Page 17 - Lambert Wackers
P. 17
The book is worth reading; it describes the company's progression from simple radio-
signal devices to shortwave worldwide expansion, directional signaling, the incorporation
of radar, transistors, and electronic navigation devices on fishing ships and coasters (Decca
and Loran), and since the 1980's satellites. Anno 2022 Radio Holland Group, BV offers
telecommunication, satellite communication, navigation equipment, and e-navigation.
I can imagine it must have been very exciting for an engineer like Lambert to be involved
with and manage new and rapidly evolving technology. Not only that, but also exploring
new practical applications.
I am sure he understood that novel technology might reach a dead end. One should be
prepared to adjust to better and different technical advances as long as it served the
greater goal of improved telecommunication.
In 1930, Lambert Wackers stepped down as Director of Radio Holland. I did not find
anything about Lambert's life during retirement. No interviews with him, no stories about
the early days of Radio Holland. It is as if Lambert disappeared.
His wife Catharine passed away in 1933. Their daughter Dr. Maria Louise Wackers (1905-
2003), had a doctorate in organic chemistry; she remained unmarried. I found no further
information about the daughter either.
At this point, I have become very frustrated. I had hoped to discover more about the person
of Lambert Wackers. Thus far, the only information I collected was about his career and
professional accomplishments, but all that was relatively impersonal.
There is a portrait of Lambert Wackers in the headquarters of Radio Holland in Rotterdam.
The picture probably was painted at the time of his retirement.
The portrait shows a gentleman seated in a chair. He is probably in his sixties but in good
physical shape, with grey-white hair. He looks relaxed. I find his face striking; an intelligent
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