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Any truth to this rumor?

Jun 8th 2016, 00:01

W0SJF

Joined: May 25th 2016, 22:40
Total Topics: 0
Total Posts: 0
I was reading that some upper level hams get upset when they see someone with a nametag at an event who is not one of the sponsors or officials. I also heard the same goes for call sign belt buckles. I just got my technical license and thought it would be cool to get a belt buckle with my call sign on it. But, not if I'm going to be ridiculed by other hams. At least my club doesn't have a secret handshake. :-) Or maybe they do and they just haven't told me yet.
Jun 8th 2016, 15:33

aa6e

Joined: Apr 4th 1998, 00:00
Total Topics: 0
Total Posts: 0
There's no rule about this -- it's just personal style. Go for it!

Of course a name badge that says you're a club officer or whatever is not a good idea, unless you really hold that post.

73 Martin AA6E
Jun 8th 2016, 19:22

W0SJF

Joined: May 25th 2016, 22:40
Total Topics: 0
Total Posts: 0
Thank you for the prompt reply. Of course portraying yourself as someone you are not is a no no. I was talking about a name badge that simply says "Hi, my name is xxxxx." The belt buckle thing made no sense to me. Why would anyone object to it? If someone sees it they are sure to say, "What's that," and the next thing you know you're talking about amateur radio. Isn't that what we want?
Jun 9th 2016, 16:02

aa6e

Joined: Apr 4th 1998, 00:00
Total Topics: 0
Total Posts: 0
Many of us have a ham badge that gives our callsign and name. It's useful at club meetings, conventions, or other activities.
Jun 12th 2016, 02:13

NK7Z

Joined: Apr 4th 1998, 00:00
Total Topics: 0
Total Posts: 0
If you run into a ham that thinks it is bad practice for you to wear a name badge, run from him/her. They do not represent the majority of us. We are all one family...
Aug 5th 2016, 13:47

N0NB

Joined: Apr 4th 1998, 00:00
Total Topics: 0
Total Posts: 0
The OP is certainly puzzling as plenty of ops wear name badges to radio related events, not just hamfests.

Perhaps the confusion is that there are companies that will sell a facsimile of a law enforcement badge with one's callsign on it. I suppose it could have some usefulness but as one who never aspired to be a cop, I certainly would not get one. Perhaps these are what the comments the OP overheard are referring to.

Hats and the usual badge styles available from vendors at hamfests should not raise a concern.

73, Nate
N0NB.us

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