Saturday, April 6, 2024, Moritz Wacker from San Diego, was visiting Death Valley, California. Newly licensed since March 2024, Moritz thought he would bring a radio with him to possibly make some “contacts” over the air. However, it turns out that bringing the radio with him would actually serve a more important role.
Caleb Gustwiller (KD8TGB) -> “The story began actually around 5pm here in Ohio Craig gave me a dx station to attempt but was unable to reach them. I had turned my station off and went and did something else. I came back roughly 6:30 and turned my radio on to play some more and on the frequency I had shut off he was there calling “mayday we are stuck in Death Valley and need help” and requesting help. I was froze and in shock. I attempted to make contact and he heard me but I lost the band and he faded. I had Craig attempt to make contact but he had the same issue so I came here to the pota community to get help if anyone could hear them for info. Many reports were made then to get people searching. I knew this wasn’t a coincidence!!“
Krista Wyatt (KB8MQ) ->”KO6DZX made a Mayday call on 28:430, indicating he was in Death Valley. Two operators heard him but after making one call to him, and he repeated a call sign, there was nothing else. I was in contact with a police officer where he lives and information was passed along to the National Park Rangers who had already received a call. The rangers have an idea of where KO6DZX could be located and will send help when they can. I am currently unable to get on 10m so if anyone can monitor the frequency, please do so. Call the rangers at 760-786-2330 if you can get his location. Let’s all hope for a good outcome!“
Mike Olsen (W6OBB) -> “I just communicated with KO6DZX via LinkedIn. He said he’s fine and got help. I didn’t ask details. He said he had brought the radio thinking he may try POTA and ended up needing the radio for help. I didn’t pry into what happened, but he’s okay and back home. I told him to let me know when he tries a POTA activation and I’d listen for him. 73 de W6OBB“
We are grateful that Moritz was found and this story has a happy ending. Had he not gotten his license and had his radio with him, it could have been a different story. Thank you to all the ham radio operators and the first responders who assisted with his rescue.