[ConservativeConvert]

I agree. While I do not think images of dead soldiers should be televised if they clearly show the face and identity of the individual, I do think it is important for Americans to see graphic images. Any attempt to "sanitize" the operations are akin to the networks editing footage of 911 WTC victims jumping to their deaths. Americans need to come face to face with the horrors we are being confronted with in order to fully understand them. G ratings are for little kids in movie theaters...the news should be distinctly R rated and aimed at adult viewers.

[wizzler]

After considering the various insights bandied about here, I think I tend to agree with posters such as ConservativeConvert, who emphasize the need to not downplay the horrors of war.

I think some amount of discretion is advisable, yes, particularly before families are notified. But ultimately, I think that self-censoring these images would whitewash reality. And that's not a good thing, for reasons well-expressed by others on this thread.