VS1BB/VS9 1958 Maldive Islands

This was an expedition by R.A.F. Seletar, Singapore in 1958.
This was a "new one" for W6AM and W6KG.

They arrived on Gan Island 0500Z April 20, 1958, the most southernly island of the Maldive chain. Here was their station, HRO receiver, DX-35 transmitter, located in an old workshop vehicle. The vehicle was extremely hot, over 90 degrees F, crowded, and lots of misquotes. They were able to get proper voltage at this location.

Operators at VS1BB/VS9 - Tony "Vic" Hawes (left), Barry Bonser, VS1BB (right). Tony was later one of the operators of VS9MA. ©Tony Hawes, used with permission.

Operating at this "domestic" tent city location (Sunset Boulevard) was out. The voltage available there was only 50VAC.

Ken, 4S7KD, on left, brought in any spares we urgently needed on his daily flights to Gan. Barry Bonser, VS1BB, on right. Notice how young there guys were.

QSL from the estate of W6CUQ / K6ZO
B&W photos and info from Don Chesser W4KVX The Ohio Valley DX Bulletin #41, August 26, 1958.
Photos sent to bulletin by VS1BB
Color photo courtesy of W5KNE and Tony Hawes.
Callbook research provided by NL7XM
Addition info courtesy of W5KNE