Katie Couric's Notebook: "Dear John Doe"

With the economy in such dire straits, it's easy to forget for a moment that the nation is at war. But for anyone with a loved one serving in Iraq or Afghanistan, it's hard to think about anything else.

The U.S. Army recently sent out letters to 7,000 family members of men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice – the ones who gave their lives in service to their country.

The letters detailed resources available to them, but I'm sure very few families made it past the salutation. It read, "Dear John Doe."

On the Army Web site today, a heartfelt apology for a clerical error – an unfortunate and unintentional mistake. A lecture on proofreading is insufficient. Any apology seems like too little.

Our attention may be focused on the economy, but we must not forget the people who have fought so bravely for seven years – each with a face, a family – and, yes, a name.