Walter Cronkite, an icon of American journalism, died today at the age of 92. Good Morning America first reported this breaking news via Twitter feed at approximately 5:30 pm, Pacific Standard Time. The report was further substantiated and confirmed by Brian Stelter of the New York Times
Cronkite, who was the anchor of "CBS Evening News" from 1962 to 1981 - considered by many to be the "most trusted man in America," was reported to be seriously ill with cerebrovascular disease and not expected to recover on 25 June, 2009. It is reported that he died at home surrounded by his family and friends.
The passing of this American icon marks the sad end of an era in journalism. Cronkite's son, Chip, said just before 8 pm Eastern Standard Time, "My father, Walter Cronkite, has died. "CBS interrupted their evening programming to air an obituary for the iconic newsman who defined broadcast journalism for decades.
In his career, Cronkite notably reported on the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the civil rights movement, the space race, the Vietnam War, and the impeachment of former President Richard M. Nixon amongst thousands of other news stories. To anyone who ever aspired to be a news reporter, followed politics or popular culture, Cronkite was a mentor from a-far and a hero.
In a statement issued by Katie Couric, the current anchor of CBS Evening News, she says "Mr. Cronkite was so trusted 'because he exhibited a sense of purpose and compassion, night after night. He was the personification of excellence.'"
For more information on Walter Cronkite's life, check out:
- The New York Times: Walter Cronkite, Iconic Anchorman, Dies
- CBS: Walter Cronkite Dies
- TMZ: Walter Cronkite -- And That's The Way It Was