A Letter to CBS News...The Network & Its Affiliates

As a former broadcast professional I have long been disappointed with the partisan direction and weakening reporting skills of a profession I once admired for its allegiance to objective investigation and reporting of a story's facts; ideals which have contributed to the protection of our nation's freedom and democracy.

It has been a long and agonizing death of a once respected CBS News organization, which is partly responsible for the birth of the modern press media by way of its contributions to the ethical practice of journalism. Many fine CBS anchors, reporters and department staff have earned due respect for their individual and group contributions over the years. However, the actions of Dan Rather and others involved in the recent disputed and disrespectful reports about America's president have driven the final nail in CBS News' coffin.

CBS News has publicly disgraced itself before the American people.

The shameful presentation of opinion as factual event, and those responsible for its inclusion in the alleged story, is a mortal wound that must be excised with immediacy and commitment to eliminate any potential for future indiscretions.

Please be advised that CBS News, and its affiliates airing CBS newscasts, have lost the respect of this former viewer until such time that CBS News and its news affiliates once again earn the trust now lost.