Layers and Layers of Fact Checkers and Editors
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Ladies and gentlemen, this is the Associated Press: “Global video gaming company that backed search for WWII fighter jets says no planes in Myanmar.”
One of these things is not like the other — or as the Professor writes, “Would someone explain to the Associated Press that Spitfires aren’t ‘Fighter Jets?’”
And while the page that Glenn linked to was on Fox News, note that the Washington Post, Montreal Gazette and Minneapolis Star-Tribune all ran with the headline from the wire service with its self-described “commitment to the highest standards of objective, accurate journalism,” as well.
I realize that the AP Stylebook can’t cover everything, but given how little history is currently being taught in school, perhaps it should include a chapter written by Jane’s. Or in this case, simply a page on how to use Wikipedia.
Incidentally, perhaps Mr. Peterman might have been consulted on the headline as well.
Not so fast, Ed! Democrat lawmakers have ruled that Spitfires ARE jets because they have high-capacity assault propellers and bayonet lugs on their propeller cones.
(Not to mention the reason they can’t be found is they have silencer suppressors!)
Let’s face facts – The AP audience doesn’t know there was a WWII, can’t name the particpants, the years waged, or who were the victors.
I’d say that there reporter is perfectly synched to their customer.
In WWII there was only one fighter jet put into operation.
By Germany (aka “Axis”), not Britain (aka “Allies”).
In Europe, not Asia.
Other than that, the story seems accurate!
The reporter meant WW I.
Heh!