POLISCOPE
Back to feed
NewsWPLG Local 10June 25, 2026United States

150th Anniversary of the First Associated Press Journalist Killed in Action

This article commemorates the 150th anniversary of the death of Mark Kellogg, the first journalist associated with the Associated Press to be killed in the line of duty. Kellogg died alongside Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer at the Battle of Little Bighorn in 1876.

journalismhistoryBattle of Little BighornAssociated Pressmilitary history
Read the full story at WPLG Local 10

Why It Matters

The article provides historical context on the risks faced by journalists in conflict zones by documenting the 180-year history of Associated Press staff casualties.

Key Facts

  • Mark Kellogg was the first journalist associated with the Associated Press to be killed in action, dying 150 years ago at the Battle of Little Bighorn.
  • A total of 38 journalists have died while working for the Associated Press over its 180-year history.
  • Kellogg was 43 years old at the time of his death and was reporting for The Bismarck Tribune and New York Herald.
  • The State Historical Society of North Dakota holds Kellogg's diary, which has been digitized and is available online.
  • Kellogg carried a rifle during the campaign, distinguishing his role from modern journalistic standards.
  • Other AP journalists killed in conflict zones include Mariam Dagga (2023), Anja Niedringhaus (2014), Myles Tierney (1999), and Joseph Morton (1944).

Who's Mentioned

organizationAssociated Press“News organization that has lost 38 journalists in its 180-year history.”personGeorge Armstrong Custer“Lt. Col. who led troops at the Battle of Little Bighorn.”personLindsay Meidinger“Deputy State Archivist at the State Historical Society of North Dakota.”organizationState Historical Society of North Dakota“Preserves Kellogg's diary and personal belongings.”personSandy Barnard“Historian and biographer of Mark Kellogg.”personMark Kellogg“First AP-affiliated journalist killed in action, died at age 43.”