November 05, 2007
I'm Confused
So last night, I saw a segment on 60 Minutes. It was about Elephant poachers.
They are interviewing the rangers that protect the elephant sanctuary.
The correspondent notes, while talking to the head of the ranger team, that they are armed for war. RPGs, AK's and even a mounted machine gun.
The team leader says "It is war. The poachers come in regular clothing. They just open up shooting".
That was completely accepted by the correspondent.
Now stop for a minute. Think about that. It's ok for "park rangers" to arm themselves to the teeth and open fire on elephant poachers but our soldiers, who are FIGHTING FOR OUR FREEDOM, as well as their lives AND follow ROE (rules of engagement) are wrong?!?! The terrorists aren't wearin' any uniforms! They blend right into the crowds. And they don't even care if they take out CIVILIANS!!! For cryin' out loud.....
OK. Seriously. I have GOT to find something to do on Sunday's that keeps me from accidentally flipping through that show. I'm gonna have a stroke......
**please note, I in no way think elephant poaching is acceptable, the irony was just too much on this one.....
I hear you. I can't watch *any* of those shows anymore. My head will explode.
Save the Elephants, though! :)
Posted by: Richmond at November 5, 2007 09:46 AMJust for the record, correspondents aren't supposed to be appalled by anything. They are only allowed to gather and report/regurgitate information.
Anyone who does otherwise is not a journalist.
For instance, if a cameraman sees a troop of soldiers walking into an ambush, that cameraman will not shout to warn them, but will keep the camera rolling.
If you ever meet a journalist who has been taught otherwise, send money to that school's scholarship fund. The world needs the humanity.
(Sorry if I missed your point. I focused on your comment that the reporter thought this was all ok.)
Posted by: Roses at November 5, 2007 10:10 AMYou are correct Roses, and especially after I just posted how I wished they would only report the facts, it does seem I'm flip flopping.
My point was, they editorialize the military but not this. THAT was the irony. I wasn't clear on that, and for that I apologize.
Posted by: tammi at November 5, 2007 10:28 AMI'm still trying to figure out where they get a pan large enough to poach the oliphants...
Posted by: That 1 Guy at November 5, 2007 06:58 PM