23rd Annual National Military Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp

You are warmly invited and encouraged to attend the 23rd Annual TAPS National Military Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp.

Each Memorial Day, our country remembers those who have served and died. As our country reflects on the costs of freedom, we come together to tell the stories of patriots. We name our heroes, celebrate their lives and decide again to live bigger and better on their behalf.

Surrounded by the monuments and memorials of our nation's capital, we are reminded that a grateful nation never forgets. Shored up by the support and loving care of the TAPS family, we are reminded that we are part of that story.

If you are grieving the death of a loved one in the military, whether a family member, friend or fellow service member, you are invited and encouraged to attend the National Military Survivor Seminar. No matter where you are in your grief journey, support and connection await you.

During the days we're together, you will have the opportunity to participate in activities, workshops and small group sharing (or listening!) sessions. Over family-style meals, during question and answer opportunities with national experts, and while participating in special events throughout Washington, D.C., you'll meet and connect with other survivors. 

Good Grief Camp for TAPS Kids

The TAPS Good Grief Camp is a program for children who have lost a loved one who served in the Armed Forces. Good Grief Camp provides a safe space for military children to explore grief and embrace healing. 

Throughout the weekend, children will share and learn coping skills through games, crafts and other activities in a fun and supportive environment. Each child is paired with a military mentor who serves as a “big brother/big sister” and reminds the child that he or she is still a part of the military community.

Children and teens will find comfort in knowing there are other kids their age who understand their loss, develop coping skills they can use once they leave Good Grief Camp and learn how America honors our fallen service members.

Become a Peer Mentor

During the seminar, TAPS will be conducting a peer mentor training for adult military survivors who are at least 18 months beyond their own loss and are ready to be there for others and offer support. We have two four-hour trainings on Thursday, May 25, that you can choose from. You will learn more about grief and trauma, gain basic helping skills and become part of our TAPS Peer Mentor Team.

All those attending the training must first fill out our Peer Mentor application and take our online training course prior to attending classroom training. You can register for the in-person peer mentor training as part of the seminar registration. After you have registered, you will be contacted by a TAPS staff member. Visit our Become a Peer Mentor page or email peermentors@taps.org to learn more.

Media and Sponsorship

If you’re a journalist interested in covering or attending the National Military Survivor Seminar or Good Grief Camp, email media@taps.org. 

Interested in sponsoring part of the National Military Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp? Email sponsor@taps.org.