Journalist getting too close?

This is the image that Rolling Stone has said is "The face of the War in Iraq" and as LA Times said is an "iconic image".

This picture taken by LA Times journalist and photographer Luis Sinco took of the "Marlboro Marine"/ Lance Cpl. James Blake Miller has changed how people see the war and even how photographer Sinco sees his subject.

Through LA Times, Sinco has captured Miller's life in multiple means; through photo, audio, and print. However, Sinco too has even found himself responsible for Miller's life. Looking at the multimedia package that Sinco offers, one begins to realize the pain and suffering of Miller. He now suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder due to his time in Iraq.

Since Sinco spent much time with Miller, they began to form a tight bond and understanding for one another. Furthermore, Sinco truly began to feel for Miller and worry about his condition. Sinco decided to try and find Miller help by suggesting he go to Moe Armstrong, a veteran counseling program.

Is Sinco overstepping his journalistic duties? Can a journalist be a friend of his/her subject? Is there a way of keeping it professional? Personally I feel that Sinco did keep it professional. How can a journalist let their subject fall apart like that? I don't think that Sinco's piece would have been as powerful if Miller and him had not gotten so close.

Check out Sinco's multimedia package and see what you think?