Community service is a big part of amateur radio, and a reason that many hams are involved in our club. All ham radio operators abide by a code of conduct that has been around since the early days of radio.
The Amateur’s Code
The Radio Amateur is
- CONSIDERATE…never knowingly operates in such a way as to lessen the pleasure of others.
- LOYAL…offers loyalty, encouragement and support to other amateurs, local clubs, and the American Radio Relay League, through which Amateur Radio in the United States is represented nationally and internationally.
- PROGRESSIVE…with knowledge abreast of science, a well-built and efficient station and operation above reproach.
- FRIENDLY…slow and patient operating when requested; friendly advice and counsel to the beginner; kindly assistance, cooperation and consideration for the interests of others. These are the hallmarks of the amateur spirit.
- BALANCED…radio is an avocation, never interfering with duties owed to family, job, school or community.
- PATRIOTIC…station and skill always ready for service to country and community.
–The original Amateur’s Code was written by Paul M. Segal, W9EEA, in 1928.
As an organization, SPARC embraces this code, and pursues it both on the air and in our daily lives.