My first introduction to Morse code was as a Boy Scout, back in the 1950's. It took me about a year to go from being a Second Scout to a First Class Scout, primarily because of Morse code. Morse code has been a challenge to me most of my life. My introduction into ham radio came from my father-in-law, W7OZJ. After marrying his daughter, I started studying for the novice licence and in 1965 I became WN7FAE. Due to college and the struggle with Morse code, I failed to learn code well enough to past the 13 wpm code test for the General license, prior to the novice expiring. After graduating from college, I was bound and determined to pass the 13 wpm code test for the General. I finally pass in March of 1968 and became WA7JUK. I up graded to Advanced later that year. In 1974 we moved the Waseca, Minnesota to take a job with the E. E. Johnson Co., as a Metallurgical Engineer. My call sign was changed to WB0MPN. The ham radio community in Waseca centers around storm watching and 2 meter activity. I continued my live long persuit of trying to master cw. Finally in 1981, I passed the 20 wpm code test and became KD0V as an Amateur Extra Class. Shorty after that I started my own business, as a Consulting Metallurgical Engineer and ham radio took a back seat for the next 21 years.

Current rigs are Elecraft K2 for QRP CW only and a TenTec Jupiter for CW QRO and any things else. The Keys are a Kent KT-1 Professional straight key, a Vibroplex Milllennium Blue Racer, a Begali Simplex Mono, and a Begali Signature. Some days one key works better then the other. I do own and use a microphone, just a hand mike for the Jupiter.

Besides operating, I am the Secretary/Treasurer of the Viking Amateur Radio Society. I am a VE and teach an amateur radio classes every once in a while.

I am a member of ARRL, FISTS #12068, SKCC #1243T, NAQCC #2002, and SOC #757.

FISTS AWARDS: Century Club #(Exchanged on the air) Platinum #487, Platinum 250 #167, Platinum 500 #58, Silver #503, Gold #315, Diamond #166, 1 Way QRP #107, 2 Way QRP #18, Rag Chewer #81, WAS #223, Millionare #47, QSL Buro Special Achievement - 2 Way QRP #023.

SKCC Awards: Centurion #297, Tribune #199, 1XQRP #06, and 2XQRP #02.

I am self employed and have been for over 25 years. Check out our webside at http://www.mewai.com.

See you on the air. 73