Dave Heil wrote.:
How does someone become an A-1 Op?

"Only the best operators can qualify for the A-1 Operator Club, amateurs
who have met the highest operating standards (details on request). But
you can't apply; you must be recommended independently by two amateurs
who already belong to the A-1 Operator Club. Who knows? Fine-tune your
operating skills, and one of these days you may be pleasantly surprised
when the mailman delivers an A-1 Operator Club certificate."

from: http://www.arrl.org/awards/#a1


quote
First organized in May 1933, the ARRL A-1 Operator Club has a proud
history and occupies an important place in Amateur Radio tradition.
Communications Manager Ed Handy, W1BDI, announced its formation with
these words in July 1933 QST:

Are you an A-1 Operator? Excellence in stations has often been
emphasized. Yet, station performance, equipment, adjustment, etc., are
but part of the story. The operation of the equipment, knowledge of
procedure, and general communications technique are of very great
importance in determining the results of any station. To bring attention
to good operating as a paramount issue, and to give it something of the
importance it deserves we are this month announcing in these columns the
launching of a club for A-1 operators.

By early 1934, the roster of recognized A-1 operators had swelled to
more than 400; by the end of 1938, to 1,000. Then, as now, nominations
were not made lightly; through the years, recognition as an A-1 Operator
has represented an unsolicited acknowledgment of one's high standing
among one's peers.

Much is said about the handful of radio amateurs whose operating
practices do not quite measure up. Not enough is said about those who,
by contrast, lead by example - who set the standard for others to
follow. Let us correct that now. Let us honor them as A-1 Operators and
in so doing, honor the best in Amateur Radio. - David Sumner, K1ZZ
unquote

from: http://www.arrl.org/awards/a1-op/a1v11.html


One can find the roster of members either by name or callsign at:
http://www.arrl.org/awards/a1-op/roster/

To find those who have one nomination, look at:
http://www.arrl.org/awards/a1-op/a1-nominees.html

Dave K8MN

John Smith wrote:
Dave Heil wrote:
How does someone become an A-1 Op?

"Only the best operators can qualify for the A-1 Operator Club, amateurs
...

Some hams really have much too much time on their hands. Do some
volunteer work or get a job, it'll keep you away from silly pursuits ...


You aren't paying attention, John CB. The A-1 Operator Club isn't
something you pursue.
It either comes to you or it doesn't. There are A-1 Ops who have jobs
and who do volunteer work.

Dave K8MN