That is absolutely true in that any, at least any non-profane, word can be used as a phonetic. However, readily recognizable words definitely work better. That is why there are standard phonetic alphabets including the ICAO and APCO. In the world of working DX geographical names have become a defacto standard phonetic alphabet.
Now when working your friends on a local FM repeater, then "funny phonetics" are fine since they know who you are.
The late Jack Camp, W5HS, used to say "Whiskey Five Horse . . . . . . Shoe" when working locals. But, when he was working DX he used "Washington Five Honolulu Spain".
Glen, K9STH
Website: http://k9sth.com
--- On Sun, 4/10/11, [email protected] [email protected] wrote:
http://www.w5yi.org/page.php?id=124
(2) By a phone emission in the English language. Use of {a phonetic alphabet} as an aid for correct station identification is encouraged;
So we can use any form of word to letter that is necessary to ID a ham station There is no set legal phonetic alphabet in place per the FCC part 97 I can legaly say HOT FRIDAY NIGHT for HFN and it is ok. Also no one can require you to use a certian phonetic alphabeton the ham bands , it can be requested but not required