A proud symbol and a shameful error

The Riverdale Press made a horrible error in last week’s edition, mistakenly labeling a photo of Marine Corps veteran Donald O’Keefe’s American flag, hanging from his balcony, as the “Eyesore of the week,” rather than “Photographer’s eye,” as intended.

We offer an apology to every person who saw this, and most especially to Mr. O’Keefe.

While there are reasons, there can be no excuse.

Today, we are re-printing the photo and can only ask for forgiveness. We are proud to be a part of a nation and a community for which so many have sacrificed a normal family life, their bodies and even their lives, and we honor America’s great symbol — its flag.

We have reached out to members of our community and let them know that there was no malice behind this mistake, and we appreciate everyone who has taken the time to hear us out; at the V.A. hospital on Kingsbridge Road; at the American Legion Post on Corlear Avenue and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post on Orloff Avenue.

The entire staff deeply regrets this hurtful mistake, caused by a proofreading error.

If any member of the community would like to speak with the editor about this, please call 718-543-6065 and ask for Jason Fields.