Quote:
Originally posted by Grojlach:
Despite having seen a short career overview last night, I don't think I can really grasp the notion of the impact and the influence he had on the American people, but may he rest in peace nonetheless.
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Here's one impact: making the day's news comedy. Jay Leno, Johnny Carson, David Letterman, Conan O'Brien all owe the monologue portion of their show to his innovation. In his day, he was the sharpest of cutting edge. He was a transplanted Britt in case you didn't know. He was one of the last remaining links between Hollywood and old Vaudeville, where the entertainer did everything from comedy to singing to dancing.
Flags will be flown at half-mast on the day he is buried. As he entertained troops during every war from WWII to 1991 Gulf War, this is most appropriate.