The Experimental Aircraft Association's Fly-In Convention, now known as EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, has been in existence nearly as long as the association itself. The first gathering was in September 1953 as a small part of the Milwaukee (Wis.) Air Pageant. That original EAA fly-in at Wright-Curtiss (now Timmerman) Field was attended by a handful of airplanes, mostly homebuilt and modified aircraft.

Having been interested in aviation all my life, it was natural to take flight instruction when I was able, and I earned a Private Pilot ticket in 1986. Many of my aviation friends were involved in the homebuilt movement that was founded, inspired, and promoted by the Experimental Aircraft assocation. So I began to attend the EAA's convention in Oskosh, WI, the greatest aviation show on earth, in my opinion. I've attended nearly every year since.

Operating portable at Oshkosh was a great experience as we camped every year. Also the Fox Cities Amteur Radio Club sponsors a special event station in one of the hangars, and it was a great deal of fun to operate with them to be accepted into their group. Many lifelong friends have been made at Oshkosh, both aviators as well as ham radio ops.

Some of my experiences were written up for Tim Stablers "QRP CLUBHOUSE" column the Spring 2006 issue of QRP QUARTERLY magazine. Links to those as well as some pictures are below. Original article    As it appereared in Tim's column

Tent, Spider Tree, and Ol' Green
Observation Platform

Lane After Rain
Beautiful Formation Flying

Homebrew QSL Card
Homebrew QRP Station in Ol' Green.

Black Widow Vertical
The Scamp, A QRP Camper

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