While the Morse Code requirement has been dropped from both the FCC amateur radio operator license exam and the Boy Scouts Radio Merit Badge requirements, it shows continued growth in operation. CW or Morse Code contests continue to grow in participation and many are eagerly studying Morse Code to acquire it for the first time or to build their receiving and transmitting speed and accuracy.
In 2012, the Boy Scouts of America added a Morse Code Interpreter Strip to their allowable uniform wear. You can read all about the requirements at Morse Code Interpreter Strip. Below is an image of the patch, with the dots and dashes spelling out the word M-O-R-S-E.
Many questions have surfaced over how to qualify for the interpreter strip, who determines the qualification, etc. Administration of all interpreter strips are done at the unit level by the unit leader or someone they designate who has the skills and knowledge to verify current proficiency in the language, in this case Morse Code. One of the better overviews of the interpreter strip qualification process is at the Scout Insignia website.
Scouting Magazine has also posted an FAQ about Interpreter Strips at https://scoutingmagazine.org/2018/12/show-others-you-speak-their-language-with-interpreter-strips/
You can order the strip at BSA Supply with order number 615120
All interpreter strips are worn on the uniform above the right pocket.
Learning Morse Code
If you’re interested in learning Morse Code here are some websites that can be of assistance, beginning with a nifty game on the Boys’ Life website.
CW Ops CW Academy, including youth academy
Gmail Tap — Fantastic April Fool’s Day Spoof
Good luck and keep after it. Morse Code can be a very rewarding way of communicating with other amateur radio operators around the world.
