Amateur Radio is a non-commercial radio communication service whose primary aims are public service, technical training and experimentation, and communication between private persons. Amateur Radio operators are commonly called hams. Hams often communicate with each other recreationally but also provide communications for others at public events or in times of emergency or disaster.

The hallmark of Amateur radio through the years has been the technical advancement. Hams pioneered long distance use of the short-wave bands and today have expanded the range of formerly "local" bands through the use of automatic relay stations called "repeaters". They even use satellites to enhance their transmissions. With special hookups, it is possible for a ham with a small hand-held radio to communicate with other hams half way across the world.

Amateur radio is primarily a hobby, for the personal enjoyment. But in times of need, it is transformed into a corps of highly trained public service communications, ready, willing and able to help their neighbors. Hams are probably best known for their work during disasters.