My best friend for more than 47 years was murdered two months ago. That her death in Annapolis, Md., has such immediate and enduring resonance here in Honolulu speaks to the pervasive impact of gun violence and attacks on the press by irresponsible public figures.

Wendi Winters was shot to death along with four of her colleagues in the offices of the Capital Gazette on June 28. Wendi died charging the coward who shot her armed only with her trash can and her recycling bin.

Wendi’s colleagues are calling for her to be nominated for the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

In recognizing Wendi’s extraordinary sacrifice, the president has the opportunity to show that while he may have issues with the coverage he receives, he does not endorse violence against members of the press.

I am grateful that U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa joined in writing the White House to support this effort.

Her support and her kind personal condolences have been a great comfort to me and to Wendi’s four children.

Paul Donnelly

Palolo