I first started in Ham radio back in the late 1950s. I lived next door to my Grandfather who was a ham. I studied for my license when I was 10 yrs old, but never got the code part ( I could send, but not receive very well ). My Grandfather had a telegraph line between our houses. Picture of the key and sounder that I (mis-) learned morse code above.

I don't know why I waited so long, but I finally followed through and took both the Technician and General exams Janurary 2009. After getting on the air, learning CW quickly became a passion, and I have finally closed that chapter in my life. The first thing that I did when I received my license was to apply for my Grandfather's old call sign, which had been silent since 1967. In February 2011 I took the Extra exam. Now, CW is almost the only mode for me.

I am having a blast with CW and the entire ham radio hobby. For me it is connecting a lot of dots in my past.

SKCC #5497T

NAQCC #4540

Flyin Pig #2405

         My QSL Card                                       FT-950

      Navy Flameproof Key                      Vibroplex Cootie

               J38 Key                                   Vibroplex Original

73

Bill - W4CUX