NEW YORK – Photographer Chick Harrity, who documented the Vietnam War and eight sitting U.S. presidents for The Associated Press and U.S. News and World Report, has died. He was 87.
Harrity is remembered for taking one of the most iconic photographs of the Vietnam War: a baby girl lying in a box next to her brother in what was then South Vietnam’s capital, Saigon. This powerful image captured the harsh realities of war and the struggles faced by innocent civilians.
Retired photojournalist Nick Ut, who also covered the Vietnam War for the Associated Press, praised Harrity’s talent, stating, “Chick was an amazing photographer. We all walked by this homeless boy near a woman selling cigarettes, but Chick saw the photo.” This quote highlights Harrity’s unique eye for detail and his ability to find meaning in everyday moments.
Harrity’s journey into photography began thanks to an eighth-grade teacher in his hometown of Reading, Pennsylvania. She encouraged him to pick up a camera, which set him on a lifelong path of documenting the world around him, as noted by his wife of 51 years, Yvonne Henry, in an online obituary.
He started his career in 1956 at a local newspaper and eventually spent 26 years at the Associated Press, with 13 of those years in the Washington bureau. Afterward, he became the chief photographer at U.S. News and World Report. In his own words, Harrity reflected, “I had the chance to run around the world taking pictures of a group of pretty interesting people. I was getting to witness history.”
As a member of the White House press corps for 33 years, Harrity covered several presidents, from Lyndon B. Johnson to George W. Bush. He was present during significant moments, including Richard Nixon’s resignation. One famous photograph shows a tearful Nixon saying goodbye to his staff on August 9, 1974.
In addition to his work as a photojournalist, Harrity served in the Air National Guard and attended Kent State University. He enjoyed blending writing and photography in his work, as highlighted by the AP in an internal article describing him as their Albany photographer.
Harrity was not only a talented photographer but also had a great sense of humor. His wife, Yvonne, shared, “The guy had a fantastic sense of humor in every single part of his life. He always looked for something funny.” When reflecting on his life, she noted that his quote would be, “It’s been a wonderful ride.”
Beyond his humor, Harrity had a thirst for knowledge about the stories he covered. His family’s obituary jokingly mentions “Chick’s favorite cartoons,” showcasing his light-hearted nature and ability to find joy in his work.
Harrity’s career included covering protests in the 1960s and 1970s, as well as documenting the aftermath of the Vietnam War. Retired AP photographer Neal Ulevich commended him for his skill in establishing connections in unfamiliar situations, saying, “Chick was not only a top-notch shooter but outstanding at getting along with everyone.”
After retiring from U.S. News on April Fool’s Day in 2001, Harrity moved to northern California, where he continued to contribute to the Calistoga Tribune and various local arts organizations.
Throughout his illustrious career, he received numerous accolades, including the Associated Press Managing Editors’ award for excellence in photography, the National Press Photographers’ Association’s Joseph Sprague memorial award, the Leica Medal of Excellence for photojournalism, and the White House National Press Association’s lifetime achievement award.
Chick Harrity is survived by his wife, Yvonne, along with “interesting, amusing, and treasured family and friends.” His family’s obituary concluded with a heartfelt note, stating, “He loved well. He was well loved.”
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Associated Press journalist Edith M. Lederer contributed.
