White
House Greets Amateur Radio Operators
NEWINGTON, CT, Jun 19, 2002--President George
Bush has sent his greetings to all Amateur Radio operators, acknowledging their
role in emergency communications and in generating international good will. The
White House letter comes as hams in the US mark Amateur Radio Week June 16-23
and prepare to participate this weekend in ARRL Field Day--an emergency
preparedness exercise.
"I salute amateur radio operators for your
work on behalf of public safety officials," the President said in a letter
dated June 18. "I also commend your interest in communicating with persons in
other parts of the world and learning about other cultures and countries. Your
involvement builds understanding and goodwill around the globe."
For the first time, Field Day will be open to
participation by amateurs throughout the Americas and the Caribbean.
The President's letter acknowledged ham
radio's "important role in emergency communications, assisting law enforcement
personnel and other emergency services as they carry out their
responsibilities."
ARRL President Jim Haynie, W5JBP, expressed
his delight at the presidential communication. "I'm extremely pleased that the
president has decided to recognize the accomplishments of Amateur Radio operators
throughout America," he said today. "Amateur Radio is a real asset to America,
and even more so after September 11. Amateur Radio has always played a big role
in disasters and emergencies, and I'm very proud of it."
President Bush said First Lady Laura Bush
"joins me in sending our best wishes."
Governors in several states have issued
proclamations designating Amateur Radio Week or Amateur Radio Month.
Page last modified: 08:14 AM, 20 Jun 2002 ET
Page author: awextra@arrl.org
Copyright © 2002, American Radio Relay League, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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