FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Houston, Texas) - The Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (HCOHSEM) thanks and congratulates ham radio operator Franz Laugermann for his service to emergency management and our community.
Laugermann (radio call sign K3FL) reached a milestone last month after achieving a monumental 1,000 Volunteer Examiner (VE) sessions. He was recognized and presented with a proclamation by Harris County Judge Ed Emmett for his accomplishment.
“Franz has offered exam sessions at Houston TranStar for more than 16 years, and has helped thousands of people young and old get their amateur radio licenses,” said Joey Clements, logistics supervisor at HCOHSEM. “It is always a pleasure to work with him because he is knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and always willing to assist.”
Franz received his radio license in 1968, and in 1991 became an Amateur Radio Relay League (AARL)-accredited VE. Over the years, he has averaged about six students per session, accounting for more than 6,000 tests given, with an estimated 80% pass rate, totaling 4,800 new licenses. His new goal is to reach 2,000 VE sessions.
Retired from the US. Army in 1975, Franz continues to be an active member of the amateur radio community acting as an official observer for 30 years. He is an active Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES) member and also as an Ordained Deacon of the Galveston-Houston Archdiocese.
Last year, Franz supported the ARES effort during Hurricane Harvey at HCOHSEM’s Emergency Operation Center located at Houston TranStar. Amateur radio operators play an important role during disasters, they can assist first responders, provide real-time situational updates, and help victims contact/locate family members.
To find an amateur radio license class in your area, visit ARRL.
###
Harris County Judge Ed Emmett presents proclamation toARRL VE Franz Laugermann. (Left to Right: Franz Laugermann and Harris CountyJudge Ed Emmett.)