ORIGINAL MESSAGE:

On Tue, 6 Jun 2006 09:36:21 -0400, "clfe" wrote:


I am of the opinion that a 5 WPM at least - should be kept on as a
requirement - as someday - it may be needed. Think not? Say you're in the
midst of an attack - of terrorism, a war on our homefront OR a large scale
natural disaster, a microphone isn't working or available. You can key the
radio but don't know code - now what? With code, even at 5 WPM - you could
get some very important information to those needing it to help save you -
to them. You could tell them WITH code, what is needed, exact whereabouts,
how many people involved, etc........ Just clicking a mic pin with a wire
won't tell anyone anything and could delay any help or a response big enough
to do much good. In these times with the large scale disasters as we've seen
and attacks - even for any said to be planned, NOW is a good time to WANT to
know code. IT may save you........ It is one of those skills you learn -
just like CPR or whatever - you hope you never have to use, but you're glad
you have it - when you need it.

*********** REPLY SEPARATOR ***********

Your priorities are skewed. Since there are only so many hours
allotted to us, what would be a better way to spend your spare time:

1. Learning morse code for the above mike-failure scenario?
2. Stocking up food, water and ammo for the above mike-failure
scenario?

You have been reading too many stories of the valiant radio op on the
Titanic. Ain't gonna happen.

Bill, W6WRT
20 wpm Extra, but realistic about it