Most of you read the news.  So, you know that it has been a really, really bad week for the guys in the sandbox, particularly for one of the Marine units from around here.  And, if you read our local newspapers, you are also reading about their families.  You see, the “reporters” (if thats what these insensitive vultures are calling themselves) have camped out with several of the local families.  The front pages are filled with stories of Mr. Jones, who was so worried about his son that he came home from work to wait for some news.  And of Mrs. Johnson, who is trying to shield her 4 kids from the television reports, so they aren't worried about their Daddy.  Well, fat chance of that with a reporter following you everywhere you go.

What is it that they are trying to accomplish?  To show the “human” side of this conflict?  That's what they will tell you.  I say, if you want to see that, talk to Mrs. Johnson another day, and when you do, ask her what you can do to show your support. 

No, these goons are hoping to be there for the “big story”.  It isn't about the people, its about being in the “right place“ at the “right time“, waiting for that knock on the door.  And hoping that it comes.  Hey, its just a bump in the old ratings, not your family that is being torn apart. 

Make no mistake.  When the word comes of a soldier's loss, military families everywhere grieve, for the soldier and for the ones he leaves behind.  How dare anyone cause any of those families, waiting to hear if their Marine is ok, any additional unnecessary worry and trauma? 

So to the reporters, I say, SHAME ON YOU.  And LEAVE THE FAMILIES THE HELL ALONE.