Ernie Pyle – The Voice Of G.I. Joe

Ernie Pyle was one of the greatest reporters in American history. after writing one of the most popular and widely published newspaper columns in the USA, he became the voice of the average infantry soldier during World War II. In this role, Ernie Pyle became legendary.

A number of brilliant journalists covered the Second World War. Edward R. Murrow broadcast brilliantly from the rooftops of London, William L. Shirer personally witnessed the entry of Hitler into Austria, and Walter Cronkite tirelessly covered the War for the United Press. Each filed memorable reports that helped Americans better understand the War.

Meanwhile, Ernie Pyle carved out an unforgettable niche for himself. Instead of covering the “big picture” of the War, Pyle traveled alongside the infantry. He became what we today would call an embedded journalist. Marching alongside the average G.I. Joe – a term he helped popularize – Ernie Pyle reported the “little picture.” He recorded the daily gripes and fears and small moments of humor encountered by the foot soldiers marching through Italy and Germany. Millions of Americans read his column every day. His prose was crisp and observant and caring, and sardonic.

When the War ended in Europe, Ernie Pyle returned home to New Mexico. Then, reluctantly, Pyle agreed to be assigned to join the forces preparing to invade Japan. He was exhausted, his personal life was in shambles, and he had a fearful premonition that he would die there.

On a small island near Okinawa, Ernie Pyle was killed by a single shot from a  sniper. The grief felt by his millions of readers and the entire Army was all but immeasurable. Tributes flowed from the President, from the American military leaders, and journalists around the world.

Perhaps the simple plaque erected by the soldiers who had marched alongside him would have been his favorite memorial. It read:

At this spot

The 77th Infantry Division 

Lost a buddy.

ERNIE PYLE.

18 April 1945

To this day, Ernie Pyle’s unique life, unforgettable writing, and tragic death place him in the pantheon of America’sgreat correspondents. The School Of Journalism at Indiana University is named for Ernie Pyle, and a number of books and a movie have helped keep his memory alive. Even Snoopy would regularly hoist a can of K-Rations on the anniversary of Ernie Pyle’s death on the island of Okinawa.

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When: Oct 26, 2021, 11:30 AM Central Time (the US and Canada)

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