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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.
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
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
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
Healing Trauma in Military Survivors Healing Trauma in Military Survivors Healing Trauma in Military Survivors \| TAPS Carla Stumpf Patton June is PTSD Awareness month June is awareness month for PTSD (Posttraumatic Stress Disorder), making it critical to talk openly to create the understanding and encouragement needed to seek care and treatment. Trauma can be experienced in people of all ages and demographics, resulting from various life events such as: natural disasters, accidents, crime, war, medical or life-threateni
I’ve Been Everywhere, Man: teams4taps on the road with the NBA I’ve Been Everywhere, Man: teams4taps on the road with the NBA I’ve Been Everywhere, Man: teams4taps on the road with the NBA Bevin Landrum Military families are frequently called to live far from home. Whether they are stationed overseas or just across the country, service members and their families look for ways to maintain close connections to those they love and miss. Walk in any commissary, exchange or food court on a military installation and you’re liable to see a dozen different team
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
Five Years into the After: A Letter to Owen Five Years into the After: A Letter to Owen Five Years into the After: A Letter to Owen \| TAPS Kelly Lennon Fitzpatrick Hello Little Brother, I think about you every day. I know you know that. Each year around your anniversary, the thoughts become strings of words, and I’ve tried to record my changing feelings around the times “Before” and “After.” This year, the words have changed and are less for me and more for you — my conversation with you. We feel you all around us, and are reminded of
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.
Saturday Morning Message: Positive Lessons Learned Saturday Morning Message: Positive Lessons Learned Saturday Morning Message: Positive Lessons Learned Carol Lane Good Morning, The question last week was about sharing positive lessons learned on this grief journey. Lighthouses have special meaning for me. They light the way for those encountering difficulties while traveling. We do the same when we write about our experiences in the Saturday Morning Message. Sometimes we encounter these concepts in the form of surprises. This past Sunday
Working Together in Treating Suicide Loss Trauma Working Together in Treating Suicide Loss Trauma Working Together in Treating Suicide Loss Trauma \| TAPS Jennifer Keeling TAPS and Home Base Survivors dealing with grief may also be coping with trauma, so it helps to understand how this impacts healing. Trauma can be experienced from many life events like accidents, crime, disasters, war, medical emergencies, or violence. Trauma can produce emotional and physical responses as a result of exposure to extreme, unexpected, or horrifying cir
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: 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) //
TAPS Magazine Spring 2020 TAPS Magazine Spring 2020 TAPS Magazine Spring 2020 TAPS Quarterly Magazine TAPS Magazine Spring 2020 Volume 26, Issue 1
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.
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
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
Our Hearts Are With You — TAPS Natural Disaster Response Our Hearts Are With You — TAPS Natural Disaster Response Our Hearts Are With You — TAPS Natural Disaster Response TAPS This article was first published on the TAPS website on September 16, 2020 and has been updated periodically for the latest information regarding personal insurance and FEMA guidance after experiencing a natural disaster. ARE YOU READY? COMMUNICATION IS KEY PREPARE FOR DISASTER BUILD A KIT REPORT, RECOVER AND REBUILD LOOK FOR THE HELPERS FEDERAL RESOURCES TO PREPARE
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
The Powerful Experience of a Civilian Serving TAPS The Powerful Experience of a Civilian Serving Families of the Fallen The Powerful Experience of a Civilian Serving Families of the Fallen \| TAPS Casey Callanan As I was driving north after work on Friday to spend a sunny Memorial Day weekend on the Jersey Shore in 2012, the Vice President's voice suddenly gripped my attention. The radio station's voiceover explained Joe Biden was speaking at an event organized by TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors). Having recently moved to the W
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
Saturday Morning Message: Displaying Our Folded Flags Saturday Morning Message: Displaying Our Folded Flags Saturday Morning Message: Displaying Our Folded Flags \| TAPS Carol Lane Good morning, This week there were so many varied responses that I am going to keep my comments short. Misti, mother of Ashton, sent this beautiful picture that she titled “Fallen Sailor American Flag” as her response to the question. I thought it would make a wonderful opening picture. Would you like to share a question or read how other survivors respond to a top
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
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
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.
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
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
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.
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
7 Random Acts of Kindness to Celebrate a Life Well Lived 7 Random Acts of Kindness to Celebrate a Life Well Lived 7 Random Acts of Kindness to Celebrate a Life Well Lived P. Ann Brothers We perform random acts of kindness on a regular basis without giving it much thought. This week, my son Army Maj. Steven Brothers would have celebrated his 41st birthday. In his honor, our family wanted to have at least 41 random acts of kindness completed to celebrate a life well lived. Here are some that touched the hearts of many. I hope they will inspire you
Saturday Morning Message: Displaying Memorabilia Saturday Morning Message: Displaying Memorabilia Saturday Morning Message: Displaying Memorabilia Carol Lane Good Morning, This week’s question was inspired by Merry, surviving mother of Wesley. She sent a picture of what she had done to produce Wes’s Honor Wall. The thought crossed my mind that it might be good to find out what others have done with those special mementoes, so last week’s question asked survivors what they chose to do with these beloved items. The answers were varied and in
Saturday Morning Message: Tokens Left at the Cemetery Saturday Morning Message: Tokens Left at the Cemetery Saturday Morning Message: Tokens Left at the Cemetery \| TAPS Carol Lane Good morning, When survivors go to the cemetery to spend time, they bring items that are meaningful to their loved one and themselves. The opening picture came from Claire, daughter of William. As you can see, she brings items that go with the season. The cemetery where my son, Bryon, lies allows only flowers, stones and wreaths. This week survivors shared the many di
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
Kicking Off Our 21st Year - TAPS 2015 Winter in Review Kicking Off Our 21st Year - TAPS 2015 Winter in Review Kicking Off Our 21st Year - TAPS 2015 Winter in Review TAPS Happy March, America’s Family. We are thinking spring here as much as possible in D.C. after the latest ice storm. It has been a cold winter here, but there’s been so much to warm our hearts this past month as the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) geared up for our twenty-first year of caring for the families of America’s fallen heroes. Our staff has put toget
Believing in Heroes Believing in Heroes Believing in Heroes Marten Wallace On September 2015, I had the great pleasure of representing TAPS at the Points of Light National Day of Service and Remembrance held at the Washington Monument. Being asked to be a storyteller to the 5th graders of Harriet Tubman Elementary School was a great privilege and honor. The title of my story was, Believing in Heroes. I asked the children during my story, what is a hero? Is a hero a cartoon character like Superman or an athlet
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
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
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.
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
TAPS Families Visit Capitol Hill During Gold Star Families Remembrance Week TAPS Families Visit Capitol Hill During Gold Star Families Remembrance Week TAPS Families Visit Capitol Hill During Gold Star Families Remembrance Week \| TAPS TAPS The last full week of September is a special one for the TAPS community. Since 2018, Congress has recognized this time as Gold Star Families Remembrance Week providing an opportunity for the nation to pause as they honor and remember the sacrifices made by all those who have lost a loved one who served in the military. “Our nation
The Run and Remember Team The Run and Remember Team The Run and Remember Team TAPS Transitioning to Team TAPS for the New Year It was the fall of 2000 when TAPS entered its first team in the Marine Corps Marathon. The team consisted of Lori Hunter and Marie Campbell, both surviving widows. Through the years, the team has grown by leaps and bounds, encompassing runners of every relationship, age, and experience. The team also has grown to cover many more events than the annual Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, D.C.
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
Found My NICHe Found My NICHe Found My NICHe \| TAPS Emily Dieruf Chambers Running with Team TAPS at the Marine Corps Marathon Thousands of widows share a common bond because of Operation Iraqi Freedom, each of us mourning and coping in a myriad of ways. Though it took me several years after the death of my husband, CPL Nicholas Dieruf, USMC to discover an outlet. Running quickly became a way to escape the days’ stressors, connect with a newfound community of friends, and get any day started on a positive n
Hands Over Hearts: U.S. Olympians Honor Fallen Heroes Hands Over Hearts: U.S. Olympians Honor Fallen Heroes Hands Over Hearts: U.S. Olympians Honor Fallen Heroes Diana Hosford Right hand on heart place. We hear the first note of the National Anthem, direct our gaze to the Stars and Stripes and, for a moment, we silently and proudly honor our country. With our right hand on heart place. Holding close the memory of what we honor and celebrate. It's what we do. When the American flag is raised high in honor of a competition won, it marks a dr
Saturday Morning Message: On Memorial Day and Everyday, TAPS Is Here For You Saturday Morning Message: On Memorial Day and Everyday, TAPS Is Here For You On Memorial Day and Everyday, TAPS Is Here For You \| TAPS Saturday Morning Message TAPS Good Morning TAPS Family, Our vision to grow and share within our survivor community continues to flow with the outpouring of love and care from you! We appreciate all of the dedication and direct responses to our Saturday Morning Message, created by Carol Lane. We are preparing a newly formatted Saturday offering for you that we
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
Run and Remember: Honoring the Memory of Windy25 Run and Remember: Honoring the Memory of Windy25 Run and Remember: Honoring the Memory of Windy25 TAPS On April 6, 2005 a U.S. Army helicopter crashed near Ghazni, Afghanistan killing all five crew members along with 11 passengers. The call-sign of the CH-47 Chinook helicopter was Windy25, one of the aircraft belonging to F Company, 159th Aviation Regiment, “Big Windy.” Each year since the crash, members of the unit have gathered to honor their battle buddies and memorialize the loss. In t
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
Donor Spotlight Jason Pak Donor Spotlight: Jason Pak Donor Spotlight Boeing Jason Pak \| TAPS TAPS Capt. Jason Pak, U.S. Army (Ret.) Director, Boeing veterans initiatives, mid-Atlantic region. Capt. Jason Pak, U.S. Army (Ret.), is Boeing's director of veterans initiatives for the mid-Atlantic region. But his military life started as an Army brat who traveled the world with his family. He graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and deployed to Afghanistan in October 2012. His life was forever cha
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: 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: 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 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
Saturday Morning Message: Meaningful Objects Saturday Morning Message: Meaningful Objects Saturday Morning Message: Meaningful Objects \| TAPS Carol Lane Good morning, This week survivors wrote about items that celebrate the love they have for their special people. Some told about items that were worn by their loved ones while others wrote about objects they bought or were given to them by those who wanted to show their care. The picture comes from Charlene, mother of Devin. I thought you would enjoy reading why the picture sh
Struggling To Reclaim My Faith Struggling To Reclaim My Faith Struggling To Reclaim My Faith Dennis Apple My nightmare began on Wednesday, February 6, 1991, at 8:20 a.m. Denny, our eighteen- year-old son had been diagnosed with mononucleosis two days prior, and the doctor had sent us home with medications and orders to rest. However, something awful happened during the night, and the following morning I discovered he had died in his sleep. There is nothing I know of that compares to the horror and shock that comes to the h
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
Thank You for Supporting Our Mission in 2022 Thank You for Supporting Our Mission in 2022 Thank You for Supporting Our Mission in 2022 \| TAPS TAPS TAPS is grateful for the incredible outpouring of support we received in 2022. We are humbled that so many members of our TAPS family brought us along as they honored their loved one; we applaud the communities around the country who gathered to pay tribute to local heroes; and we sincerely thank our growing circle of supporters for sharing the TAPS mission. When you fundraise for TAPS, you a
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.
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
Photos: Veterans Affairs Secretary and Under Secretary for Benefits Visit TAPS Headquarters Veterans Affairs Secretary and Under Secretary for Benefits Visit TAPS Headquarters Veterans Affairs Secretary and Under Secretary for Benefits Visit TAPS Headquarters Photos TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (15 photos) taps advocacy, photos, department of Veterans Affairs Flickr Album Event Photos: VA Secretary Denis McDonough and the VA Under Secretary for Benefits, Josh Jacobs visit TAPS Headquarters
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
A Grateful Nation Honors Fallen Heroes A Grateful Nation Honors Fallen Heroes A Grateful Nation Honors Fallen Heroes TAPS This Memorial Day weekend, as we remember the ultimate sacrifice of our nation’s service members, there are many opportunities around the country to honor their memory. Across the Country National Cemetery Ceremonies The National Cemetery Administration will host Memorial Day ceremonies at VA national cemeteries across the country, with the help of local communities. Most states have a Veterans Affairs n
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
BAE Systems continues tradition of corporate support BAE Systems continues tradition of corporate support BAE Systems continues tradition of corporate support \| TAPS TAPS Each Friday, please visit our blog and join us as we take a look back at stories, people and events that have shaped who we are today. We are a family of survivors honoring our selfless heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. We are grieving parents, spouses, children, siblings, grandparents, fiancées, battle buddies and loved ones. We are hope. We are strengt
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
Gary Morris Celebrity Golf Invitational Gary Morris Celebrity Golf Invitational Gary Morris Celebrity Golf Invitational Christine Burtt Raises support for TAPS for a Fourth Year There is something magical that happens when hundreds of people volunteer their time and money to help others. This year was no exception when the fourth annual Celebrity Invitational for TAPS gifted more than $300,000 for the Good Grief Camps and Adult Survival Seminars. Event Directors Bo and Lynne Cottrell and celebrity host Gary Morris present
TAPS marks 25 years of service in 2019 TAPS marks 25 years of service in 2019 TAPS marks 25 years of service in 2019 TAPS Each Friday, please visit our blog and join us as we take a look back at stories, people and events that have shaped who we are today. We are a family of survivors honoring our selfless heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. We are grieving parents, spouses, children, siblings, grandparents, fiancées, battle buddies and loved ones. We are hope. We are strength. We are TAPS. This year, TAP
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
College Scholarship for Surviving High School Seniors in Michigan College Scholarship for Surviving High School Seniors in Michigan College Scholarship for Surviving High School Seniors in Michigan \| TAPS TAPS The Detroit Lions are offering educational scholarships to Michigan children who have suffered the loss of a parent or sibling who served in the military. The scholarships, which may be applied toward tuition, room and board, books, fees, computers and other educational expenses, are intended to bridge the gap between available education resources an
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
Spotlight on Service: Sergeant Kris Giuranna Spotlight on Service: Sergeant Kris Giuranna Spotlight on Service: Sergeant Kris Giuranna TAPS Whether it’s a regional Good Grief Camp at Fort Hood, an outdoor camp in North Carolina, or the national camp in DC, chances are you have seen the familiar face of one of our favorite Marines and mentors, Sergeant Kris Giuranna. Kris has been a part of the team since 2008 when he first volunteered for the Ohio Regional Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp. There he noticed that one of the TAPS banne
Flashback Fridays: Sharing hope and love with a new generation of military children Sharing hope and love with a new generation of military children Sharing hope and love with a new generation of military children \| TAPS TAPS Each Friday, please visit our blog and join us as we take a look back at stories, people and events that have shaped who we are today. We are a family of survivors honoring our selfless heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. We are grieving parents, spouses, children, siblings, grandparents, fiancées, battle buddies and loved ones. W
Beamer the Dog Beamer the Dog Beamer the Dog \| TAPS Beamer Burleson Greetings my two-legged friends! My name is Beamer Burleson and I’ve been told that I am the greatest dog on the planet! I am 11 years old and have the joy of helping my Mommy by being her best friend when she is sad. She calls me her service dog. It all started with Daddy and Mommy wanting me to help other soldiers when they returned from deployments. We trained as a Therapy Dog Team and I visited wounded warriors at Fort Bragg
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 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) //
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
A Grateful Memorial Day A Grateful Memorial Day A Grateful Memorial Day Dr. Carla Stumpf Patton, LMHC A Grateful Memorial Day As we head into Memorial Day weekend, many look forward to the upcoming summer months as they enjoy a long weekend and time spent celebrating with family and friends. As I leave some of my family at home, I am en route flying into Arlington, Virginia, to meet my “other family” — fellow loss survivors in the military community, and to support the TAPS National Military Survivor Seminar and Go
An Easter Angelversary An Easter Angelversary An Easter Angelversary Allicia Johnson March 27 is Easter Sunday this year. To many it’s a day to reflect on the life of Christ and the miracle that occurred over two thousand years ago. For many others, it’s that beautiful time of year when Cadbury Mini Eggs grace the grocery store shelves. In general, it is a good time to focus on a new season of hope and new beginnings as flowers bloom and we look excitedly toward warmer days and summer fun. What is not to like about
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
First TAPS Military Mentor of the Year Continues to Volunteer First TAPS Military Mentor of the Year Continues to Volunteer First TAPS Military Mentor of the Year Continues to Volunteer \| TAPS TAPS Each Friday, please visit our blog and join us as we take a look back at stories, people and events that have shaped who we are today. We are a family of survivors honoring our selfless heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. We are grieving parents, spouses, children, siblings, grandparents, fiancées, battle buddies and loved ones. We are ho
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
Healing on the Line Healing on the Line Healing on the Line \| TAPS Larry Mace This article is adapted from Larry’s original article which was published in the February/March 2024 issue of Fly Fisherman magazine. Unfortunately, I am the father of an Army hero who was killed in the battle of Kamdesh, on October 3, 2009, in Afghanistan. When my son, Stephan Mace, was stationed at Fort Carson, Colorado, I went out to visit him for two weeks to share our love for the outdoors. We hiked in the snow to U
The Twenty-Four Toughest Notes The Twenty-Four Toughest Notes The Twenty-Four Toughest Notes Roger Meyer Honoring our loved ones with “Taps” For more information visit www.buglesacrossamerica.org. If you are a brass player, you might consider joining us in our mission to bring live Taps to all veterans. We are always looking for more members so that we can honor more veterans. BAA has more than 5,000 buglers available across the nation. There are even members in Germany, Australia, and other countries—all sounding Taps fo
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
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
Saturday Morning Message: Personalized Memorials Express Your Special Relationship Saturday Morning Message: Personalized Memorials Express Your Special Relationship Saturday Morning Message: Personalized Memorials Express Your Special Relationship \| TAPS Carol Lane Good Morning, There are days during the year that commemorate the special connection we have with our loved ones. Last week Dianna, wife of Thomas, wanted to know what others do on those days. In addition to the responses from other survivors, I wanted to share what we do. My husband and I joined a gardening gr
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
Carry the Load in Honor of our Nation's Fallen Heroes Carry the Load in Honor of our Nation's Fallen Heroes Carry the Load in Honor of our Nation's Fallen Heroes \| TAPS TAPS “It has been an honor to walk with so many gold star families this year on our national relay. To carry their loved ones and share their stories is what makes partnering with TAPS so impactful. We magnify our missions.” ~ Debbie Wright, Executive Director of Carry The Load Phoenix, Arizona Carry The Load’s mission to restore the true meaning of Memorial Day wa
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
Flashback Fridays: TAPS Magazine TAPS Magazine: A source of inspiration, comfort, support and resources TAPS Magazine: A source of inspiration, comfort, support and resources \| TAPS TAPS Each Friday, please visit our blog and join us as we take a look back at stories, people and events that have shaped who we are today. We are a family of survivors honoring our selfless heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. We are grieving parents, spouses, children, siblings, grandparents, fiancées, battle buddies and l
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
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
Video:Underserved and Overlooked: Supporting Widowed Parents Video: Underserved and Overlooked: Supporting Widowed Parents Video: Underserved and Overlooked: Supporting Widowed Parents \| TAPS Institute Justin Yopp Chantel Dooley This video recording of the webinar, recorded by the TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing® with Justin Yopp, PhD, and moderator Chantel Dooley, MA, PhD candidate, presents the latest research and clinical efforts aimed at supporting these parents and their families who face unique and specific bereavement challenges. Select imag
Miles for Kyle Miles for Kyle Miles for Kyle Maggie Osborn Running a marathon for some is a sport; for others a life accomplishment. Me? I run for Kyle. I run in his honor. I run because he can’t. I run to fulfill his goals and complete his bucket list. I run to carry on his memory and to ensure it inspires others as he did in his life on earth. Kyle was a loving, outgoing man who continually sought out new challenges. He was always an active person applying himself to new adventures: fishing, CrossFit,
Karndean DesignFlooring Raises Money for TAPS Karndean DesignFlooring Raises Money for TAPS Karndean DesignFlooring Raises Money for TAPS TAPS At its 8th annual customer appreciation golf outing, held January 29 at Las Vegas’ Siena Golf Club, Karndean Designflooring and its top partners hit the links and raised a total of $3,300 for the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS). This is the fourth year the event has included a fundraiser to support a veterans service organization. TAPS offers immediate and long-term emotional he
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
Bonds with the Deceased Don’t Have to End Bonds with the Deceased Don’t Have to End Bonds with the Deceased Don’t Have to End Gloria Horsley Heidi Horsley “Scott is dead!” These are the dreaded words that no parent or sibling should ever have to hear, words that irrevocably changed our lives forever. We heard these words in 1983, when Scott Horsley, our beloved son and brother, died in a fiery collision when the car in which he was a passenger hydroplaned and slammed into a bridge abutment. In an instant, Scott’s life was snuffed
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
Saluting Service and Sacrifice: Gillette, NFL Team Up for TAPS Saluting Service and Sacrifice: Gillette, NFL Team Up for TAPS Saluting Service and Sacrifice: Gillette, NFL Team Up for TAPS Kristi Stolzenberg From the outside looking in, the death of a military service member is a moment — one unimaginably difficult day on a calendar page for a grieving family. This loss is eventually paved over by a new normal, and life goes on for the fallen hero’s family. But the view is much different at the center of the loss — it’s so much more than a single day;
Flashback Fridays: Cherished Memories from a Child Revisited Cherished Memories from a Child Revisited Cherished memories from a child revisited \| TAPS TAPS Each Friday, please visit our blog and join us as we take a look back at stories, people and events that have shaped who we are today. We are a family of survivors honoring our selfless heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. We are grieving parents, spouses, children, siblings, grandparents, fiancées, battle buddies and loved ones. We are hope. We are strength. We are TAPS.
Ted Stevens: Leaving a legacy of caring for families of the fallen Ted Stevens: Leaving a legacy of caring for families of the fallen Ted Stevens: Leaving a legacy of caring for families of the fallen \| TAPS TAPS Each Friday, please visit our blog and join us as we take a look back at stories, people and events that have shaped who we are today. We are a family of survivors honoring our selfless heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. We are grieving parents, spouses, children, siblings, grandparents, fiancées, battle buddies and loved ones.
Volunteer Spotlight: Bethany Sutherland Jones Spotlight on Service: Bethany Sutherland Jones Spotlight on Service: Bethany Sutherland Jones \| TAPS Sharon Paz When Bethany Jones first volunteered with TAPS, it was crystal clear that service was a quality deeply ingrained in her identity. Bethany had the benefit of seeing service to country modeled by her parents growing up as an Air Force daughter. That service was echoed when later she became an Air Force wife and mother. Over the many years of moving from one duty assignme
Washington Capitals Launch Courage Caps, Host Skating Party for TAPS Families Washington Capitals Launch Courage Caps, Host Skating Party for TAPS Families Washington Capitals Launch Courage Caps, Host Skating Party for TAPS Families TAPS Washington Capitals American-born players John Carlson, Connor Carrick and Jack Hillen hosted more than 120 children and adults assisted by Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) for a skating party at Kettler Capitals Iceplex on Monday, Feb. 3. The event kicked off the 2013-14 Courage Caps campaign sponsored by Telos Co
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
Photos: Team TAPS Armed Forces Cycling Classic Team TAPS Armed Forces Cycling Classic Team TAPS Armed Forces Cycling Classic \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (88 photos) team taps, photos, honor the fallen, military survivor Flickr Album Event Photos: Team TAPS participate in a race weekend of fun for the whole family, including kids races, and a cycling expo on June 1 and 2, 2019.
5th Annual TAPS Celebrity Classic 5th Annual TAPS Celebrity Classic 5th Annual TAPS Celebrity Classic TAPS The Colorado Honor Corps, led by Lynne and Bo Cottrell, hit another homerun this year with the 5th annual TAPS Celebrity Classic raising more than $400,000 for TAPS! The Cottrells have been organizing the Celebrity Classic for five years, ever since a high school friend of Bo’s lost his son in Iraq and turned to TAPS for support. New celebrity hosts Larry, Steve, and Rudy Gatlin brought an exciting, distinctive sizzl
The True Meaning of Sacrifice The True Meaning of Sacrifice The True Meaning of Sacrifice Ron Bevan This item was originally printed in the Draper City Journal and updated for this publication by Ron Bevan, Sports Journalist with the Draper City Journal. The wearing of names on the back of uniforms is nothing new. It began as a way of identifying a favored player from the cheap seats. It is used today in professional ranks and most college athletic programs. Rarely does it make it to the high school level. The Corner
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
Peer Mentors are Always By Your Side Peer Mentors are Always By Your Side Peer Mentors are Always By Your Side TAPS Peer connections are at the heart of TAPS, and our Peer Mentor program makes that possible. Peer Mentors are survivors 18 months past their loss who walk alongside those newer to grief to provide a listening ear and a shoulder to cry on. Peer Mentors and their mentees across the country connect in person, on the phone, and through emails and texts. As always, our Peer Mentors are dedicated to being a constant so
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
Create Your Own Finish Line Create Your Own Finish Line Create Your Own Finish Line Carol Bazemore Local Race Events Commemorate the Fallen Team TAPS has been leading runners along race courses from Washington, D.C., to Anchorage, Alaska, for 15 years, building charity partner relationships with established races to create awareness of the TAPS mission and honor our fallen heroes. In addition, Team TAPS is focused on helping survivors create their own endurance activities that honor their loved ones in their hometowns
Team TAPS Participates in Windy25 Memorial 5K Team TAPS Participates in Windy25 Memorial 5K Team TAPS Participates in Windy25 Memorial 5K TAPS Our TAPS family extends our sincere condolences to the families whose loved ones died or were injured in the tragic shooting at Fort Hood, Texas. TAPS is actively helping the families of the victims. Our assistance and support will be unwavering. The TAPS Run and Remember Team participated in the 4th Annual Windy25 Memorial 5K on Saturday in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Windy25 Memorial 5K is ded
How Well Do You Know TAPS Education Support Services? How Well Do You Know TAPS Education Support Services? How Well Do You Know TAPS Education Support Services? \| TAPS TAPS Busting Common Myths Myth: TAPS Education Support Services is just for surviving children. Myth Busted: We absolutely support surviving children entering college, but that isn’t all we do! Education Support Services serves surviving family members of any age or relationship to the fallen. Myth: TAPS Education Support Services is just for college-bound students.
Letters from TAPS: From the Peer Mentor Team Letters from TAPS: From the Peer Mentor Team Letters from TAPS: From the Peer Mentor Team Claire Hunter Dear TAPS family, Spring is upon us and soon we will see the trees and flowers begin to blossom. We’ll begin to see signs of new growth everywhere we look, and we will feel a noticeable difference between the seasons of winter and spring. As I approach spring and the concept of new growth, I am immediately reminded of our team of TAPS peer mentors. As members of the TAPS family, m
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
Finding My Faith Finding My Faith Finding My Faith Rachael Hill I don’t normally write about my faithin my blog but something hit me recently that I just have to share. This past month my boys and I went to visit some friends out of state. Not just any friends, but my FLO (Family Liaison Officer) and his wife who we have become extremely close with since my husband’s death 27 months ago. I had known Daniel for many years before hebecame my FLO and he had worked very closely with my husband Jeff on numerous o
Breaking Barriers and Building Strength: My Journey to the Ice Track Breaking Barriers and Building Strength: My Journey to the Ice Track Breaking Barriers and Building Strength: My Journey to the Ice Track \| TAPS Brandon Blackmore Editor's Note: As TAPS Education Support Service Advocate Brandon Blackmore prepares to compete in the Empire State Winter Games January 30 to February 2, 2025, he shares words of inspiration that resonate with anyone journeying through grief as much as they do for a competitive athlete. There’s something humbling about standing a
Saturday Morning Message: Living A Life With Honor Saturday Morning Message: Living A Life With Honor Saturday Morning Message: Living A Life With Honor \| TAPS Carol Lane Good morning, In the latest issue of TAPS Magazine, author Alan Wolfelt shares his thoughts about using the word reconciliation instead of closure when talking about our feelings around the death of a loved one. He wrote, “Reconciling our grief means integrating our new reality of a life without the physical presence of the person who died. Not just surviving, but really li
Land of the Free Because of the Brave Land of the Free Because of the Brave Land of the Free Because of the Brave \| TAPS TAPS TAPS was honored to participate in the Annual “Land of the Free Veterans Day Golf Classic” in City of Industry, California. The Land of the Free Foundation partnered with the Pacific Palms and Conference Center and the Industry Hills Golf Club to play host to 50 foursomes for a one-day salute to America’s military. The tournament started with a breathtaking tribute to the families of the fallen. Sgt F
TAPS Young Adults Summit: A Weekend of Hope, Connections and Possibilities TAPS NFL Young Adults Summit: A Weekend of Hope, Connections and Possibilities TAPS NFL Young Adults Summit: A Weekend of Hope, Connections and Possibilities Renee Monczynski In July, forty surviving children and siblings, ages 18 to 30, and at varying stages of their grief journey, came together with their TAPS Family in Atlanta for the TAPS NFL Young Adults Summit. These young adults came from locations across the country - some connecting with TAPS for the first time, and others who have
Navigating Conversations around Grief and the Holidays Navigating Conversations around Grief and the Holidays Navigating Conversations around Grief and the Holidays \| TAPS Rachel Kodanaz Most conversations between two or more people are casual and engaged to exchange ideas, thoughts, or emotions. In most cases, discussions are straightforward and timely– based on current events, shared experiences, or future planning. However, navigating, and often tiptoeing, around conversations during the holiday season is essential to remain conscientious of t
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,
Sports, Shopping and Shakespeare Sports, Shopping and Shakespeare Sports, Shopping and Shakespeare \| TAPS Leigh Edmonds Over the last several years, TAPS has developed amazing relationships through our Sports and Entertainment program providing families with opportunities to honor their heroes and create new memories. Teams and individual players from the NFL, NBA, Major League Baseball and NCAA have created memorable experiences for TAPS families and they step up even more during the holiday season, bringing joy during what
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
Carry the Load Carry the Load Carry the Load Marie Campbell Reminding Americans About the Real Meaning of Memorial Day As a survivor, it was an honor to participate in the Carry the Load national relay as it went through Washington, D.C. as we made our journey from the Lincoln Memorial into Arlington National Cemetery honoring America's fallen heroes. I was in the company of other military surviving families, battle buddies, and a few wonderful supporters of TAPS. Participants carried items of special mea
Run and Remember: A Special Connection Run and Remember: A Special Connection Run and Remember: A Special Connection Bob Derga Lisa Arnold Each year the TAPS Run and Remember Team pairs willing runners with families of the fallen whose loved ones will be commemorated by the run. As our largest running event of the year, the Marine Corps Marathon (MCM) in October fields the most runners and therefore makes the most connections between families and runners. Last year Lisa Arnold, a mother of five young boys, ran the MCM in h
A Grateful Nation Pauses to Remember A Grateful Nation Pauses to Remember A Grateful Nation Pauses to Remember \| TAPS Taylor Strong I will never forget how beautiful the weather was on September 15, 2014. It was a crisp fall day, which was unseasonable for southern North Carolina. I was on my way down to a check-up in Wilmington for my pregnancy. Charles and I were expecting our first baby, a girl, due in the beginning of December. On my way down to Wilmington, he called me from Afghanistan to let me know he loved me and he woul
Team TAPS Runners Participate in Marine Corps Marathon Team TAPS Runners Participate in Marine Corps Marathon Team TAPS Runners Participate in Marine Corps Marathon TAPS Over 300 runners trained for months to run the Marine Corps Marathon & 10K for Team TAPS on October 22. The historic D.C. route had them running up the hill at the Iwo Jima Marine Corps Memorial to cross the finish line. The combined team raised over $100,000 by asking their friends and family members to help them honor the fallen. Some of our race participants lost a battle
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
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
Stronger than she thought she could be: A widow looks back Stronger than she thought she could be: A widow looks back Stronger than she thought she could be: A widow looks back \| TAPS TAPS Each Friday, please visit our blog and join us as we take a look back at stories, people and events that have shaped who we are today. We are a family of survivors honoring our selfless heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. We are grieving parents, spouses, children, siblings, grandparents, fiancées, battle buddies and loved ones. We are hope. We
Giving Back and Paying it Forward Giving Back and Paying it Forward Giving Back and Paying it Forward \| TAPS TAPS TAPS relies on the generosity of its supporters to fund the critical resources, programs, and services vital to the healing of those who have lost a military loved one. The TAPS mission is a 24/7 effort, and the TAPS Development Team strives to accomplish two goals: (1) share the TAPS mission of hope and healing, and (2) raise funds necessary to support our military survivors. The COVID-19 pandemic struck in 202
Keeping up with Your Benefits Keeping up with Your Benefits Keeping up with Your Benefits \| TAPS Kathy Moakler Sometimes it can be confusing to keep up with all the changes to survivor benefits. TAPS is here to keep you informed of new changes and to assist you with previous benefits. Here is an update on what’s new. New FEDVIP program for Dental and Vision Care Do you use the TRICARE Retiree Dental Program? This program will end on December 31, 2018 and be replaced by the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance
Video: Team TAPS 20th Anniversary Celebration Video: Team TAPS 20th Anniversary Celebration Video: Team TAPS 20th Anniversary Celebration \| TAPS TAPS Media For 20 years, Team TAPS has honored our heroes and raised awareness of the TAPS mission. Join us through December 31 as we celebrate this milestone with a virtual movement. You can participate in an organized virtual race, run or walk 20 miles in observance of the 20th anniversary - bike, swim, or dance your own distance. Join in the FUN-raising and make a difference. Learn more at ww
Loss, Grief, and Manliness Loss, Grief, and Manliness Loss, Grief, and Manliness Brian Burnham What Every Man Should Know About Losing a Loved One To view Article, please visit The Art of Manliness Web Blog, Loss, Grief, and Manliness: What Every Man Should Know about Losing a Loved One. By Brian Burnham: Brian Burnham holds a Masters of Education in Counseling from the College of William and Mary and currently works as a consultant for Military One Source. He also serves as a member of C Company (Medical) 429t
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
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
Photos: Armed Forces Cycling Classic Team TAPS at the Armed Forces Cycling Classic Team TAPS at the Armed Forces Cycling Classic TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (14 photos) cycling, photos, TAPS Headquarters Flickr Album Event Photos: Team TAPS participated June 3 at the Armed Forces Cycling Classic to raise money and awareness for TAPS.
Photos: Armed Forces Cycling Classic Team TAPS at the Armed Forces Cycling Classic Team TAPS at the Armed Forces Cycling Classic TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (36 photos) cycling, photos, TAPS Headquarters Flickr Album Event Photos: Team TAPS participated June 4 and 5 at the Armed Forces Cycling Classic to raise money and awareness for TAPS.
Photos: Armed Forces Cycling Classic Team TAPS at the Armed Forces Cycling Classic Team TAPS at the Armed Forces Cycling Classic TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (123 photos) cycling, photos, TAPS Headquarters Flickr Album Event Photos: Team TAPS participated June 5 and 6 at the Armed Forces Cycling Classic to raise money and awareness for TAPS.
TAPS Joins Letter to Candidates on Honoring Families of the Fallen TAPS Joins Letter to Candidates on Honoring Families of the Fallen TAPS Joins Letter to Candidates on Honoring Families of the Fallen TAPS (Updated August 2, 2016) To the military and veterans communities, nothing is more sacred or honored than the families of those who are grieving the death of their fallen military hero, a member of our armed forces who has died while serving their country. More than a hundred years ago, the President of the United States wrote reverently to a grieving m
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
Anniversary Blues Anniversary Blues Anniversary Blues \| TAPS Betsy Beard Handling the most dreaded day of the year The date is engraved on my heart. The awful day he died. Every year that date comes around again on the calendar, and for lack of anything better, we call it the anniversary of his death. It seems so wrong; anniversaries should be for celebrating a joyous occasion, not for acknowledging a death. But in the six and a half years since Brad’s death, we have never come up with an acceptable alternate
teams4taps 2022 Replay teams4taps 2022 Replay teams4taps 2022 Replay \| TAPS TAPS Thanks to the generosity and hospitality of sports organizations across the country and the United Kingdom, TAPS helped surviving families honor their heroes and make incredible memories alongside their favorite athletes and teams. Take a look at some of our favorite teams4taps moments from 2022. The San Francisco 49ers created a special experience for a TAPS family at their November 13 Salute to Service game, which included
Helping Surviving Families Achieve Their Post-Secondary Goals Helping Surviving Families Achieve Their Post-Secondary Goals Helping Surviving Families Achieve Their Post-Secondary Goals \| TAPS TAPS When considering post-secondary education, begin with the end in mind and know where you would like to be in the future. It is okay to start right where you are, recognizing that every survivor is at a different point in their school search process. Take one step at a time to be closer to where you would like to be. Remember to cast a wide net when starting y
Vice President and Dr. Jill Biden Surprise our TAPS Children at Camp Pendleton Camp Out Vice President and Dr. Jill Biden Surprise our TAPS Children at Camp Pendleton Camp Out Vice President and Dr. Jill Biden Surprise our TAPS Children at Camp Pendleton Camp Out TAPS Wow! What a week for our children who attended the TAPS/USO Good Grief Camp Out in Southern California sponsored in part by generous grants from Northrup Grumman! They were greeted to a surprise visit by the Vice President and Dr. Jill Biden. Each child had the opportunity to personally meet the Vice President and
Out of Tragedy Out of Tragedy Out of Tragedy Bonnie Carroll TAPS Created to Help Military Survivors Cope Almost 2000 service members make the ultimate sacrifice each year. Many die in sudden, violent, and often well-publicized events. And while conventional wisdom dictates that the newly bereaved not make any quick, dramatic, permanent decisions in the first year, the military survivor must face moving from base housing, and the men and women who lose a fellow servicemember must continue to fly, fight, and
Letters from TAPS: From the Volunteer Coordinator Letters from TAPS: From the Volunteer Coordinator Letters from TAPS: From the Volunteer Coordinator Jerome Tennille Dear TAPS Family, Nearly twenty-eight years ago in 1985, the General Assembly of the United Nations designated December 5 of every year as International Volunteer Day. It is an annual celebration of all that is achieved by volunteers around the world. As we observe that special day and enter the season of winter holidays, with their emphasis on light and warmth and giving, I
Resource Center, TAPS Top Picks for Scholarships Resource Center, TAPS Top Picks for Scholarships Resource Center, TAPS Top Picks for Scholarships TAPS Now that school is back in session, it’s a good time to start planning for your future at college, whether you are a high school senior, surviving spouse, or young adult whose parent has died in military service. When applying for educational and financial resources, the large range of differing requirements and eligibilities can make the scholarship search a grueling process. Here at T
Grasping the Magnitude of the Sacrifice Grasping the Magnitude of the Sacrifice Grasping the Magnitude of the Sacrifice \| TAPS Angel Munoz My name is Angel Munoz. I am a veteran of the United States Army, and this is my family's story. Along with having the distinct honor of calling myself a veteran, I can also call myself a proud sister of three brothers who also served in the military, and they all served in this war with Iraq. The youngest of the brothers both served in Iraq as Marines and the oldest of the boys, Army Spc. Rober
Losing Todd, A Mother's Journey Losing Todd, A Mother's Journey Losing Todd, A Mother's Journey \| TAPS Jeanne Weaver The Gift at the Water's Edge Three days after our son First Lieutenant Todd Weaver was killed, I walked the beach near our home, not knowing whether I had the physical strength to keep my legs moving or whether I would collapse onto the sand. I walked, searching for peace in my heart and some degree of comfort or understanding. I thought, “Who can I turn to? Where do I turn?” That day, I reached the jett
Healing Stories Transcend Cultural Boundaries Healing Stories Transcend Cultural Boundaries Healing Stories Transcend Cultural Boundaries Bevin Landrum Not every TAPS survivor is able to attend one of our healing events. Family or health constraints may leave us feeling isolated and alone in our grief. For our families, their TAPS Survivor Care Team contact, our community-based care connections and the TAPS Magazine may be the only regular supports they have. When you add on a parallel cultural grief experience it can feel overwhelming.
Saturday Morning Message: Life Changes Saturday Morning Message: Life Changes Saturday Morning Message: Life Changes \| TAPS Carol Lane Good morning, The picture this week is of TAPS volunteers working on sending out information to survivors. I thought it would be a good picture since so many of the responders talked about volunteer work they are doing. As for me, joining the TAPS organization as a Peer Mentor was a turning point. From there, the idea of starting the weekly Saturday Morning Message came. When I started working pa
What Eligible Military Survivors Need to Know About the TRICARE Changes What Eligible Military Survivors Need to Know About the TRICARE Changes What Eligible Military Survivors Need to Know About the TRICARE Changes \| TAPS TAPS Updated Jan. 3, 2018 Surviving spouses and children eligible for TRICARE can expect to see stories of changes to the military’s health care system in the coming months, as mandated by the 2017 National Defense Authorization Act. The current TRICARE Standard and TRICARE Extra plans will be merged into a single plan, called TRICARE Select.
Video: TAPS Policy & Legislative Advocacy Update Video: TAPS Policy & Legislative Advocacy Update TAPS Policy & Legislative Advocacy Update Webinar \| TAPS Institute Candace Wheeler Ashlynne Haycock-Lohmann Learn how the TAPS policy team is advocating for you on Capitol Hill on a variety of issues from remarriage to toxic exposure. This is your opportunity to learn about how TAPS is fighting for surviving families, and for our Policy and Legislative team to hear what issues matter most to YOU! This webinar is presented by the TAPS Institute
Video: TAPS Policy and Legislative Update Video: TAPS Policy and Legislative Update TAPS Policy and Legislative Update Webinar \| TAPS Institute Candace Wheeler Ashlynne Haycock-Lohmann Learn how the TAPS Government and Legislative Affairs team is advocating for ALL Survivors on Capitol Hill on a variety of issues from remarriage and increasing Dependency and Indemnity Compensation to healthcare and mental healthcare improvements for surviving families. This is your opportunity to learn more about how TAPS is fighting for surviving f
Saturday Morning Message: Summer Memories Saturday Morning Message: Summer Memories Saturday Morning Message: Summer Memories \| TAPS Carol Lane Good morning, The replies sent in response to the question about summer memories this week were wonderful. When I read them, I got a picture in my mind of the places described. One survivor, Debby RM, spouse of Tom, sent a picture of Lake Tahoe to go along with one of her memories. I thought it would make a good opening for this week’s message. Debby wrote, “Lake Tahoe is where Tom and I we
Moments Captured Forever: Behind the Lens for TAPS Moments Captured Forever: Behind the Lens for TAPS Moments Captured Forever: Behind the Lens for TAPS Paige Williams Lenzy Ruffin has been a volunteer with TAPS since the 2016 National Military Survivor Seminar. He took amazing photos during the weekend event to capture the meaning and connection of the TAPS family. Since then, he also covered the Army Ten-Miler in October for Team TAPS. Before becoming a professional photographer, Lenzy served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Army. TAPS is so gra
Following in Dad’s Footsteps Following in Dad’s Footsteps Following in Dad’s Footsteps Kelly McHugh-Stewart The last mile was the most painful, physically and mentally. I tried to keep from dwelling too much on my dad for the first 24 miles of the race in fear I’d break down too early and lose the energy I needed to finish my first marathon. But once my blistered body hit the 25-mile marker, I let the tears and the memories flow. My salty tears mixed with my sweat and were quickly washed away in the steady downpour of r
Runners Around the World Raise Support for TAPS Runners Around the World Raise Support for TAPS Runners Around the World Raise Support for TAPS TAPS From Disney, to Vegas, to Alaska, Team TAPS pounded out over 15,000 miles to honor our fallen heroes and raise money and awareness for our TAPS families. It was a year of historic firsts with Team TAPS members participating in the New York City Marathon, Ragnar Relays and an Ironman. We also joined forces with an outstanding group of female high school softball players in Utah and expanded our
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
Video: Using Your Voice for Change Video: Using Your Voice For Change Use Your Voice For Change Webinar \| TAPS Institute TAPS Institute For Hope & Healing Learn how the TAPS policy team is advocating for you on Capitol Hill on a variety of issues from remarriage to toxic exposure. You will also learn how to advocate for yourself and your family. How to find and contact your Members of Congress. How to share your story in a productive way to create change. Your voice matters. YOU can and will make a difference! This webinar is
Discover a New Sense of Meaning and Purpose by Becoming a TAPS Peer Mentor Discover a New Sense of Meaning and Purpose by Becoming a TAPS Peer Mentor Discover a New Sense of Meaning and Purpose by Becoming a TAPS Peer Mentor \| TAPS Michelle Knuppe Peer Mentors are the foundation of the TAPS mission to provide compassionate care to all those grieving the death of a military loved one. Mentors offer support in ways that only someone who has walked the unique path of military loss can provide. Survivors often express gratitude for the support they received from a me
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
5 Ways to Create Memories with Your Loved One Who Died 5 Ways to Create Memories with Your Loved One Who Died 5 Ways to Create Memories with Your Loved One Who Died Allicia Johnson One of the most painful parts of grief is facing a string of tomorrows without your loved one. Whether you lost the love of your life last month or were in utero when your dad was killed, your older brother lost his battle with depression or post-traumatic stress three years ago or your mother slipped quietly away while in hospice care, the past is all you have with th
PGA Tour Superstore Brings TAPS Families Together PGA Tour Superstore Brings TAPS Families Together PGA Tour Superstore Brings TAPS Families Together \| TAPS TAPS Survivors Share Past and Present Memories at Special Golf Experiences In honor of Military Appreciation Month, teams4taps and the PGA TOUR Superstore joined forces to create events for survivors to honor their military loved ones through their favorite sport— golf! Survivors attended a wide range of events all across the country, where they attended PGA tournaments, got fit for new
The Honorable Celestial Discharge The Honorable Celestial Discharge The Honorable Celestial Discharge Colleen Betlach New terminology to bring comfort and hope As the holiday season approaches and our thoughts turn to holiday music, miracles, lights, and angelic hosts, I am reminded of a Thanksgiving night that I experienced many years ago while working at a VA Medical Center (VAMC). It was then that I first heard of an Honorable Celestial Discharge. I began my work at a VAMC shortly after my own Honorable Medical Dischar
Finding Strength Together, on the Trail Finding Strength Together, on the Trail Finding Strength Together, on the Trail \| TAPS Rachel Hunsell The Grand Canyon has a way of changing you. You push through extreme difficulty, foster a community through a common bond, and learn that you are stronger than you believed and capable of doing whatever you set your mind to. On our TAPS Expeditions we truly remember the love, celebrate the life, and share the journey. The small group of survivors who recently trekked nearly 50 miles in
Saturday Mornings Brightened by Sharing Memories Saturday Mornings Brightened by Sharing Memories Saturday Mornings Brightened by Sharing Memories \| TAPS TAPS “Oh, thank you Carol! That means so much. I love writing and it has helped immensely in this grieving process. I love having this outlet to share about my life with Preston, it’s very healing! So thank you guys for allowing me.” Carol Lane, TAPS Online Community and surviving mother of Marine Sergeant Bryon E. Lane That’s what one survivor said about the Saturday Morning Mes
Spotlight on Service: John Rhoten Spotlight on Service: John Rhoten Spotlight on Service: John Rhoten TAPS Volunteer (noun): 1.a person who chooses to join the military; 2. a person who does work without getting paid to do it. Although these two definitions from Merriam-Webster may not define every TAPS volunteer, they certainly define 2nd Lieutenant John Rhoten, as he serves our nation’s Armed Forces and TAPS. John, a native of Stafford, Virginia, enlisted in the U.S. Army in October of 2002. Since that time, he h
The Stars Align for Stars4TAPS: TAPS’ Network of Support at Paramount and CBS The Stars Align for Stars4TAPS: TAPS’ Network of Support at Paramount and CBS TAPS Staff Everyone at TAPS carries a story — one of love, and of loss — that lives on each time we share it, each time we say their names. In the ongoing Stars4TAPS story, 2025 will forever be a stand-out chapter, one that came together during a heartfelt TAPS cameo on the NCIS holiday episode, “Heaven and Nature,” which aired on Dec. 16, 2025. But, like most memories and midseason finales, though, the story goes
Spotlight on Service: Shaun Smithson Spotlight on Service: Shaun Smithson Spotlight on Service: Shaun Smithson TAPS “Freedom certainly is not free,” said Shaun Smithson, a longtime TAPS volunteer. “TAPS families know this better than anyone.”Years ago, when Shaun was serving in the U.S. Air Force, his appreciation for surviving families led him to join the team of TAPS volunteers. He joined the Air Force in 1998 after graduating early from high school and his first assignment was to the prestigious Air Force Honor Guard at Joint
Traumatic Grief in Military Children Traumatic Grief in Military Children Traumatic Grief in Military Children TAPS Traumatic Grief in Military Children: Information for Families To read the complete article, visit www.NCTSN.org and click on Military Children & Families. National Child Traumatic Stress Network. (2008). Traumatic Grief in Military Children: Information for Families. Los Angeles, CA & Durham, NC: National Center for Child Traumatic Stress. By the National Child Traumatic Stress Network military child
Saturday Morning Message: Places That Touch Our Hearts Saturday Morning Message: Places That Touch Our Hearts Saturday Morning Message: Places That Touch Our Hearts \| TAPS Carol Lane Good Morning, With the winter touching many parts of our nation, I thought a picture of a sunrise over a calm lake would be good start for today’s Saturday Morning Message. Once again there are many different responses to the question about places that pull at our heartstrings. This week I am going to add one of my own. For me, the most difficult place is the ch
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
Team TAPS Runners Participate in the TCS New York City Marathon Team TAPS Runners Participate in the TCS New York City Marathon eam TAPS Runners Participate in the TCS New York City Marathon TAPS Kelly McHugh Stewart is running the TCS New York City Marathon this weekend to honor the life and legacy of her father, LTC John McHugh. He was a marathoner, but never had the opportunity to run the New York City race. Kelly has been training for months to run with Team TAPS and is near her fundraising goal of $3,000 to help raise awareness and money for famili
Run and Remember: 2011 Team Long Gray Line Run and Remember: 2011 Team Long Gray Line Run and Remember: 2011 Team Long Gray Line TAPS “Running for TAPS was a tremendously rewarding experience for me. The chance to honor Captain Doug DiCenzo and his surviving family was an incredible privilege and responsibility. I was so inspired by what I experienced being a part of TAPS that I knew after I crossed the finish line I would have to do everything I could to expand Team Long Gray Line for 2011.” ~ Taylor Mosera, West Point cadet and Team
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
Postvention and Posttraumatic Growth Postvention and Posttraumatic Growth Postvention and Posttraumatic Growth \| TAPS Carla Stumpf Patton Setting the Standard in Care following Suicide Loss TAPS has been caring for all those who have experienced the death of a military loved one since its inception in 1994, where outreach to survivors was established to offer support and resources to all, regardless of their relationship to the deceased or the manner of death. Always striving to enhance and expand services to meet the needs of
Honoring Soldier's Legacy Drives Team TAPS Runner Honoring Soldier's Legacy Drives Team TAPS Runner Honoring Soldier's Legacy Drives Team TAPS Runner TAPS From the moment Cindy Grier heard about Team TAPS and the mission of TAPS, she knew she had to get involved. A couple of years ago, Cindy came across Team TAPS at the Disney Princess Half Marathon expo. “I just started crying,” Cindy said about learning about Team TAPS for the first time. "I was like ‘this is what I need to do." Cindy is no stranger to military life; her grandfathers were
Oshkosh Defense Honors Fallen Heroes with Team TAPS at Army Ten-Miler Oshkosh Defense Honors Fallen Heroes at Army Ten-Miler Oshkosh Defense Honors Fallen Heroes at Army Ten-Miler TAPS On October 9, a team of 10 athletes from Oshkosh Defense ran with Team TAPS at the 32nd Annual Army Ten-Miler race in Washington D.C. The Oshkosh team each were paired with a fallen hero and wore an honor race bib with the soldier's name and photo. The team ran in memory of their hero as a tribute to their family and as a way to remind others of the sacrifices our service members
Colorado Celebrity Classic 2014 Colorado Celebrity Classic 2014 Colorado Celebrity Classic 2014 Christine Burtt A Successful Formula Toward Healing A wonderful healing occurs when people gather to celebrate life. It’s a soothing balm for survivors to feel respect for their lost loved ones, and it’s an opportunity for neighbors to show their gratitude for the profound sacrifices made on their behalf. Lynne and Bo Cottrell, directors of the Colorado Celebrity Classic to benefit TAPS, have found a successful formula toward
Saturday Morning Message: Sharing Book Thoughts Saturday Morning Message: Sharing Book Thoughts Saturday Morning Message: Sharing Book Thoughts \| TAPS Carol Lane Good Morning, The topic this week came from reading the article in the latest TAPS Magazine and on the TAPS blog about five books written by survivors. This got me thinking about writing a book to honor our loved ones and that became the subject for this week’s message. Some of the contributions are about books that have already been written or how the love of books was shared, w
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
Saturday Morning Message: Support from Loved Ones Saturday Morning Message: Support from Loved Ones Saturday Morning Message: Support from Loved One Carol Lane Good Morning, The picture today comes from the TAPS Magazine archives. Although our loved one's friends don't just include battle buddies, the article "Team TAPS: Battle Buddies" shares how some have honored their fallen comrades. Today's replies include many different ways our loved one's friends have helped survivors. Would you like to share a question or read how other survivo
Best-Practice Suicide Postvention Model Provides Roadmap for Growth Best-Practice Suicide Postvention Model Provides Roadmap for Growth Best-Practice Suicide Postvention Model Provides Roadmap for Growth \| TAPS TAPS The TAPS Suicide Prevention and Postvention Program placed increased focus on its best-practice TAPS Suicide Postvention Model in 2019, building the 11th annual National Military Suicide Survivor Seminar around the three-phase model so that survivors in attendance could see a clearer path to their post-traumatic growth and defining themselves as m
Video: Memorial Day and Every Day - Love Lives On Video: Memorial Day and Every Day - Love Lives On Video: Memorial Day and Every Day - Love Lives On \| TAPS TAPS Media View our tribute to all those who have served, for all those whose names now reside in stone - you are forever in our hearts and we remember you. Visit us at taps.org/loveliveson Select image below to play. memorial day tribute, love lives on music, taps survivors, military fallen View our tribute to all those who have served, for all those whose names now reside in
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
Video: TAPS Military Mentor of the Year Award Video: TAPS Military Mentor of the Year Award TAPS Military Mentor of the Year Award \| TAPS News TAPS Media This year's award was presented at the TAPS Honor Guard Gala in Washington D.C. on April 27, 2022 to Technical Sergeant Clynton Trewyn, United States Air Force. Listen to his acceptance speech. Visit TAPS Military Mentor of the Year page to learn more about this award. Visit Volunteer as a Legacy or Military Mentor page for more information on mentoring surviving children with TAPS. S
Video: TAPS Senator Ted Stevens Leadership Award Video: TAPS Senator Ted Stevens Leadership Award TAPS Senator Ted Stevens Leadership Award \| TAPS News TAPS Media This year's award was presented at the TAPS Honor Guard Gala in Washington D.C. on April 27, 2022 to Matt Daud, Surviving father of Corporal Christopher Daud, United States Marine Corps. Listen to his acceptance speech. Visit TAPS Senator Ted Stevens Leadership Award to learn more about this award. Visit Volunteer with TAPS page for more information on getting involved with TAPS.
An Open Letter to Our TAPS Family During Election 2016 An Open Letter to Our TAPS Family During Election 2016 An Open Letter to Our TAPS Family During Election 2016 TAPS Since 1994, TAPS has worked with leaders at all levels of the military and government to provide the best compassionate care for families of the fallen. We remain to this day a non-lobbying, non-partisan organization working across party lines to ensure quality programs and resources for military survivors regardless of anyone's political affiliations or beliefs. We recognize
What Does 'Recover' Mean? What Does 'Recover' Mean? What Does 'Recover' Mean? Darcie Sims Redefining Our Expectations It’s hot and already I am beginning to pray for the return of winter. The days of summer have grown old and tired and I’m weary of hurting. Grief has followed me forever, or so it seems. When can I release the pain in search of the promise? How long must I hurt? Is grief measured in days, weeks, months, years, or lifetimes? I’m thirsty and I need a drink of hope. Grief has been a tornado, a volca
A Recipe for Holiday Wellness A Recipe for Holiday Wellness A Recipe for Holiday Wellness Nancy Heinrich Holiday traditions are part of a family’s collective memory. What was your favorite holiday tradition growing up? Was it making and decorating cookies with your mother? Singing carols with neighbors? Decorating the house? Holiday traditions are part of a family's collective memory. Traditions define families and communities. Children depend on them like they do the security of their favorite blanket. Traditions gro
Coping with Grief and Trauma and Loss: Home Base Reflections of Gratitude and Growth Coping with Grief and Trauma and Loss: Home Base Reflections of Gratitude and Growth Coping with Grief and Trauma and Loss: Home Base Reflections of Gratitude and Growth \| TAPS Katie Langer Carla Stumpf Patton Introduction by Dr. Carla Stumpf Patton, TAPS Senior Director of Postvention Programs At TAPS, we are privileged to witness the healing that so often comes with connections to our supportive resources, programming, and services. The postvention support offered by TAPS, especially, is
The Spiritual Path to Healing, Part 2 The Spiritual Path to Healing, Part 2 The Spiritual Path to Healing, Part 2 Alan Wolfelt Editor’s Note: The death of a loved one challenges us in many areas including our religious and spiritual beliefs. While spirituality and religious tradition help many who are grieving, TAPS does not endorse any one spiritual belief or religion over another. This magazine may well be in your hands because someone you love has died. I am so very sorry for your loss. You have been “torn apart” and have s
The Power of Sports The Power of Sports The Power of Sports \| TAPS August Cabrera Angela Cabrera Beyond the Final Score August Cabrera, surviving spouse and mother to Max and Roanin Texas A&M is a huge deal in the Cabrera family. Not only did our hero, Dave, graduate from there in 1992, but a sister, brother, and now nephew are all Aggies. Dave and his first wife, Angela, were college sweethearts and now their two kids, Corbin and Gillian, both attend A&M. So when team4taps called to offer our family, our
Online Financial Counseling Online Financial Counseling Online Financial Counseling Fran Hackett To Help Beneficiaries Plan Ahead Eligible beneficiaries in the Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) Program can now take advantage of two new online financial services that can help with financial planning and also provide the ability to create a will. Eligible beneficiaries include those who have received a payment from SGLI, Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI), or Family SGLI (FSGLI). The Department of Veterans A
The Story Behind the Wheel of Aaron’s Car The Story Behind the Wheel of Aaron’s Car The Story Behind the Wheel of Aaron’s Car \| TAPS Jim Gennock My son, SPC Aaron J. Rathmann, U.S. Army 82nd Airborne, was stationed at Fort Liberty, North Carolina when he was taken from us in a motorcycle accident. Aaron had video-chatted me the day of his passing from a local car show to show me a truck he knew I would love. Moments after hanging up from that chat, Aaron was gone. Aaron grew up watching my friends and me build custom vehicles and h
A Godwink in Denver A Godwink in Denver A Godwink in Denver \| TAPS Robert Bisterfeldt On April 1, 2023, my son, Joseph, had a brain biopsy surgery for his brain tumor, at UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital in Aurora, Colorado. It was a stressful time for my family. Joseph’s last brain biopsy surgery — back in 2013 — came with many post-surgery complications, and we hoped for a better experience this time. My wife, Amy, had just arrived back at the hospital to switch out with me — there was only one perso
Video: The Love Takes Action Series New York Life Video: The Love Takes Action Series New York Life Video: The Love Takes Action Series New York Life \| TAPS New York Life Foundation Terri Jones, Manager for the TAPS Survivor Care Team, shares her story about supporting surviving families who lost their military loved one. When Terri is not supporting and working with her TAPS family, she spends her downtime making masks for others during this COVID-19 crisis. Thank you to New York Life Foundation for their generous support of TAPS throughout
Living Legacies, Meaningful Healing Living Legacies, Meaningful Healing Living Legacies, Meaningful Healing \| TAPS Noriko Stern Dianne Layfield Katie Davis Write it Down By: Kristi Stolzenberg, Editor, TAPS Magazine Karl Porfirio, surviving father of SrA Tre Porfirio, U.S. Air Force, was not a writer by trade when he sat down to write My Daddy’s Heart is Purple, but his dedication to honoring veterans and preserving his son’s memory earned him the title of children’s book author in 2018. While stationed in Afghanistan, Tre
Glasgow Gathering 2013 Glasgow Gathering 2013 Glasgow Gathering 2013 Kellie Hazlett Making Memories Across the Ocean “Remember the Love, Share the Heartache, Honour the Fallen However They Fell” ~ Bereaved Families Support Group Joining hands and hearts across the globe to honor and remember the fallen was the essence of the first ever TAPS/BFSG gathering. The Bereaved Families Support Group (BFSG) is a program of Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families’ Association (SSAFA), a United Kingdom nonprofit organizati
Reaching New Heights with TAPS Reaching New Heights with TAPS Reaching New Heights with TAPS Christina Wilson TAPS College Experience Prepares Surviving Children for the Next Chapter Being a surviving TAPS child doesn’t just mean losing a parent; it means losing someone who was supposed to help guide you through life. When my father died when I was 6 years old, I thought I would miss him the most during big events, like graduation and birthdays. Instead, I’ve found that I notice my dad’s absence most in the smaller
My Unexpected Journey into the Healing Arms of TAPS My Unexpected Journey into the Healing Arms of TAPS My Unexpected Journey into the Healing Arms of TAPS Bridget Singletary-Goodwin TAPS is a community of survivors. Some of us have lost loved ones on the battlefield, others to long-term illness. Some TAPS survivors, like me, have lost someone they loved in tragic accidents. My children and I are somewhat unusual as TAPS survivors, for not only have we suffered through the sudden and untimely death of my husband, we also survived the same c
Small World, Big TAPS Family Small World, Big TAPS Family Small World, Big TAPS Family \| TAPS Jessica Kavanagh It’s funny how life happens. One minute you’re getting a phone call that your husband “didn’t make it,” and eight years later, you’re a widow wife to one of the most amazing humans. The world most certainly crashed down upon me that dreadful day — I’ll never forget it, or the moments that followed, or the spouse that once was (I know my TAPS Family can relate). I felt so lost for what felt like such a long time
Father's Club Father's Club Father's Club Bob Bagosy Four years ago on August 16, 2009 Tommy's friend and hooch mate Cpl. Nick Roush, U.S. Army Special Ops, was killed in action in Afghanistan while serving with a MARSOC Special Operations Team. As I found out later, Nick and Tommy took turns on patrols; he night Nick was killed he had volunteered to take my son's patrol. The vehicle ran over an IED and Nick died. Tommy never mentioned to me what happened, nor did I notice the black bracelet he wore o
Spotlight on Service: SFC Pablo Ruiz III Spotlight on Service: SFC Pablo Ruiz III Spotlight on Service: SFC Pablo Ruiz III TAPS Army soldier of 11 years, husband of 19 years, father of a 19-year-old daughter in college, part-time student pursuing a degree in Management Human Resources…you’d think he’d have no time to volunteer. But that’s where you’d be wrong. Sergeant First Class Pablo Ruiz, III, is a dedicated TAPS volunteer. In the two years he has been volunteering for TAPS, his commitment has surpassed all expectations. As a
A Bittersweet Gift: Finding Comfort in teams4taps A Bittersweet Gift: Finding Comfort in teams4taps A Bittersweet Gift: Finding Comfort in teams4taps \| TAPS Elizabeth Engleman-Hammett U.S. Army Specialist Tyler Brent Hammett It was Super Bowl Sunday, February 2, 2014. My family and I were settled in front of the television watching the game, as we do every Sunday during football season. It wasn’t quite half-time, rather late in the day, so we were a little more than perplexed to hear someone knock on our front door. In th
Memorial Day Memorial Day Memorial Day Michele Hiester Marcum And here we are almost to Memorial Day again. Heavy sigh. Sad heart. This is the 9th one we've "celebrated" since my brother left this earth, and it seems impossible that it's been that long. But I know it's right, because I just counted them out on my fingers! Before I know it, I'll need more than two hands to tick off the quickening years. So much has changed and yet nothing has changed at all. It's a perplexing paradox to be caught bet
Video: 2024 President’s Award for Lifetime Achievement Video: 2024 President’s Award for Lifetime Achievement Video: 2024 President’s Award for Lifetime Achievement \| TAPS TAPS Media On November 13, the 14th Annual Lee Anderson Hiring Our Heroes Awards Gala, presented by Booz Allen Hamilton, celebrated the remarkable achievements of the individuals and organizations whose dedication to the military community has transformed countless lives. Bonnie Carroll, founder of the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), was honored with the Presid
Video: Legacies Live On Video: Legacies Live On Video: Legacies Live On \| TAPS TAPS Media Listen to military survivors who have grown up with TAPS by their side as children. Now adults, they are doing great things in the world as the Living Legacies of America's service and sacrifice. They will be the next generation of TAPS. Visit Legacies Live On, Honoring 30 Years for more inspiring survivor stories of resilience, healing, and transformation. Select image below to play. military survivor, living legacies,
Saturday Morning Message: Continuing Our Loved Ones' Habits Saturday Morning Message: Continuing Our Loved Ones' Habits Continuing Our Loved Ones' Habits \| TAPS Saturday Morning Message Carol Lane Good Morning, In my area of the country, fall is coming. This week’s question, combined with the leaves beginning to change color, made me think of a habit I still do that started with my son, Bryon, playing football in high school. Although I didn’t know much about the sport before he decided to play, I learned the names of many plays and what each player
TAPS at the NFL Pro Bowl TAPS at the NFL Pro Bowl TAPS at the NFL Pro Bowl Christina Romero At this year’s NFL Pro Bowl, twenty families, including my children and myself were treated by teams4taps to a once in a lifetime experience. Initially, I was excited yet anxious. My children (Liam and Gracie) and I had only attended one other TAPS event. The seminar and Good Grief Camp had been so positive for us and I hoped this event would be as well. From the moment we landed in Orlando, TAPS military mentors and staff e
Saturday Morning Message: A Sense of Accomplishment Saturday Morning Message: A Sense of Accomplishment Saturday Morning Message: A Sense of Accomplishment Carol Lane Good Morning, The picture this week is from Ginny, mother of Patrick. You will read about what she is doing later in the message. Since there were so many wonderful replies this week, I will keep my comments short. One thing that gives me a sense of accomplishment each week is seeing the Saturday Morning Message come to my mailbox. Then, I know you have all received it, too.
TAPS Family American Flag Book TAPS Family American Flag Book TAPS Family American Flag Book TAPS American Flags for Gold Star Families The Families of America’s Fallen Heroes have a special relationship with the American flag. Their loved ones raised their right hand standing before it and pledged to protect it with their life and defend the nation it represents. Their heroes wore the American flag on their uniform and stood at attention each day to honor it. When they made the ultimate sacrifice, they were laid to rest
Video: TAPS Launches Grief Resources for the American Public Video: TAPS President and founder Bonnie Carroll unveils new resources for the American Public on CNN Video: TAPS Launches Grief Resources for the American Public \| TAPS CNN TAPS President and founder Bonnie Carroll speaks with CNN's Brianna Keilar to announce the launch of a new resource page to assist the American public in the wake of COVID-19. Visit at taps.org/covid/together. Select image below to play. bereaved, first responders, health care workers, coronavirus grief TAPS Pre
How I learned to manage ambush moments by replotting my grief journey How I learned to manage 'ambush moments' by replotting my grief journey How I learned to manage “ambush moments” by replotting my grief journey \| TAPS Terri Jones September is National Suicide Prevention Month. This article is the third of five stories by TAPS suicide loss survivors who wish to share lessons learned from their grief journeys. We invite you to share this story using the hashtag #SurvivorSunday. If you know or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please call
Spotlight on Service: Nicki Bunting Spotlight on Service: Nicki Bunting Spotlight on Service: Nicki Bunting TAPS Nicki Bunting may be a busy single mom to two active little boys, but she also cares about helping others and wants to give back to the community. When TAPS Magazine caught up with Nicki by phone in December, she was busy getting holiday gift cards ready to mail to military widows who were struggling. “I know that when I was in my worst of times, I needed a lot of support. To be able to support others when they ar
Turning Devastation into Hope Turning Devastation into Hope Turning Devastation into Hope \| TAPS Carolyn Colley My brother, Army Pfc. Stephen E. Colley, was my best friend. He was smart, caring and funny. He had a huge heart – he greeted everyone with a hug and never left a conversation without a smile. I loved and admired him in so many ways. When he returned from a deployment to Iraq, he was different, and while we could tell he was suffering, we did not know just how bad it was or what we needed to do. Ultimately, the
Purple Up! For Military Kids and TAPS Legacy Mentors Purple Up! For Military Kids and TAPS Legacy Mentors Purple Up! For Military Kids and TAPS Legacy Mentors \| TAPS TAPS Purple Up! Day is a special observance during each April’s Month of the Military Child, where the public is asked to wear purple to show their support for the service and sacrifices made by our nation’s military children. At TAPS, we support all those children who are grieving a military loss and honor their sacrifices each and every day. Our Legacy Mentors, surviving childr
Join Team TAPS and help Carry the Load Join Team TAPS and help Carry the Load Join Team TAPS and help Carry the Load \| TAPS TAPS For many years Team TAPS and survivors across the country have participated in Carry the Load, a national relay to bring Americans together in honoring our nation’s heroes. What originally started as a Memorial Day event has grown into “Memorial May” — a month-long series of activities that kicks off today through Memorial Day, May 25, 2020. This year, we’re participating as an official no
5 Ways TAPS Peer Mentors Can Support New Survivors 5 Ways TAPS Peer Mentors Can Support New Survivors 5 Ways TAPS Peer Mentors Can Support New Survivors Allicia Johnson No one can fully understand the grief journey in the way a fellow survivor can. Experienced survivors understand the power of peer support; they know the hopefulness of looking to another who has traveled this path and seeing that person surviving and thriving. Having someone who can relate without judgment, someone who can validate that the emotions you are experiencing are O
NFL Salute to Service Honors Fallen Heroes and Their Families NFL Salute to Service Honors Fallen Heroes and Their Families NFL Salute to Service Honors Fallen Heroes and Their Families \| TAPS TAPS More than 400 family members who lost loved ones during their service to the nation attended Salute to Service activities at National Football League (NFL) events over the Veterans Day weekend with TAPS, honoring the lives of their fallen heroes and building new family memories together. Over the weekend, our families were honored at Los Angeles Rams, Atlan
Finding Your Inner Warrior Finding Your Inner Warrior Finding Your Inner Warrior Emily Munoz TAPS Launches 2016 Health and Wellness Initiative Visit www.taps.org/innerwarrior or email innerwarrior@taps.org to learn more about how to get involved. The pain of loss may make it difficult to find energy for anything other than half-hearted New Year’s resolutions. Too drained to go through the motions of identifying goals and possibilities, we never quite make it to the point of unwavering belief in what is yet to co
Lessons Learned Lessons Learned Lessons Learned Ashlynne Haycock-Lohmann In 2002 I lost my dad while he was training to deploy to Iraq. I was ten years old. College was the last thing on my mind, and it was not high on my mother's priority list either. It was always something I knew I would do, but not something my mother and I really discussed until the end of my junior year of high school after I had taken multiple AP exams, done expensive ACT prep and testing and was now paying ridiculous amounts of mon
Letters From TAPS: From Survivor Care Team Letters From TAPS: From Survivor Care Team Letters From TAPS: From Survivor Care Team Sheri Beck Dear TAPS Family, As a child, I loved summer. Summer brought the promise of days spent boating on the Mississippi River and late nights playing softball and riding bikes. I never wanted the summer to end. As I grew older, I began to look forward to the arrival of autumn with all the changes it brought. And now I welcome the season with its crisp days and cold nights, autumn leaves turning beautif
A Father and His Marine A Father and His Marine A Father and His Marine Bob Bagosy My name is Bob Bagosy, I've been asked to write a monthly blog for TAPS from a man's point of view if you will! I'm just a Dad not a professional writer so what I write will be from my heart. On Monday May 10, 2010 the day after Mother's Day around 1:00 PM on a clear, blue, spring afternoon on board Camp Lejeune, my son Sgt. Thomas R Bagosy USMC a career Marine age 25, married father of two children completed suicide in front of Go
TAPS Survivor Newsletter August 2023 TAPS Survivor Newsletter August 2023 TAPS Survivor Newsletter August 2023 TAPS Media Illness-loss survivors: Your family at TAPS and supporters, like toxic exposure advocate Jon Stewart, are urging you to apply for retroactive PACT Act benefits by August 14. This is your chance to qualify for benefits backdated to the PACT Act signing on August 10, 2022 — those funds could be significant. It's time to act. Call our 24/7 Helpline at 800-959-TAPS (8277) or visit TAPS PACT Act Resourses for fili
Honoring a Service Member’s Ultimate Sacrifice Honoring a Service Member’s Ultimate Sacrifice Honoring a Service Member’s Ultimate Sacrifice Bonnie Carroll In this post on the New York Times At War blog, TAPS founder Bonnie Carroll discusses the many issues involved in memorializing our fallen military. Many surviving families are hurt when their loved one's service and sacrifice is not memorialized by a government, community or organization because of where or how their loved one died. Carroll writes on the blog: "Our nation honors ea
Volunteers Make the TAPS Mission Possible TAPS Professionals Help Survivors In Darkest Moments TAPS Professionals Help Survivors In Darkest Moments TAPS Our dedicated and hard-working team of volunteers across the nation made it possible for survivors to find hope and healing on their grief journey in 2016. TAPS volunteers were able to give their time to further the TAPS mission, all while having fun. "This was the most fun and most fulfilling volunteer activity I've ever participated in, and volunteering has been a part of my mon