Customer Reviews

War in the Gulf: Answering Childrens Questions [VHS]

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Watching this tape reminds me just how great a loss the recent passing of Peter Jennings is. Originally shown on ABC in early 1991, the purpose of this special was to explain to children, both those in the studio and those watching at home, about the war taking place in the Gulf, what exactly was happening, and to answer their questions. This was the first encounter of war this generation of children experienced, and no doubt, they had many concerns of their own. Never one to take the viewpoints and opinions of children lightly, Peter Jennings began these specials during this time, showing them Saturday mornings on ABC. His goal was to reach out to our country's youngest citizens, and to make them feel important, and their feelings useful. His rapport with children was always outstanding. He never belittled them, or behaved dismissively towards them. He had a respect for them, which was, and continues to be, very rare. He was the only network news anchor to take time to sit down with children, and talk with them about the issues of the day. In this special, at one point he sits down on the floor, in the Indian style position, in his dark-colored suit. His curiousity and concern were sincere. You can tell just by looking at him, and seeing his interaction with the children. It remains to be seen if we will ever see such compassion and interest on this level again. Watching this video will make you miss the presence of Peter Jennings all the more, but it will also remind you of the unique, unforgettable legacy he has left behind.