Hidden from view, shrouded by flags, secretly they arrive. More than can easily be counted.

Homecomings in boxes, each one alike, returning the mangled mess of our love; our beautiful children, our love of each other, love for the world.

But where are the tears? Can you hear their families’ cries? Each shattered voice, every ragged sob has been silenced by statecraft and lies.

There is crime in war as well as in peace, but there are sins that can't be forgiven when we abandon beliefs. To believe we stand united as one means holding the hands of those come undone.

Kuwait International Airport April 2004. Photo by Tami Silicio, a civilian contract worker who was fired for taking the picture and allowing The Seattle Times to publish it.