I was on the scene last night at “Camp Casey II” for Cindy Sheehan’s return. It was an emotional moment for the protesters and Ms. Sheehan. About 10 supporters encircled Sheehan quite literally fanning her with protest signs, while others brought her catered food and refreshments. The protesters sat Ms. Sheehan in front of a large banner they had created in honor of her son. As he sat reuniting with her supporters Sheehan and several of the protesters broke into tears.

Sheehan’s handlers said she was refusing to give any media interviews last night and I respected their request. After having a bite to eat, Sheehan joked with her supporters, mocking the Bush supporters standing outside “Camp Casey II.” A few of the protesters walked outside the campsite to engage in hostile “dialogue” with the Bush supporters. In an unintentional moment of irony, one of the protesters screamed in a bit of self-righteous rage, “What are they doing here? They can’t protest!”

Despite the press handlers’ claims that Sheehan was physically exhausted, she appeared in good spirits. Most of the photos I have seen in the media today reflect the moment where Sheehan was crying. I do think this is somewhat misleading. While she is certainly entitled to her grief, most of the scene was quite jovial, which is not reflected in the mainstream media’s coverage. I’m not denying Ms. Sheehan her right to a cathartic moment, merely bringing you the full story and facts from the ground.