Pocono News Section

Emotional and Tiring Day for Many

Emotional and Tiring Day for Many - Tuesday, June 9, 2009 at 01:00AM EST

PITTSTON TWP., LUZERNE COUNTY- The family of Trooper Joshua Miller is coping with the death of a young husband and father killed in the line of duty, while the family of trooper Robert Lombardo is counting their blessing that their loved one is alive.
Monday was an emotional and tiring day, and one many won't soon forget. Two brave men shared a dedication to helping others. Family tells us they shared a passion for serving the public and wore the badge proudly.

Trooper Joshua Miller, a seven-year veteran of the Pennsylvania State Police, makes the journey home. A procession stretching for miles through the Poconos, passed by the Swiftwater barracks where he worked.

State Police Cpl. Bradley A. Shadinsky said, “He always wanted to be a trooper. That was his goal in life and he served the force proudly.”

A state police spokesman commented Monday afternoon on behalf of the miller family. Left behind are his wife and three daughters.

Trooper miller's procession wound through the streets of Pittston and ended at the Graziano Funeral Home, where dozens of family and friends saluted the man they call a hero. “They realized that Josh died doing what he wanted with his life. He loved his career,” added Shadinsky.

We're told Miller's service to Pennsylvanian's was first on his list. State Police Captain James Murtin said, “Our thoughts and our prayers go out to the Miller family, the extended Miller family and the Lombardo family.”

Trooper Robert Lombardo is recovering from a bullet wound to the upper arm. We spoke with his father Dr. Joseph Lombardo earlier Monday. “He said he knew something happened because his hand, reflex, went up to his chin. He said he knew, he felt a pain,” described Dr. Lombardo.

Lombardo spent the night in the hospital. Among his first words to his father were, “I’m okay dad. Don't tell mom."

At this point, tentative funeral arrangements have been set for Trooper Miller. Those plans include the possible use of the Pittston Area High School.

Formal arrangements will be released over the next day or so.