2 Members Of KYW Alumni Remember Last Papal Visit To Philadelphia, Almost 36 Years Ago
By David Madden
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- As we approach next week's Papal trip to Cuba and the U.S., culminating in next weekend's events in Philadelphia, two seasoned journalists who were on hand during the last Papal Pilgrimage to the city, by Pope John Paul II, sat down with KYW's David Madden to look back and ahead.
KYW anchors Bob Witten and Harry Donahue finished their morning shows on October 3, 1979, then headed to Logan Circle to anchor coverage of the Mass attended by a million people.
Security at that time was not so tight as Witten recalls.
"We didn't even have to go through like a bag inspection or a police pat down or anything like that," said Witten.
Donahue remembers the station's biggest concern then was retaining its position along broadcast row that day.
"Our desk assistant Mike Camperson, who still works at KYW, was sent over to be our security guard and protect our spot," said Donahue.
Not to mention the equipment left on site. Given the planned security next weekend, both men insist they'll be happy to watch proceedings from home.
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