The Wilder Source

I was reading two particular articles in today’s OA News that were a follow up from a Monday July 5  story about an Auburn man’s anti-military statements. I want to address two particular issues regarding that story.

First, The OA News did a fair, non-biased report on this story.  Let me be clear, I do not support the statements or actions of Matthis Chiroux; however, this story was news worthy and should have been covered.

This story had several newsworthy elements. It was local, timely and had a major impact on the community. These are three of the seven guidelines for a great story as outlined by the Associated Press.  Regardless of whether you agree with Chiroux, the elements made it  a good story that stimulated thought and awareness.

I am proud to know that there are so many in the Lee County community who are supporting our troops, and that disagree with Chiroux’s actions.

The article published today and written by Brittany Whitley was a good example of balanced reporting.  It presented both sides of the issue, and left the decision to readers to approve or disapprove of Chiroux’s actions.

As a reader and freedom loving American, I must respectfully disagree with Chiroux.

My second point I would like to make is that no one should be upset that the OA News published these articles.  There was an opinion article from Ken Lunsford of Auburn, Ala.  in the newspaper who was frustrated that the OA News covered this story.

Lunsford started the article with the oath given to all members of the military.  He reminded readers that Chiroux swore an oath to obey the President of the United States and the orders of military officers appointed over him.

It was a great point that I agree with.

However, I do not agree with Lunsford’s statement that the OA News should not have featured this story.

“I cannot believe you featured this guy on your front page,” Lunsford said about the article. “Do not make him out to be some moral leader for the rest of us.”

In my opinion, the stories written both Monday and Thursday have not condoned Chiroux’s actions, and they have definitely not positioned Chiroux as a moral leader.

Along with Lunsford, I am offended.  Not at the OA News who performed their obligation as the media, but at Chiroux who broke his oath to our country.

I would like to thank the OA News for bringing this story to my attention so that I might better know my community and my world around me.  It is good to know that there are readers out there who support our troops, and are concerned about the criminal actions of Chiroux.