The tragedy in Midland, Texas, that killed four military members on Nov. 15, was compounded by poor reporting by the media ["War-hero parade turns tragic," Nov. 17]. What should have been reported as a float that crossed the track after the signal was activated was reported as if a Union Pacific train jumped the track and killed those on the float.

This misreporting detracts from the message that highway rail-crossing signs and signals must be obeyed by the motoring public at all times or tragedy will occur.

This mistake is a disservice to everyone. Let's hope the next time a highway-rail crossing tragedy occurs, the media report it correctly.

Allen C. Ludwig

Fredericksburg