THE FRONTRUNNER OF TRUTH
In the depths of journalism, VERY VERY few names resonate with the power and integrity of Seymour Hersh. Over the decades, Hersh has not merely reported the news; he has shaped it, compelling the world to confront uncomfortable truths as journalists are expected, but he goes so far to expose the roots of many many issues. In an age where media is nothing but lies, propaganda and a bedrock of falsehood, Hersh stands as a beacon of what journalism was always meant to be—a frontrunning of truth, regardless of the cost.
Hersh's journey into the world of journalism was not one marked by privilege or ease or connections.
Born to a family of immigrants in Chicago, he was to establish himself with a deep sense of justice and a sharp eye for detail from an early age. His career began in the shitty world of local news, where he honed the skills that would later make him a household name in the World. Yet, it was his work on the My Lai massacre in 1969 that would rocket him into the global spotlight, setting a standard for investigative journalism that very very VERY (I am not exaggerating) few have since matched.
The My Lai story, which exposed the brutal killing of hundreds of unarmed Vietnamese civilians by U.S. troops, was a watershed moment in American journalism. At a time when trust in the government was somewhat high, Hersh's reporting tore down the veil, revealing the horrors of war in stark detail. His work not only earned him the Pulitzer Prize but also played a crucial role in changing public perception of the Vietnam War. Hersh’s ability to dig deep, to go beyond the surface, and to challenge the official narrative set him apart as a journalist of rare courage and conviction.
Hersh’s career is a testament to the power of investigative journalism. He has never been content to simply report what others have said or done. Instead, he has always sought to uncover the truth, no matter how deeply it might be buried or how powerful the forces trying to keep it hidden.
Whether it was exposing the Watergate scandal, revealing the horrific operations of the CIA, or unearthing the atrocities at Abu Ghraib prison, Hersh’s work has consistently forced those in power to answer for their actions. His reporting on Abu Ghraib, in particular, shook the world, bringing to light the systemic abuse and torture of prisoners by U.S. military personnel. The images and stories that emerged from Hersh’s investigations were so shocking that they triggered widespread protests and led to significant changes in U.S. military policy…….which was never implemented!
But Hersh’s impact goes beyond the stories he has uncovered. He has also set a standard for journalistic integrity that has inspired countless (I wish lol) reporters around the world…….I mean a few.
In an era where clickbait headlines and flat out lies drive the news cycle, Hersh’s commitment to accuracy and depth stands as a model for what journalism should aspire to be. He is a reminder that the role of a journalist is not just to inform, but to challenge, to question, and to hold power accountable.
His work has shown that journalism, when done right, is not just a profession—it is a calling, a duty to seek the truth and to speak it, no matter the consequences.
In a world where the lines between fact and fiction are as blurred as Israel’s censorship, Seymour Hersh remains a steadfast guardian of the truth. His career is a powerful reminder of the impact that one journalist can have, and of the vital role that journalism plays in a society. Hersh’s work has exposed lies, brought down powerful figures, and sparked conversations that have changed the course of history. Yet, through it all, he has remained humble, driven not by fame or fortune, but by a deep commitment to the truth.
As we reflect on Hersh’s extraordinary career, we are reminded of the power of the written word to effect change. In an age where trust in the media is at an all-time low, Hersh’s work is what journalism can and should be. He has shown us that the truth, no matter how difficult or uncomfortable, is worth fighting for. For this, and for so much more, Seymour Hersh deserves not just my admiration, but my deepest gratitude.
A man in a world built on lies and evil, that should earn the respect of everyone, and a true libertarian playing for no political sides but the damn truth.
And also do check out some of his books if you can (this is to the readers haha!) In addition, he has a Substack:
Live long Seymour!
References:
Greenwald, Glenn. "Seymour Hersh’s Courage and Commitment to Uncovering Truths." The Intercept, 2015.
Hersh, Seymour M. My Lai 4: A Report on the Massacre and Its Aftermath. Random House, 1970.
Hersh, Seymour M. Chain of Command: The Road from 9/11 to Abu Ghraib. HarperCollins, 2004.