Karen Miller has yet to figure out just how to feel about the death of Osama bin Laden. That's because her son is a Marine on tour in Afghanistan.
While the New Canaan resident feels proud for the military and relieved for those who lost loived ones on 9/11, shes not at ease knowing that her 23-year old son, Marine Sgt. Tom Miller, is still in harms way and that the danger might rise from people out to avenge bin Ladens death.
Its kind of a range of emotions, said Miller, director of New Canaans Parking Department. Obviously, as military parents, your thoughts go to the troops and their well-being. Theres a sense of pride that we are safe because of them.
She has not heard from her son in about three weeks, but thats likely because time is hard to come by when youre working. Theyre busy trying to get the job done and rebuild areas, Miller said. From what hes described in his calls, theyre too busy. They have very full days.
Miller says she thinks of her son, on tour in Afghanistan since last December, daily. Shes eagerly awaiting his return home in mid-July. You dont know how many baby wipes weve sent them, she said. Theres no washing machines out there. Many of the bases dont have running water or electricity.
Miller loves the relationships shes built with other military families, people she considers some of the greatest people shes ever met. They can teach people about whats really important and the value of bonds and relationships, Miller said. Its really a unique family of people who really sacrifice a lot.
Miller hopes bin Ladens death and the recent citizen uprisings the Middle East will inspire people there to do things more peacefully. It could be an opportunity to seek out new solutions to some problems, she said.
Do you have a relative serving in Afghanistan or Iraq? How are you feeling for their safety now that Osama bin Laden is dead? Let us know by leaving a comment below. You can also visit our Facebook page.
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