Silent Keys: A poem and tribute by Matt Anderson KAØBOJ

This lovely tribute was submitted to QRZ by Matt Anderson, KAØBOJ, with a desire
to have it posted on QRZ. It's a very fitting piece to feature here - even if the ham being
remembered might not have been a CW operator - the tradition of "Silent Key" still
holds sway and garners respect in our long tradition.

Posted on behalf of Matt KAØBOJ

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Silent Key is a term of final endearment originally given to telegraphers
of the past who had died. Silent Key denoted that their key was no longer
active.

As time and technology moved forward the Amateur Radio Community
adopted this to acknowledge ham radio operators who had passed and
became a “Silent Key”



Silent Key

There was a time when the sounds had flowed from your radio room. A melody
to you, and to some a cantankerous noise.

But what a wonderful sound. A melodious harmony and rhythms known to a
few, but to you a symphony of your own creation. Carrying your thoughts
and feelings across town and around the world.

As times changed you picked up a microphone and shared your hours with
friends known and unknown. But you always came back to the key you
knew so well.

And now you are gone. The key knows no melody. The symphony is silent.
We remember with fondness the sounds that flowed from your room, and
we are now greeted with silence.

But now, your signals are perfect. 599 and perfect tone. Your key is now
golden. Your creator now listens to the symphony we used to enjoy and
smiles. Embraces you and shows you the heavens where your symphony
now roams.

Matt Anderson - KAØBOJ