Optimax Hose Flush Attachment Plug

[legallimits]

So I've been using the hose attachment on the back of my Optimax for a while now to flush it, and every time I take off that little plug in the back, I wonder, is that part necessary? Some part of me wonders why they would put that little piece of plastic on the back, since obviously one day I'm going to drop it in the water and lose it. Does anybody know if that part is necessary? If so, I might try to order a couple more to keep in the boat. If not, I might try to put a quick connect attachment on the back to save myself the pain of unscrewing the thing every time.