Contributions for 2018

“Bethany’s poise, professionalism, and genuine friendliness are a credit to her outstanding character.”

Registration is open for Survivor Seminars, Good Grief Camps and other opportunities for gathering with fellow survivors in the New Year.

As we come to the beginning of 2019, treat yourself well. Brad Stetson shares some activities that might be a help to comfort yourself.

"It’s healing. When I sit there and paint, there is a connection I have to my son. I feel motivated."

What was one gift your loved one gave to the family just by being themselves?

TAPS Togethers and Care Groups are relaxed, casual gatherings that encourage connection in our communities and with each other.

"Count your blessings, for even while experiencing pain and hurt, there are things that make life worth living."

Our TAPS family brings light into the darkness of grief. Join us May 24 to 27, 2019 as we focus on the light of the love we have shared and continue to share.

Grief feels a lot like winter. Winter is cloudy, overcast, and cold. The heavy, gray skies make you want to withdraw.

How do you let others close to you know you still love them while you are grieving?

Event Photos: TAPS families participate in the Snowball Express in Orlando, Florida.

We are so grateful to our friends in the sports and entertainment world for wanting to bring holiday joy to our families.

Thousands of volunteers will participate on Saturday, December 15, to place wreaths on veterans’ graves at over a thousand cemeteries throughout the country.

This video recording of the webinar address how compassion meditation can empower you to become your own best friend and advocate.

The NFL’s Salute to Service is a year-round effort to honor, empower and connect service members, veterans and their families.

If you have lost a relation or buddy during their military service, it’s important to remember that joy doesn’t belong just to families that are still intact.

This video recording of the webinar is designed to help bereaved people understand the dynamics of this unique kind of grief.

If you’re feeling a little bit like Charlie Brown this season, here are some things that might help you feel a little less alone.

If you could give your loved one an ornament today, what would the ornament symbolize?

Volume 24, Issue 4

Event Photos: teams4taps attended the Chicago Bulls Game in Chicago, Illinois.

Event Photos: TAPS families attended the Louisiana State University Men’s Basketball Game in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

This webinar discusses ways to cope and discover blessings and moments of joy amid the challenges of living through special dates without your loved one.

What are your strategies for coping with the December holidays?

“Grieving children need to feel that they are being heard and understood.”

Whether it’s a new calendar year or a new school year, one parent shares lessons learned to make special days without dad less sad.

Event Photos: TAPS participate in fundraiser event. On display was TAPS collection of handmade Lapis Lazuli jewelry.

Finding a mental health professional takes some work. This guide may help.

Listen to a podcast on the impact suicide grief has on three survivors. Discussion hosted by TAPS Dr. Shauna Springer.

Support TAPS. Let families grieving the death of a military loved one know they are not alone and not forgotten.

We are thankful for all the ways TAPS provides comfort and care to our TAPS family. Learn more about TAPS programs.

“I don’t want anyone to ever feel what I felt before, or that they are alone in what they are going through.”

One of my fondest memories was going to my grandmother's house and smelling the roast that had been cooking for hours.

What was your loved one's favorite food for the Thanksgiving holiday? How was it prepared?

Event Photos: teams4taps attended the Detroit Lions Salute to Service.

Event Photos: teams4taps attended the Atlanta Falcons Salute to Service in Atlanta, Georgia.

Twelve years out, Kaitlyn shares a glimpse into the different sides of grief—from sadness to guilt and everything in between.

This webinar discusses how to reverse the harmful effects of grief and stress using evidence based, easy-to-do meditation practices.

Take the time to reflect and feel gratitude for the things like the autumn tree that are different but beautiful in your life.

International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day is on Saturday, November 17, 2018 and is intended to be a day of healing throughout the world.

Event Photos: teams4taps attended the Denver Broncos Salute to Service

“We can never forget because they will never forget,” said Daniel, a former drill sergeant.

Event Photos: teams4taps attended the Oakland Raiders Salute to Service in Oakland, California.

Event Photos: teams4taps attended the San Francisco 49ers Salute to Service

Event Photos: teams4taps attended the Los Angeles Rams Salute to Service in Los Angeles, California.

Has a loved one come to you in a dream? How did it make you feel? What was remarkable about it?

Event Photos: teams4taps attended the Golden State Warriors NBA Refs Game.

Event Photos: teams4taps attended the Chargers Salute to Service Military Practice in Los Angeles, California.

Event Photos: teams4taps attended the Philadelphia 76ers Military Appreciation Game in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

This webinar unveils new and innovative ways to help individuals remember and celebrate the family and friends they never want to forget.

“I may not have picked up my father’s talents as an artist, but I certainly inherited his love for art and I can feel in my soul that at least I have that to enjoy..”

Families who lost loved ones in the Armed Forces came from across the Northeast for the TAPS Regional Seminar on November 2-4, 2018.

A TAPS Peer Mentor and mentee count on each other for love and support.

Event Photos: teams4taps attended the Patriots Salute to Service Military Event in Foxborough, Massachusetts.

Has a loved one come to you in a dream? How did it make you feel? What was remarkable about it?

Event Photos: teams4taps attended the Carolina Panthers Salute to Service Weekend in Charlotte, North Carolina.

If we are willing to listen, these youngest survivors have much to teach their adults about grief and mourning.

“I became a Peer Mentor after receiving so much care and compassion during my early days of grief.” ~ Melinda Kane

Event Photos, Adult and Youth Survivors come together in fellowship at New Brunswick, New Jersey

Event Photos, Team TAPS participate in the Marine Corps Marathon, 10K, and Kids Run

If you were to write a book honoring your loved one’s life, what would be the title and why?

TAPS Military and Legacy Mentors share personal reasons for volunteering to support grieving children and teens.

Surviving mother and daughter to attend the Washington International Horse Show’s 7th Annual Military Night in Washington, D.C.

Surviving families unite to honor loved ones who served in the American and British Armed Forces.

Event Photos: TAPS families attended the National Football League United Kingdom Experience.

TAPS Casework Assistance can help survivor dependents with changes to healthcare and dental benefits.

Event Photos: TAPS women take steps toward transforming their life in Charleston, South Carolina.

What TAPS event, program or other experience has meant the most to you?

Reading stories written by other survivors helps us see into their grief and discover what gives them strength.

Playing November 15 and 19 in select theaters. Visit BandstandBroadway.com to purchase tickets for this unforgettable show.

Event Photos: teams4taps attended the international adaptive multi-sport event, created by Prince Harry, in Sydney, Australia.

People tend to use the two words interchangeably. But there is a crucial distinction.

What is a holiday tradition that you enjoyed with your loved one?

Event Photos: Innisbrook Golf and Spa Resort, Palm Harbor, Florida

Event Photos, Team TAPS participate in the Army Ten Miler

What have you done lately to take care of yourself?

Volume 24, Issue 3

Survivors gain strength and bond together as they push through extreme difficulty during their 4-day, 50 mile trek in the Grand Canyon.

“It’s important for those who have lost a military loved one to suicide to connect with others who are experiencing a similar journey.”

Learning the facts can lead to a deeper, more informed understanding of suicide behavior.

What do you do to celebrate your loved one’s birthday?

Event Photos, Surviving parents focus on hope and healing in beautiful Oahu, Hawaii.

This webinar for professionals discuss techniques to effectively communicate with grieving teens.

This webinar provides practical techniques to will help parents, grandparents, and guardians open the lines of communication with bereaved teens.

"If you notice your buddy seems hopeless, talk to him about it. It’s OK to be direct and ask someone how they’re feeling and if they’re thinking of suicide."

A God wink at TAPS is a moment when you feel your loved one close to you.

The VA is working to resolve technical issues that have resulted in delayed in payments and processing of GI Bill benefits this fall semester.

Event Photos: TAPS families attended the San Francisco Giants Baseball Game in San Francisco, California.

A God wink at TAPS is a moment when you feel your loved one close to you.

This workshop explores the most prominent grief theories from the fields of psychology and thanatology.

Event Photos: TAPS survivors hike the Grand Canyon from the North Rim to the Colorado River.

Event Photos: TAPS male survivors fish and trail ride together in West Yellowstone, Montana.

#BeThere. Learn the warning signs or symptoms that may lead to suicide and the resources available to help.

"We all felt proud to handle our soldiers' possessions with the honor they deserved."

What are your plans for fall activities that will provide you the most comfort?

Event Photos, September 7-9, 2018

What sort of things have others done in order to turn their grief into action?

Event Photos: Young survivors and guardians participate in camp activities together in Bandera, Texas.

Event Photos: Surviving adults participate in high adventure together near Lansing, West Virginia.

Have you saved certain things that belonged to your loved one that have become priceless to you?

Event Photos: TAPS survivors trek ancient trails in the Andes Mountains of Peru August 24 - September 2, 2018.

Event Photos: Surviving teens hike the Appalachian Trail together near Baltimore, Maryland.

Have you saved certain things that belonged to your loved one that have become priceless to you?

Event Photos: Survivors set sail together in fellowship on a cruise to the Caribbean.

Has there been a book, or a line in a book, that has helped you on your grief journey?

“There’s a camp for children who lost a loved one in the military?”

Event Photos: Military survivors attend New England Patriots training camp.

A TAPS Peer Mentor and mentee share their story and connection.

Event Photos: Military survivors attend Atlanta Falcons training camp.

When you are blindsided by a riptide of grief, how do you get yourself through these tough moments?

“As our loved ones would want us to, we can appreciate our past memories while also living in and cherishing the moment.”

Volume 24, Issue 2

Event Photos: Military survivors attend Detroit Lions training camp.

“I knew that I could grow in this strange space of simultaneous grief and gratitude.”

It’s this back-and-forth of grief that provides momentum for the journey.

Survivor education benefits can help families reach their goals.

Event Photos: Young survivors and guardians participate in camp activities together in Bolivar, Tennessee.

A mother honors her son by sharing his favorite dish. Learn how to share your story and recipe with TAPS readers.

Event Photos

Have you watched movies that helped with your grief or inspired an aspect of healing in your grief?

Event Photos, July 27-29, 2018

Event Photos: TAPS survivors kayak the high-altitude lakes of Yellowstone National Park July 26-29, 2018.

Country stars Pam Tillis, Billy Montana, Frank Myers, Jimmy Nichols, and Matt Spicher entertained TAPS supporters at benefit for TAPS on June 16.

At TAPS Good Grief Camp, children affected by suicide are able to find a safe place to ask hard questions, build coping skills, and embrace hope.

Event Photos: TAPS surviving spouses and significant others participate in outdoor activities at Dana Point, California.

"In the midst of grief, it is so important we take the time to care for ourselves."

Event Photos: Young survivors participate in challenging outdoor activities together in Southern California

Event Photos: Military survivors attend GEICO All-Star FanFest in Washington, D.C.

Pictures of our loved ones can bring back happy memories. Survivors share some of their favorites.

Event Photos: TAPS women take steps toward transforming their life in Boone, North Carolina.

Event Photos: TAPS surviving children meet with experts in the areas of higher education in Washington D.C.

Event Photos: TAPS young adult survivors work on Habitat for Humanity project and enjoy outdoor adventures together.

This week survivors proudly share about great destinations in their hometowns to visit.

Event Photos: Survivors attend Washington Nationals Salute to Service event.

Event Photos: Military survivors attend an outdoor adventure in West Yellowstone, Montana.

Event Photos: Survivors attend New York Yankees Field of Dreams event.

Event Photos: Survivors attend Los Angeles Dodgers baseball game.

TAPS Good Grief Camp graduates now mentoring other children participate in a professional development experience in New York City.

TAPS has become an institution in America, a legacy born out of love, built with care, and recognized today as one of the leading military charities.

Survivors share challenges conquered and personal growth experienced after losing a loved one.

Event Photos, June 29-July 1, 2018

TAPS Casework Assistance team is always here to guide you through your benefit questions and put you in touch with the right people.

Patriotism and service to country are some of the many reasons our loved ones joined the military.

Event Photos: National Basketball Association draft.

A mother of two shares five lessons she learned about honoring the past while moving forward into a new future.

Event Photos: TAPS proudly joins with the Broadway musical Bandstand as it prepares for its nationwide film release.

I’m drawn to people who give of themselves so selflessly. It’s an unusual individual who actually moves toward trouble rather than away from it.

Event Photos: Military survivors attend Minnesota Twins baseball games.

Event Photos: TAPS young adult survivors gain radical perspective white water rafting together.

Event Photos: TAPS teen survivors bond together in a variety of challenging outdoor activities at Lake Tahoe.

Friends and family sharing memories of our loved ones can help pierce the grief fog early in a loss.

Event Photos and Story of 2018 Colorado Celebrity Classic by Lisa Perry

Event Photos by Dave Gill Photography of 2018 Colorado Celebrity Classic

Survivors share strategies to the way we can keep ourselves healthy and practice self-care.

Event Photos: TAPS surviving adult children explore Austin together June 6-10, 2018.

Playing June 25 and 28 in select theaters. Visit BandstandBroadway.com to purchase tickets for this unforgettable show.

Event Photos: Military survivors attend Kansas City baseball game.

Survivors share favorite recipes of their loved ones.

Event Photos, May 24-28, 2018

Video of the Memorial Day 2018 TAPS Wreath Laying Ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery

Event Photos: Military survivors attend Detroit Lions practice.

Event Photos: Military survivors attend breakfast with Vice President Mike Pence and Karen Pence in Vail, Colorado.

Event Photos: Military survivors attend Detroit Tigers and Mario Impemba's Salute to Those Who Have Served event.

Event Photos: Military survivors attend Washington Nationals in Game Salute.

Event Photos: Military survivors attend NASCAR Coca Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

Event Photos: Military survivors attend NASCAR Salutes at Coca Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

Event Photos: Military survivors attend NASCAR Xfinity Race at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

Survivors share how they honor and remember their loved ones on memorial day.

Survivors share what they did on Mother’s Day to honor themselves and those who served as mothers as they grew up.

Event Photos: Military survivors attend Philadelphia Union soccer practice and game.

TAPS Vice President Diana Hosford talks with the BBC about representing TAPS at the Royal Wedding at the invitation of The Diana Award.

This workshop presents photography techniques and exercises for exploring and expressing your grief story.

TAPS Vice President Diana Hosford talks with the BBC about representing TAPS at the Royal Wedding at the invitation of The Diana Award.

Pets can be just the comfort we need in those trying times. They remind us to take care of ourselves since they need to eat and they help organize us.

Step away from the stresses of daily life and learn how to grieve as a family with the tools we provide at a TAPS Family campout this summer.

Survivors offer strategies about coping with family members and friends who may have a different way of grieving or have opinions that hurt you deeply.

Event Photos: TAPS surviving spouses and significant others explore Chicago together May 2-6, 2018.

TAPS is welcoming our recent graduates to college with a free education care package.

Through TAPS' Fallen Hero Match, runners are paired with surviving military families to let them know their loved one’s sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Event Photos: Survivors attend Washington Nationals Salute to Service event.

Survivors introduce their loved one by sharing a favorite memory.

TAPS International is a global coalition of military survivor peer-based programs.

When I found out I could run in the Marine Corps Marathon for Team TAPS, I felt like it was my Andrew telling me, "This is your marathon, Mom."

Event Photos: 2018 Care Groups

Event Photos: 2018 TAPS Togethers

When you can’t attend the funeral of a loved one, you may feel left out of the shared experience or isolated as you work through your emotions.

Event Photos: TAPS surviving women focus on the needs of minds, bodies and spirits at an empowerment retreat April 22-27, 2018.

Many survivors find that gardening can help with the healing process after the death of a loved one.

Event Photos: TAPS supporters raise money April 20 at Dancing with Friends Dance Studio in Churchville, Maryland.

Event Photos: As part of the Yuengling's Lagers for Heroes Campaign this May, TAPS staff take a tour of the Brewery.

Embracing a minimalist approach to material items helped clear the clutter from my mind after the deaths of my loved ones.

Diana Hosford, as a partner of The Diana Award, will be a part of the Windsor Castle public gallery May 19 for Prince Harry & Ms. Markle’s wedding.

The Safeway Foundation is funding this initial training series to be held at Veteran Centers in California.

D.G. Yuengling & Son raise a toast to honor our military heroes during the month of May.

Event Photos: Gold Star children participated in a variety of life-enhancing activities in New York City.

Losing a loved one changes how you comfort and support friends after the death of their loved one.

Setting boundaries while grieving is about self-preservation and giving ourselves permission to express our needs.

Event Photos: Military survivors attend Washington Nationals Anthem Buddies event on April 12.

Being seen and heard gave me the hope for a growing, beautiful friendship with each of these broken mamas, aunts, and sisters.

Event Photos: Survivors attend Philadelphia 76ers Basketball Game.

Grief is messy, confusing, painful, and never seems to follow a linear path. This is the time when we need to practice self-compassion.

Event Photos: Survivors attend OKC Thunder Basketball in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Event Photos: TAPS surviving men join together in Daytona.

Grief may affect how we think and behave, our mental and physical health, and other aspects of our lives. It’s important to know when to seek help.

For three years, surviving military parents Andy and Julianne Weiss have been holding the tender hands of those in grief.

Event Photos: Survivors attend NASCAR event at Texas Motor Speedway.

The former commander and co-founder, Craig Wilhelm, shares details on the Windy25 Run and walk held on April 7.

Event Photos: Survivors attend Grunt Style Racing event at Texas Motor Speedway.

Staying busy with activities you enjoy can help you through the dark times of grief.

Making collages can help survivors remember happy moments and create visions of a more hopeful tomorrow.

I knew it was my job as a mother to help my child accept the truth that his dad wasn't coming home, so he was free to move forward.

Event Photos: TAPS survivors gain radical perspective kayaking together April 5-8, 2018.

Event Photos: TAPS surviving parents explore Nashville together April 4-8, 2018.

When it comes to mourning and how others can best help us, there’s no one right way. Identify and ask for the most effective grief support for you.

“What’s your number?” A family shares their unique way of checking in on each other.

This week survivors share a special memory of their loved one with us.

Soldiers and steeds of the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard)’s Caisson Platoon to 'give back' to the community at JBM-HH’s Caisson Stables.

Event Photos: New Jersey Devils salute those who served in Squad21 in Newark, New Jersey.

Event Photos: Survivors attend OKC Thunder Basketball in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Survivors share what helps to lift their spirits when grieving the loss of their loved one.

"Option B: Facing Adversity, Building Resilience, and Finding Joy" explore the complexity of grief and lessons learned through sharing stories and research.

Volume 24, Issue 1

Certain items, such as a favorite blanket or home videos, can be a source of comfort after the death of a loved one.

Former Daily Show host Jon Stewart said there’s “nothing” as "insolating" as the loss of a loved one, but groups like TAPS fill a "void" in America.

Event Photos: TAPS International visit military survivors in the Ukraine in March.

Event Photos: Military survivors attend Minnesota Timberwolves vs Washington Wizards game.

Fulfilling the promise Joanne made to her son gave her the empowerment and courage she needed to companion others through their grief.

The folded flag that many receive after the death of a loved one can have significant meaning in our grief journey.

Event Photos: TAPS presented its 2018 Mentor of the Year Award to Army Captain John Rhoten on March 6 at the Army and Navy Club in Washington.

Highlight Video of the 2018 TAPS Honor Guard Gala, held on March 6 at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C.

TAPS honors our fallen heroes by caring for their living legacies providing resources, compassion and comfort to heal the hearts of all who are grieving.

Event Photos: TAPS supporters join together in supporting the families of our fallen military members.

Today over 75,000 surviving family members are part of the TAPS family. 16 new survivors come to TAPS daily for compassionate care.

TAPS provides comfort and care 24/7 to all those grieving the death of a military loved one, with services available at no cost to surviving families and loved ones.

Families grieving the loss of a military loved one have a new place to go to heal that wound, a sort-of hospital of the heart: TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing.

Event Photos: TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing launched March 5, 2018, providing workshops, seminars, panel discussions for the bereaved.

Grief drastically changes our lives. But not all change that comes out of the loss of a loved is negative.

The National Defense Radio speaks with Bonnie Carroll about the many years TAPS has served those who have lost a loved one serving in the military.

Over 150 active duty Fort Hood Soldiers were paired as mentors one-on-one with a young survivor at the Texas Good Grief Camp February 23-25.

Captain John Rhoten will be recognized on March 6 for his volunteer service on behalf of the surviving children of fallen members of the Armed Forces.

Event Photos: TAPS surviving spouses and significant others participate in challenging adventure in Alaska.

Event Photos: Survivors attend Brooklyn Nets Practice.

Survivors share how they honor and remember their loved ones on angelversaries.

Event Photos: Adult and Youth Survivors come together in fellowship at Fort Hood, Texas

Event Photos

The comments or behavior of others who learn you've suffered the loss of a loved one can stick out in your mind.

Event Photos: Survivors attend NBA All-Star Weekend event.

TAPS will present the 2018 Senator Ted Stevens Leadership Award to Ashlyn McCain at the annual TAPS Honor Guard Gala on March 6.

Executive Mosaic introduces George Krivo as an inductee into the 2018 edition of the Wash100 for his leadership in providing support to the U.S. military.

The TAPS National Military Survivor Seminar in Washington, D.C., offers survivors from across the country a chance to come together and connect.

Event Photos: Launch Party for the 2018 Courage Capitals Campaign with the Washington Capitals, February 10 in Arlington, Virginia.

TAPS seeks volunteers to serve as guest liaisons at the new National Headquarters located in the Clarendon neighborhood of Arlington, Virginia.

Event Photos

A unanimous vote at the U.S. Department of the Interior on February 8 bestowed the unnamed summit near Anchorage, Alaska as "Gold Star Peak."

Karndean DesignFlooring and its partners raised $3300 for TAPS at its 8th annual customer appreciation golf outing held on January 29.

Falcons Andre Roberts awarded for exceptional efforts as a member of the NFL community to honor and support members of the military community.

When you're faced with the loss of more than one family member or friend, you can feel weighed down by grief.

TAPS Red Team Will Join CVN in Reducing Record Number of U.S. Veteran Suicides by Sharing Expertise in Suicide Prevention.

Captain John Rhoten, U.S. Army, will be awarded the TAPS 2018 Military Mentor of the Year at annual TAPS Honor Guard Luncheon on March 6.

When a loved one dies, we go through many shifts — including spiritually — as our life changes direction.

Pittsburgh Steelers Tackle, Alejandro Villanueva joined surviving families of the fallen from TAPS this morning at a special Pro Bowl breakfast.

Over 75 site employees participated in the December luncheon and auction to benefit TAPS.

Event Photos: Surviving military kids and their families come to together at the NFL Pro Bowl in Orlando, Florida.

Finding ways to honor your loved one after their death can help you find healing in your grief.

Your TAPS Family is here if you need to speak to someone with benefit concerns during the government shutdown.

Just a few days after the funeral for my boyfriend, I made four promises to him, which turned into goals and have helped me in my grief.

Mindfulness practice can often seem like just another task on an already too long and daunting to-do list. Here’s how you can incorporate mindfulness into your day.

There are a variety of education benefits and scholarships that military survivors can take advantage of to make college more affordable.

Certain scents, songs, food and sights can trigger special memories of our fallen heroes.

Event Photos: New Jersey Devils salute those who served in Squad21 in Newark, New Jersey.

The holidays can be especially stressful when you're grieving, but the New Year is the perfect time to focus on self-care.

Event Photos: Survivors come together in fellowship on a cruise to Mexico.

I chose to take a chance when I attended a TAPS Empowerment event, and because of that decision, I am a better, stronger version of myself.