Asheville News

Larry Blunt’s story on his son

Jason Sandford November 13, 2008

Jason Sandford

Jason Sandford is a reporter, writer, blogger and photographer interested in all things Asheville.

A loyal reader sent me this note, which I’ll pass along:

I know your not Larry Blunt’s biggest fan, but did you catch the piece he did last night for veterans day with his son? Very moving, brought my wife to tears and it was all I could to to hold them back. After the piece was over I almost immediately wondered if you would comment on it today.

I’ve got you on my google reader and keep up with your posts, though I don’t agree with you on a lot of things you do help keep this “liberal Republican” grounded somewhat.

I didn’t see the story, so I can’t comment on it. I’m sure any personal look at the impact of war on a family is compelling.

Jason Sandford

Jason Sandford is a reporter, writer, blogger and photographer interested in all things Asheville.

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6 Comments

killah November 15, 2008

Thanks for clearing out some space, Ash, but I really don’t have much to say today. Except that I just watched "Conversation With My Son" on wlos.com and agree it’s a "keeper". I hope Larry has it on his Save Tape and that it helps him land a job somewhere else. That means I whole-heartedly agree with realityczech. Frank Kracher is and always will be News 13’s best chance to acheive some necessary improvement at 6 & 11.

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Mike November 14, 2008

It’s on their Web site, for those who missed it or want to see it again:

http://www.wlos.com/shared/newsroom/special_reports/wlos_vid_102.shtml

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killah November 14, 2008

Hey Ash. Why is realityczech’s comment posted twice here? I mean it’s a fine piece of writing, but why take up all that space for single-message x 2? Just curious.

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loyal reader November 14, 2008

I have to agree. My cynical self, when I saw the promo for the piece, thought, "exploiting a situation for November ratings." After seeing it and watching Larry choke back the tears on the set upon seeing his own taped piece….suffice to say I’m a permanent fan now of Larry’s. Exellent.

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realityczech November 14, 2008

As those who read and participate here at Ashvegas, you all know I am admittedly not a big fan of anchorman Larry Blunt. I have always made it clear my opinion is Frank Kracher should have never left WLOS and should be back in the main chair there now. I still believe that move would be best for News 13 and WNC viewers.

But I must say last night’s Conversation With My Son was one of the most powerful, poignant and moving stories I have ever seen on television. So many news pieces are labeled Special Report, but many fail to live up to that billing. This one, without a doubt, was a grand slam homerun for both Mr. Blunt and his son, Nick. Family tales are often tough to tell and it was obvious that at times these two men were having a rough go of it. They sucked it up, like any good soldier/son and his former-soldier father would. That genuine, emotional, heartfelt and visceral effort shined through. It was, as they say in the news business, “Great TV”.

It was also a well-crafted Special Report that deserves an Emmy Award, which will almost assuredly happen when next year’s regional NATAS voting is complete.

My hat is off to Larry and Nick. You are a very good reporter, Mr. Blunt. I hope you will do stories of this import more often. Your son is a very good soldier. I know we all hope with all our hearts that he comes back in one piece, to once again embrace and enjoy the father who clearly loves him so much.

Godspeed and sincere best wishes, realityczech

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PBnJ November 14, 2008

Hey Ash, it was a damn good piece and I don’t say that often. I was very surprised at how well they did on it.

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