"Dee D. Flint" wrote:

(snip) Again keep in mind that I have said
Morse is necessary. While I happen to
believe that testing should be maintained that
is NOT the point I am debating at this time
and you keep trying to drag it back to testing.
I am stating that Morse code itself is necessary.


We wouldn't be having this discussion if it were not for the code testing
debate, Dee. That is why this mode is being discussed as opposed to some
other mode or discussions about the weather. I've acknowledged that Morse
code is enjoyable, entertaining, useful, and perhaps even necessary for you
to make some of the contacts you want to make. But we're not just talking
about you or the contacts you want to make. Your communications are
recreational or avocational in nature, not a necessity. And, as long as your
communications are not necessary, your use of Morse code in those
communications is not necessary.

This brings us back to the code testing debate. If Morse code is not
necessary to meet the goals and purposes of the Amateur Radio Service today,
Morse code testing should be eliminated. The _use_ of Morse code not an
issue here. You will still be able to use that mode when you find it
necessary to make the contacts you want. Others will still be able to learn
code if they want. But the test itself, as a license requirement, should
end.


Dwight Stewart (W5NET)

http://www.qsl.net/w5net/