Edwin Newman, R.I.P.

I remember seeing Edwin Newman covering the news for NBC, doing reports on the nightly news broadcast and working the national political conventions. Edwin Newsman, was one of greats. He was a TV journalists from the era when network television news programs tried to do good job, and there was a true attempt to be fair and balanced, and to provide a public service. In those old days of TV journalism, newsmen became well respected figures. Mr. Newman was with NBC News for thirty two years, from 1952 to 1984. He died in London, England, last month, on August 13th. He was ninety-one years old.

Mr. Newman is being remembered, according to the Associated Press, for his "literacy, wit and energy. He authored the best sellers "Strictly Speaking" and "A Civil Tongue."

Long time NBC news man and former anchor Tom Brokaw said in a statement, "Ed Newman was an early role model for my generation of NBC News correspondents - worldly, erudite and droll, qualities that were enriched by his pitch perfect use of the English language. He was always a gentleman and a reassuring presence in our midst."

The impression I got from watching Edwin Newsman on the newscasts was that he talked straight and wasn't a phony, wasn't putting on, and was confident, and believable.

Edwin Newman, R.I.P.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy