I've noticed that the immediate military family--spouse and children--are overwhelmingly supportive. The only vocal opposition comes from parents, with very few exceptions.
There are a few freaky parents out there like Ms. Sheehan. I can understand that losing a child must be horrible but they dishonor their child by their vocal opposition to something he or she was totally committed to.
Most families bear their loss with great pride in their loved one and respect and honor for his or her sacrifice. Ms. Sheehan is obviously ashamed of her son.
It's unfortunate, really.
Losing a child is devasting to a parent; but I think you dishonor the child by using his death for your own selfish purposes. Most people do not want to have a public display of their grief.
I have never lost anyone in the military. My youngest brother served during VietNam. He didn't see any combat; he was stationed on an airbase. He watched many planes leave on a mission and then waited to see how many returned. He lost many friends in that war.