As of today Starlink has been installed on Randy Lilly’s KE4RL Commo trailer. This will enhance our options to provide communications into and out of a disaster zone.
Starlink
MeshCore in Virginia
MeshCore is an open-source, MIT-licensed, decentralized mesh networking protocol that uses LoRa radio technology for secure, off-grid text communication. It allows for reliable, long-range messaging without cellular or internet connectivity, often used for emergency response, IoT networks, and private secure communications, boasting up to 64-hop message propagation.
Key aspects of the MeshCore system include:
- Architecture: Unlike fully ad-hoc networks, MeshCore typically relies on a hierarchy of dedicated stationary repeaters and user-carried nodes (companions), though it supports a “Client Repeat Mode” for temporary infrastructure.
- Efficiency: MeshCore is designed to minimize radio traffic compared to other systems, employing “structured routing” that sends messages specifically to the target node rather than broadcasting to all nodes.
- Hardware: It operates on commonly available LoRa hardware (such as those from LilyGo, e.g., T-Deck).
- Application: It operates on sub-gigahertz bands for long-distance communication (up to 100+ km) and allows for encrypted messages.
- Development & Features: The system features advanced features like remote server administration via LoRa, which can be enabled by registering hardware.
MeshCore vs. Meshtastic
While both utilize LoRa, MeshCore is distinguished by its 64-hop limit (vs. 7 in Meshtastic) and its focus on efficient, structured routing over broadcast-heavy methods.
Some of us have already explored Meshtastic and is pleased with it ability in asset tracking and sensor data like weather. MeshCore will fill a need for low power message traffic that both hams and non hams can use for very little money.
Upcoming Events 2025
The SW VA AUXCOMM Association participates in several public service events throughout the year. These events show the usefulness of the amateur radio service and act as a form of practice for emergency communication events.
If you are interested in volunteering for any of these events, please either email Randy Lilly (KE4RL) or briarpatcharc@gmail.com.
April 05, 2025 – Appalachian Journey Bike Ride, Floyd County, VA
April 12, 2025 – New River Trail 25-50-100K Run, Fries, VA
April 17-20, 2025 – No Frills Horse Ride, Star Tannery, VA (Exit 296 on I81)
June 12-15, 2025 – Old Dominion Horse Ride, Orkney Springs, VA
August 22-23, 2025 – Iron Mountain Jubilee Horse Ride, Cripple Creek, VA
September 20, 2025 – New River Trail Challenge Triathlon, Foster Falls, VA
October 16-19, 2025 – Fort Valley Horse Ride, Fort Valley, VA (Exit 296 on I81)
Southwestern Virginia Flooding 2025
Virginia Auxcomm was activated in February 2025 to assist the Red Cross and damage assessment in south Western Virginia, particularly Buckhannon county 
Thanks to all the ham radio operators that dedicated their time and services to help the Red Cross help those who lost so much during the floods. 
Virginia Auxcomm assists with the New River Trail 50k/25k Run. 2019
Operation Perfect Storm
Virginia Auxcomm exercise called Perfect Storm. This is Randy’s Trailer located at the Hospital Coordination Office in Bristol. We also had a VHF Winlink station inside the facility.
Operation Winter Fury 2017
Ham Radio Now interview of Glen Sage W4GHS about the VA AUXCOMM SET on January 21, 2017.
National Weather Service open house.
This past Saturday on 10/20/2018 the National Weather Service in Blacksburg VA had their open house to showcase their capabilities and invited VA Auxcomm to bring one of our Communications trailer. Randy Lilly KE4RL brought his trailer and had over a hundred visitors.
VDEM Advisory 9/13/2018
VDEM Advisory Message for state and local government employees in Southwest Virginia to share with relatives, friends and neighbors:
The Virginia Department of Emergency (VDEM) wants to ensure that everyone in Southwest Virginia is aware of the potential effects and impacts of what will be left of Hurricane Florence as it turns north and heads up through the area over the next two to five days. Officials at VDEM would appreciate the help of all state and local government employees by sharing the information below with members of your family, your friends and your neighbors. By sharing this information with as many people as possible, you will help ensure people are prepared for the flooding that could result from the heavy rain that is predicted for Southwest Virginia.
While Virginia’s coast was spared a direct hit from Hurricane Florence, heavy rains capable of causing flooding will impact portions of Southwest Virginia over the next two to five days. Rain totals of between four and 10 inches will cause creeks and streams to overflow. Homes and businesses in low-lying areas will experience flooding. Roads and bridges could be washed out, and emergency services will have difficulty reaching some areas. The time to prepare for this is now. The Virginia Department of Emergency Management encourages everyone to remain vigilant, keep informed about the weather conditions and, if you encounter flooded roads or bridges to turn around and not drive through the deep water
Tracking a Hurricane while sending email via pactor.
Al Keen N4ZZQ in his communications trailer.
Virginia AUXCOMM 
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