XT2MD Ham Radio DXpedition to Burkina Faso: James KB2FMH

James Gallo, KB2FMH, is no stranger to adventure, but his recent DXpedition to Burkina Faso might just take the cake. A retired New York City plumber with a flair for storytelling and a passion for ham radio, James recounts an expedition marked by danger, diplomacy, and a healthy dose of camaraderie. From navigating military barricades and armed escorts to having their equipment confiscated by local authorities, James and his team faced challenges most operators would only read about.
The United States government warned against travel to Burkina Faso-a country classified as a Level 4 red zone due to threats of terrorism and violence. But for James and his international team, the lure of activating XT2MD and making history outweighed the risks. What they didn’t expect? A visit from plainclothes special police and a three-day shutdown of their operations.
Enter the President’s uncle, clad in royal garb, whose unexpected intervention turned the tide. With his influence and connections, James and his team retrieved their confiscated gear and resumed their work, ultimately logging an impressive 76,000 QSOs.
This is a story of perseverance, shared humanity, and the power of amateur radio to bridge even the most unlikely divides. Join us as James brings his trademark humor and vivid storytelling to an unforgettable adventure.
Don’t miss this incredible conversation-and be sure to subscribe to W1DED Worldwide Ham Radio for more stories from the world of ham radio!
2:17 How James Joined - How he became part of the XT2MD DXpedition team.
4:11 Arrival in Burkina Faso - First impressions, military presence, and security concerns.
8:22 Hotel and Setup - Choosing a safe hotel, station setups, and operating conditions.
11:54 Radios and Antennas - Overview of the equipment and antennas used during the DXpedition.
16:11 Power Outage Cover - The real reason behind the interruption in operations.
22:20 Police Detainment - Confiscation of equipment and dealing with local authorities.
25:23 Presidential Uncle’s Help - How an influential local figure assisted the team.
29:30 Equipment Return - Recovering their gear and rebuilding the stations.
31:11 Continuing Operations - Pushing through challenges to log 76,000 QSOs.
33:54 Reflecting on Success - Wrapping up the experience and looking forward to future DXpeditions.
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