Disney Park in Paris.
• Hosting UFC Constituent Assembly: Providing a venue for important inter-association meetings.
• TM1RWC (Rugby World Cup): Special event operations during the Rugby World Cup.
• Municipal Hall Exhibition: An eight-day exhibition in the Town Hall lobby, educating the public.
• ISS Contact with School Children: A memorable "contact ISS" with students from Les Muriers Saint Maur school and astronaut Tom Mashburn aboard the International Space Station.
• "La Fête de la Science": Annual participation in the Science Festival, with educational workshops for school children.
• TM94JAM (Jamboree On The Air): Activities with Saint Maur scouts.
• Children's Activities: Engaging young minds with the help of member James FR4PV.
• Associations Day Stand: Annual presence at the local Associations Day.
• Contest Participation: Regular and successful participation in national and international contests (Coupe de France, CCD, IARU), including a notable third place in the Coupe de France.
• Enhanced Online Presence: Their website, https://f6kmx.fr, has garnered over 15,300 visitors and features an updated presentation with an increased number of technical articles.
• Technical Conferences: Organization of specialized conferences to further members' knowledge.

These diverse activities underscore the Radio-Club de Saint Maur's vital role as a dynamic and forward-thinking organization within the amateur radio landscape, continually adapting and innovating while upholding the core values of the hobby. The club remains an open door for those looking to explore the endless possibilities of radio communication.