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Very Important Document Very Important Document Very Important Document \| TAPS Diego Rincon Kristi Stolzenberg Ideliz Mora-Cruz This article is available in English and Spanish. (Este artículo está disponible en inglés y español.) FORWARD: PFC Diego Rincon died on foreign soil on March 29, 2003, proudly wearing a U.S. Army uniform, but he was not a U.S. citizen. He was just 5 years old in 1989 when he immigrated to the United States with his older brother and his parents, Jorge and Yolanda. The
Photos: teams4taps Liverpool teams4taps FC Liverpool Experience teams4taps FC Liverpool Experience Photos \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (32 photos and 1 video) teams4taps, photos, military survivor Flickr Album Event Photos: US and UK Families celebrate the life and service of fallen loved ones with LFC Foundation along side Home Base and SSAFA on March 21, 2025.
From Grief to Growth: Healing After a Suicide Loss Guidebook From Grief to Growth: Healing After a Suicide Loss Guidebook From Grief to Growth: Healing After a Suicide Loss Guidebook Second Edition \| TAPS TAPS A Guide for Survivors of Suicide Loss \| Second Edition Produced by TAPS and adapted from the TAPS Suicide Postvention ModelTM This guide was written by survivors, for survivors, and will give you a roadmap to guide you on your journey of grief. You are not alone. You can survive this. Whatever you are feeling is valid and okay (as long as it is
From Grief to Growth: Healing After a Suicide Loss Guidebook From Grief to Growth: Healing After a Suicide Loss Guidebook From Grief to Growth: Healing After a Suicide Loss Guidebook \| TAPS TAPS A Guide for Survivors of Suicide Loss Produced by TAPS and adapted from the TAPS Suicide Postvention ModelTM This guide was written by survivors, for survivors, and will give you a roadmap to guide you on your journey of grief. You are not alone. You can survive this. Whatever you are feeling is valid and okay (as long as it is not harmful to yourself or othe
2025 TAPS teams4taps at the LA Angels 2025 TAPS teams4taps at the LA Angels TAPS Media Download and view more high-resolution photos on Flickr. Flickr
2025 TAPS teams4taps at the LA Galaxy 2025 TAPS teams4taps at the LA Galaxy TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution photos on Flickr Flickr
TAPS Magazine Spring 2020 TAPS Magazine Spring 2020 TAPS Magazine Spring 2020 TAPS Quarterly Magazine TAPS Magazine Spring 2020 Volume 26, Issue 1
Photos: teams4taps NFL Draft teams4taps NFL Draft Military Survivors attend NFL Draft \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (26 photos) teams4taps, photos, military survivor Flickr Album Event Photos: TAPS Military Survivors attended NFL Draft in Nashville, Tennessee April 26, 2019
Video: TAPS Statement for the Record June 26 Video: TAPS Statement for the Record Video: TAPS Statement for the Record presented on June 26, 2024 \| TAPS News Ashlynne Haycock-Lohmann TAPS Media Ashlynne Haycock-Lohmann, Deputy Director, TAPS Government and Legislative Affairs presents TAPS Statement for the Record regarding Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) for high school students and graduates and delays in claims processing at the June 26, 2024, Legislative Hearing before the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee
My Father’s Voice My Father’s Voice My Father’s Voice Lois La Pointe Kiely I never heard my father’s voice. There were photographs of him, and I know his handwriting from letters he wrote to my mother. But I always wondered how he sounded. Did his voice reflect the French Canadian dialect of his parents? Or did it have a masculine North Jersey sound to it? Was he soft spoken or a deep baritone? He died in World War II when I was just an infant, and I will never know. Louis La Pointe, my father, enlisted twic
Photos: teams4taps Detroit Lions July 26 teams4taps Detroit Lions Inspiring Change Partner Training Camp Detroit Lions Inspiring Change Partner Training Camp \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (15 photos) teams4taps, photos, military survivor Flickr Album Event Photos: TAPS Families attended the Detroit Lions Inspiring Change Partner Training Camp in Dearborn, Michigan on July 26, 2019.
When Holidays Hurt: 3 Keys to Survival When Holidays Hurt: 3 Keys to Survival When Holidays Hurt: 3 Keys to Survival \| TAPS Gary Roe Ah, the holidays. Halls, houses, and lawns are decked with festive decorations. Kitchens are filled with delightful, savory aromas. The air is laced with laughter, familiar music, and the tinkling of Salvation Army bells. The holiday spirit is everywhere. But underneath the bright lights, smiles, and cheerful greetings lurks the unseen warehouse of holiday expectations. We have to top last year an
Photos: National Military Survivor Seminar and Camp 29th National Military Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp TAPS 29th National Military Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (877 photos) national seminar, photos, Arlington Flickr Album Event Photos, May 26 - 29, 2023
TAPS Magazine Fall 2020 TAPS Magazine Fall 2020 TAPS Magazine Fall 2020 TAPS Quarterly Magazine In the taskbar below, select the full screen option to enlarge and the download option for a PDF version of this issue. Volume 26, Issue 3
TAPS Magazine Summer 2020 TAPS Magazine Summer 2020 TAPS Magazine Summer 2020 TAPS Quarterly Magazine In the taskbar below, select the full screen option to enlarge and the download option for a PDF version of this issue. Volume 26, Issue 2
TAPS Magazine Winter 2020 TAPS Magazine Winter 2020 TAPS Magazine Winter 2020 TAPS Quarterly Magazine In the taskbar below, select the full screen option to enlarge and the download option for a PDF version of this issue. Volume 26, Issue 4
Photos: Team TAPS with Slam Team TAPS with SLAM Team TAPS with SLAM TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (26 photos) Team TAPS, Photos Team TAPS with SLAM Flickr Album Event Photos
Photos: Expedition Machu Picchu Machu Picchu Expedition Machu Picchu Expedition \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (85 photos) taps expedition, photos, military survivor Machu Picchu Expedition Flickr Album Event Photos: TAPS survivors trek ancient trails in the Andes Mountains of Peru August 16 to 26, 2019.
Photos: Retreat Houston Houston Men's Retreat Houston Military Surviving Men Retreat \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (26 photos) taps retreat, photos, men grief Flickr Album Event Photos: TAPS surviving men honor their loved ones and connect with other men who understand in Houston, Texas April 24 to 28, 2019.
Photos: teams4taps NWSL teams4taps National Women's Soccer League Championship National Womens Soccer League Championship \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (30 photos) teams4taps, photos, military survivor Flickr Album Event Photos: TAPS Families attended the National Womens Soccer League Championship in Cary, North Carolina on October 26 and 27, 2019.
Photos: Youth College Experience TAPS College Experience Military Survivor College Experience \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (349 photos) college preparation, taps youth program, photos Flickr Album Event Photos: TAPS surviving children meet with experts in the areas of higher education in Washington D.C. July 21 to 26, 2019.
Video: TAPS Honor Guard Gala Highlights Video: TAPS Honor Guard Gala Highlights Video: 2025 TAPS Honor Guard Gala Highlights TAPS Media The TAPS Honor Guard Gala is one of the most inspirational and significant events honoring our military families. It unites guests from across the nation including survivors of military loss, senior military leaders, administration officials, TAPS supporters, congressional representatives to celebrate the spirit of American patriotism. Watch the highlights of the March 25, 2025 TAPS Honor Guard Ga
Photos: Seminar Western Western Regional Military Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp Western Regional Military Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp Photos \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (138 photos) photos, military survivor, Long beach, California Flickr Album Event Photos: Survivors come together in fellowship in Phoenix, Arizona on July 26 to 28, 2024.
Photos: Seminar Southern Southern Regional Military Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp Southern Regional Military Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp Photos \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (133 photos) photos, military survivor, san antonio Flickr Album Event Photos: Survivors come together both in-person and online in fellowship in San Antonio, Texas on August 26 - 28, 2022.
Photos: Team TAPS Windy25 Memorial Fund 5K Windy25 Memorial Fund 5K Windy25 Memorial Fund 5K Photos \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (26 photos) taps fundraiser, photos, honor the fallen Flickr Album Event Photos: TAPS fundraiser held April 2, 2022 at the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas to honor the legacy of our courageous heroes and in tribute to the Windy25 flight.
Photos: Young Adults Denver Young Adults Denver Experience Military Surviving Young Adults Denver Experience \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (49 photos) taps experience, photos, Surviving Young Adults Flickr Album Event Photos: TAPS young adults gain real-world life skills to help transition into adulthood in Denver, Colorado June 23 to 26, 2022.
Photos: National Day of Service National Day of Service at TAPS Headquarters National Day of Service at TAPS Headquarters TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (26 photos) volunteer for TAPS, photos, TAPS Headquarters Flickr Album Event Photos: Volunteers assemble resource kits for TAPS Survivors on January 18, 2021 at TAPS Headquarters in Arlington, Virginia.
Photos: Seminar Midwest Midwest Regional Military Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp Midwest Regional Military Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp Photos \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (134 photos) photos, military survivor, columbus Flickr Album Event Photos: Survivors come together both in-person and virtually in fellowship in Columbus, Ohio on September 24 - 26, 2021.
Photos: Seminar Southern Southern Regional Military Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp Southern Regional Military Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp Photos \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (243 photos) photos, military survivor, dallas Flickr Album Event Photos: Adult and Youth Survivors come together both in-person and virtually in fellowship in Dallas Texas on February 26 to 28, 2021.
Photos: teams4taps Washington Capitals Game in LiUNA Suite teams4taps Washington Capitals Game in LiUNA Suite Washington Capitals Game in LiUNA Suite \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (26 photos) teams4taps, photos, military survivor Flickr Album Event Photos: TAPS Families attended the Washington Capitals Game in LiUNA Suite in Washington, D.C. February 8, 2020
Photos: Expedition San Juan San Juan Islands Kayaking Expedition San Juan Islands Military Survivor Kayaking Expedition \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (110 photos) taps expedition, photos, military survivor Flickr Album Event Photos: TAPS military survivors enjoy tranquil beaches, catch glimpses of marine animals and birds while kayaking Washington's Coast July 26 to 29, 2019.
Photos: Retreat Sedona April Sedona Women's Empowerment Retreat Sedona Military Surviving Womens Empowerment Retreat \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (29 photos) taps retreat, photos, Surviving Spouses and Significant others Flickr Album Event Photos: TAPS surviving women create a plan for healing and growth in Sedona, Arizona April 22 to 26, 2019.
Photos: Retreat West Virginia West Virginia Women's Wilderness Empowerment Retreat West Virginia Military Surviving Womens Wilderness Empowerment Retreat \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (26 photos) taps retreat, photos, Surviving Spouses and Significant others Flickr Album Event Photos: TAPS surviving women explored both internal landscapes and the great outdoors in Lansing, West Virginia September 4 to 8, 20
Photos: teams4taps MLB All-Star teams4taps Major League Baseball All-Star Clinic with TAPS Kids Major League Baseball All-Star Clinic with TAPS Kids \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (26 photos) teams4taps, photos, military survivor Flickr Album Event Photos: TAPS Families attended the Major League Baseball All-Star Clinic with TAPS Kids on July 8, 2019.
Photos: Youth Alabama TAPS at U.S. Space and Rocket Center Space Camp U.S. Space and Rocket Center Space Camp \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (90 photos) taps youth programs, photos, military teen Flickr Album Event Photos: Surviving military children ages 11 to 14 participated in the Pathfinder Program at U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama July 26 to 28, 2019.
Photos: Maryland Teen Adventure TAPS and Outward Bound Teen Adventure TAPS and Outward Bound Teen Adventure TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (62 photos) photos, military survivor, teen grief TAPS and Outward Bound Teen Adventure Photos Flickr Album Event Photos: Surviving teens hike the Appalachian Trail together near Baltimore, Maryland August 20 - 26, 2018
Photos: teams4taps Xfinity Race with Grunt Style Racing teams4taps NASCAR Xfinity Race at Charlotte Motor Speedway NASCAR Xfinity Race with Grunt Style Racing \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (33 photos) teams4taps, photos, military survivor NASCAR at Charlotte Motor Speedway Photos Flickr Album Event Photos: Military survivors attend NASCAR Xfinity Race at Charlotte Motor Speedway on May 26.
Photos: Alaska Iditarod Survivor Experience Alaska Iditarod Survivor Experience Alaska Iditarod Survivor Experience Photos \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (20 photos) photos, military survivor, alaska Flickr Album Event Photos: TAPS Survivors move beyond your comfort zone with the support of others who understand in Anchorage, Alaska on February 26 to March 2, 2024.
Photos: Young Adults Lake Placid TAPS Young Adults Lake Placid Olympic Experience Military Surviving Young Adults Lake Placid Olympic Experience Photos \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (101 photos) taps survivor experience, photos, young adults Flickr Album Event Photos: TAPS Young Adults partner with Olympic Coaches and athletes as they are guided through several winter activities in Lake Placid, New York on Mar
Spotlight on Service: Maria Elena Bancroft Spotlight on Service: Maria Elena Bancroft Spotlight on Service: Maria Elena Bancroft TAPS Recuerda el amor, Celebra la vida. Comparte el viaje. Remember the love. Celebrate the life. Share the journey. Our TAPS motto crosses both cultural and language barriers with the help of volunteer Maria Elena Bancroft. Maria Elena lost her husband U.S. Marine Corps Captain Matthew Bancroft thirteen years ago, and eight years later found TAPS to join her on the journey through grief. Two years ago,
Photos: 2nd Annual TAPS Gold Star Families Advocacy Week Event 2nd Annual TAPS Gold Star Families Advocacy Week 2nd Annual TAPS Gold Star Families Advocacy Week Event TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (221 photos) See also photos from the Congressional Reception Love Lives On Act, Caring for Survivors Act, photos, capitol hill Photos: 2nd Annual TAPS Gold Star Families Advocacy Week Event Flickr Album Event Photos: Surviving spouse advocate to end
Photos: teams4taps Cavaliers teams4taps at the Cleveland Cavaliers Basketball Game teams4taps at the Cleveland Cavaliers Basketball Game Photos \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (10 photos) //
Photos: teams4taps Mavericks teams4taps at the Dallas Mavericks Basketball Game teams4taps at the Dallas Mavericks Basketball Game Photos \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (26 photos) //
Photos: teams4taps Nationals May teams4taps at Washington Nationals Salute to Service teams4taps at Washington Nationals Salute to Service Photos \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (14 photos) //
Photos: teams4taps Pirates teams4taps with the Pittsburgh Pirates teams4taps with the Pittsburgh Pirates Photos \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (14 photos) //
Photos: teams4taps Cavaliers teams4taps and the Cleveland Cavaliers teams4taps with the Cleveland Cavaliers Photos \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (8 photos) //
Photos: teams4taps Cincinnati teams4taps Football Club Cincinnati Practice TAPS at Football Club Cincinnati Practice \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (26 photos) //
Photos: teams4taps Eagles teams4taps Philadelphia Eagles Movie Night TAPS at Philadelphia Eagles Training Camp \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (26 photos) //
Video: The Toxic Exposure in the American Military (TEAM) Act Video: The Toxic Exposure in the American Military (TEAM) Act Video: The Toxic Exposure in the American Military (TEAM) Act \| TAPS TAPS Media For 26 years, the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) has cared for those grieving the death of a military loved one regardless of how they died. TAPS is leading the way in developing legislation relevant to the issue of toxic exposure in the military which has led to a unanimous Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs vote to pass our Landmar
Saturday Morning Message: Feeling close to our loved ones across time and space Saturday Morning Message: Feeling close to our loved ones across time and space Saturday Morning Message: Feeling close to our loved ones across time and space \| TAPS Carol Lane Good morning, Since this week two responders wrote about feeling close to their loved one through music, I thought opening with a picture showing musical notes with hearts might be a good way to connect and remind us of how music speaks to the love we feel for our loved ones. In addition to those who responded, I
TAPS Songs of Love and Remembrance TAPS Songs of Love and Remembrance TAPS Songs of Love and Remembrance \| TAPS Andy Weiss Editor's Note: World Music Day is June 21. To commemorate this date, we share the story behind the creation of the TAPS playlist on Spotify. We invite you to share how music has played a role in your grief journey – in finding comfort, bringing back special memories of your loved one, or just allowing you to relax. Connect with us at editor@taps.org to share your story. What came first? What came la
Sharing Your Story: Healing Through The Media Sharing Your Story: Healing Through The Media Sharing Your Story: Healing Through The Media Kelly Griffith When three Marines came to my door the morning of Dec. 14, 2011, I had never felt so alone even though I was immediately surrounded by people. Then came the phone calls and inquiries for interviews from journalists. It was jarring. I wanted to hide away somewhere, but the world wanted to watch me grieve. A journalist by trade, I was used to questions - from the other side of the notep
TAPS Survivor Newsletter October 2024 TAPS Survivor Newsletter October 2024 TAPS Survivor Newsletter October 2024 TAPS Media Surviving families from all over the country joined TAPS on Capitol Hill from September 23 to 26 for TAPS Gold Star Families Advocacy Week. The group met with legislators from both the Senate and House of Representatives, and their powerful stories shed light on issues impacting military and veteran survivors. See how our dedicated team works alongside lawmakers year-round to advance policy that directly im
Leaving a Mark on History Leaving a Mark on History Leaving a Mark on History \| TAPS Matt Davison In serving incarcerated veterans, I formed bonds with warriors who took part in wars spanning Korea, Vietnam, and the Gulf War. One vet, who is incarcerated at the Federal Correctional Institution at Terminal Island, California, precedes all these wars and has become a valued friend over the past five years. Because of confidentiality issues, I will not give his complete name, but will refer to him simply as Rene. This is
Military Mentor hosts Meetup for Prospective Volunteers Military Mentor hosts Meetup for Prospective Volunteers Military Mentor hosts Meetup for Prospective Volunteers \| TAPS TAPS John Jarecki mentors military children in TAPS Good Grief Camps because he knows firsthand how important it is to be with others in grief. He also knows what it is like when you’re working through your grief alone and on your own. John was 5 years old when his father, a captain in the Air Force, died in an F4 crash in 1981. He and his family didn’t have the financial a
Out of My Comfort Zone Out of My Comfort Zone Out of My Comfort Zone Rachael Hill For spring break, I decided to take my boys on a ten day trip to California. What started out as a simple visit, quickly became a whirlwind trip up and down the coast with a lot of time for personal reflection. We left on a red eye flight and arrived at Los Angeles at 11:30 in the morning. We got our rental car and proceeded to drive to our hotel near San Diego. Immediately after leaving the airport, I found myself on the 405 in
Saturday Morning Message: Remembering the Light Saturday Morning Message: Remembering the Light Saturday Morning Message: Remembering the Light Carol Lane Good Morning, Remembering the light and not the darkness takes a long time to come into our lives after the death of a loved one. If you observe a lighthouse in the late evening, the stream of light comes into your line of vision and then fades away, but it always comes back. That is how the memories of our loved ones’ lives come to us…in waves. Sometimes they make us laugh and other ti
Introducing Michele Marcum Introducing Michele Marcum Introducing Michele Marcum Michele Hiester Marcum I am Michele. And I am a survivor. My story mirrors that of every other TAPS survivor. The plot is the same, the ending ultimately identical, the tone oppressing. And there is no "happily ever after." Someone I love died, and I'm writing my way through the grief and tears in the hope that healing sneaks its way in. I became a bona fide TAPS card-carrying member after my brother, MSGT Michael T. Hiester, encoun
Saturday Morning Message: How do you share or show your grief in public? Saturday Morning Message: How do you share or show your grief in public? Saturday Morning Message: How do you share or show your grief in public? \| TAPS Carol Lane Good morning, Grief is different for everyone. In the many events that happen after a loved one passes, others may expect you to act a certain way and that can make for personal difficulty in an already stressful time. The opening picture shows two surviving parents, Suzanne and Ed Kristensen being interviewed by a CBS reporter at
Saturday Morning Message: Special Places Shared with Loved Ones Saturday Morning Message: Special Places Shared with Loved Ones Saturday Morning Message: Special Places Shared with Loved Ones Carol Lane Good Morning, Survivors wrote this week about special places they shared with their loved ones. Several people talked about going to a particular location on the day such as a birthday when they celebrate the life of their loved one. Let us share ideas of what we have done or plan to do to commemorate that particular day, so the question for next week is:
Army Strong: One family’s proud tradition of service since the Civil War Army Strong — One family’s proud tradition of service since the Civil War Army Strong — One family’s proud tradition of service since the Civil War \| TAPS Sue Sawyer Note: As the U.S. Army celebrates its 245th birthday on June 14, soldiers and Army families reflect on the rich legacy of the first established service branch. Our family rarely talked about military service when I was growing up. It was only after my son joined the Army that I learned it’s been in our DNA since the 19th cent
International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day \| TAPS Carla Stumpf Patton International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day, also known as ISOSLD or Survivor Day, is on Saturday, November 21, 2020, and is intended to be a day of healing throughout the world, where all those impacted by suicide loss can connect around the lives of their loved ones and the experiences of hope, support, and encouragement. According to The American Foundation for Suicide Pre
Storytelling through film can help survivors of suicide Storytelling through film can help survivors of suicide Storytelling through film can help survivors of suicide \| TAPS Matt Mabe Trauma can be an insidious hallmark of loss that often complicates an already painful grieving process, as reports of the recent Sandy Hook and Parkland suicides demonstrate. These deaths remind us that in the wake of traumatic loss, it is critical for surviving family members be stabilized and supported through their journeys of grief. Grief and trauma are familia
TAPS Advisory Board Members recognized for their outstanding work TAPS Advisory Board Members recognized for their outstanding work TAPS Advisory Board Members recognized for their outstanding work \| TAPS TAPS TAPS Advisory Board member and internationally-recognized expert in grief and loss, Kenneth J. Doka, Ph.D., was recognized April 12 with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Association for Death Education and Counseling. The award was presented at ADEC’s 41st annual conference, held in Atlanta. Ken Doka, who serves on the TAPS advisory board, is
Horse Show Recognizes Military Service and Families of the Fallen Horse Show Recognizes Military Service and Families of the Fallen Horse Show Recognizes Military Service and Families of the Fallen \| TAPS Lalaine Estella Seven-year-old Arianna Bryant has always had a love of horses. Her mother says she is crazy about horses “in a very good way.” So when Arianna had a chance to meet Klinger, the horse in her favorite book “Klinger: A Story of Honor and Hope,” she was very excited. “I like horses because most of them are nice and stand still when you brus
Baby, It's Cold Out Here Baby, It's Cold Out Here Baby, It's Cold Out Here Linda Ambard Baby, it's cold out there. Loneliness creeps up on a person. In unexpected traumatic death, there is no preparing for being alone. Phil died in the prime of his life. He had finally realized many of his dreams coming true and felt the need to give back. I didn't think he was in danger; he had deployed numerous times in 26 years of service and I worried more when he was living on a compound in South America fighting the drug w
Saturday Morning Message: Memories Saturday Morning Message: Memories Saturday Morning Message: Memories Carol Lane Good Morning, This week's message is laid out a bit differently. Since the picture this week is a picture Sue, mother of Marcus, sent in response to last week's question about sharing a memory of our loved ones, I thought it would be good to include her memory in the first part of the message. Here is her memory: "Oct. 25, 2007, started out like a normal Christmas day for our family. WHAT? Christmas in Oct
Voices of the Love Lives On Act of 2023 Voices of the Love Lives On Act of 2023 Voices of the Love Lives On Act of 2023 \| TAPS TAPS Why We Advocate TAPS is dedicated to supporting all military and veteran survivors, and part of this commitment is advocating for program and service improvements that can directly impact life after loss. We work closely with elected officials; the Departments of Defense, Veterans Affairs, Education, Labor, and Health and Human Services; and state and local governments to make sure survivor concerns
Mother and Son, A Life and Legacy Together Mother and Son, A Life and Legacy Together Mother and Son, A Life and Legacy Together Lisa Hudson Reflections of a 26 year journey In October 1983, Navy Lieutenant John Hudson was packing to return from a deployment to Beirut, Lebanon, where he was serving as a medical officer and surgeon to 1,800 Marines. Waiting at home was Lisa, his wife of three years, and their 8-month-old son Will. Lisa adored John and felt she was living in a fairy tale. John, a graduate of the Medical College of
Saturday Morning Message: Sharing Favorite Foods Saturday Morning Message: Sharing Favorite Foods Sharing Favorite Foods \| TAPS Saturday Morning Message Carol Lane Good Morning, When my son came home on leave, there were two things he liked to eat. One meal was pancakes at a local pancake place and the other was pizza also from a store in our hometown; so, I chose a picture of a cheesy pizza as the opening picture this week. When friends or loved ones gather, often there is a sharing of food. That seems to make it easier for many people
A Comforting Companion for the Journey A Comforting Companion for the Journey A Comforting Companion for the Journey \| TAPS Rachelle Ellis Sue Quackenbush TAPS Peer Mentor Program - Sharing Strength and Hope From Rachelle Ellis… Photo courtesy of Rachelle Ellis. I will never forget March 26, 2019. I received the news that my son, Jarrett, had passed away. Jarrett was such an amazing young man. He was loving, caring, funny, and compassionate. He had so much going for him and I just couldn't believe it. I was in shock.
Saturday Morning Message: How We Will Honor Memorial Day Saturday Morning Message: How We Will Honor Memorial Day How We Will Honor Memorial Day \| TAPS Saturday Morning Message Carol Lane Good morning, The springtime holidays from Mother’s Day to Father’s Day, with Memorial Day in between, can be stressful for many surviving adults and children. If there is a significant birth or angelversary date that occurs during this time, it can be even more emotional for the family. This year is particularly stressful with social distancing and the uncertain
Three Years Into The After Three Years Into The After Three Years Into The After \| TAPS Kelly Lennon Fitzpatrick It's three years into the ‘After’ and I am not sure who or what I am writing for, but I know that each year, threads of thoughts unravel and I try to spool them back together. The feelings are so fleeting and amorphous that it's hard to categorize the instances neatly. What sticks with me is the missing-ness of my little brother. We have spent a good deal of time mourning the loss of Sergeant Owen J. Lennon
Peer Mentors Bring TAPS Care Groups to More Local Communities Peer Mentors Bring TAPS Care Groups to More Local Communities Peer Mentors Bring TAPS Care Groups to More Local Communities \| TAPS TAPS Volunteer Peer Mentors and mental health professionals facilitated over 560 TAPS Care Groups in 2019, up from 280 groups the previous year. The dedication of these volunteers made it possible for survivors in more than 50 communities in 26 states to have the compassionate support of others who have lived through similar losses. TAPS Peer Mentors gave their t
Saturday Morning Message: Marking Special Days Saturday Morning Message: Marking Special Days Saturday Morning Message: Marking Special Days \| TAPS Carol Lane Good morning, As the November and December holidays come along, I thought I would share this article from the fall TAPS Magazine that made me think of the family we have become. In the article, "The Critical Importance of Seeking Support", the author, Alan Wolfelt, lists his observations of Canadian geese as they fly many miles to their winter destination. Then he relates his thoug
Making Dreams Come True Making Dreams Come True Making Dreams Come True \| TAPS Robert Worley II What’s your child’s dream job? Chef? Veterinarian? Teacher? With the right education, the potential opportunities are endless. But when a family member or loved one is lost, saving money for college can be difficult. The Department of Veterans Affairs knows how hard it can be for families who have experienced loss to pay for higher education. That’s why there are several VA assistance programs available to support spous
Saturday Morning Message: Thankful for TAPS Saturday Morning Message: Thankful for TAPS Saturday Morning Message: Thankful for TAPS Carol Lane Good Morning, Because it is Thanksgiving weekend, this Saturday Morning Message features a list of resources TAPS provides that I am thankful for as a survivor. Since a list of all the programs would make this message too long, I've only included some of the programs, but you can learn about all TAPS programs at http://www.taps.org. The picture today is from the TAPS website showing a surviv
Marriage and Death - A Semper Fi Story Marriage and Death - A Semper Fi Story Marriage and Death - A Semper Fi Story Bob Bagosy The week of August 9th started out great with the marriage of my youngest son David to Janica in the Adirondack Mountains of New York. The day was perfect with blue skies, no rain and low temperatures. The wedding took place on Oak Mountain. A lift carried us to the top where sixty people welcomed the bride and groom. My Bagosy family attended and consisted of my wife Iris, myself, my daughters Stacy and
It Was Time It Was Time Tai Prohaska, Surviving Mother of Navy HM3 Nikolas Pono Kaniela Venuti Five years? Five weeks? Five decades? Grief warped my sense of time. My son, HM3 Nikolas Pono Kaniela Venuti, died Oct. 17, 2020. He was 26. Nothing, not even time, was the same anymore. Time was irrelevant, but dates packed their punches — his birthday, his first wedding anniversary, which he didn’t live to celebrate, and the day he died…the day he died. I felt like I was living on the Twilight Zone set.
Saturday Morning Message: What In Nature Reminds You Most Of Your Loved One? Saturday Morning Message: What In Nature Reminds You Most Of Your Loved One? What In Nature Reminds You Most Of Your Loved One? \| TAPS Saturday Morning Message TAPS Good Morning, Whether you lend a hand to a neighbor, volunteer at your favorite organization or give back to TAPS, we honor your service to others. We also acknowledge that taking care of ourselves, first and foremost, is important, if we are to be at our best when serving and supporting others. And, we recognize that having the
A Stillness Among the Trees A Stillness Among the Trees A Stillness Among the Trees Abi Ruth Martin Heading to Bainbridge Island, Washington, for my first TAPS Empowerment Week of Renewal, I was nervous and apprehensive. Usually, I am surrounded by friends and family when reflecting on my brother’s death and its impact on me. But this week, I would be sharing and talking about this intimate part of my life with people I had never met before. Breathing in the salty sea air, I was reminded of Jack’s life in the Seatt
How Proud You Were to Fight for Freedoms in This Land How Proud You Were to Fight for Freedoms in This Land How Proud You Were to Fight for Freedoms in This Land Linda Ambard As I ran yesterday morning, a song I often affiliated with my Phil began to waft through my head phones. “I could see it in your eyes how proud you were to fight for freedom in our land.” Phil never took for granted the freedoms afforded to him by the citizenship he received to our country a week shy of his 18th birthday. He felt civic duty to serve and to vote. While he wa
Saturday Morning Message: Handling the Holidays Saturday Morning Message: Handling the Holidays Saturday Morning Message: Handling the Holidays Carol Lane Good Morning, The flickering light of candles in a darkened room always has a calming effect on me. I appreciate the soothing nature of their gentle glow during the shorter days of the holiday season. Listening to peaceful music can also be helpful. This week’s song sent in by Merry, mother of Wesley, will be perfect for those times when my mind is jumping from one thing to another, whi
Resource Center: TAPS Military Survivor Education Support Services Resource Center: TAPS Military Survivor Education Support Services Resource Center: TAPS Military Survivor Education Support Services TAPS One of the most exciting times in anyone’s life is the prospect of attending college, secondary education, or trade school. It can also be an emotional and financially difficult time, dealing with complicated student admissions processes, applying for student aid, and dealing with everything else that goes along with this effort. The reality is that colleg
Saturday Morning Message: Songs of the Heart Saturday Morning Message: Songs of the Heart Saturday Morning Message: Songs of the Heart Carol Lane Good Morning, Songs are one artistic form that can become special for survivors. This week, members of our TAPS family shared songs that are meaningful to them. I hope you enjoy the responses Do you have a song close to your heart? Share with us here and also visit TAPS Facebook. This message will appear there and you can add your comment and a special song. The question for next week is
The Second Year The Second Year The Second Year Janet Crane Facing the Reality The second anniversary date of my son's death was April 26, 2014. Another Gold Star Mother had told me the second year was worse than the first, and I didn't believe it. But it was true in many ways. Jason is buried several hours away from us, so we had made a special trip on the first anniversary of his death. I had known for several months that we would be going to his grave, and the stress and tension built each month i
Taking Action Taking Action Taking Action Alice Daniel Finding meaning in involvement…again After this article was written, Congress passed bipartisan legislation and presented it to the President on January 1, 2013. Included in the legislation is a provision to establish an Open Burn Pit Registry at the VA. 10:45 p.m. The house is quiet; all are sleeping but me. Austin’s been dead for more than three years now. Some things are better. I’m cooking again. We’ve recently moved from our family home of
Sibling Revelry Sibling Revelry Sibling Revelry Michele Hiester Marcum Co-conspirators. Confidants. Comrades. Alternately friend and foe. Two apples from the very same tree. Two peas tucked in a single pod. That was us, my brother and me… Here’s where I’d like to elaborate on our quiet, idyllic childhood, leisurely painting the words in feathery pastel strokes with a gentle hand. But I can’t. Life at the Hiester house was vibrant and hectic and boisterous and always, always full. Neighborhood kids flocked
Taking Action Taking Action Taking Action Alice Daniel 10:45 p.m. The house is quiet, all are sleeping but me. He’s been dead over 3 years now. Some things are better. I’m cooking again. We’ve recently moved from our family home of 26 years. Don’t believe I could have done it early on, but it seems like a good move now. It was painful to watch the little boys in our subdivision chase snakes and frogs in the “coulee”. My boys used to do that, coming in for snacks with billy goat sweat on their noses
Yoga Was My Survival Raft: A Journey of Healing Through Teaching Yoga Yoga Was My Survival Raft: A Journey of Healing Through Teaching Yoga Yoga Was My Survival Raft: A Journey of Healing Through Teaching Yoga \| TAPS Rayanne Hunter For many years, my family’s Memorial Day Weekends have looked quite different from the collective norm. We look forward to the TAPS National Military Survivor Seminar every year, where we gather with a family that we never expected to be a part of– our Gold Star Family. My husband, U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Wesley Hunter, died on Sept
20 Years of TEAM TAPS 20 Years of TEAM TAPS 20 Years of TEAM TAPS \| TAPS TAPS Conquering the Distance – Honoring our Heroes This could be a simple story of individuals who love to run, lacing up their sneakers and pounding the pavement in pursuit of a personal best time, wanting another finisher’s medal to add to their collection or channeling their energy into physical activity. This could be a simple story. Yet this twenty-year journey is a story filled with passion, determination, reverence, love and a happ
Saturday Morning Message: Making a Difference With TAPS Events Saturday Morning Message: Making a Difference With TAPS Events Saturday Morning Message: Making a Difference With TAPS Events \| TAPS Carol Lane Good Morning, Since our question this week is about TAPS events, and those who responded covered many of them, I thought showing a picture of American TAPS survivors meeting in 2016 in the United Kingdom might be helpful to show that TAPS also travels to other countries. If you want to attend an event from your own living room, I suggest the chats
Yoga was my survival raft 'Yoga was my survival raft' Yoga was my survival raft \| TAPS Rayanne Hunter For many years now my family’s Memorial Day Weekends have looked quite different from the collective norm. Every year we look forward to gathering in Washington, D.C. for the TAPS National Military Survivor Seminar with a new family I never expected to be a part of—our Gold Star Family. These fellow surviving families are learning to thrive under a new normal without their military loved one. My husband, Staff Sgt. We
Saturday Morning Message: Mother's Day Activities Saturday Morning Message: Mother's Day Activities Saturday Morning Message: Mother's Day Activities \| TAPS Carol Lane Good Morning, Sometimes watching the sun go up or go down can be the most relaxing thing we can do to take care of ourselves. This week several survivors shared what they did on Mother’s Day to honor themselves and those who served as mothers as they grew up. Now we just turn around and it will be Memorial Day very soon. Since this might be a stressful month, I thought I woul
You are Warmly Welcome to Join Us on Memorial Day Weekend 2019 You are Warmly Welcome to Join Us on Memorial Day Weekend 2019 Join us on Memorial Day Weekend 2019 \| TAPS TAPS Just as the stars brighten the night, our TAPS family brings light into the darkness of grief. At the 25th Annual TAPS National Military Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp, we’ll focus on the light of the love we have shared and continue to share. We’ll look more deeply into our own processes, reflect on our strengths, learn how we can give and accept support, and contemplate how
Saturday Morning Message: A Change of Purpose After Loved One's Death Saturday Morning Message: A Change of Purpose After Loved One's Death Saturday Morning Message: A Change of Purpose After Loved One's Death Carol Lane Good Morning, Our life is forever changed after the death of a loved one. This week's question was about doing things that honor our loved ones as our purpose in life changes. Jeanne, mother of Todd, sent this link to the "Open to Hope" radio show in which she was interviewed. Jeanne is an artist who has created many paintings including one s
Saturday Morning Message: Marking Days of Remembrance Saturday Morning Message: Marking Days of Remembrance Saturday Morning Message: Marking Days of Remembrance Carol Lane Good Morning, There were many responses to the question about what survivors do on special days like birthdays and angelversaries. By sharing what we do, we're able to give ideas to other survivors - and that is why the Saturday Morning Message was created. Caryn, mother of Nathan and spouse of Micheal, sent this picture of the dream catcher she will add to her son's collec
Saturday Morning Message: Changing Anger to Pride Saturday Morning Message: Changing Anger to Pride Saturday Morning Message: Changing Anger to Pride Carol Lane Good Morning, Last week's question asked how to turn the anger that comes with grief into more of a focus on the pride for our loved one's service. This is a tricky question as it asks us to focus on ourselves, and that is something many of us are not taught to do. First, we must find strategies to help reduce the anger. This is where looking in the TAPS Magazine archives can be hel
Saturday Morning Message: Holiday Adjustments Saturday Morning Message: Holiday Adjustments Saturday Morning Message: Holiday Adjustments Carol Lane Good Morning, The holiday season officially starts with Halloween, so today's picture is from my yard with the leaves turning color. Many people have a hard time with the holidays that occur in December. Today survivors shared what they have done to help them go through this season. In addition, you might want to read an article written by Darcie D. Sims, Ph.D, CHT, CT, GMS in a past TAPS m
Saturday Morning Message: Memorial Day Activities Saturday Morning Message: Memorial Day Activities Saturday Morning Message: Memorial Day Activities Carol Lane Good Morning, This picture is the American flag next to a banner designed by Anne, mother of Michael, which is placed in a mall near her home to remind people of Memorial Day's meaning. You will read her comments later. Most of the TAPS staff, including me, will be attending the 22nd Annual TAPS National Military Seminar and Good Grief Camp on May 26 - May 30. If you are joining
Saturday Morning Message: Move or Stay Saturday Morning Message: Move or Stay Saturday Morning Message: Move or Stay Carol Lane Good Morning, The picture today comes from Allicia, daughter of Burr, who sent it for use in the Saturday Morning Message. It seemed like a good photo to share as it shows a road and some beautiful mountains in Utah. Whether you have decided to stay in your home or move, driving down a road and looking at the scenery can be a relaxing thing to do. This week, there were many replies to the question from
Something Borrowed, Something Blue Something Borrowed, Something Blue Something Borrowed, Something Blue \| TAPS Kat Stanley Ester Allgower A wedding is a bittersweet event when the bride and her family are still grieving the loss of one person whose presence at the wedding is critical. As my family prepared for my nuptials to my boyfriend of six years, we were missing one important person, my brother and only sibling, Corporal Richard Allgower, USMC. I was so devastated at the loss of my brother that I often wondered if I would
Honor and Remember Honor and Remember Honor and Remember George Lutz We've all heard the expression that freedom isn't free. That phrase became all too real to me on December 30, 2005. I got a knock on the door from two uniformed soldiers who spoke to me five simple words that changed my life forever: “We regret to inform you.” My oldest son Tony had been killed the day before by a sniper's bullet while on patrol in Fallujah, Iraq. The word “devastation” doesn’t begin to describe the flood of emotion th
Run and Remember: Marine Corps Marathon Forward Run and Remember: Marine Corps Marathon Forward Run and Remember: Marine Corps Marathon Forward Dustin Kazmar Mission Complete for TAPS! Editor’s Note: On October 26, 2008, more than 6,000 miles away from Washington DC, the site of the annual Marine Corps Marathon, hundreds of service members ran in the sands of Iraq to honor our Fallen Heroes. This is one Marine’s amazing report. Race day! I wake up at 0400 and jump in the shower to start my morning. While I am shaving I hear what sounds
Grief Causing Physical Pain? Turns Out, That’s Pretty Normal. Grief Causing Physical Pain? Turns Out, That’s Pretty Normal. Kathleen Ferraro In the weeks after my father died, I was numb. And then one day, about two months later, bam. My neck muscles were so tight I couldn’t turn my head, my stomach churned in ways unrelated to hunger, my jaw was clenched shut, and my limbs were heavy with exhaustion. The physical effects of grief had finally caught up with me. Over the next few years, these physical health issues came in waves — sometimes a heada
Saturday Morning Message: Memorial Day Events Saturday Morning Message: Memorial Day Events Saturday Morning Message: Memorial Day Events Carol Lane Good morning, I wanted to share one of my favorite areas at the 23rd Annual TAPS National Military Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp, which was where I was for Memorial Day weekend. This is a picture of the TAPS Family Tree. Survivors were encouraged to take a paper leaf and write a message to their loved one. There was a sticky back to the leaf, and the survivors could place it next to
Money Matters Money Matters Money Matters Terri Starliper Dealing with Death, Dollars, & Sense On August 5, 2000, I married USAF Technical Sergeant Christopher Sheaffer. We had been together for almost 3 years. Chris was a Freefall Instructor at the Yuma Proving Grounds in Arizona. I was an accountant in Phoenix. Chris had two daughters from a previous marriage. We had bought a fixer-upper house in Phoenix with land where we could keep our horses. I had been recently promoted. We were set. Life was pict