FishbowlDC got a tip that Scripps Howard news service will be running a story in the morning about MSNBC’s David Shuster and the on-air apology he gave to Republican Rep. Marsha Blackburn. Apparently, the story will explain that Jeremy Bohannon, a soldier killed in Iraq, was in fact from Blackburn’s district, exonerating Shuster from any error.
If that is the case, that makes the following letter very interesting. It is the Army letter about Pvt. Bohannon’s death and it was sent to, among others, Rep. John Tanner of Tennessee’s 8th district. Blackburn is from Tennessee’s 7th district.
>More from an emailer: “wonder what Private Bohannon’s family thinks of the reporters for using their loved one as a pawn?”
From NewsBusters.org
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
Office of the Chief of Legislative Liaison
1600 Army Pentagon
Washington, DC 20310-1600
CASUALTY ANNOUNCEMENT FOR MEMBERS OF CONGRESS AND GOVERNORS
August 7, 2007
The United States Army announces the loss of Private Jeremy S. Bohannon, 18, of Tennessee, who died on August 5, 2007, in Baghdad, Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. According to initial reports, Private Bohannon died of injuries sustained when his position received indirect fire.
Private Bohannon was assigned to the 59th Military Police Company, 759th Military Police Battalion, Fort Carson, Colorado.
Private Bohannon’s family resides in Mc Ewen, Tennessee (parents). The Army extends heartfelt sympathy and condolences to his family and friends who have suffered this loss and is committed to providing full support for their needs.
A copy of this announcement is provided to:
Senator Wayne Allard
Senator Ken Salazar
Representative Doug Lamborn
Governor Bill Ritter
Senator Lamar Alexander
Senator Bob Corker
Representative John Tanner
Governor Phil Bredesen
For further assistance, please call Ms. Barbara Ellis or Ms. Maria Thompson, 703-697-8381. During non-duty hours, the duty officer can be reached at 703-692-0254.
Provided by the Chief, Congressional Inquiry Division.