The lack of compassion and common decency shown by the Associated Press in releasing this photograph is stunning,” said American Legion National Commander Clarence E. Hill, a retired Navy captain. “Lance Corporal Joshua Bernard is a hero who gave his life for his country. His family is understandably offended. I have asked the American Legion state ommander in Maine to reach out to his family. Indeed everybody in The American Legion stands with his family.”joshua bernard death photoThe photo shows Bernard bleeding after being struck by a rocket-propelled
grenade in a Taliban ambush Aug. 14. Before the photograph was publicly
released, Secretary of Defense Robert Gates asked Thomas Curley, AP`s president and chief executive officer to refrain from transmitting the image. “Out of respect for his family`s wishes, I ask you in the strongest of terms to
reconsider your decision. I do not make this request lightly…The issue here is
not law, policy or constitutional right – but judgment and common decency.”
“Secretary Gates was right,” Hill added. “The issue is judgment and common decency. There is some information, some actions that occur, that are simply too private, too personal, and too tragic to be intentionally broadcast into the homes of millions. For families with loved ones overseas, the fear of what might happen to them is a near constant companion. This photo not only keeps open thewounds of war for the Bernard family, but it also increases the fear for the
families of those who are still facing the reality of sudden death every day.
