Rochester Today – Will Brian Williams Lose His Job?

The uproar over NBC Anchorman Brian Williams false claims about an incident in Iraq over a decade ago lit up the phone lines in the KROC-AM studio during Friday's Rochester Today show with Tom Ostrom and Andy Brownell.Williams has been roundly criticized for repeatedly making claims that he was either on a helicopter or in a helicopter behind a helicopter that was hit by a rocket propelled grenade in Iraq in 2003. The military personnel who were actually involved in the close call refuted the TV news anchorman's version of the events online, sparking an uproar that threatens Williams' career.

Tom has long included NBC in his criticism of media liberal bias and used the opportunity to bring up some past faux pas by Williams. Andy was more fascinated by the psychology behind the incident, noting a long list of prominent people at the pinnacle of their careers who have made incredibly stupid mistakes that led to their demise.

The discussion led to an interesting exploration of the role of the media, importance of credibility, and the constant evolution of the industry that brings citizens information crucial to a healthy democracy.

Click on the play button below to listen to the show.

"Right-click" here to download it.

While attempting to get to as many calls as possible, Andy and Tom failed to mention Monday's program for the Scott Hosier Veterans Roundtable at Autumn Ridge Church near the Olmsted County History Center. Orville and Ron Amdahl will be presenting about Fighting in the South Pacific and Returning a Japanese Sword. The program begins at 7PM.