Please note that Walter Crokite as well as CBS News and others in the field at the time attribute the origin of the word "anchorman" to Sig Mickelson, first President of CBS News. Other people also credited for the word are Paul Levitan, a CBS executive and Don Hewitt, a CBS producer

For more information on this and other matters relating to Mr. Cronkite's early days at CBS please read Mickelson's "The Decade that Shaped Television News: CBS in the 1950s published by Praeger in 1998.

Thank You

We were a NBC news family while I was growing up; goodnight Chet, goodnight David. I still watch NBC.

It wasn't until he retired that I got to enjoy and realize what Walter Cronkite had done for America. His common sense approach to crisis (after Katrina, he thought we should leave Iraq to take care of those problems here, telling the Iraq citizens that we got you started, now we've got our own problems to deal with) made me wish that he had gotten into politics, though I know he was best as he was - an observer who educated us all.

For the record: Please note that Walter Cronkite, CBS News, and others in the field at the time, attribute the origin of the word "anchorman" to Sig Mickelson, first President of CBS News. Others believe that the term was either coined by Paul Levitan, a CBS excutive or by Don Hewitt, a CBS producer.

For more information on this matter as well as others relating to Mr. Cronkite early tenure at CBS News please read Mickelson's "The Decade That Shaped Television News: CBS in the 1950s," Praeger Publishers, 1998.

Bravo! Your eloquence speaks for itself.

I grew up watching Walter Cronkite on the evening news each night.  I remember when John F. Kennedy was assassinated all there was on television was the news about John F. Kennedy.  Also, when Neil Armstrong walked on the moon he was on the television describing every historical moment.  He was the greatest anchorman that ever lived.  I haven't seen anybody like him since and probably never will.  My condolences got out to his family and friends.  This country will miss him terribly.

As all of the much-deserved tributes to Walter Cronkite stream in, I can't help but notice that several have used the same word in describing the reason for his trustworthiness and his elevated status among the American people: impartiality. Maybe that's why the American people probably wouldn't list a single 'journalist' on any list of their most trusted. I hope the passing of this American icon causes at least a few journalists to take a long, hard look at why they got into their business, then, using Walter Cronkite as their yardstick, reflect (sadly, I suspect) on what they've become. Impartiality in reporting the news; what a wonderful world it would be, if only.

Met Walter Cronkite and his wife during the 1976 Republican Convention in City.  My friends and I were eating a late lunch in a local Chili house when he entered preceded by some security personnel.  My friends were beside themselves with excitement and, despite my protests, rushed over to meet Mr. Cronkite.  I stayed where I was, but he and his wife were very gracious and spoke with my friends, and he gave them an autograph.  As my friends returned to our table, I caught his eye and he winked and waved, perhaps to acknowledge my unnecessary propriety.  It is because of Walter Cronkite and Edward Murrow that I earned my degree in Journalism and became a radio news reporter, announcer and director.

Excellent article, Brian Williams.

America, true journalists - people everywhere, have lost a true legend. The man who told us like it was virtually every night, every year, for what seemed an eternity.

You are missed, Walter Cronkite. Rest in peace in Heaven, fine man.  kh

Thank You Brian for the very tender and kind words about one great American hero. He meant so much to all of us. Your sentiments are right on the mark...

Dear Mr.Williams,

For our Hispanic family living in so.California...Walter Cronkite meant the news that he reported truth and it was undisputable.

The courage he bestowed to us on that terrible day in 1963 was the shoulder was knew we could lean on, and we as a nation, needed that shoulder so very much.And he was there for us.

We will miss Walter Cronkite,and everyoe in your field should never forget what Journalism stands for due to the fact that this man, layed the foundation of what it means be be a journalist and a good man.
And he was both.

Bless you Walter and thanks for your honesty and integrity,moreover,thank you for your shoulder,there will be none stronger.

In my opinion as a viewer, the three anchors who have had the greatest impact on this country are Edward Murrow, Walter Cronkite, and Tim Russert.

His passing reminds us of what we had, and what we have lost since his retirement.  Mr. Cronkite was a trusted provider of the truth, who spoke to us as a member of our family.  There are news people, entertainers posing and secretly wanting to be news people, and sensationalists of the mundane today...but no one who we would call a friend, providing us what we need the most: the simplicity and sanctity of the truth.

Brian , that was well put.  I too remember Mr. Cronkite as my first memorable news anchorman. I beleive that at my young age he was able to explain things so that I, at least heard him, and took notice of subjects I might not have otherwise. At best I  understood new subjects and status quos that I would not have otherwise because of the way he communicated.  I just heard of his passing and am saddened, but appreciative and respectful of people like Brian Williams who has a passsion for what he does and it is in response and respect for those that have gone before him. I pray for peace for Mr. Cronkite's family at the difficult time.  God Bless and may fair and accurate reporting continue because of the great example that Walter set.

Wonderfully stated. I take comfort in the fact that Mr. Williams' reverence is transparently reflected in his nightly professionalism as NBC's anchorman. Thank you Mr. Williams for giving the next generation someone to look up to.

1969 I was 7 years old when I started watching Walter at the time of the Apollo program and the Vietnam war. These things captivated Me because of Walter and I have been a amature (i.e. ham} radio operator as well as Walter had been too. I am very sad but glad too to have been a Walter generation viewer as it seems as though to  
Me that in the recent times a lot of era people have passed like also Peter Jennings. regurds: Keith Jordan
of Indiana ,Walter as WE say in Ham radio is a Silent Key now.  dit dit dit/da dit da

walter set the standard for news broadcasting and he became the focal point of the day for most families. i have lasting memories of being glued to the tv during the time of the jfk assassination .
he has left a lasting legacy .

Uncle Walter...a man you could trust. We could use a hundred Cronkites right about now....how ironic - and perfect - that he passes on the 40th anniversary of Armstrong's one small step for man....Walter was a giant leap for mankind....

Brian -

You've spoken eloquently for all of us who loved and listened to Walter Cronkite in our homes every night.
His was the voice of reason and understanding as he explained carefully the major issues of our times - and there were many.

Thanks for your words about Walter, and thank you for keeping up the standards that you learned from him.

Joan

I never had a chance to grow up with Walter Cronkite. I grew up with Tom Brokaw and Brian Williams doing the Nightly News. But learning about him as a journalist and a reporter is something that you should never forget as a student who is studying in journalism. He made what journalism is today. He should never be forgotten.

Hi Brian,

As I wrote earlier, I was watching "Countdown" at the time I first heard of Walter dying. It's now Sat. and I was able to watch some of the "Today Show" with Amy and Savannah. Your special tribute to him was great. All of the video and photos brought back so many memories. Just the sound of his voice reminded me of that stern yet nice grandfatherly figure he was. It would have been perfect for my grandparents and me if he had been on NBC. But we always wanted to see his take also when it came to events that changed all our lives.
Again, I hope you have a nice weekend and I'll try to watch Savannah tonight.

Vicki

Walter Cronkite, like Peter Jennings, was an icon that had a lasting effect of all of  us.  I remember watching both of of these men of news over the years. May God bless his soul & enter him into the garden of Eden!  Amen.  

Let's keep our prayers for the Cronkite family and wish that God helps them get over the big loss which they are sharing with all of America.

I love history.  One of my favorite books is "We Interrupt This Broadcast" with this dual options of having the book and the CDs of the recordings for each event.  Many of those narrations have Walter's baritone voice leading you through the moments.  Even though I wasn't part of those events (apparently I've been late most of my life since I missed the important 60's news stories), he made me feel like I was there.  I was hoping to hear what he might have said about the 40th anniversary of the lunar landing.  When I heard that he had passed, I burst into tears.  My heart goes out to his beloved family.  Thank you for sharing him with all of us.  

We have lost a great American.  It seems fitting that we loose him as the tried and true traditions of reading newspapers is under siege and being lost in so many places.  Brian, thank you for your tribute.  

Walter Conchrite can be worshipped by his peers in the media, after all it is what they do best and they control broadcast so there is no counterpoint to what they say.  Here is the truth, after my fellow military personnel, making no where near the monies he made, won the Tet offensive, Khe Sanh etc by sheer grit and determination (I was making $131 per month) and protecting his life during his very secure visit in country were stabbed in the back when he went on TV once safe stateside and expressed his "opinion".  The leading General in North Viet Nam felt he had been miserably defeated and was ready to sign a document of surrender was shocked when Conchrite affected LB Johnson so severely he capitulated.  Of course McNamara and Kissinger made sure they were set for life on the back of "our boys" that served.  All these politicians and the media sold out men/women that had served honorably, Conchrite himself headed for a life of extreme luxury on Martha's Vineyard still alive due the protection of the same military he sold out. Two wars and no contribution other than whatever brought him personal glory.  Shame on all of  you!

Mr. Williams, thank you for your wonderfully written remembrance and tribute to Walter Cronkite. After a beautiful night out in downtown Roanoke with a couple of old friends, I came home only to find that a beloved American icon, and more than anything, a teacher, had passed away. I did not grow up with Walter teaching me, and opening up that window into our world, but as someone who has so much admiration for journalism, and  for journalists, I can still say I too have lost a beloved inspiration. He lived a long, full life and was loved by all generations that followed him.  I wonder if he ever realized just how many journalists he created by being such a huge inspiration to all. He will always be the greatest, that spawned so many more.

His legacy is one that will go on teaching all aspiring journalists for so many years to come. It is something I hope, and pray will live on for years and years. Your fear of loosing a tiny bit of who you are is why you have have to keep him, and all that he taught you in your mind, and in your heart, so that all of what he has taught you, and the many journalists who follow him, shall never fade.

A great quote from Walter Cronkite: "I can't imagine a person becoming a success who doesn't give this game of life everything he's got." - Walter Cronkite

Your friend, and NBC family member, Tom Brokaw and yourself (Brian Williams) are both the Walter Cronkite of my generation. I have all of the admiration and love for both of you as you may have had for your nightly news anchor. That is why I come to your blog each and every night, to thank you for your dedicated hard work and to let you all know just how much it is all greatly appreciated.


Rest in peace, the wonderful man who started this beautiful tradition.

Thank you, again.

Have a beautiful evening, and take care.
-Cary

Good Evening Mr.Williams Your reflection on Walter Cronkite was so very wonderful and showed what a tremendous influence Mr.Cronkite had on you. I have really enjoyed hearing you speak about his career and life because you spoke not only of the news anchor but of the person. He is the "gold standard" as Mr.Brokaw stated. We all learned so much from Mr.Cronkite being a giant of journalism. I grew up watching John Chancellor,Tom Brokaw and now Brian Williams reporting on Nightly News. Mr.Cronkite set a standard for everyone. He will be remembered as a legend of journalism.
Thank You Mr.Williams for your reflections on Mr.Cronkite.
Peace to You and to All.  

Mr. Williams,

I'm a young journalist just starting out and I posted my own blog on Mr. Cronkite's passing.  I would be very appreciative if you'd check it out.

http://tinyurl.com/mjslt2

He WAS Uncle Walter! He was the one who explained to me all the evils in the world, crying with me when our King Of Camelot fell. I was just a child but he eased my fears.If Mr. Cronkite said it would be ok, you could bet on it.
He was as giddy and grinning as I was when we landed on the moon. He explained all the strange new words and made it real, so that when I went to bed that night, I looked up and knew, "There are people up there!"
Walter Cronkite was there for all the events that marked The Boomers' Coming of Age. He was still a voice we could trust when all others seemed suspect.
With the disgrace and downfall of so many newscasters and journalists, it's hard to know who to believe in; who's sold out for money or politics or infamy.
Thank you Brian for a wonderful article. I know who I'm watching these days. Keep up the good work, Mr. Williams!

When he said "that's the way it is...and gave the date then said goodnight.. all of America knew - that was the way it was. He left no doubt that every report delivered on that newscast was true.  Our family trusted him more than the President or the Pope. The world seemed safe to me as a kid knowing that every night we would watch our black and white tv and hear "that's the way it is".  

He was a gift everyday to our family. I hope he and Tim Russert are sharing a beer and some great stories.

Brian, I, too, grew up when there were only a handful of TV stations in NYC and even less news "anchors". I fact, I do not recall a time when Walter Cronkite was not there to explain things to us during all those violent, heartbraking and euphoric events we sustained as Americans.

I also remember the highlights, but what always kept me fascinated was the way he kept popping up in exotic locations around the world to report on other people, places and events. Who knew where he'd be reporting from next? Folks comfortable with today's instantaneous worldwide communication may not understand what a rare and amazing thing it was back then.

Integrity? I think that my "Uncle Walter" had it in spades. I certainly trusted him to teach me about things I did not know or only vaguely understood. I think he taught all of America the value of a free press and what a force for democracy it can be when used with honesty and candor.

Thanks, Walter, for everything.

Great tribute Brian, however in your moving account of Walter Cronkite, you failed to mention that he was host of a Docudrama each week entitled, "You Are
There" and gave a stunning account of events on a certain day in History, and at the end of each episode, he always concluded with: "It was a Day like any other Day, except-"You Are There".

Even for us Canadians, Walter Cronkite was a man to trusted and watched. I remember his coverage of the death of JFK on my birthday, and watched with him and millions of others the historic moonwalk of July 20th. If our current journalists even reach half the distance between now and then, in terms of journalistic integrity, we may be able to once again trust our purveyors of news. He was, as you stated, an icon of professionalism and the gold standard that Tom Brokaw revered. We could all stand to remember the day when journalism was the retelling of news and not the creation of such. Journalists all should take this time of sorrow and reflection and discover if they indeed meet that precious gold standard and if not.. why not?

Your observations and comments on Walter Cronkite stir many emotions within me.  As a 13 year old, home sick from school on 11/22/63, i was riveted to the TV. The same for the deaths of JFK, MLK, and RFK and the vietnam war and watergate.  

That having been said, I must tell you that Walter Cronkite would never have devoted two weeks of incessant, incipid coverage of the death of Michael Jackson to his evening news.  As the Managing Editor of the NBC Nightly News, it must fall to you to make the tough editorial decisions and focus on news of importance so as to not become an extension of "Entertainment Tonight" or "Extra."  

I watch your broadcast every single night and have watched network evening news for the past FIFTY Years.  During the recent MJ frenzy, i made sure to change the channel during those stories.  

As the inheritor of Cronkite's mantel, please work harder to keep important "news" in the "Nightly News"

Mr. Kronkite was a very useful tool in his time for the CIA's operation mockingbird. The most disturbing thing he did was to accept that traitorous award from the disgusting UN in 1999 where he admitted we need a "one world global governance. Hopefully he repented to the Creator after that. The "NBC" (nothing but control) "news" is losing viewers along with all the others. The only ones who watch their mind control are the drooling, geriatric, flouride drinking, Pharmaceutical induced souls who are unaware of who's pulling the strings..Their own criminal govt. Williams, you were right, Kronkite read his "script" well just as you do Mr. Puppet.  

Sorry Mr. Williams, but I don't think Mr. Cronkite would approve of the complete bias NBC and therefore MSNBC has shown toward one Barack Obama. And that includes the media in general.

He would have also reported the many Tea Parties that are erupting around the country (37,000 in Dallas) that the main media refuses to report, although it still gets leaked out somehow.

Cronkite was fair. The reporting of the news is an upside down world now. ALL of you should be ashamed.

I also grew up with Walter Cronkite.  And while I feel there are and have been some very good anchors since (such as Brian Williams, Tom Brokaw, and Peter Jennings), there truly has never been another one like Walter.  I also remember those iconic moments such as the space landing and JFK's assassination as if it were yesterday, listening to Walter and not even having a thought that we were being told anything but the truth.  Thanks to Walter, we couldn't imagine not trusting our news source.  He was always welcome in our home.  Respect, admiration, and trust - those are his legacies.  Thank you Walter.  We could all still learn some things from you.

Hi Brian

I know this is a late post but being gone this weekend I did not have a chance to see it until now.  I was able to see the wonderful tribute you gave on Friday evening during the nightly news and it was absolutly wonderful and I did respond to that.

Walter Cronkite had a very, very profound effect on all of us in this Country.  He was a standing member of every household, every night.  As I said in my earlier reponse, he was the only news anchor my parents watched each and every night.  He made it so that each report was thouroughly understanding to everyone.  He was truthful, so sugar coating, just reported it as it was, good or bad.  We all looked to him every night.  I remeber how thoughtful and respectful he was when he had to report that President Kennedy was dead.  Everyone knew that he was just a normal person as we were when he paused a little to collect his composure aftere saying it.  He was not just a news anchor he was a real person, just like us, a little choked up and feeling sad.  

Like I said in my earlier, I know the great respect and admiration that you had for him.  I know you had once said that he was the reason you got into television journalism and we are so glad you did.  I know later this year you are being honored with the Walter Cronkite Excellence in Journalism award and you are deserving of it.  His influence shows in all your reports to us each and every night, just like his did.  You're the household figure now.

Thank you so much for your wonderful comments. I am sure that he will never be forgotten by anyone who had the joy of seeing him every night.

Nice work Brian, for your article on Walter Cronkite. I am a 50's child, and so remember vividly the important and historical news items Mr Cronkite reported on over the years. He was a fixture in our home.
Right after 9/11, I was working as an airport screener in Providence RI when Mr Cronkite appeared in my lane. Mr Cronkite graciously smiled at us and took the time to shake everyone's hand.

While I am to young to remember Mr. Cronkite as a news anchor, he was a staple in my family every New Years Day from Vienna. Walter Cronkite and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra have signified the start of a new year for as long as I can remember. When Julie Andrews (who did a fantastic job) appeared on our television New Years 2009, something was different. It was still a great concert but his voice was gone. I have seen Mr. Cronkite's news footage time and time again and that voice is something I will remember for the rest of my life.

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