[OKDXA] On the Rewards of DXing

[Kim Elmore]

On the Rewards of DXing

Recall that, among the justifications for Amateur Radio in the United 
States, codified in Part 97 of the FCC regulations, among the first 
words, is this: “Continuation and extension of the amateur’s unique 
ability to enhance international goodwill.” So, in light of 
justification, I paraphrase from a dated book, “DX POWER: Effective 
Techniques for Radio Amateurs,” by Eugene Tilton, K5RSG (1985):

One of the rewarding things about DXing is that even after various 
international conflicts, the amateurs residing in the belligerents 
continue to speak to each other on the air. Many other serious problems 
exist and amateur radio is absent from too many countries. It is a sad 
absence. Like the symbolic ping-pong match between the US and China so 
many years ago, the mere existence of amateur radio in various countries 
could bridge political gaps in an unprecedented manner.

As radio amateurs, with international experience (albeit vicarious in 
some cases), we’ve always had a special feeling that regardless of 
politics, we will talk with and/or help anyone. It is that special 
international atmosphere of Amateur Radio that allows us to be 
steadfastly loyal to our country and its interests and yet 
simultaneously allows us human contact with those in nations to which 
ours is in political opposition. DXers are inherently involved in such 
matters and are usually cognizant of world developments. I fervently 
hope that the future will allow Amateur Radio to play a natural role in 
easing tensions, but it will probably not happen easily. And yet, 
worldwide, we are ALL here, ready to be tapped.

73 & CU in the Pileups,

Kim N5OP
OKDXA Pres.

-- 
Kim Elmore, Ph

Kim Elmore, Ph.D. (Adj. Assoc. Prof., OU School of Meteorology, CCM, PP 
SEL/MEL/Glider, UAS, N5OP, 2nd Class Radiotelegraph, GROL)

/“I occasionally play works by contemporary composers and for two 
reasons. First to discourage the composer from writing any more and 
secondly to remind myself how much I appreciate Beethoven." – Jascha 
Heifetz/