In article , "Bert Craig"
writes:

"Bill Sohl" wrote in message
ink.net...

"Bert Craig" wrote in message
om...
Lets's save some bandwidth, snip!
I'm not talking about "knowing" the code, Bill. Very few people
actually "know" the code from preparing for and passing Element 1. I'm
addressing the self-discipline required to accept the challenge and
meet the requirements to upgrade one's privileges rather than complain
about how one never plans on using it.

Translation, I did it, so should everyone else.
Using your philosophy, the FCC should never change requirements...
even when a specific requirement no longer has justification.

That's not it at all. The fact is that Morse code IS the second most popular
mode in use in the ARS today. IMHO, that in itself is sufficient
justification. Remember, we're talking about the 5-wpm test, NOT 13 0r 20.

Morse code skill is the epitome of amateur radio.

The morse code test should never, ever be removed from US amateur
radio law.

If fact, the morse code test word rate should be increased to HIGHER
than 20 WPM.

This will inspire even greater self-discipline, dedication, and commitment
to the amateur comunity's goals and standards.

Morse code modes SHOULD be First, not second.

Morsemanship is vital and important.

That morse code modes are merely second shows a definite lack of
self-discipline, dedication, and commitment to the goals of
amateurism.

I'm not much into the newer
digital modes nor am I particularly interested in Satellite assisted
communications, however, if the path to upgrading my license/privies
leads through some learning and testing re. said subjects.no problem.
(Psst, it's a character issue.)

No problem there and I don't oppose "knowledge" questions
about CW the mode. The issue is the stand alone skill test
for morse which is a separate pass fail element. NO other
mode is set on that pedestal.

Is this really an issue at 5-wpm, Bill?

Absolutely. Morsemanship is vital and important. The test shows
self-discipline, dedication, and commitment to the amateur
community.

Answer the question asked...The question is, for those that need
clarity: IF someone became a General or Extra with NO
code skills, and then decided to learn code on-the-air, what's
the harm, danger, etc?

None. But I suspect you are deliberately missing my point. The code
skills themselves are irrelevant. You could substitute any actual
challenging aspect of upgrading one's ticket in it's place and the
same folks would likely bemoan it. In this "I want it now" culture,
many don't want to have to actually put forth much effort to earn
their ticket. I'd be all for dropping Element 1 altogether AND doing
away with the published Q&A pools. How about just a study guide? Oh
yeah, let's make Element 2 50 questions while we're at it.

You are free to propose any changes you wish. Others already
have done so.

The changes I find acceptable are already in a RM proposal. I've sent
multiple letters and/or e-mails to my elected representatives, the entire
ARRL leadership, and the FCC. That'll suffice for now, thanks.

Insufficient self-discipline and dedication to morsemanship.

You can do more.

You are judged a slacker and ne'erdowell, demonstrating insufficient
dedication and commitment to the amateur community.

You have been warned.

LHA