Ike Pappas facts for kids

Ike Pappas (born April 16, 1933 – died August 31, 2008) was a well-known American television journalist. He worked for CBS News for 25 years, reporting on many important events.

Early Life and Career

Ike Pappas was born in Flushing, Queens, a part of New York City. After finishing his studies at Long Island University, he joined the United States Army for two years. During his time in the army, he worked for Stars and Stripes, a newspaper for American soldiers.

Reporting History

Ike Pappas became famous for his live reporting from major news events. He was known for his clear and direct way of telling stories.

A Key Moment in Dallas

On November 24, 1963, Ike Pappas was in Dallas, Texas. He was among many reporters waiting at the Dallas City Jail. They were there to report on Lee Harvey Oswald, the person accused of shooting President John F. Kennedy. Oswald was being moved to another jail.

Working for a radio station called WNEW-AM, Pappas began his live report as Oswald appeared:

Now the prisoner, wearing a black sweater, he's changed from his T-shirt, is being moved out toward an armored car. Being led out by Captain Fritz." (car horn sounds) "There's the prisoner." (Pappas holds his microphone out towards Oswald) "Do you have anything to say in your defense...

As Pappas was asking Oswald a question, a man named Jack Ruby suddenly stepped forward from the crowd. Ruby shot Oswald. Pappas continued to report live as the event unfolded:

There's a shot! Oswald has been shot! Oswald has been shot! A shot rang out. Mass confusion here, all the doors have been locked. Holy mackerel!

Pappas later shared what he saw during the trial of Jack Ruby.

Reporting on Protests

In May 1970, Ike Pappas was at Kent State University with a CBS News film crew. They were there when members of the Ohio National Guard shot four students during a protest against war. Pappas reported on this sad event, showing his skill as a journalist covering difficult situations.

Later Achievements

In 1987, Ike Pappas was among 215 people who left CBS News during a time when the company was making its team smaller.

After leaving CBS, Pappas started his own television company with Ed Danko, a CBS News editor. He also appeared as himself in a few movies, like The Package and Moon Over Parador.

Ike Pappas was also a founding member of The Next Generation Initiative. This program helps students learn about public affairs and become leaders. He joined with other important Greek Americans to create this group.

Ike Pappas lived in McLean, Virginia, in his later years. He passed away in Arlington, Virginia, on August 31, 2008, at the age of 75. He died from a heart condition.