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How the White House Responds to a Punctuation Error

Several weeks ago, in researching a column about Air Force One, I came across a typo at the home page of the White House Military Office, part of the greater White House Web site www.whitehouse.gov. (No, not the vastly more informative spoof site whitehouse.org, but the real thing.) "In 1944," explains the Military Office, narrating the history of Air Force One, "President Franklin D. Roosevelt called for the creation of the Presidential Pilot Office's [sic] to provide air transportation to the President and his staff."

The what? No word on whether President Bush himself penned this error, being not only a communicator of highest regard, but a hotshot aviator as well, having served as a pilot for the Texas Air National Guard, valiantly defending our borders against invasion by Mexico. In any case, I pretty much ignored the mistake, figuring it must have been posted recently and wouldn't last.

A friend of mine -- a pilot who lives near Houston -- was somewhat more offended and dashed off a complaint. "Nitpicking is one thing," explains Michael, "but this was too much. . . ." Mike told the webmasters he was appalled to find such a blatant mistake on the official White House Web site, hinting that their lack of concern for good English must come from the top.

And you say writing to the government is a waste of time? I'll have you know the White House was quickly in touch. Here, verbatim, was their way of addressing the apostrophe catastrophe:

January 26, 2004

Dear Mr. Kennedy:

On behalf of President Bush, thank you for your e-mail. The President appreciates hearing your views and welcomes your suggestions. President Bush believes that this is a time of responsibility, resolve, and great progress for our country. As he has said, our Nation has confronted great challenges, and we are meeting the tests of our time with focus, clarity, and courage.

Since taking office, the Administration has taken important steps to protect our homeland, respond to the threats of terrorism, and strengthen our economy. The President has also signed historic reforms that are helping to transform both education and Medicare. Today, President Bush continues to work to build a society where all our citizens can realize the promise of America. He is also working to expand peace and freedom overseas, for the security of the American people and for the benefit of the world. As the President works to accomplish these goals, he welcomes the views and concerns of all Americans. Thank you again for taking the time to share your ideas.

Sincerely,
Desiree Thompson
Special Assistant to the President and Director of Presidential Correspondence

The error is still there.



— Patrick Smith
Ask the Pilot
Salon.com
2004-02-06
http://www.salon.com/tech/col/smith/2004/02/06/askthepilot73/index1.html

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