THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Wednesday, May 22, 1996 TAG: 9605220006
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A10 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: 36 lines
Regarding the distasteful media coverage on Admiral Boorda's death, we are disgusted by the attitude displayed by multiple ``white knight'' personas who have become so absorbed in the brilliance of their own armor that they have forgotten to what cause they have given commitment. Today's attitude of dismantling a person's reputation for a ``greater good'' is horrifically casual and without sense of consequence.
How many of these ``holier-than-thou' individuals have the personal fortitude to get involved and help correct problems they criticize so openly? Where is the balance of accountability for what you say? Even though Admiral Boorda pulled the trigger, it makes one wonder what issue/issues caused that fatal round to be put in the chamber.
Journalists, take note: Our Navy family looks no different from anyone else's. We have our pluses and minuses, as do you. There comes a time when there is a death in the family to stop analyzing the ``what about'' and show respect to the family left behind.
This is a personal tragedy. It is a matter we, the collective Navy family, will sort out ourselves with or without your ``help.'' Just as we have done before, as a result of our own consequences due to Iowa, Tailhook and continuing problems within our service, we will turn this tragic loss into constructive change.
The military is taught and expected to be responsible for its actions. Just what is journalistic responsibility?
BLAKE MILLER
Commander, U.S. Navy (ret.)
CATHY MILLER
Commander, U.S. Navy (ret.)
Norfolk, May 20, 1996 by CNB