Carlton Sherwood, American soldier and journalist (d. 2014)

Carlton Alex Sherwood, born on December 16, 1946, and passing away on June 11, 2014, was a prominent American journalist whose career traversed a landscape of acclaimed investigative reporting, controversial political commentary, and significant literary contributions. His professional life showcased a fascinating blend of traditional journalistic excellence and involvement in deeply contested public narratives, leaving a notable mark on both the news industry and American political discourse.

A Distinguished Career in Journalism

Sherwood's early career was marked by his involvement with news teams that achieved the pinnacle of journalistic recognition. He contributed to organizations that were honored with both the Pulitzer Prize and the Peabody Award, two of the most prestigious accolades in American journalism and broadcasting, respectively. The Pulitzer Prize, administered by Columbia University, recognizes excellence in newspaper, magazine, and online journalism, literature, and musical composition, while the Peabody Awards celebrate distinction and achievement in broadcast and electronic media. Although these awards were bestowed upon the organizations he served, they underscored the high caliber of his work and his commitment to impactful reporting that garnered national recognition.

Venturing into Political Commentary: "Stolen Honor"

In the lead-up to the intensely competitive 2004 U.S. presidential election, Carlton Sherwood took on the role of producer for the film Stolen Honor. This documentary was highly critical of John Kerry, then the Democratic presidential nominee, focusing on aspects of his military service during the Vietnam War and his subsequent anti-war activism. The film became a significant component of the "Swift Boat" controversy, a highly publicized and contentious campaign that questioned Kerry's wartime record and distinguished service. Sherwood's involvement in such a politically charged project highlighted his willingness to engage with controversial subjects and contribute to heated public debates, making him a notable figure beyond traditional news reporting.

Literary Contributions and the Unification Church

Later in his career, Carlton Sherwood's professional path led him to The Washington Times, a newspaper owned by the Unification Church. This association proved formative for his subsequent literary endeavor. He authored the book Inquisition: The Persecution and Prosecution of the Reverend Sun Myung Moon. This work delved into the legal struggles faced by Sun Myung Moon, the founder and leader of the Unification Church, specifically chronicling the events surrounding the United States v. Sun Myung Moon case. The case, primarily involving charges of tax evasion, was a pivotal moment for the Unification Church in America, and Sherwood's book offered an in-depth perspective on the legal battle from the church's viewpoint, reflecting his investigative depth and narrative skill.

A Lasting Legacy: The Carlton Sherwood Media Award

Carlton Sherwood's dedication to informing the public, particularly on matters of national significance, was recognized and honored by the Blinded American Veterans Foundation. In 1987, this foundation established the annual Carlton Sherwood Media Award. This esteemed award was created to celebrate "both journalistic excellence and those members of the media who have shown special interest in—and dedication to—the needs and concerns of American veterans." The establishment of an award in his name by a veterans' organization is a testament to his perceived commitment to military personnel and their welfare, solidifying his enduring legacy as a journalist who cared deeply about the issues facing those who served their country.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Carlton Alex Sherwood best known for?

Carlton Alex Sherwood was known for a multifaceted career that included contributing to Pulitzer and Peabody Award-winning news teams, producing the controversial anti-John Kerry film Stolen Honor, authoring a book about Sun Myung Moon, and having an annual media award named in his honor by the Blinded American Veterans Foundation.

What was "Stolen Honor" about?

Stolen Honor was a documentary film produced by Carlton Sherwood that critically examined John Kerry's military service during the Vietnam War and his subsequent anti-war activities, becoming a significant part of the "Swift Boat" controversy during the 2004 U.S. presidential election.

Which prestigious journalism awards were associated with Sherwood's work?

Carlton Sherwood served on news teams that were recognized with the Pulitzer Prize and the Peabody Award, two of the most highly regarded honors in American journalism and broadcasting, respectively.

What was the subject of Sherwood's book, "Inquisition: The Persecution and Prosecution of the Reverend Sun Myung Moon"?

The book focused on the legal challenges faced by Sun Myung Moon, the leader of the Unification Church, specifically detailing the United States v. Sun Myung Moon case, which involved charges of tax evasion.

What is the Carlton Sherwood Media Award?

Established in 1987 by the Blinded American Veterans Foundation, the Carlton Sherwood Media Award recognizes journalistic excellence and media professionals who have demonstrated exceptional interest in and dedication to the needs and concerns of American veterans.