Former CBS News producer Birnbaum dies

BROOKHAVEN, N.Y., Nov. 29 (UPI) -- CBS News said Bernard "Bernie" Birnbaum, a former producer of the U.S. news group, has died at the age of 89.

CBS News reported Saturday since Birnbaum started working at CBS News in 1951, he earned seven Emmy Awards for his coverage of historical events ranging from the Vietnam War to the assassination of U.S. President John F. Kennedy.

"Bernie was a mentor to generations of CBS News producers and correspondents," CBS News and Sports President Sean McManus said. "He always had an encouraging word and was always available to help with a problem. No one who had contact with Bernie can forget his enthusiasm as he would present some little known or forgotten treasure from the CBS News Archives -- many of which he had been responsible for filming or taping."

Birnbaum, who died on Thanksgiving Day of unspecified causes, also worked on a number of CBS programs including "Eyewitness to History" and "The American Parade."

CBS News said Birnbaum, who will be buried in Larchmont, N.Y., is survived by his daughters, Deborah and Amy; and four grandchildren.