CBS Evening News
New York, NY
Re: FALLEN HERO’S SEGMENT ON CBS EVENING NEWS
To Whom It May Concern:
As a Veteran of some fifteen years in the U.S. Armed Forces now retired, I am gratified that you have chosen to spend every evening newscast paying homage to the nation’s fallen men and women in uniform. However, after watching this segment for some three weeks, one could come to the conclusion that only white soldiers have given their lives in the defense of our nation performing their sworn duty.
It is a well know and documented fact that more then 50% of the United States Army is made up of minorities of all suasions serving side-by-side, and indeed dying side-by-side their white brethren. So as a black Veteran I am astonished, appalled, outraged and gravely offended that none of the men profiled have been black. Surely, CBS is not trying to send a message that only white soldiers are dying in the defense of their nation; that only the stories of white soldiers are fit enough to be showcased on air.
It is these continuing subtle signs of exclusion that cause blacks and other minorities to wonder if we will ever be treated as equal members of this society that so many of us have given our lives for. It is these little digs at our dignity that continually keeps us looking around ever hedge and over every wall for racisms call. It would be nice to find at home what so many are dying for overseas; equality, respect, and freedom from bigotry.
Vincent E. Martin
CTT1(SS), USN (Ret)
Aurora, IL
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