From the Desk

I could list a number of reasons why Brian Williams should be fired. His story about a 2003 incident involving the Chinook he was in taking fire has evolved over the past 12 years, and ultimately, Williams has not told the truth.

But on the other hand, I could also give you several reasons why Williams’ job should be spared. After all, traumatic events can take a toll on a person’s mind, and everyone exaggerates a little bit. He has been a reputable anchor for 10 years.

For now, Williams is only facing six months of suspension. Whether that punishment is too harsh or too lenient is up for debate. But what is not up for debate is the fact that this Jan. 30, 2015 story that was meant to honor a retired Command Sgt. Maj. Tim Terpak has sparked “choppergate,” the Brian Williams saga that is inciting arguments all across the nation.

It is absolutely unacceptable for a journalist, whose priority should always be accuracy, to present this story that is not factual.

However, I do not believe Williams, a professional who has been in the business for more than a decade, intended to lie on national television in front of millions of viewers. I honestly believe he wanted to pay tribute to Terpak.

But when Williams went on the air, he messed up. There is no denying or arguing that.

With all that said, though, I think there is a much greater problem with this whole ordeal. Instead of focusing on the sacrifices of the members of the military, as Williams’ Jan. 30 story and the 2003 mission of Williams were intended to do, we are all more concerned with the rhetoric of one individual.

Every day, fathers, mothers, daughters, sons, sisters, brothers, aunts, uncles, grandmothers and grandfathers must face the possibility that their loved one, who has left comfort and safety to protect our country, may not come home.

Every day, families can only see each other for a short amount of time, and that on a screen.

Every day, servicemen and women miss their children’s major milestones — a baby’s first steps, a daughter’s senior prom, a son’s high school graduation.

Every day, servicemen and women put themselves in harm’s way so that we are safe.

But I do not need a sensationalized story to know that. And whether or not a Chinook Williams was in was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade does not lessen the impact of the sacrifices so many have made for my sake.

That is the tragedy of this Williams situation — that punishment, rather than selflessness and bravery, is what so many Americans are focused on now.

BROWN is the editor-in-chief