The History of the Driven Elements Amateur Radio Group
In 1991, Carl Richardson (KB5FJX, now K5CWR), an Amateur Radio operator from West Memphis, Arkansas, became increasingly frustrated with the constant disagreements, politics, and lack of cooperation that existed both within and between several Amateur Radio clubs in the Memphis and West Memphis area.
Carl shared these concerns with three close friends who were also active Amateur Radio operators: John Ed Farris (N5VJZ), Phillip Farris (KA5YDY, now AB5BC), and Gregg Boss (WA8VFU, now KI5XV). After many discussions, they came to a simple conclusion: if they wanted to truly enjoy Amateur Radio and pursue the activities that interested them, they would need to create their own group.
Their vision was straightforward—bring together Amateur Radio operators who wanted to learn, experiment, serve their communities, and most importantly, have fun. They welcomed anyone who shared those goals, and over time their informal gathering of friends evolved into what became known as the Driven Elements Amateur Radio Group (DEARG).
From the beginning, DEARG members shared a strong interest in emergency communications, public service, and hands-on operating activities. The group actively participated in Field Day operations, emergency preparedness exercises, disaster communication training, and other events that demonstrated the value of Amateur Radio when conventional communications systems failed. Members also worked to meet the training and participation requirements often requested by local emergency management agencies and government organizations, ensuring they were prepared to serve their communities when called upon.
Education and technical experimentation have always been important parts of DEARG’s activities. Throughout the years, members have organized antenna-building projects, equipment-construction workshops, radio theory classes, licensing classes, and hands-on training sessions designed to help both new and experienced operators improve their skills. From building simple wire antennas to constructing specialized communications equipment, DEARG members have embraced the Amateur Radio tradition of learning, building, and sharing knowledge with others.
As the pages of this website demonstrate, DEARG members have enjoyed countless activities over the years, from operating events and technical projects to providing communications support for both emergency and non-emergency situations. The group’s members have always been willing to step forward when their communities needed them while maintaining the spirit of fellowship and enjoyment that inspired the organization from the beginning.
Over the years, many of DEARG’s founding members have relocated to different communities throughout Northeast Arkansas as careers, family responsibilities, and life circumstances changed. Some of our original members have faced health challenges and disabilities, while others have become Silent Keys and are remembered with great respect for their contributions to Amateur Radio and the Driven Elements Amateur Radio Group.
Although time and distance have changed where many of us live, the friendships and bonds formed through Amateur Radio remain strong. The remaining members continue to stay in touch through Amateur Radio communications, social media, telephone, email, and other forms of communication. The spirit of fellowship that helped create DEARG in 1991 continues to unite us today.
Like any long-standing organization, DEARG has experienced both successes and challenges throughout its history. However, its founding principles have remained unchanged. The members believe that Amateur Radio is a hobby meant to be enjoyed—a place where friendship, learning, public service, and experimentation can thrive.
The Driven Elements Amateur Radio Group has never considered itself a traditional Amateur Radio club. Rather than focusing on formal structures, politics, or bureaucracy, DEARG has always emphasized participation, camaraderie, and a shared passion for Amateur Radio. The group’s philosophy remains as relevant today as it was in 1991: Amateur Radio should be fun, and the enjoyment of the hobby should always come first.
The current roster of DEARG members can be found throughout this website, along with photographs, newspaper articles, event information, and historical records that document more than three decades of Amateur Radio activities, public service, emergency communications, technical projects, Field Day operations, and the many friendships that have made the Driven Elements Amateur Radio Group a unique part of Amateur Radio history in Northeast Arkansas.
For more than three decades, DEARG has remained committed to promoting Amateur Radio through friendship, education, emergency preparedness, community service, and on-the-air activity. While technologies have changed and members have come and gone, the group’s dedication to helping others and enjoying the hobby has never wavered.
When All Else Fails, Amateur Radio Works!