Oct 4, 2005 2 min read

Is nothing sacred? Would you publish a picture of your own family member, lying dead on the ground after a train wreck, if you thought it would increase circulation? Your cover page in the Oct. 1 edition of the Herald-Standard sickens me. I understand the concept of sensationalist journalism, but some things must remain private, sacred, not for public consumption. Pennsylvania National Guard Specialist William Evans is an American hero in every sense of the word. He paid the ultimate price for serving our great country. You honor his family by showing a picture of Mrs. Judy Evans draped over her son’s casket while being comforted by her husband. If ever there is a private moment, this is it. This is how you show respect to a hero’s family? Let them grieve their son. Let them have their space.

There is a proper and ceremonious way to bury an American hero. They deserve dignity, respect, and honor. Which of these does your published photograph depict? Obviously you don’t understand how to be respectful, or tasteful, or honorable in reporting the news.

To Mr. and Mrs. Evans, I doubt you will ever read this but just in case, you need to know America grieves with you. Every son we loose is one too many. You have my deepest sympathy on your great lost.

You also have my apology for having to endure the selfish sensationalistic practices of our news media, which will stop at nothing just to get a few more copies of their rag in circulation.

Drew L. Zinck

Uniontown