If each fallen US soldier would get same media treatment as Steve

[savemefromdumbya]

Almost every week there are reports that at least one soldier dies in Iraq and it is just a number to the national media. Maybe one would see a larger write up in a local newspaper but when one man dies due to a stingray (don't get me wrong we loved Steve) he gets big headlines on CNN etc. see todays' CNN webpage. Nearly 3000 soldiers have died already in Iraq and many injured. Maybe most parents or other relatives would not want such publicity but we rarely see or hear how it happened unless someone kicks up a fuss like Cindy Sheehan but she is almost banned from the media now.

[Buzz Clik]

1. At DU, the fallen for a given day are lumped together as a running tally

I find it cold and offensive.

Even in the middle of a stream of insults, Steve's name is mentioned.

[savemefromdumbya]

2. it is sad how US soldiers are treated by this administration

Bush says it's worth it to die (quote Presidential debates)

[Buzz Clik]

3. I agree. These soldiers rarely get recognition outside local press.

I find it sad.

[acmejack]

4. How should they be honored?

A soldiers lot has traditionally been that way or worse, think of the MIAs not nessecarily in this war. If you have a suggestion for a method which you feel is more appropriate, I am certainly open to it. I am not trying to be combative, as a disabled vet, I am quite interested in your thoughts. Please share.

[Buzz Clik]

5. From a family full of veterans, I have thought of this a lot.

1. Not allowing the showing of flag-draped coffins is offensive. My dad was buried under the flag, and it made me proud.

2. Publishing the names with a short bio would be fitting.

3. Simply establishing a website with pictures and brief information would be wonderful.

I'm sure you have visited the Wall in DC for the Vietnam fallen. I found it incredible. Four of us (3 brothers and I) served during Vietnam, and one came back with pieces missing. I'm proud of our soldiers -- the living heroes and the fallen. We shouldn't be denied the opportunity to mourn those who never came home.

[Monkeyman]

6. hooya brother

Bush hides our fallen from the public but uses them for political reason bullshit

[savemefromdumbya]

9. yes

pity they don't put him out there to fight with his troops

[savemefromdumbya]

8. good ideas

it is typical of this administration to treat our soldiers as "oops, another one gone"

I think at least they should be rewarded and noticed for being so brave.

[acmejack]

10. I see what you are saying, I initially thought you meant here on DU.

You are absolutely correct about the wall. I totally agree about the flag covered coffins, I served on a honor guard for a time. The best tribute presently is on Lehrer and on Stephanopolous on Sunday. Both choke me up.

[savemefromdumbya]

11. I was talking about how the media were dealing with it not DU

[savemefromdumbya]

7. possible

it depends on whether the relatives want to be private about this or not but if they agreed at least the national media could do more than report another soldier has fallen adding a number to 2000 plus. At least something on the news each day.

[Vinca]

12. There was a point, at the beginning, when we all knew the names

and faces of the fallen. When they turned to numbers it was time to get out. That was a long time ago.