The hardest part of being in the news business is having to make the calls to people experiencing loss.

This morning I had to call the family of Corporal Paul Miller who was killed in Afghanistan by a road side bomb.  As soon as you dial a call like this you have to brace yourself for any number of possible reactions.  You never know the state of mind of someone and I can only imagine what my reaction would be during such a devastating situation.

I do believe I was able to ask what I needed as a journalist, while extending my utmost sympathy.  I told each of the people I spoke with how sorry I was for their loss and that as a Marine mom I understand the emotions they are going through.  It's truly heartbreaking to hear of a life lost, and when it hits close to home such as this it's even worse.   It's impossible for me as a military mom to not be emotional about this kind of story.

I will say every person I spoke with in regards to Corporal Miller has been so gracious and so understanding of our need to let the community know of the loss.   An amazing family dealing with a heart wrenching situation.

My thoughts and prayers are with the Miller and Hansen families.