[KYHAM] KC7CCF Needs Assistance with Research

David A. Smith [email protected]
Sun, 25 Apr 2004 07:03:44 -0400


In reference to Jonestown Guyana:

That incident set off a chain of events that has forever changed amateur
radio in the United States.

As I recall, our government authorities where making inquiry of anyone who
intercepted or had information concerning the Jonestown commune via amateur
radio.  However, a federal Judge pointed out that the communications act of
1934 made it illegal to divulge communications of certain types including
ships at sea and amateur without a court order.  This brought to question
any complaints concerning amateur operation to the FCC, the legality of
Novice and Conditional Examinations etc.

This �discovery� set off a chain of events that led to the VE program and
the AA, as we know it today.

I hope that this is of some help.

David Alkire Smith W8YZ
Michigan Section ARRL