FIRST STEPS

WHY VOLUNTEER FOR THE MARINE CORPS MARATHON?

WHAT IS EXPECTED OF YOU? WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT IN RETURN?

As a volunteer amateur radio operator volunteering for the Marine Corps Marathon, your role revolves around providing critical communication services. Your mission: to maintain a reliable network of communication that ensures the safety and welfare of everyone involved in the event - runners, spectators, and your fellow volunteers.

Being a volunteer radio operator at a marathon of this scale demands a combination of technical skills, ability to perform under pressure, and reliable communication capabilities.

The following list highlights what is expected of a volunteer ham operator, and what the operator can expect in return.

1. Technical Proficiency: Your main task as a radio operator is to establish and sustain clear communication channels throughout the event. To accomplish this, you need a proper understanding of radio operations, including:
   • Familiarity with your equipment including its battery power requirements
   • The ability to program your radio with designated frequencies including the tones needed to connect to a repeater
   • The capacity to resolve minor technical issues on the go
2. Excellent Communication: The role necessitates effective communication with various stakeholders, such as net control, other operators, possibly race officials, emergency services, and sometimes even participants. Clarity and conciseness in delivering information is crucial, especially in situations that require swift response and action.
3. Focus: Your role is that of a radio operator, not an EMT, not a race official, you are here to relay messages, even if you are qualified to do more.
4. Gear: Not all volunteers need the same equipment; this mostly depends on the specific assignment. This said, the most common tool that all should possess is a VHF (ideally VHF/UHF) HT, with ≥5W transmit power and sufficient battery/batteries to last a full day (±12 hours).
5. Emergency Preparedness Knowledge: If an emergency arises, you will be a vital link in relaying crucial information to the appropriate parties. Keeping a calm demeanor, staying focused, and efficiently managing your communication lines are key.
6. Teamwork: Working seamlessly with a larger team of radio operators is an essential aspect of your role. Your collective efforts ensure that the communication network functions smoothly across the marathon route.
7. Professionalism: Despite being a volunteer, you are expected to uphold a high level of professionalism. This includes punctuality, adherence to the event's rules and guidelines, proper attire, and treating everyone with respect. Also, if you are assigned a yellow safety vest, you will be expected to treat it with respect and return it, as instructed, at the end of the race.
8. Willingness to Train: You will likely need to attend one training session before the marathon. This session will arm you with knowledge about the event's specific procedures and communication protocols.
9. Stamina and Nutrition: You will be arriving early, standing for a while, walking, and feeding yourself. This requires a modicum of stamina and ensuring you have the necessary food and drink for the entire deployment. Note that there are some spots with toilet facilities nearby, other postings may require a slightly longer walk.
10. Enjoyment of the Event: Amid your responsibilities, remember to soak in the atmosphere! Marathons are a testament to human resilience and community spirit, and being part of the support system that makes it happen is a truly rewarding experience.

In summary, as a volunteer amateur radio operator at the Marine Corps Marathon, in addition to serving the United States Marine Corps, you are playing a pivotal role in creating a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone involved. Your knowledge, skills, dedication, and professionalism are key to the success of this prestigious event.