AP Was There: Germany surrenders to Western allies, Russia

[Omaha Steve]

This undated photograph shows the news bulletin sent by Associated Press Paris Bureau Chief Edward Kennedy announcing the unconditional surrender of the Germans to the Allies on May 7, 1945. (AP Photo)


http://bigstory.ap.org/article/44daa5ad18914f05a7925ffda9e09874/ap-was-there-germany-surrenders-western-allies-russia

BY EDWARD KENNEDY

REIMS, France (AP) — EDITOR'S NOTE: On May 7, 1945, AP Paris bureau chief Edward Kennedy broke one of the biggest stories of that century: the unconditional surrender of Germany to the Allies at a former school house in Reims, France.

Instead of receiving praise, Kennedy was quietly dismissed.

The reason: The veteran reporter was accused of breaking a pledge that he and 16 other correspondents had made to keep the surrender secret for a time, as a condition of being allowed to witness it. This was done so Russian dictator Josef Stalin could formally announce the defeat in Berlin.

Kennedy viewed the embargo as a political security issue, rather than a military one, and felt compelled to report the surrender, especially after learning that German radio had already broadcast the news.

FULL story and more photos at link.

[Sherman A1]

1. K&R!

Thanks for posting.