Keith wrote in message ink.net...
http://gullfoss2.fcc.gov/prod/ecfs/upload_v2.cgi

Enter in the number RM-10787, fill out the address
information and upload or type in your comments on
the elimination of morse code testing as a requirement
to operate on HF.

Thanks Keith,

Comments submitted. I hope the FCC is in listening mode. :-)

--
73 de Bert
WA2SI


Egbert C. Craig, Jr. August 29, 2003
WA2SI

Re. RM-10787

To whom it may concern:

Undoubtedly, there will be many comments filed re. this petition.
Therefore, I will be brief and to the point. Although I am not new to
radio and earned my GROL long before my amateur radio license, I am a
relative newcomer to amateur radio. As such, I feel that I can offer
an alternative view to many of the "old timers."

I believe that there is still a very important place for minimal Morse
code proficiency testing in U.S. amateur radio licensing. I've been
told that "proficiency" is the technically correct term, however, I do
not feel 5-wpm represents Morse proficiency. I feel that the current
5-wpm Element 1 test is sufficient to require an individual to learn
the Morse characters so that s/he may then make an educated decision
as to whether or not s/he wishes to pursue CW further.

I would like to dispel two myths that I have repeatedly heard/read in
the argument for dropping Element 1:

· The current Element 1 test acts as a filter to keep out Cbers and
other "insufficiently-dedicated" individuals.
· The current Element 1 test acts as a deterrent to newcomers to the
hobby/service.

Along with being an amateur radio "newbie," I am also a Cber and
Element 1 did not deter me in any way, shape, or form from upgrading
my license class and earning HF privileges. If during the course of
reviewing the comments filed re. RM-10787, this demographic is
referred to while supporting the removal of Element 1, please do not
include me. This "newbie" wholeheartedly supports the retention of
Element 1 testing for the General and Extra license class licenses.

In closing, I would also like to remind those who believe that Morse
code testing serves no "regulatory purpose" in amateur radio that
there is an intangible quality at stake here too. It is part of our
culture and tradition and therefore should not be removed from the
curriculum.

Thank you for your time and attention.


Sincerely,


Egbert C. Craig, Jr.
WA2SI