April 4, 2026
Hello to all EC’s, DEC’s, ASEC’s and other interested parties,
Mr. Kirc Breden, N5XJB has accepted the position of District Emergency Coordinator (DEC) for District 14 of the South Texas Section. District 14 is composed solely of Harris County subdivided into 4 quadrants. I-10 is the north-south divider. I-45/HWY 288 is the east-west divider. Kirc replaces Mr. Sherwin Klemp, K5SEK, who served beginning May 2021 and is approved by Section Manager Mr. Stuart Wolfe, KF5NIX. Sherwin will remain active in a supporting role.
Kirk lists his goals:
I’m excited and honored to step into the role of District Emergency Coordinator for District 14 in the South Texas Section. District 14 encompasses Harris County, our nation’s third-largest county and home to Houston, where reliable amateur radio communications play a vital role in supporting public safety during hurricanes, floods, severe weather, and other emergencies.
As DEC, my primary focus will be to support our dedicated local Emergency Coordinators and their teams across the four quadrants (Northwest, Northeast, Southwest, and Southeast). Key priorities include:
• Coordinating training, drills, and exercises to build readiness and interoperability.
• Strengthening partnerships with Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management, local agencies, NGOs like the Red Cross, and other served agencies.
• Facilitating seamless integration between ARES groups, mutual aid networks, and broader emergency communications efforts.
• Promoting active participation in ARES to ensure we have skilled, equipped operators ready when called upon.
I have been a General Class licensed amateur since 1991, I am a Life Member of the ARRL, served in ARES for over 5 years, under multiple ECs and DECs, most recently as AEC Net Manager for D14NW. I am AUXComm trained and working on my PTB (Position Task Book) to become state certified. My goal is to foster collaboration, enhance our capabilities, and continue the strong tradition of service that District 14 ARES has built in serving Harris County.
I look forward to working with all of you—ECs, AECs, operators, and partners—to keep our district prepared and responsive. Please feel free to reach out with ideas, questions, or ways we can strengthen our team. Together, we serve!
This appointment is effective April 3, 2026.
Regards to all,
Jeffery A Walter – KE5FGA
ARRL STX SEC