What should happen to Brian Williams after lying about coming under fire?

2015-02-05T09:42:08-05:00

http://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/style/brian-williams-admits-that-his-story-of-coming-under-fire-while-in-iraq-was-false/2015/02/04/d7fe32d0-acc0-11e4-9c91-e9d2f9fde644_story.html

Brian Williams admits that his story of coming under fire while in Iraq was false

Williams had claimed that he was aboard a helicopter that was hit by enemy fire and forced down during the 2003 invasion.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2015 9:42 AM

2015-02-05T09:42:45-05:00

He apologized. That should make it all better.

Response by SSG Christopher Parrish made Feb 5 at 2015 9:44 AM

2015-02-05T09:44:37-05:00

I hope he looses ratings, that is (in my opinion) why he was "mistaken" in his account of the events.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2015 9:45 AM

2015-02-05T09:45:23-05:00

I wish fb and rp did animated gif :p

Response by Cpl Jeff N. made Feb 5 at 2015 9:47 AM

2015-02-05T09:47:39-05:00

Legally, nothing since it isn't really illegal to lie as he did. I thnk we should recognize the complete lack of standards at networks like NBC/MSNBC. You might recall NBC's medical reporter is the one that came back and violated her Ebola quarantine. She should know better. She still works at NBC after a ridiculous non apology. Brian Williams will continue to work there too. In a business (News/Journalism) where intergrity, honesty & straight dealing should be the order of the day it clearly is not at NBC.

Response by LTC Scott O'Neil made Feb 5 at 2015 9:55 AM

2015-02-05T09:55:14-05:00

This infraction of integrity is as bad as someone who wears medals and awards they did not earn. There is such thing as embellishment but to outright lie about being in a combat situation when you were not is a slap in the face to those who have faced combat, to those wo were wounded or gave their lives in service to this nation in combat. Let punishment fit the crime.

Response by MSgt Michael Durkee made Feb 5 at 2015 10:01 AM

2015-02-05T10:01:06-05:00

His credibility, rightfully so, from this point on will be suspect. Did he do anything illegal, not technically since he didn't outright obtain financial gain - although, the point could be argued that his "mistaken" recollections may have put him in a higher pay range.

Response by MSG Floyd Williams made Feb 5 at 2015 10:06 AM

2015-02-05T10:06:35-05:00

The main thing about lying, you have to cover it up with another lie, and another one, then somewhere down the line you will forget some of the lies. It ain't worth the embarrassment, the price is too high for attention.

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Feb 5 at 2015 10:23 AM

2015-02-05T10:23:08-05:00

I heard about this on the radio while driving. I think his excuse of "confusing aircraft" makes it worse. How anyone can confuse such an event is beyond me.

Response by COL Jason Smallfield, PMP, CFM, CM made Feb 5 at 2015 10:32 AM

2015-02-05T10:32:32-05:00

- Legally. Unfortunately nothing. Lying is not a crime unless it is under oath. Then it is called perjury not lying.
- Employment. Unfortunately nothing. Once upon a time this would have resulted in termination of employment due to loss of trust in the individual and loss of credibility for the organization that employs him/her.
- Culturally. Unfortunately nothing. Our culture today likes to forgive / forget if one apologies regardless of the severity of the offense. Peer pressure and public shaming are powerful tools that we do not use effectively anymore.
- Logically. Does anyone really believe Brian Williams explanation? It was 12 years ago and I told the story so many times that I became confused in my own mind. Translation: I lied so many times over the last 12 years that I started to believe my own lies until I was called out by someone who was actually there and knew I was full of shit. My bad. Sorry.

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Feb 5 at 2015 10:40 AM

2015-02-05T10:40:41-05:00

I accept his apology, personally -- but what he did was pretty disrespectful IMO. I don't know how you can say your bird got hit with an RPG, and then say you were mistaken and that it was a different bird that got hit.

I understand that 12 years have passed since the incident occurred...but all I'm saying is that I would expect a person to remember if they were in the bird that got RPG'd or if it was a different bird. That should be black and white to remember after 30 years, let alone 12.

Again, I accept his apology personally and think we should all move on since there are bigger issues at hand for the military community at large.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Feb 5 at 2015 10:52 AM

2015-02-05T10:52:08-05:00

When you read the article, you will find he can't even correct his lie! He is really setting the standard for the main stream news media. He was on a chopper alright, just one that landed about an hour later. He can't even apology without a lie.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2015 10:53 AM

2015-02-05T10:53:52-05:00

It's completely understandable....after all, I frequently am confused as to whether I was in a car accident on the way home from work or simply drove by one.

Even more than that "I attempted to honor his retirement by talking about my own stuff"....c'mon. Seriously?! Are we really THAT narcisstic that this idea was even entertained??

I simply wish he would have stated it was an error in judgment on his part and that he made a horrible mistake. The intestinal fortitude is extremely lacking, but that's a common theme anymore.....few people can admit that they made a horrible mistake.

Mr Williams is now not just a liar, but also a coward and an asshole.
v/r,
CPT Butler

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2015 10:56 AM

2015-02-05T10:56:46-05:00

Receiving direct fire from rockets while traveling in a helicopter is not something that one "misremembers".

Response by SGT Marvin "Dave" Bigham made Feb 5 at 2015 11:08 AM

2015-02-05T11:08:48-05:00

Not worth the time to respond...

Response by COL Jean (John) F. B. made Feb 5 at 2015 11:34 AM

2015-02-05T11:34:46-05:00

Similar to Hillary Clinton's changing the facts about coming under attack a few years ago...

If this had been Bill O'Reilly or Sean Hannity, the press would be calling for their heads. Can you just imagine if Rush Limbaugh or Glenn Beck had done this?

Yet another example of the media bias... Although I think this may be far from over. Let's hope that is the case.

Response by SPC Robert Rock made Feb 5 at 2015 11:44 AM

2015-02-05T11:44:40-05:00

A blatant attempt to save face .... too bad his head is in his 4th point of contact .... cannot correctly recall getting shot down in helicopter ... smh

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Feb 5 at 2015 11:44 AM

2015-02-05T11:44:43-05:00

Somewhat ironic, since these reporters become famous for turning up dirt on other key figures, exposing frauds, hands in the cookie jars, etc....

I want to remember him for his other accomplishments, such as....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-YCeIgt7hMs

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Feb 5 at 2015 11:45 AM

2015-02-05T11:45:34-05:00

He can always fall back on his other talents......

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-YCeIgt7hMs

Response by CSM Michael J. Uhlig made Feb 5 at 2015 11:48 AM

2015-02-05T11:48:12-05:00

he even looks like Pinocchio

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Feb 5 at 2015 11:52 AM

2015-02-05T11:52:49-05:00

A quick slicing motion with a sharp knife just below where his two legs come together is probably too good.

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made Feb 5 at 2015 11:57 AM

2015-02-05T11:57:16-05:00

LTC Private RallyPoint Member Sir your question is valid and right, but I think it will be more what will happen now, not would should happen.

Even Mr Williams apologies seems to be likely filled with partial truths or lies.
End of the day what WILL happen? Nothing...it will fade away in a few days or weeks and he will return to business as usual.

What SHOULD happen? His current employer should fire him and other media employers should publicly state he is not wanted.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2015 12:12 PM

2015-02-05T12:12:57-05:00

That's the thing with those"...and there I was; knee deep in blood and hand grenade pins" type of stories... You gotta make sure that "... you was acutually there".

Response by LCpl Steve Wininger made Feb 5 at 2015 12:48 PM

2015-02-05T12:48:24-05:00

First, what Williams done is a slap in the face to every military person that is actually in harms way. Secondly, as a journalist, I am sickened that he would fall in line with the likes of Stephen Glass and Dan Rather in fabricating stories.

If Brian Williams does not step down, NBC should fire him. This is not what journalism is, and historically, it is the unpardonable sin for journalists.

Response by CPT Jack Durish made Feb 5 at 2015 1:26 PM

2015-02-05T13:26:31-05:00

I believe he is sorry, very sorry... for being caught.

He says he wasn't attempting to steal valor... but he stole valor.

Brian Williams is the archetype of journalist that dominates the media since the 1960s.

The journalists we remember and admire from an earlier age grew up in newsrooms as newsboys, paperboys, and printer's devils. They got their hands dirty sweeping floors, helping print papers, and delivering them to doorsteps. Those with talent and intelligence rose through the ranks writing stories. Beginning with obituaries, they advanced as they demonstrated ability.

Today's journalists don't deserve the name. They are graduates of colleges where they were indoctrinated rather than educated, and the stories they file reflect this. This is why so many have turned away from traditional media and get their news elsewhere. Thanks to the Internet there are lots of "elsewhere" to get it...

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2015 2:17 PM

2015-02-05T14:17:06-05:00

Reminds me of when Hillary was "taking fire" in the Balkans.

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2015 2:51 PM

2015-02-05T14:51:00-05:00

What do you really think should or will happen. Hillary Clinton said she came under enemy fire in 96 when she landed in Bosnia and it was found she had lied. Besides he wasn't wearing a uniform even though he wanted to be more important in the war coverage, so he made something up. It would be different if he was wearing a uniform and never serve but lying goes on all the time in the civilian world. I would be willing to bet any amount of money that there isn't a politician that hasn't told some flops. If you don't think news isn't political, ask yourself why everyone was in bed with the democrats while FOX was the only one that would question Obama?

Response by SPC James Mcneil made Feb 5 at 2015 2:51 PM

2015-02-05T14:51:03-05:00

He should be fired. Plain and simple. He mislead the public, and he mislead the public again in his apology. I don't buy for one minute that he "misremembered" the event. He made it up.

Response by SGT Jim Z. made Feb 5 at 2015 3:16 PM

2015-02-05T15:16:52-05:00

Who cares people lie each and every minute of the day just because he is famous people are making it a big deal. Next topic.

Response by LCpl Steve Wininger made Feb 5 at 2015 3:26 PM

2015-02-05T15:26:26-05:00

I had already posted my opinion in this thread, however I did not want this to get buried in a sub-thread.

Apparently, Williams has been living this lie for a long time, and like an old fish story, it changes each time. So for him to post on Facebook that he got confused, I don't think so. He fabricated the story and has lost what little credibility he may have had.

A similar incident occurred during the 2008 presidential election when Dan Rather of CBS fabricated a story about then outgoing president Bush.

Tomorrow we will be discussing this in my reporting class (Ethics and credibility in reporting). The article we will be looking at is the one I posted here from Poynter.

http://www.poynter.org/news/mediawire/317423/veterans-force-nbcs-brian-williams-to-apologize/

Veterans force NBC’s Brian Williams to apologize | Poynter.

A Global Leader in Journalism | Journalism training, media news & how to's

Response by PO2 Chris Stanley made Feb 5 at 2015 3:55 PM

2015-02-05T15:55:18-05:00

Did not like him before this came out due to his sycophantic biased views. Now he has no accountability and can never be trusted to tell the truth again. NBC would be wise to let this one go if they want to keep their viewers. Their actions will tell the story!

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2015 3:56 PM

2015-02-05T15:56:40-05:00

LTC Private RallyPoint Member.

Update: Rich Krell says he was confused . . . his memories supporting Brial Williams story are eroding

o http://money.cnn.com/2015/02/06/media/stelter-iraq-pilots/index.html

According to Army CH-47 Pilot CW4 Rich Krell . . . Brian Williams chopper was in a flight of four . . . all were taking AK-47 fire . . . one took an RPG round went down . . . the other three took evasive action and scattered . . . they linked up again later . . . which would account for the story Brian Williams bird was under fire . . . and that his chopper caught up with the remaining two serviceable choppers later. The revised account indicates he was on the ground in "Indian Country" with the chopper crew surrounded by our mechanized armored element for two/three days. Further details will likely emerge. Warmest Regards, Sandy

o http://talkingpointsmemo.com/livewire/iraq-pilot-brian-williams-fire

o http://money.cnn.com/2015/02/05/media/brian-williams-iraq/

Helicopter Pilot: Actually, Yes, Brian Williams' Chopper Did Take Fire In 2003

The pilot of a helicopter on which NBC News anchor Brian Williams flew in Iraq said on Thursday that the aircraft did take some fire in 2003, adding another twist to a story that the newsman was forced to recant and apologize for this week.Pilot Rich Krell told CNN's Brian Stelter that Williams had some of the facts right, but did make some mistakes in telling the story.Williams issued multiple apologies on Wednesday night for saying that he...

Response by SPC Pat C made Feb 5 at 2015 4:44 PM

2015-02-05T16:44:54-05:00

He should have just said, " look the media lies A LOT, and sometimes I just can't keep all my lies straight"

Response by SFC Douglas Davis made Feb 5 at 2015 5:23 PM

2015-02-05T17:23:00-05:00

Had he any integrity at all he would resign and fade out of sight.

Response by SSG Scott Burk made Feb 5 at 2015 5:50 PM

2015-02-05T17:50:51-05:00

Fire him...He has lost his credibility. As if NBC and its "journalists" had any credibility in the first place.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2015 7:23 PM

2015-02-05T19:23:49-05:00

It will be interesting to see if it even affects his credibility with his followers. I don't think NBC will do anything unless ratings suffer.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 5 at 2015 10:40 PM

2015-02-05T22:40:44-05:00

I think he should have to sit on the porch with Sarah Palin and watch Putin in Russia and just keep an eye on them over there in that Russia place, Don't cha know..... ;) I really like Brian Williams, this is a real shame.
I guess it could be that time and stories are running together and he is just plain losing it? Could happen to the very best of people and he has been running rather red hot for more than 25 years all over the world.
Then again, he could be like the congress that wants to get people to believe our economy is n the tank when it is at present in the top 5 stable and the fastest growing economy on the planet. Be it Congress or the media or the wanna be politicians, they all just seem to make stuff up as they go and most of us don't have the time to do all the fact checking.
To think he is one of the more proven reputable of news people out there..... Don't really know what that is saying about the information we get from the media. Over the years one would have thunk the network would have vetted the story. But, just like fox, why let facts get in the way of a good story.

Response by SSgt Kevin Chavez made Feb 6 at 2015 2:09 AM

2015-02-06T02:09:09-05:00

We should send him to Jordan where he can ride in a Helicopter until he is shot at with small arms fire and RPG's during flight in a sandstorm. I think that would set a nice precedence.

Response by SGT Steven Eugene Kuhn MBA made Feb 6 at 2015 5:44 AM

2015-02-06T05:44:07-05:00

I could care less, the story is not about him, it is about CSM Terpak, Brian Williams is a civilian and is not trained or even knows what it means when something like this happens. I dont give him a pass but I believe the focus and attention should and MUST be on CSM Terpak in this case, that was why this all came up in the first place.

Response by Sgt Jay Jones made Feb 6 at 2015 7:36 AM

2015-02-06T07:36:14-05:00

The same thing that happens to of the people with "Stolen Valor" his face and name should be plastered all over the Stolen Valor" website.

Now he has a bigger issue as a reporter and that is credibility. That is up to the American people if they want to trust him. The easiest way to determine that would be by their ratings. But know how stupid people can be they will say "but he's so nice", "but he's so handsome", or "I just like him anyway" and they will forgive and forget.

Response by PO2 Jonathan Scharff made Feb 6 at 2015 8:54 AM

2015-02-06T08:54:02-05:00

OK, I have been out of the service for almost 30 years and if anything I have forgotten a lot. I am reminded, by my wife and others, of things that happened and I say, oh yea I remember that now. I haven't filled those periods with made up new stories of things that never happened! Like, "I remember the time I was in Iraq...wait a minute I was never in Iraq!" Lol

Anytime a lie is told about our service men and women it dishonors all who raised their hand in support of this great nation.

Response by SGT Jim Z. made Feb 6 at 2015 10:37 AM

2015-02-06T10:37:14-05:00

Response by SSG Trevor S. made Feb 6 at 2015 12:45 PM

2015-02-06T12:45:36-05:00

He should be fired to help restore some semblance of credibility to NBC.
While I doubt it would happen, I would like to see the remainder of his contract's salary donated to the Wounded Warrior Project by NBC after he is fired.

Response by CW3 Ian Mains made Feb 6 at 2015 1:22 PM

2015-02-06T13:22:46-05:00

I haven't heard anyone discuss the fact that the CSM who was a key part of his story just let him go with it.

Response by Sgt David G Duchesneau made Feb 6 at 2015 3:33 PM

2015-02-06T15:33:50-05:00

His credibility will always be questioned. He did this to himself. He made the choice to lie and now he has to live with himself no matter what happens. In civilian life if you rob a bank you are a bank robber and if you lie, you will always be a liar. Hell, look at all the sex offenders. They will always be sex offenders no matter what. Williams is a liar and he will always be a liar. As a matter of fact, what else has he and other reporters lied about? It always amazes me how these news reporters stretch the truth and sometimes make up lies of what really is happening. Look at what the news media did in Vietnam? Vietnam was the first time that the news media brought the news to everyone in the States that watched it on the nightly news and the negative results were felt by all of us who served . When are we going to smarten up and keep these news people away from the front lines They are just going to make up things anyway just to boost their own egos and ratings. Just my two cents! SF!

Response by MSG Floyd Williams made Feb 6 at 2015 4:17 PM

2015-02-06T16:17:32-05:00

http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/brian-williams%E2%80%99-katrina-reporting-under-scrutiny/ar-AA94FBs

Brian Williams’ Katrina reporting under scrutiny

Critics are questioning the anchor’s story about a floating body in the hurricane’s aftermath.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 6 at 2015 4:38 PM

2015-02-06T16:38:16-05:00

The guys over at Task & Purpose believe that the military community should forgive him. They say "Personally, I think we should give Williams the benefit of the doubt. He made a mistake. He apologized for it. He’s also been a staunch advocate for our community since before it was cool to support the troops." This isn't my personal opinion, but I thought it might be relevant to the conversation.

http://taskandpurpose.com/brian-williams-deserves-military-communitys-forgiveness/

Brian Williams Deserves The Military Community's Forgiveness

NBC Nightly News anchor Brian Williams deserves our support, or at least, the benefit of the doubt regarding his experiences covering the Iraq War.

Response by CAPT Gary Foster made Feb 6 at 2015 5:51 PM

2015-02-06T17:51:07-05:00

Williams epitomizes exactly what is wrong with the formerly big 3 networks, CBS, ABC, and NBC. They often edit the news to slant the news to favor a particular group or voting sector, and then glorify themselves by embellishing in events that are bold faced lies. If NBC leadership has any integrity, they will fine and fire this liar. It does equate to stolen valor. What was he attempting to gain from this? Mrs. Clinton embellished a story about her being under sniper fire years ago, and the Press, who is supposed to keep our political parties and administration honest, dismissed it as no big deal. Well here is the payback, Mr. Williams. You go out of your way to protect the party members you favor, but waste no time going after those who you find disdain for. You and your cronies are the reason that journalism is dead in this country. You need to step down, which leaves you a granule of dignity, or you need to be fired. Bye bye, and good riddance!

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 6 at 2015 8:50 PM

2015-02-06T20:50:06-05:00

Now his sorry butt knows what being grilled is like. He needs to experience what others feel and he did this knowingly. Reminds me of Biden's peccadilloes with regards to his education. Every time they got in the face of a suspected criminal and the unabated harassment. Know what Tiger Woods feels like or anyone with some kind of problem. I hope they make him squirm. I do not believe in his firing but a prime time apology to the nation and to beg on National TV.

Response by SSG Leonard Johnson made Feb 6 at 2015 8:53 PM

2015-02-06T20:53:31-05:00

I myself don't really care about the lying stuff and the legality of it...However this this special liberal princess need to go. He lost his honor and integrity. The 3 main networks need to get it together. Look how they report the news. All these news organizations report news now days from a viewpoint, and we the public only get 1/2 the truth.

Now their looking at other stories he reported on that are now under review.
No sympathy for this lil Darling

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2015 8:33 AM

2015-02-07T08:33:41-05:00

I actually find it kind of funny. Is it disrespectful, I would say yes however, he was in places that 99% of Americans will never go. The reason I find humor in it is because I have heard so many "war stories" from veterans and Soldiers still serving that are maybe a little questionable. The bigger the audience the bigger the story gets.

At least he admitted to being a jackass. I am definitely not going to lose any sleep over it nor spend any of my give a shits complaining about it.

Response by CMC Robert Young made Feb 7 at 2015 9:36 AM

2015-02-07T09:36:08-05:00

He's done. No remaining creditability. Time to go to the barn....

The unfortunate thing is that today's society, and particularly not those in the media, do not value character. There was a time when those with egregious public failures had the common decency to simply step aside and go quietly into the night. But that was then and this is now which means we can all expect to be bombarded with recantings, and analysis, and investigations into the obvious, and foggy memories, ad nauseam........and then some how, Brain Williams be reborn into a new and improved version of himself and nobody will ever remember that he lied to bolster his own self absorbed life and petty insecurities.

Response by SGT Richard H. made Feb 7 at 2015 9:53 AM

2015-02-07T09:53:47-05:00

What should happen to him for this is already happening, and is possibly the worst thing that a news personality can bring upon himself/herself. Loss of credibility. Unfortunately, people's memories are short when it comes to public personalities.

Response by Sgt Adam Jennings made Feb 7 at 2015 10:11 AM

2015-02-07T10:11:30-05:00

Anyone considered the CSM (or whatever his rank is) that went along with the lie? What's his story? Why did he go along with it? Was he mislead as to what was going on as well? Just some questions I think need to be addressed as well.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Feb 7 at 2015 3:14 PM

2015-02-07T15:14:47-05:00

The Social Roasting he is taking on all media is pretty good. I especially love the picture of him superimposed standing with Grant and Lincoln, that is a Riot!

Response by Sgt Bruce Reav made Feb 7 at 2015 4:08 PM

2015-02-07T16:08:39-05:00

fire him. What else have he lie about.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2015 4:48 PM

2015-02-07T16:48:49-05:00

I just heard that Brian Williams is stepping aside for several days. This could be the beginning of his end as the anchor of NBC News.

http://money.cnn.com/2015/02/07/media/brian-williams-nbc-stepping-aside/index.html

Brian Williams stepping aside for 'next several days'

Brian Williams is stepping aside from his "NBC Nightly News" amid mounting questions about the accuracy of a story he told about an Iraq War mission in 2003.

Response by SGT Michael Smith made Feb 7 at 2015 5:12 PM

2015-02-07T17:12:37-05:00

NBC news' credibility and public perception will inevitably go down due to BW false comments. I only see one scenario (unlikely) this situation could be spun in a positive direction for both the network and the anchor. Brian is allowed to stay on as anchor after he publicly acknowledges his false claim and states he wanted to bring more public awareness to the dangers military members face on a daily basis. Brian goes on the express his deepest regrets for his mistake and to make amends he has decided to donate the next year's salary to support wounded veterans (if NBC keeps him on). NBC in turn supports Brian's "confession" and allows him to stay on, stating that Brian has learned his lesson and their decision to keep him on would benefit wounded veterans to the tune of $10M.

This will not happen, but if it did:
1. BW's image and reputation would be salvaged
2. NBC wouldn't have to fire him - which could evolve into a legal battle
3. NBC's image looks very favorable
4. The American public has already moved on

Response by CW2 Joseph Evans made Feb 7 at 2015 7:44 PM

2015-02-07T19:44:46-05:00

I don't know... He hasn't done anything Chris Kyle hasn't been proven of doing... Can't condemn a man for imitating your idols...

Response by Sgt Adam Jennings made Feb 7 at 2015 11:35 PM

2015-02-07T23:35:58-05:00

I made this one this morning, thought I'd share.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2015 12:00 AM

2015-02-08T00:00:06-05:00

My personal opinion: And I will likely go against the grain of comments here... but!

Brian Williams has done quite a few pieces in SUPPORT of the military. I know it is easy for us to criticize his apparent mis-remembering of events, but let me offer a bit of context. Brian Williams told the "TRUE" or "true-ish" story a number of times over the years, on very public venues...where he took very little or no credit for being "in the fight". His objective was to tell the story, or be part of the story of combat and danger in war. Not dismissing his inconvenient recollections of the events, but I see more value in his telling of the stories of the soldiers involved, and bringing attention to their duties, than to his own promotion.

Response by SGT Richard H. made Feb 8 at 2015 12:02 AM

2015-02-08T00:02:36-05:00

I hear the coming under fire thing isn't his only departure from truth......

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2015 12:35 AM

2015-02-08T00:35:23-05:00

I am not for crucifying anoyone over a mistake but when your job is to report facts and you fabricate them to glorify yourself then your credibility is gone and you can no longer effectively do your job.

Brian Williams chose to lie about something that he thought could never be verified on this issue, so what else has he lied about? Sometimes mistakes have large consequences...

Response by SSG Trevor S. made Feb 8 at 2015 2:37 AM

2015-02-08T02:37:43-05:00

I would like to see his salary donated to assisting the families of fallen Army Aviators. That is all my opinion and only my opinion. My other opinion is that he should be conscripted for the length of time of the lie as a combatatives instruction demonstration volunteer.

Response by MAJ(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2015 9:02 AM

2015-02-08T09:02:54-05:00

Nothing. What he's going through now is punishment enough. When you lose your credibility as a news reporter, you're pretty much done.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2015 11:12 AM

2015-02-08T11:12:51-05:00

It's not my barrel of monkeys. He recanted, he apologized in a whitewashed manner, move one. There are more pressing matters. However no one, except in another post about this subject, has brought up the CSM that accompanied Mr. Williams to the Rangers game. Was he an innocent bystander or did he have knowledge of the "events" surrounding the supposed incident? What does the CSM think of all this now that this has hit the media spotlight?

Response by SPC Larry Oxley made Feb 8 at 2015 12:35 PM

2015-02-08T12:35:45-05:00

nothing he will have to live with it the rest of his life that will be enough.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2015 2:48 PM

2015-02-08T14:48:10-05:00

He has already stepped down from his position and most likely will not be working in news again. Things like this have quite a shelf life. This underscores the importance of always telling the truth. Say for example, you had a famous football star in your unit. During deployment that football star was killed by friendly fire and this was subsequently covered up. I would expect everyone involved in something like that to be publicly pilloried like Mr. Williams.

Response by SSG William Patton made Feb 9 at 2015 12:00 PM

2015-02-09T12:00:34-05:00

Brian Williams seems to have a problem with the truth, especially when it comes to what he has done. He is a liar and has committed the crime of stolen valor. He should be removed from his post as a journalist and never allowed to work as a voice for truth, which is what journalism is supposed to do, speak the truth. Though it seems that journalist, especially those that work for the three main television news networks have forgotten what it means to be a part of the 6th Estate. Now they seldom tell we the people what our government is doing to hurt us and instead focuses on feel good stories. Even when they take on a real news story, they slant their views onto us. I do not watch the major network news programs for the reason I do not get the information I would like.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Feb 9 at 2015 12:04 PM

2015-02-09T12:04:01-05:00

After seeing some of the posting on Facebook and other social media, I am reminded of the quote in A Knight's Tale. " I will eviscerate you in fiction. Every pimple, every character flaw. I was naked for a day; you will be naked for eternity."

I am actually starting to feel sad for the guy, he is done as journalist.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2015 12:11 PM

2015-02-09T12:11:08-05:00

He should do the right thing and step down. This is worse than what Dan Rather when he reported a false story about George Bush. But unlike CBS. I dunno is Mr Williams's was politically motivated or not. I seriously doubt it that it was politically motivated. That is all I have to say about that.

Response by PV2 David Minnicks made Feb 9 at 2015 1:15 PM

2015-02-09T13:15:14-05:00

Unfortunate as it may be nothing will happen. He made a feeble attempt at an apology and in todays society the news bureaus and their reporters instead of reporting the news seem to slant and fabricate what is reported to increase their ratings. The attempt to out scoop another network comes before credibility of the information and if they can't be the first to report the newsworthy item then they feel the need to do whatever it takes to pull the audience from other sources whether by teasers or by fabrication.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2015 2:00 PM

2015-02-09T14:00:11-05:00

Many want to be war heroes. Few want to go to the war.

Response by CW4 Edmund Parowski made Feb 9 at 2015 2:56 PM

2015-02-09T14:56:58-05:00

Retire. Write your memoirs/war novel. If one wants Walter "The Most Trusted Man in America" Cronkite's job (Yes, different network - I know.) one should be able to accurately report whether or not one has been shot down.

Response by MSgt James Mullis made Feb 9 at 2015 3:53 PM

2015-02-09T15:53:09-05:00

I believe they should and will wait for the furor to die down, then announce that he is moving to a position in the network, possibly as a news commentator. If he remains in his position as news anchor, the network would be telling its viewers that the truth does not matter to them. While that is probably true, they can't let it appear to be true. The whole issue is also negatively affecting their ad revenue and cash is king.

Response by GySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2015 4:48 PM

2015-02-09T16:48:15-05:00

Unfortunately, money is driving this train. Major media is a business. The only way Brian will go is if their ratings drop. Given the civilian celebrity culture, who knows what will happen. Remember that as a business, the media's job is to draw your attention and then keep you focused on the 10 minutes of ads broken up by the 20 other minutes (or 15 and 45). It's not the other way around.

So I'm 50/50 on this. NBC did a good job of keeping his past under wraps and without any snarky stuff being leaked out about him. Now it seems that unnamed sources are likely spilling old beans, so the armor may come off.

But again, this is still all "entertainment." Their ratings will go up because people will keep tuning to see if he shows up.

Response by 1SG Craig Moody made Feb 9 at 2015 4:55 PM

2015-02-09T16:55:06-05:00

I don't care what happens to Brian Williams as he voided his credibility long ago. I am, however, concerned about the credibility of the retired CSM who appeared to support Williams' claims publicly at a NFL football game recently. Civilians fraudulently claiming awards and service are jerks. Civilian journalists tend to be jerks and pond scum and their misclaims only hurt themselves. An NCO or officer supporting false claims hurts all veterans.

Response by MAJ David Vermillion made Feb 9 at 2015 5:11 PM

2015-02-09T17:11:47-05:00

Sometimes we all get caught in saying something that is not quite true (lie), however, if it is not true then it is a lie. My problem with Brian is he is a public figure that has so much influence to the public. People are forgiving when you make a mistake but the issue here is not a mistake but a pattern of lying throughout his life. This is not one mistake but a lot of mistakes that take on the meaning called habitual liar. He is only apologizing because he got caught, take that away and he would still be doing it. His trust is gone so he should be removed from the public.

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Feb 9 at 2015 5:21 PM

2015-02-09T17:21:43-05:00

He should be ignored.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2015 5:29 PM

2015-02-09T17:29:26-05:00

In spite of agreeing with COL Jason Smallfield, PMP, CFM, there is one thing we can and should do. Continue to poke fun at him until he resigns or is fired. I've seen a good photoshop of Brian Williams in a picture with President Lincoln and General Grant.

Photoshoppers, how many wars are there that we can insert him in, until he is embarrassed to show his face?

Response by CW4 Ray Montano made Feb 9 at 2015 7:18 PM

2015-02-09T19:18:45-05:00

Let’s talk about this “fog of memory” for a moment. On September 11th 2001, I was on Fort Belvoir, VA, when the Pentagon was hit. I know that I, and many of my co-workers, deployed to the Pentagon; however, I can’t recall if this was on the 11th or 12th. I have been in five traffic accidents, one mid-air engine failure, and two divorces. I don’t recall the dates, but I do the events. So, to me, this means that no one actually forgets the actual events of traumatic life experiences, they just screw up on some of the details. Sorry Mr. Williams, just not buying the apology; however, people lie. “In a survey of 2,000 households, 25% of users said they falsified information in their [Facebook] profiles to protect their identity, Consumer Reports said. That's up from 10% in a similar survey two years ago” (http://www.cnn.com/2012/05/04/tech/social-media/facebook-lies-privacy/). “According to a 2002 study conducted by the University of Massachusetts, 60% of adults can’t have a ten minute conversation without lying at least once” (http://mentalfloss.com/article/30609/60-people-cant-go-10-minutes-without-lying).

So what did Mr. Williams actually do? He did not fabricate news, unless you happen to think that a helicopter forced to land with a reported in it is news. He was in Iraq and one of the helicopters in his convoy was hit by an RPG. He embellished his role in the incident, that’s what he did. Let’s say he really did not see floating bodies during Katrina. Does that mean there were no floating bodies? There must have been, because I saw them on the news. I don’t know what possessed an articulate, intelligent, and charismatic person do to what he did and I am not here to condone his actions. However, I do find it sad that so many people appear to be enjoying his fall from grace and that we, as a culture, have done away with the idea of second changes. How have we become so intolerant and when did being perfect become a requirement? Life is not a zero mistake environment and there, but for the grace of God, go at least 60% of us.

Him having to face his audience will be punishment enough. He will have to deal with this, for the rest of his professional life, that's punishment enough. I had a standard line that I told all my new soldiers: "Integrity is like virginity. Once you loose it, you never get it back." I guess he will have to prove me wrong.

Response by MSgt Jim Bain made Feb 9 at 2015 7:43 PM

2015-02-09T19:43:19-05:00

This is not a big deal, all news people glorify events, do not think this is something to loose sleep over, plus Brian, who is a great commentator, did apologize for his misdeed . Now if a Vet were to were to have a similar incident, that for me is a no-no!
Burns me up when I hear some character bragging about his war adventures, and he can't even pronounce correctly the name of the base or area they were supposedly at, or what other squadron or outfit they were supposedly with.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 9 at 2015 9:14 PM

2015-02-09T21:14:49-05:00

I heard he was a boss in the Civil War

Response by SSG Lloyd Becker BSBA-HCM, MBA made Feb 10 at 2015 2:48 AM

2015-02-10T02:48:00-05:00

When it is looked at from a political position, liberals generally get a pass. Just think about if Brian Williams had been a conservative; he would have been forced to resign, why? Lying.

If he really did come under fire as he stated in his lie, what was the condition of the aircraft after he landed? Holes, or no holes? I think it should be handled as a stolen valor and Obama did sign this law into effect. Whether it pertains to civilians not wearing a uniform, I do not know.

Response by SGT Orazio Castellana made Feb 10 at 2015 7:45 AM

2015-02-10T07:45:42-05:00

I agree legally he did nothing but lie. I don't think he should get fired. His rating will take care of that. But he should never be a war correspondent ever again or imbedded with troops either.

Response by PV2 Chris Soule made Feb 10 at 2015 8:10 AM

2015-02-10T08:10:58-05:00

If his actions fall under the stolen valor statute, and if they don't its on the very edge, he should at a minimum lose his job. Well, except his NBC bosses apparently were ok with it for ratings sake. Disgraceful all the way around.

Response by SPC Neil Hood made Feb 10 at 2015 8:47 AM

2015-02-10T08:47:43-05:00

He looks like an idiot now, that's punishnent enough. I'm sure his massive ego will help him overcome his deceit.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2015 9:01 AM

2015-02-10T09:01:40-05:00

Well they do not give you a purple heart for almost getting shot or your buddy get shot. You at least have get splashed with rice on your fanny. They do give you a presidential node. Where is Mike Wallace when you need to slap a little boy. So does this put Brian Williams with the stolen valor community. I keep hearing about this college all these guys went to called MSU.

A public shaming well deserved!

Response by 1SG Patrick Sims made Feb 10 at 2015 9:13 AM

2015-02-10T09:13:19-05:00

He's a want-a-be. Who cares what he thinks, or what's going to happen to him. News people constantly say stupid things, give a limp excuse, and go on to do it again. There not worth a moments of our time.

Response by PO2 Donald Klopfenstein made Feb 10 at 2015 10:54 AM

2015-02-10T10:54:14-05:00

He won't lose his job, as he should, but respect for him has decreased so much that I now watch the other networks!

Response by SPC Dennis Heaning made Feb 10 at 2015 11:24 AM

2015-02-10T11:24:42-05:00

it's not the fact that he lied to us, it's the fact that we can't believe him anymore !

Response by SGT Jim Z. made Feb 10 at 2015 8:20 PM

2015-02-10T20:20:10-05:00

He has been suspended six months without pay http://www.wral.com/israeli-army-official-backs-up-williams-account/14437288/

Response by Sgt Franklin B. made Feb 11 at 2015 12:27 PM

2015-02-11T12:27:59-05:00

He is not the first and will not be the last. It is a shame he must carry from now and forever, if he is any kind of man it will be forever embedded in his head each day that go's by. For us we should take from it so we do not make the same mistake. Truth is the best way to live one's life.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 11 at 2015 5:21 PM

2015-02-11T17:21:06-05:00

News flash people in the media some times lie. I dedend his right to lie. Should people trust him, no. Should he be fired, well that depends on rather his company can make money with him when returns. The other side of this I have heard some tall tales and seen vets embellish or down play stories by adjusting facts. It could of happened but didn't so he was wrong. Lets not hang the man because he is glory hound. In this world there are many.

Response by CPL Bryce Davis made Feb 13 at 2015 7:06 AM

2015-02-13T07:06:06-05:00

So did the big hero "American Sniper", just sayin

Response by SGT Craig Northacker made Feb 13 at 2015 11:55 AM

2015-02-13T11:55:56-05:00

NBC - wasn't that a training we had? Nuclear Biological & Chemical? Looks like it still applies...just the like poisonous clouds, they keep growing and growing. The NY Times had serious credibility issues a number of years ago when some of their top folk were caught lying. They went from"All the News That's Fit to Print" to "Any News We Make Up", and eventually was one of the reasons they lost business.

Response by SGT Jim Z. made Feb 13 at 2015 12:02 PM

2015-02-13T12:02:52-05:00

Just heard on CNN over lunch that NBC may be looking at an outside third party to continue the investigation of Brian Williams.

Response by Cpl Brett Wagner made Feb 13 at 2015 8:05 PM

2015-02-13T20:05:55-05:00

I say we cane him in public... Well at least 50 lashes with a wet noodle.

Response by Capt Brandon Charters made Feb 13 at 2015 8:17 PM

2015-02-13T20:17:18-05:00

He said it best himself...when it comes time that you become the news, it's time to step aside.

Response by CPT William Parrish made Feb 13 at 2015 11:55 PM

2015-02-13T23:55:26-05:00

I don't have enough calories to expend caring what happens to him.

Response by PO2 Vince Cookson made Feb 14 at 2015 12:03 AM

2015-02-14T00:03:00-05:00

What can you do to him? His credibility is now on par with the major networks being able to report on "Actual" news.

Response by COL Vincent Stoneking made Feb 14 at 2015 2:50 AM

2015-02-14T02:50:07-05:00

I propose to give him approximately the same amount of attention and respect I did before this incident.

Response by CPO Emmett (Bud) Carpenter made Feb 14 at 2015 3:49 AM

2015-02-14T03:49:36-05:00

If he is allowed to come back he should be forced to lead all story's with "this is no shit".

Response by GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad made Feb 14 at 2015 3:59 AM

2015-02-14T03:59:02-05:00

Might be time to stick a fork in him . . . I think he's done!!! :-)

http://www.msn.com/en-us/tv/news/brian-williams-reporting-now-questioned-on-berlin-wall-navy-seals/ar-AA9mY34

Brian Williams Reporting Now Questioned on Berlin Wall, Navy SEALs

Doubt is mounting over the suspended anchor’s tales of travel with the elite special forces unit and attendance at Brandenburg Gate

Response by TSgt Jerry Seago made Feb 14 at 2015 8:24 AM

2015-02-14T08:24:04-05:00

I think he should be fired! He abused the trust the American people had in him and that should not be put up with!

Response by MAJ Ron Peery made Feb 14 at 2015 10:44 AM

2015-02-14T10:44:27-05:00

That's what happens when the media put more emphasis on spin than they do on facts.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2015 1:15 PM

2015-02-14T13:15:20-05:00

The upside is his credibility is now completely shot. Meaning for he will likely never work again in news. It's unfortunate because him simply being a wartime correspondent during the invasion is a very respectable thing. He didn't need to try and "glamor" himself any at all.

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2015 2:00 PM

2015-02-14T14:00:38-05:00

He's a civilian - no biggy in my book.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 14 at 2015 2:33 PM

2015-02-14T14:33:25-05:00

Dip him in BBQ sauce and feed him to the wolves..im joking his job should be over..that's quite a tall tail among many he's told..he should be forgotten..

Response by SPC John Decker made Feb 14 at 2015 2:58 PM

2015-02-14T14:58:57-05:00

The first amendment allows for freedom of the press (media). That was so the government could not prosecute reporters for telling the truth. When they start to lie about things, it damages several levels of credibility. He should be terminated. PERIOD. And never given another job having anything to do with reporting the news.

Response by SPC William Biles made Feb 14 at 2015 3:50 PM

2015-02-14T15:50:48-05:00

I say, send him back for those six months, that he's being suspended, as a combat journalist. Make sure he is put in harm's way. Then have him write an article about the importance of Integrity.

Response by PFC Marjorie Milfort made Feb 14 at 2015 6:26 PM

2015-02-14T18:26:33-05:00

His credibility is garbage now, he's done it all to himself.

Response by SPC Dale Whaley made Feb 14 at 2015 10:02 PM

2015-02-14T22:02:30-05:00

I think he should have to do a one hour special on stolen valor, expose and interview chumps who do it, as well as bring to attention the harm it causes service members and vets. And have it done live before a studio audience comprised solely of Purple Heart wearing vets and active duty with multiple awards for valor.

Response by MSgt Mark Heron made Feb 14 at 2015 11:14 PM

2015-02-14T23:14:27-05:00

He disrespects every veteran alive or deceased that did active combat by taking credit for actions that he had no part in. Sadly this is far too common. The landslide appeal for the Military vet with movies like American Sniper only tempts more to contemplate fraud. I will vehemently defend my military combat experienced brothers and sisters but Brian Williams just took us down a notch.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2015 12:37 AM

2015-02-15T00:37:23-05:00

Asshole

Response by SSgt Leon Joiner made Feb 15 at 2015 12:50 AM

2015-02-15T00:50:23-05:00

fire the bastard. he is no longer creditable

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 15 at 2015 12:53 AM

2015-02-15T00:53:22-05:00

What should happen? Or what will happen? Lol what should happen is he should lose his job for lying and admit to lying. What will happen? A slap on the wrist and that's all

Response by SGT Mark Aspenleiter made Feb 15 at 2015 10:03 AM

2015-02-15T10:03:18-05:00

They all lie. What's the difference. I stopped watching the news along time ago.

Response by PO2 Gene Peña made Feb 15 at 2015 12:35 PM

2015-02-15T12:35:11-05:00

Resignation. Stolen valor dipshit

Response by SrA James Berzenye made Feb 15 at 2015 2:26 PM

2015-02-15T14:26:35-05:00

make him serve 4 yrs in military

Response by SrA John Partrich made Feb 15 at 2015 5:59 PM

2015-02-15T17:59:23-05:00

His career is definitely tarnished but good; I would say, leave his fate in the soldiers that he was with; Let them decide if they want to be merciful or not.

Response by PO1 James Boivin made Feb 15 at 2015 9:22 PM

2015-02-15T21:22:30-05:00

Fired

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Feb 16 at 2015 12:34 PM

2015-02-16T12:34:14-05:00

Found a more recent picture of Williams following his fall from grace.

Response by 1SG Billy Philley made Feb 16 at 2015 5:03 PM

2015-02-16T17:03:52-05:00

Be fired

Response by PO2 Arnold Kaminski made Feb 16 at 2015 8:43 PM

2015-02-16T20:43:28-05:00

He could be Hillary's running mate! She lied about that too, remember?

Response by PO2 Arnold Kaminski made Feb 16 at 2015 8:45 PM

2015-02-16T20:45:52-05:00

Rule #1 for liberal mainstream media: NEVER ADMIT YOUR LIES!

Response by PO1 Jamey Amerson made Feb 17 at 2015 1:51 PM

2015-02-17T13:51:14-05:00

That fish was this .......... big. Unfortunetly, you can't do that when your job is reporting facts.

Response by PO3 John Taylor made Feb 17 at 2015 4:11 PM

2015-02-17T16:11:40-05:00

Nothing

Response by Cpl Eric Lidgett made Feb 17 at 2015 5:29 PM

2015-02-17T17:29:31-05:00

He should have to go back on the air and suffer the humiliation of facing his audience knows that everything he says may or may not be true.

Response by MSgt Richard Venable made Feb 17 at 2015 6:48 PM

2015-02-17T18:48:52-05:00

I think he has been exposed as a liar and the network should fire him because he cant be trusted to tell the truth.

Response by Sgt Packy Flickinger made Feb 17 at 2015 11:08 PM

2015-02-17T23:08:25-05:00

He's a news journalist, it may have been wrong but not an uncommon level of integrity.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 17 at 2015 11:49 PM

2015-02-17T23:49:03-05:00

That's up to his current employer and if he is fired or let go then it will be up to another employer to decide if they wish to employ him. I cannot understand why he felt it necessary to fabricate and/or exaggerate. I am also a forgiving man and will never say that he should never work in news again or continue to make a living. That's up to his current employer and/or a future employer to determine. I never really watched him to begin with so I have no skin in the game. Integrity violations are very hard to overcome and whether he can ever gain that back is the question. Now if we are saying that we need honest news people then we are kidding ourselves about what used to be news and is now opinion pieces and entertainment. Most of us can filter through it and check multiple sources to find anything close to the truth to begin with but many take it for face value which is scary

Response by SPC Chris Gage made Feb 17 at 2015 11:51 PM

2015-02-17T23:51:58-05:00

Im not to sure that he did lie, didn't they play the part where the piolit for Mr. Williams' helicopter corroborate his story.

Response by SGT Robert Roadifer made Feb 17 at 2015 11:53 PM

2015-02-17T23:53:42-05:00

There is really nothing that can be done. However, he needs to resign and no longer work for any news company. He should have to donate money to the Wounded Worrier Project to help the soldiers that were actually wounded do to actual combat that they seen.

Response by SSG John Bacon made Feb 18 at 2015 8:40 AM

2015-02-18T08:40:56-05:00

Oblige him and fire 7.62mm rounds and an RPG at him.

Response by PO2 Erik Swanson made Feb 18 at 2015 11:14 AM

2015-02-18T11:14:05-05:00

Same thing that happened to Hillary. We accept he lies, the liberals continue to support him, accept his half hearted apology, move on with our lives knowing not to believe anything he says.

Response by CW3 Todd Rinehart made Feb 18 at 2015 12:45 PM

2015-02-18T12:45:40-05:00

Looks like and sounds like stolen valor:
The Stolen Valor Act of 2013 amends the federal criminal code to rewrite provisions relating to fraudulent claims about military service to subject to a fine, imprisonment for not more than one year, or both an individual who, with intent to obtain money, property, or other tangible benefit, fraudulently holds himself or herself out to be a recipient of any medals.

He was trying to get tangible benefit. I think he should pay the fine and instead of jail be ordered to work with disabled vets in one form or fashion starting off with the words "I apologize and lied to everyone" instead of his foggy memory crap......

This should humble him and set him straight. Oh and never again be on television as any type of reporter.

Response by CPL Mitchell Monnin made Feb 18 at 2015 4:49 PM

2015-02-18T16:49:16-05:00

He will pay in the coin most precious to him, public approbation. Regardless of whether NBC allows him to sit the anchor chair again, his public persona is forever tarnished. In an field where personal integrity, in the vein of Murrow and Cronkite, he will be held as an example of hubris for future generations of journalism students.

Response by SSgt Dustin Coy made Feb 18 at 2015 7:13 PM

2015-02-18T19:13:28-05:00

Each time he's interviewed/reporting in the future, a message should run on the screen below "The statements of Brian Williams are his own, and do not necessarily reflect the views of this network, our sponsors, actual events or any form of the truth for that matter..." It's one thing to want to be able to relate to somebody else's experiences, it's quite another to fabricate stories related to this particular subject to try to create "street cred."

Response by PO2 Trevis Williams made Feb 19 at 2015 3:59 PM

2015-02-19T15:59:03-05:00

Forget it. No harm no foul.

Response by LCpl Kevin Mollohan made Feb 20 at 2015 3:14 PM

2015-02-20T15:14:02-05:00

I think he needs to be cained

Response by SPC Renato Villorante made Feb 20 at 2015 4:07 PM

2015-02-20T16:07:51-05:00

Nothing. He may be an ambassador to journalistic integrity, but he's not ex-military, and therefore, not bound to the same value sets that we military personnel are held accountable to.

Response by SSG Riley Hicks made Feb 20 at 2015 7:48 PM

2015-02-20T19:48:47-05:00

Be demoted to NBC Nightly janitor.

Response by PO2 Jimmy Bones made Feb 20 at 2015 9:12 PM

2015-02-20T21:12:17-05:00

Two steps away from stolen valor.

Response by SPC Stewart Smith made Feb 21 at 2015 12:35 PM

2015-02-21T12:35:28-05:00

He should be branded as a liar. Oh.... mission accomplished.

Response by SGT Stephen Shelton made Feb 21 at 2015 9:28 PM

2015-02-21T21:28:49-05:00

Send his ass into a hot LZ!

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Feb 21 at 2015 9:35 PM

2015-02-21T21:35:45-05:00

What happened to him is more than what white house officials get for lying and failing to do their job.

Response by SSG Joseph Gaines made Feb 22 at 2015 12:22 PM

2015-02-22T12:22:30-05:00

let him actually come under fire...

Response by Sgt Nick Hayman made Mar 22 at 2015 11:05 PM

2015-03-22T23:05:08-04:00

Nothing, once a man looses his reputation and his character is exposed for all to see, it's tragic. It would not wish this on a dog, let alone a human being. And I'm a Rock Ribbed Ronaldus Magnus Reagan Conservative, brothers!