You may recall the story about the origination of the Golf November Tango frequency of 146.55 MHz. Unfortunately, we have discovered an oversight in the selection of this important frequency.
On the 2 Meter band in the US and Canada, we have two different channel spacings in use. Some regions use a 15-KHz channel spacing while other regions use 20-kHz channels. All regions do use 146.52 MHz as the FM calling frequency, but the other channels are spaced based on local practice. The 20-kHz spaced band plan has simplex frequencies that include 146.52, 146.54, 146.56 and 146.58 MHz. With a 15 kHz spacing, the resulting simplex frequencies include 146.52, 146.535, 146.550, 146.565 and 146.580 MHz. Clearly, the existing frequency of 146.55 MHz was only compatible with the 15-kHz band plan.
An investigation is underway to determine who actually chose this frequency, so the responsible party can be held responsible. Unfortunately, no one seems to remember how the frequency was actually chosen, so the investigation continues. In the mean time, The Committee to Preserve Golf November Tango met and decided to launch a fast-track project to establish a new GNT frequency. If at all possible, this frequency must be compatible with both types of band plans, so that a North American GNT frequency can be restored to its former glory, while fully conforming to local VHF band plans.
After an intensive 18 month investigation, the team was unable to find such a frequency. Even though they met weekly, usually while partaking of copious quantities of Gin and Tonic, they were unable to find a solution. It looked like the entire enterprise might be in jeopardy. But late one night, one of the committee members blurted out “hey, why don’t we just use 146.52 MHz since I already have it programmed into my radio?” By some quirk of fate, the other committee members thought he said “146.58 MHz”, which, in fact, does fit both band plans. The GNT frequency was quickly designated as 146.58 MHz and the meeting was adjourned.
So remember, when you are on the beach and in the need of liquid refreshment, make a distress call on the GNT frequency of 146.58 MHz.
73, Bob K0NR
Bob,
Thanks for the clarification on this critical matter. I have a follow on question: Since beaches are almost never available here in the Rocky Mountain region, is it appropriate to use repeaters to coordinate liquid refreshment congregations at local outlets of such services, particularly in a dire liquid refreshment emergency? While I have 146.58 MHz in my common scan now thanks to your efforts and reminders, I have found that many more in-need individuals hang out on the local repeater where they are more readily accessible. Can you offer any guidelines on the use of repeaters for these communications that are crucial to the happiness of so many in our community? Thanks again for staying right on top of this! I don’t know where the ham community would be without you. 73 ~ Stu
For GNT purposes, the term “beach” just means anywhere you might be hanging out at the moment. So all areas of the country have beaches by this definition.
GNT repeater use is somewhat controversial. This stems from the fact that if the person giving aid is not within simplex range, they are not likely to bother with actually bringing you a GNT. I speak from experience here. The appropriate way to use a repeater during a GNT incident is to say “Golf November Tango” followed by your callsign and then QSY to the GNT frequency.
It is always a good idea to ask the repeater trustee about the repeater policy on GNT usage. Otherwise, you may be banned for life from using a particular repeater.