[Milsurplus] Torch Bearers

[CL in NC]

Preserving the history of all radio gear regardless of era has been a focus of mine for a long time.  There is a very large impediment to it that resides in Connecticut.  Amateur Radio is the only hobby I know of that at a national level disdains anything old.  Cars, trucks, planes, boats, guns, guitars and even vintage electric guitar amps have a following, some have their own publications, and I have never seen or read where those in the latest up to date equipment craze of those same cars, trucks, etc., will look at an old restored anything and make disparaging remarks about those who restore and operate them.  I was amazed last year when an article was run on improving a vintage piece of Collins gear.  Most submissions like that receive a "Not of interest to our current readership" rejection letter. I have several of those in my attempts to highlight other facets of this hobby.  We have small groups like this, the AWA, ER Mag, with limited viewers and followers, that the vast majority of hams have no idea about.  On the air, we have to congregate on like minded nets, the Swan, Drake, Heath, Collins, milsurp and other nets, because sometimes running vintage and mingling with the modern can be a problem.  There is some animosity now-a-days towards us who enjoy this hobby with our vintage equipment. 

Charlie, W4MEC in NC