Dan Rather’s Final Sign-Off on CBS Evening News

On March 9, 2005, Dan Rather, a prominent figure in American journalism, signed off for the last time as the anchor of the CBS Evening News. This marked the end of a 24-year tenure as the program’s anchor, a role he held since March 9, 1981.

Background and Career Highlights

Dan Rather began his career in journalism in Texas before joining CBS News in 1962. He quickly rose through the ranks, gaining national recognition for his reporting during significant events such as the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963 and the Vietnam War. Rather’s fearless and direct reporting style became a hallmark of his career.

CBS Evening News

Upon taking over the anchor desk from Walter Cronkite, Rather continued to build his reputation for hard-hitting journalism, covering a wide array of important national and international stories. Throughout his years on CBS Evening News, Rather became known for his interviews with significant political figures and his in-depth coverage of major events.

The Sign-Off

Rather’s departure from the anchor chair was partly precipitated by internal and public scrutiny following a controversial report about President George W. Bush’s military service record in 2004. Although Rather stood by the story, CBS News acknowledged that the authenticity of the documents used was not adequately verified, leading to significant fallout.

Final Broadcast

In his final broadcast, Rather maintained his characteristic poise and professionalism. He delivered his last segment with gratitude, acknowledging the trust the audience had placed in him over the years. His closing words included a trademark sign-off, “Courage,” which he popularized as a brief yet powerful closing remark.

Legacy and Impact

Dan Rather’s impact on journalism and media is marked by his dedication to investigative reporting and his ability to remain composed under pressure. His work set standards for future generations in the field of broadcast news. After leaving CBS Evening News, Rather continued his journalism career, producing independent news content and engaging with audiences through various media platforms.

The conclusion of Rather’s tenure as the CBS Evening News anchor marks a significant moment in the history of American broadcast journalism, symbolizing both the end of an era and the evolving nature of news media.