[SEDXC] Fw: New York Times "Morse Code: Fading Signal" story

[Ron Lowrance K4SX]

Sent: Wednesday, December 27, 2006 1:06 PM
Subject: New York Times "Morse Code: Fading Signal" story


I received a copy of an email regarding the recent New York Times article on the FCC's decision to discontinue the requirement of morse code proficiency as a key component of Amateur Radio examinations.  This as all of us know is sometimes an emotional topic that continues to be debated among the Amateur Radio community.  While there are points on both sides of this debate, the fact remains that disregarding morse code (cw) as a key component of the licensing process may prove to be the wrong decision.  CW is a very reliable communication in times of disaster and every federally licensed Amateur should have it as a critical commuication skill.  Being tested for this skill should have remained as part of the licensing process.  My question to the ARRL and FCC is what are you going to replace CW with as a critical testing proficiency?  That question must be answered.

The priviledge of holding a federal license as an Amateur Radio operator takes on many responsibilities that include serving your community in times of disaster. The skills and expertise we possess should include the ability of morse code.      

It is becoming apparent that the United States has decided to not stand out as a leader in many areas and it is my opinion this is just one more aspect of our unwillingness to lead.   Just because other countries have decided not include morse code as a license requirement does not mean we should have to follow in their misguided "foot-steps"....

In closing, Amateur Radio has long stood for many valued and lasting fundamentals and principles that were forged by those who came before us and admired by those who knew of Amateur Radio and revered those who had the technical ability and community spirit to participate.  Even employers looked upon a licensed Amateur as a "plus" on the employment application.  Whether you support the FCC's action or not, it is high time all of us realized our on-the-air actions, our community attitude, and overall perception of the public at-large is being watched and monitored by those who have respected Amateur Radio for the past decades.  Amateur Radio is for everyone who has the desire and wants to put forth the effort to join the ranks of those who are taking the journey.  I hope those who wanted to eliminate CW as a testing requirement did not do so because they wanted an easier entry path into a valued and necessary federal communication license.  That would be the wrong decision factor along with using "mode" as deciding factor to eliminate CW.  They would be missing the point!

If you disagree with the decision, write your congressman, the FCC, and the ARRL.  Make your voice heard!  (I did).  It is up to us to improve Amateur Radio. We must ensure Amateur Radio continues to mean something and not let it deminish in importance.

I just hope beyond all hope that the ARRL leadership did not make this decision based on money/license numbers.


Ron Lowrance
K4SX
Wright City, MO
k4sx at centurytel.net