Our paper published a recent story about a "Marine Casualty Officer" charged with the duty of informing families of a loved-one's passing. In the story, she describes the difficult task of informing mothers, fathers, brothes, sisters, of their loved one's death. She goes on to describe how, in this case the Marines, go to extreme pains to prevent families from learning of a death from second-hand sources, or much worse, from TV or newspapers.
During the reporting process and interviews with families, it became evident that no amount of preparation, or intervention, can make such news less devastating to those affected. It was with this in mind that we decided to proceed with the story. We felt that the sacrifice many Military families are presently enduring during this difficult period in our country had to be acknowledged, and brought to the attention of those of us who never have had to open a door, or answer a call with news of our loved one's passing.
"And round that early-laurelled head
Will flock to gaze the strengthless dead,
And find unwithered on its curls
The garland briefer than a girl's."
A.E. Houseman

Of all the Memorial Day messages I've heard this weekend, this touched me the most. Maybe it was the focus on one family, maybe that wonderful photo of the two of you, or possibly the contrast of the two anniversaries. Whatever the reason, thank you for sharing your story.