The Amateur's Code

The Radio Amateur is:

CONSIDERATE—never knowingly operates in such a way as to lessen the pleasure of others.
LOYAL—offers loyalty, encouragement and support to other amateurs, local clubs, and the American Radio Relay League, through which amateur radio is represented nationally and internationally.
PROGRESSIVE—with knowledge abreast of science, a well built and efficient station and operation above reproach.
FRIENDLY—slow and patient operating when requested; friendly advice and counsel to the beginner; kindly assistance, cooperation and consideration for the interests of others. These are hallmarks of the amateur spirit.
BALANCED—radio is an avocation, never interfering with duties owed to family, job, school, or community.
PATRIOTIC—station and skill always ready for service to country and community.

The original Amateur's Code was written by Paul M. Segal, W9EEA, in 1928.

Amateur radio is sometimes called amateur radio service. Community service and volunteering is something I enjoy very much. Amateur radio is a great help lining up the floats and bands and providing communication along the parade route. There have been many walk-a-thons and runs that I have helped with. Sometimes I carry the radio and walk, sometimes I ride my bicycle, sometimes I use the radio in my truck. I helped with a five mile swim across Lake Minnetonka; I had my radio in a boat! One of the most
interesting things I helped with was a drill for the Prairie Island Power Plant. There were state and federal people to monitor and grade our procedures! Amateur radio provides communication during natural disasters and during search and rescue. Amateur radio is written into many emergency plans of hospitals, cities, counties and states.