This “three versions” matter is not the magazine’s only sin, as we know. LIFE also mis-represented the Zapruder film in its December 6, 1963 issue.

At the time, few had seen the Zapruder film. Funny how those who did — LIFE, Dan Rather — consistently described something other than what’s really there.

The “three versions” is but a single chapter in the sordid story of media complicity. LIFE be not proud.

(Apologies to Walt Brown.)