Should the Media Be Allowed to Photograph Fallen Heroes Returning to Dover AFB?

I think that President Obama made a wise decision to leave it up to the families.  Personally, as a 20 year USAF Veteran, I think it is a very somber and private moment in time forloved ones.  I used to be stationed at Dover AFB, Delaware.  It is the port of entry for remains returning from the European theater.  And having been a member of the Services Squadron and the Aerial Port Squadron, I understand what the media fails to, and that is the delicacy of the situation.  The people that take part treat every moment with the reverence and honor these men and women deserve.  And having been there, it's hard not to perform your duties without having tears in your eyes.

It is a time when families welcome back their husbands, wives, and children.  It's not something that should be open to news camera's exposing the grief of families.  These folks are coming to grips with the most traumatic situation of their lives, and should be protected.  If they would like to invite the media to come to private services afterwords, it should be the families decision to make.  But not have the intrusive nature of a disrespectful media waiting to make news headlines.  They should be protected by the security of the military, and not be allowed in the area, least of all the tarmac where the transfer cases are being removed from the aircraft. 

My fallen sisters and brothers in service deserve that.  I am located between two bases Eglin AFB and Hurlburt Field who are actively deploying troops to war zones.  And both locations have lost Airmen, and Soldiers.  I know it's not something we'd want to see happen here.

I would love to hear your thoughts on this.  Am I alone in this thinking?

     Coldwell Banker United Realtors, Fort Walton Beach, Fl

www.KarenButler.com          Karen@KarenButler.com     850-830-8780