Tuesday afternoon

Joan Chapman, Cheshire CT. — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 21:19:16 GMT

Brian -

I've been glued to the Petraeus testimony all day - it is eerily fascinating. It's like someone gives you a puzzle to solve and you cannot figure out how to even start. I will say, though, that the Senators should not be making speeches that they read. Surely they can think of a question that is pertinent without research and paperwork. (I can - even more than one) They are using valuable time just for themselves as usual. No wonder they never get anything done on time.

I always try to have a channel to turn to during long sieges like this. Just in time, NESN showed the opening day and ring ceremonies from Fenway with the Boston Pops(!), Bill Buckner, men from the Bruins, Patriots, Celtics et.al.

It helped break the tension for me.

Tuesday afternoon

Lisa McNeil,Alpharetta,Georgia — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 21:33:02 GMT

Good Evening Mr.Williams, First of all I think your response, "I will crawl across cut glass for pulled pork,crunchy slaw and cornbread" was very humorous and I really wished you had been able to have some. With regards to Richard's report last evening about those three sisters my heart just went out to them. I really and truly hope in my heart those girls and the other children could leave that awful environment. The goal of becoming an engineer of Marwa and her two sisters Aliya and Sora who should be able to achieve their dreams too. I will look forward to reading Richard's answers on how we can help these beautiful children. They deserve to be able to be a part of a loving environment. I hope we can make that dream come true for them. It reminds me of the song "Over the Rainbow" about being able to be part of a land where there are no troubles and dreams do come true. May we help them be part of that land. Looking forward to the broadcast Mr.Williams. Always wonderful to have Richard back in New York! Peace to all!

Tuesday afternoon

Amanda - Ridgewood, NJ — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 21:49:24 GMT

Might there have been an additional sub-plot to the Williamsgate to intentionally not let you eat Memphis barbeque? A crime was most definitely committed on that point alone.

just a little humor for a too serious day

Tuesday afternoon

James Zipadelli Boston, MA — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 22:54:51 GMT

I had a 5 minute TV interview and immediately I thought of you, Brian. I have a greater appreciation for you comfortably talking on camera five days a week.

Tuesday afternoon

Gary Hammer, Tiffin, Ohio — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 23:05:17 GMT

Senator Obama and all the other Democrats, as well as MSNBC that like to say the war in Iraq has lasted longer than WWII, WWI, and the Civil War. This shows you both their ignorance to history, or the ability to tell the truth. I recommend that anyone that believes that to be true should do their research. I could be wrong, but didn't the Allies failure to complete the job properly after WWI lead directly to WWII? To say WWII was over in 1945 would be a lie also wouldn't? How long did insurgence last in Germany and Japan? Maybe you could tell me in what year we withdrew all the troops from Germany and Japan. Of course you can't, because as your well aware we have military bases in both countries to this day. Germany currently has approximately 70,000 troops, and Japan has approximately 50,000 troops. So by your standards we have occupied both countries 63 years. Truth hurts doesn't it. It's the job of journalist to tell the truth, not make up lies.

Tuesday afternoon

Frank Embrey, Ashland, VA — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 23:14:05 GMT

Brian
I just got through watch your newscast. Two items on the news tonight got me a bit emotional. First off I sincerely that all those children in Texas get all the help they need so that they will one day be able to put this part of their lives behind them and become productive members of our society. It is still very hard for me to believe that there are people out there that do things like this to innocient children. The second story was of the awarding of the MOH to Petty Officer Monsoor's parents. I must admit that I became very emotional during that piece and yes, there were tears in my eyes as well as the Presidents, but then again whenever I hear our National Anthem or someone singing God Bless America I well up inside and just can't stop the water works from being turned on. I truely believe that I am this way not because of my military service but rather because of the way my parents brought up all 9 of their children. God bless you and keep up the good work.

Tuesday afternoon

Lisa McNeil,Alpharetta,Georgia — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 23:21:28 GMT

Good Evening Mr.Williams, Always wonderful to see Richard on the broadcast and especially in the newsroom studio! I was so very happy to see him! (Looking handsome as always! I must gush!) Anyway, I agree wholeheartedly about what Richard was saying concerning General Petraeus's testimony. He was saying it was frustrating and the rules have changed. Now the troops have to remain in the area and I also agree with Richard that the parents are so very proud of their sons and daughters, but really wish they could come home. It seems to be an endless battle and I hope so much for a peaceful resolution to this conflict. When you asked about the oil profits and the fighting in Basra and Richard stated it is about the oil it brings to mind the power struggle between the people of this region and how dangerous it has become for the innocent civilians caught in the middle. It is a huge resource and very valuable to many countries. I just hope that someday all this fighting can cease. Time will tell, but in the end I hope it is for the better. Great to see Richard in New York! Welcome home Richard! On another note the brave heroic soldier who was lost two years ago sacrificing himself for his fellow soldiers should always be remembered with honor. It was so very touching to see President Bush present the Medal of Honor to his parents. I can fully understand how President Bush was so tearful, these soldiers are far too young to be lost and it just makes ones heart ache for the family. Hearing you read about his sacrifice on the battlefield to save his fellow soldiers brought tears to me. He is a true hero. God Bless all our troops and may they come home soon! General Petraeus's testimony only showed that he will withdraw five brigades by the end of July, yet after this 45 day pause it seems somewhat unclear what will happen. Progress has been fragile and success is measured carefully. But the Iraqi's must find a way to stand on their own because that will be real progress. This conflict has gone on far too long and there must be a peaceful resolution soon. Finally, the "Making a Difference" segment by Ian Williams shows that " going green" can inspire a whole community and it starts with one person. Thank you for the great broadcast Mr.Williams. Wonderful to see you Richard! You fan from Alpharetta! Peace to you and to all!

Hi and good thoughts to Laurel! Jackie! Stephanie! Hope you are all well!

Tuesday afternoon

Stephanie-Umbro, Maine — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 23:25:37 GMT

As usual, I watched a report, thought it was fantastic, and can't remember the names! Ian Williams' report was terrific. I just love to see and hear stories of young people (translated, under 18) making a difference AND being supported by their communities. What a terrific venture in going Green!

I cannot help but weep with God as another story of horrific abuse perpetrated in His name makes headlines. Such sects as Yearn for Zion abuse God's name for the sake of an abusive, illegal, evil agenda. No wonder so many hate Christians; they cannot tell the difference between those who are extremists and those who are genuine. I am glad that, for the sake of the victims here, that their ordeal is largely over; the work of healing can now be started.

Am I the only one displeased that all the presidential candidates took the time during Gen. Petraeus' report were using it as a campaign platform? Totally distracts me from the message. I would have watched MSNBC if I had it; I will have to catch up on what he had to say later. However, what I heard didn't sound very encouraging, yet more like what I've been suspecting: we will be there forever.

Pardon me, but WHO thought having the Olympics in China was a good idea? Who's going to be paying attention to the games with all of this back story - which is really the front story - going on?

If I had a hat I'd take it off in honor of Michael Moonser. His is one of many stories from the front lines of men and women giving themselves for another without thought to his/her own future. We need more like him! Talk about a hero I would want my children to emulate! My heart goes out to his family for his loss, but I am also sad that we the country lost such a great man - among others.

Williamsgate? Whoa - what did I miss? Serves me right for not reading EVERY comment to the blog!

Tuesday afternoon

Elizabeth Kowalewski, Bowie Md — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 23:32:10 GMT

I watch carefully and attentively whenever Richard Engel reports from Iraq--he seems to me to be the epitome of journalistic integrity and objectivity. Tonight (4/8/08) I think I detected some passion when Brian asked him about the drawdown of troops and he began, "If I were the parents of a soldier in Iraq..." Thank you NBC for making the headlines relevant to those of us who are parents without sons and daughters in Iraq-- we are in this war together, but we need to know it could easily be us worrying about our children each day in a war that should never have begun.

Tuesday afternoon

David Tetrault Springfield Vermont — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 23:49:02 GMT

Mr. Williams,
My wife and I were deeply moved by tonights (04-08-08)segment on the posthumously awarded Medal of Honor to the young man's parents at the White House today. Very nice, however there has to be a better way to end the segment than to lead right to a lousy commercial. May I suggest a few moments of silence following a report like that to let its meaning sink in. Thank you.

Tuesday afternoon

Anna — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 23:52:06 GMT

Brian:

The broadcast was so good last night. I know across the nation there is so much dislike of the policies of the Bush Administration.

All along I have always thought the President of the USA had to be a caring and compassionate person and had to be effected by this war like all of us.

Thank you for showing the clip of our President, who despite the fact I don't always agree with him on every issue, as a real person. Thank you to all of our soliders who have served in our military. I am real proud of you and honor your service to our nation.

I am glad you liked my Williamsgate comment. It seemed so appropriate given the situation.

Just wondering..will you be hosting the NBC Olympic coverage or is that left to the NBC Sports? I thought NBC would have to send its leading man. Sorry, I just couldn't resist!

Tuesday afternoon

Anna — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 23:56:52 GMT

@ Richard:

Thanks for that video today! I think you clarified my point that given the situation the girls are doing quite well in Iraqi culture. The beds and dorm area certainly looked clean and tidy. The girls hair was clean. The clothes were clean and pressed.

We can all judge this war as a mess and we can believe what we want to believe. I do have some hope for the girls. Women in many cultures do take good care of each other. Maybe they can find something wonderful to come out of all this. Maybe they will have a life that they have never, ever imagined. We can only hope and pray that for them.

Thanks for teaching me something new today. As always, I wish them the very best.

Tuesday afternoon

Jerry, Garnet Valley, PA — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 00:22:37 GMT

Just wait until Hillary loses the election. She will drop Bill like a hot potato as she is onlu usinh him for his fund raising abilies and high profile.
The only reason she is in the news is because she is a former first lady. We americans like to respect our former first familes. Hillary is as fake as her madeup stories.

Tuesday afternoon

Matt, 19, San Diego — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 00:31:14 GMT

Mr Williams,

I find it interesting that your audience this year is larger than that of last year at the current time, despite the fact that you show so many emails on the broadcast, and I see so many posts on here and elsewhere that people are so fed up with the liberal bias of NBC and will never watch it again. I guess for every "lost" viewer, there are quite a few new ones.

I am really looking forward to the Petraeus testimony. The more this conflict goes on in the middle east, the more I keep changing my views and position on it, and not in the way that the majority of people might think. It saddens me to think about it in general.

Tuesday afternoon

Ben Clammer, New York, NY — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 00:57:12 GMT

Brian,

Thanks for the fine coverage of the newest recipient of the Medal of Honor, Petty Officer Michael Monsoor. I'm envious of the company you are privileged to sometimes keep amongst the living recipients of this medal through your work with the Medal of Honor Society.

No one ever speaks of "winning" the Medal of Honor. It's not something that's won but rather a recognition by a grateful and indebted nation of an action that rises far above the call of duty. I hope a new generation of Americans can look to men like Michael Monsoor for inspiration and what it is to be a true hero. What if we paid the same attention to brave warriors like him instead of overpaid athletes or spoiled stars from Hollywood?

Tuesday afternoon

Kent - Colorado — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 01:01:07 GMT

I just watched NBC nightly news and discovered that McCain just made the same blunder regarding Al Queda being Shiites that he did three weeks ago. If he can't remeber a fact he was embarassed about three weeks ago I would say he appears to have some degree of Alzheimer's disease, and has no business running for President. I hope Barrack, and or the Democratic party brings this issue to light to the American voter.

Tuesday afternoon

Kathleen McGrath, Brooklyn, CT — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 02:29:13 GMT

Joan, you are so right. On a day where we are overwhelmed by the plight of orphans in Iraq, seemingly dim prospects of ending the war and no end to the political posturing, the Red Sox opening day ceremony was a breath of fresh air. To see Bill Buckner standing on the pitcher's mound with tears in his eyes while 40,000 fans rose to their feet to welcome him back to Fenway was a moment I won't soon forget. Whether or not you are a Red Sox fan, it was a sight to behold, a moment of forgiveness and reconciliation, long, long overdue.

Tuesday afternoon

Jackie Rawlings Riverside California — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 02:42:41 GMT

Hi Brian
It was a relief to finally hear the truth about Iraq and it's oil. I questioned for 6 years what happen to the oil Bush said would be used to help the US. Richard finally told us what the Military and White House wouldn't. Now what's sad is I know about Basra and Law Makers are clueless. As for General Petraeus he's following the Bush/Cheney policy. Why you ask, how many Generals were there since the invasion. Petraeus is just another General doing as his Commander-in-Chief tells him to say before he goes in front of Congress. McCain needs Lieberman with him at all times to make the corrections needed with his mistakes. Hillary and Obama made good points. But as for me I see Iraq will have a new Leader and that person will take control just as Saddam did before. This time the Iraq Leader will be a friend of Iran's. As for the US we'll have to take the lost of giving away all that money. Now the surprise will be when the new Leader of Iraq charges the US to repair the damage of the invasion and money for those innocent Iraq people who were killed and tortured.

Brian now you know what I know. I visited a NY Military base and a Captain, Lieutenant and I were behind closed doors discussing who should be the next President. I was surprised I couldn't get a word in as the Captain said he wanted Hillary and the Lieutenant said he was voting for Obama. Strange as color wasn't an issue in the discussion.

Now the Media will find itself no longer using race or sexism if Connie Rice becomes McCain's VP. I can't stop laughing as the GOP will try anything now. I know when this campaign started the GOP was all over Hillary even calling her names no woman should be called, as for Obama well since these guys are old they didn't realize how much the US had changed. The shock of Obama winner is still felt in the Republican Party. While they had been robbing the taxpayers they hadn't noticed that things were different. Now as a last ditch effort they might bring in Connie Rice who is Black on a as needed bases. After the 9/11 lies and with the complete failure Connie has made of the Middle East problem, it makes sense to put Connie in office to complete the mission.

Have a great evening Lisa, Laural and Stephanie
Brian you'll remember Williamsgate when you write your book, life and times of Brian the Anchorman.

Tuesday afternoon

ladytechie Farmington NM — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 04:35:20 GMT

First, thank you for the response to my post. Made my day maybe my month!

We all knew that the story on Michael Monsoor was coming, I wasn't prepared for the emotional impact of seeing the ceremony. Bravery was once defined as being afraid and moving ahead anyway. What he did was beyond that. "No greater good is there than this; that a man would lay down his life for his friends". Rest in peace.

A belated thank you to both Samuel Singal and Laurel for pointing me to the netcast. You'd think that someone who has tech in her screen name could have figured it out on her own! Thanks again for letting me know!

Tuesday afternoon

Gary Hammer, Tiffin, Ohio — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 04:53:15 GMT

I find it interesting that you decided not to post my piece. You however did not have a problem posting a assault on John McCain, and endorsement for Obama. Obviously your station is biased. I will no longer watch your evening news, and instead watch Fox news. I intend to also inform the GOP and John McCain's office that your stance is for the Democratic Party. So much for journalism looking at the story neutrally.

Tuesday afternoon

Melissa Winnipeg — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 04:56:20 GMT

Hi Brian,
I have heard about "Barbeque", as a type of food. We do barbeque (very familiar with that). I used Wikipedia and found out alot about Barbeque, particularily in Memphis. It does sound very delicious. With all the things I might have commented on, the food got to me. Time for a midnight snack! ;)

Tuesday afternoon

Steven White, Henderson Nevada — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 06:58:06 GMT

Dear Mr. Brian Williams,

If you really want to have a converstion on race, you should have 2008 Presidential Candidate Ruth Bryant White and me her husband who have been Interracially Married for over 27 years. We have appeared and been interviewed on many programs.

We know both sides and how both sides react when the other is not around verses when they are. People can learn that what is inside them and how it can come out. Our book is called "Life Through The Eyes Of An Interracial Couple" And Ther Dreams Of A Colorblind America. We think you can get some really serious discussions from our work to break down racial barriers. We. are living Dr. Martin Luther King's Dream inspite of others ignorance

Tuesday afternoon

Jason H., Auburn, Alabama — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 11:09:07 GMT

Mr. Williams

Up until a little while back when NBC had Green Week on the Nightly News, I had never really watched the news that often until then. Thank you for the wonderful news casts you and Mr. Holt bring to our homes. But is there any chance that NBC will do this again in the future. It was very educational, and very interesting to see so many people trying to make a small change for our planet in how you would say a "big way". I learned so much in such a short time. I honestly think that if more people learn what more they can do, even if its a small change, it will spread like a virus to teach people what we all can do we can make a huge diffrence in trying to save our planet.

P.S. I love the new studio!!!

Tuesday afternoon

MEE LINDLEY SAN ANTONIO TEXAS — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 15:29:44 GMT

mr.WILLIAMS I have always thoght that you are a very intellectual person howevew intelligence and open-mindedness i do not believe msnbc posses.they are very impartial to OBAMA is it true the White House reporter's wife contributed the max to OBAMA's camp???($4,600 maybe) is that a reason you cannot be bias???you mainstram media better get with it because when "other stories" break open I donot see mainstram getting to much awards...why don't you bring the stoy of JOHN BRENNAN being involved in
PASSPORTGATE.???or PENNY PRITZER having a defunked SUPERIOR BANK AND she still owes 450 million to FDIC???AND now she is FINANCIAL chair of his campaign..