It didn't surprise me to hear that before Walt Herring died this month, he had a massive stroke in 2004. Everything Walt did, he did in a massive way. The Philly native was a passionate newsman who thrived on breaking police stories and political corruption. When I worked for him at The North Jersey Herald & News, we had it all: national crime stories, dirty cops, drugs, murders, rapes. Every day was another tragic tapestry in North Jersey.
Walt was a relentless and eccentric editor. I was a rookie reporter. He worked his staff hard and Walt's word was the final word lest be prepared for his obscenity-laced tirade to follow.
He hated messy desks. Once he set a reporter's desk on fire. Another time he came down with a broad sweep before tipping the desk. It was just another day in the newsroom.
I learned a lot from Walt. If he could see me now sitting at my desk at the Round House, he'd be pissed and set my mess on fire. It certainly wouldn't be the first time I made that crusty, old newsman madder than a wild bull in the china shop. But we also shared some fond times taking in journalism awards for stories he inspired and taught me to write with impact.
Had Walt not been my mentor in the day, I'm not sure I would have landed my dream job at The Inquirer. It's been more than 15 years since I last spoke to Walt and I have not missed him one bit. He was crazy. But, he was an inspiration. For that he deserves a respectable farewell.
So long you impulsive, cranky, obsessed-driven lunatic of an editor. You have left us your legend and for the legions of us who survived your newsroom, we will carry your torch to uncover all that is bad, right what is wrong, shame the corrupt, help the helpless and hold acountable all those who hold the power.