[BC] Code useless? - was No-code Amateur license

[Gary Peterson]

I still use CW, from time to time.  I have every DXCC country confirmed.
This was not possible without quite a few being worked on CW.  I have many
close in states/grid squares confirmed that were worked during 6 meter
auroras.  Often, the Doppler flutter is so severe as to make other modes
unusable.  It is also thrilling to talk to someone thousands of miles away,
using a homebuilt H.F. transmitter, powered by a few dry batteries.  The
fact that a small amount of energy from a battery can be detected and
support communications across an ocean never ceases to amaze me.  There have
been times when I finished a voice-mode QSO with CW because propagation
would no longer allow SSB.  I prefer CW IDers on repeaters, as I can either
listen to the voice or copy the CW without difficulty.

I have no problem with dropping the code test for an amateur license.  Time
marches on and I am probably an anachronism.  When I was a thirteen year old
kid, international Morse was a requirement for a ham license.  If there had
been a requirement to write and read shorthand, I would have learned it.  I
wanted a license that much.  I'm glad I learned the code because it has been
a useful mode and a source of enjoyment for me.  I think it is like learning
to play a musical instrument or learning a second language.  It shouldn't be
required.  It isn't necessary to function.  But, by not doing so, a person
misses out on something wonderful.

Gary, K?CX

" Does ANYONE use Morse code for anything anymore? We have far more
efficient
means of communications now. Aside from making someone PROVE they are
interested enough in obtaining an Amateur license to learn it, what value is
it?

Jerry Mathis "