not necessary, but for me, I would always have them.
My deal is that I run multiple tanks, and having a valve on each return line lets me cut a tank, or section of plumbing off the system to do whatever, maintenance or even a tank replacement.
If you only have one line, and you want your pump going at full strength, then I don't see any advantage to it. those are not for anti-drainback siphon problems either so I can't really think of any good reason to have one.
Now, back on topic

. I took my old reliable RIO2600 off of return pump duty, just because, heh, and put it on skimmer duty.
I decided to go with a hot noisy, but super track record, pump, so I got one of those mag9's to replace the rio at return pump duty.
However, at some point here, I have a Gen-x for when I set up a hard sump. The problem is, I love just being able to take a $5 storage tub full of yuck down to the curb once every year or two and just throw a new one in place. I only have to cut a notch or make a hole for the skimmer drain hose and I'm back in business. All my plumbing is entirely flexible and man am I spoiled.
ps, welcome aboard
