Re: [PSUBS-MAILIST] The Navy Speaks: Bubsy is Public Domain

[Jonathan Wallace <jon@whoweb.com>]

Phil,

Apparently, the Navy contracted with Busby for the material he wrote and
that material is now in the public domain.  It also seems that the Navy is
*endorsing* the publication of Busby's material on PSUBS and is excited
about linking to PSUBS so that anyone who wants access to the material
can get to it.  Therefore, we have done all that we "should do" to fulfill any

legal or moral obligations regarding possible copyright infringment of Busby's

work if the Navy puts their statements in writing to us.

Your suggestion is akin to tracking down the heirs of the authors of the US
Constitution and asking their permission to publish it on a web site.  It
simply isn't necessary because it is material in the public domain.  Given
the statements of the Navy and their apparent willingness to work with us
on this project, your argument that we should also receive permission of
Busby heirs is solely emotional in nature.  You knew Busby personally
and appreciated his contributions to submersibles, and it's understandable
why you feel the way you do.  I disagree that it is disrespectful to
immortalize
the man by publishing his works where many more people will be able to
use his information, than to leave his works hidden away because of funding
issues.  Personally, I can't help think that Busby's reaction would be far
worse knowing his works are being auctioned off electronically to the
lowest bidder (when somebody feels like making a fast buck on a book
they no longer want) than having them published where they can receive the
admiration they deserve.

Jon


Phil Nuytten wrote:

> Hi, Pat:
>         Re; Busby's heirs/ copyright extension/reprints/etc. I agree
> completely with you regarding the common courtesy of checking with Busby's
> heir, seeing if he wants to reprint, etc For the group to simply say " No
> law against it, so we'll just plow ahead using this material in any manner
> we chose . ." smacks of the most blatant disrespect for the guy who has
> given the advantage of his years of experience, in the first place. I knew
> Frank Busby well, and I can flat guarantee you that his reaction to what
> the group proposes -  go no further than determining what you can do
> ,without considering what you should do -  would be  one of disbelief,
> initially. and then an invitation to kiss his Irish - American. . .  well,
> . . . not " Lass" !
> Phil Nuytten