The W8OK award is given to the SWODXA member who exhibits those traits that Frank Schwab embodied. Frank was a Co-founder of the Dayton Hamvention® and the founder of Dayton Sky-Warn. Frank was a well-known top-flight contester and CW operator. He soon rose to the top of the DXCC ranks and eventual membership in the CQ DX Hall of Fame.

Frank is known to have said and appreciated the statement “CW is an art…be an artist!”

Members who are considered for the W8OK award must exhibit the following traits and characteristics:

  • Operating ethics and courtesy.
  • Station activity.
  • Observance of FCC rules.
  • Contribution to the club such as participation in club activities, contests, etc.
  • Contributions to amateur radio such as helping new hams or foreign operators in any way practical.
  • Attitude toward fellow hams.
  • Attitude toward the public, including neighbors – e.g. managing TV, BC and telephone interference.
  • Perseverance in listening for new countries, obtaining QSLs, striving for DX goals of various sorts, and ferreting out DX information.

This is the most prestigious award given to a club member by the club.

W8OK Nomination Form (save the form and then fill it out and email it to aj8b@arrl.net).

Please provide as much relevant information as possible.  The more of this that is provided, the better understanding the judges will have of the worthiness of your nominee to receive the award.


Previous Frank Schwab, W8OK, Award Winners

Year

Call

Honoree

2023

K4YJ

Dwight Kelly

2022

NR8Z

Tom Inglin

2021

K8DV

Dave Vest

2020

N8AA

John Comella

2018

AJ8B

Bill Salyers

2017

AB8YK

Jim Storms

2016

N6JRL

Don Dubon

2015

K8FL

Jim Lancaster

2014

W8KJ

Kevin Jones

2013

K8WWA

Rick Burdick

2012

N8BJQ

Steve Bolia

2011

K8JE

Jim Weaver

2010

W8GEX

Joe Pater

2009

K8LEE

Wayne McKenzie

2008

K4ZLE

Jay Slough

2007

W8ILC

Ron Moorefield

2006

W8QID

Kirk Swallow

2005

AC8G

Harry Flasher