Every year TAPS brings a heartfelt tribute to our fallen soldiers and, to those left behind – children, spouses, mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews. TAPS was founded by Bonnie Carroll whose late husband, Brig. Gen Tom Carroll, was killed in a National Guard plane crash. Her story is like every one else’s. Left alone with a huge hole in her heart, no one to understand the trauma of losing a beloved soldier. She had to continue to live and in order to save her family she had to create a new life.

After receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2015, she said, “Grief tries to make us smaller, to keep us from moving, to restrict our freedom to believe in what matters. As a TAPS family, we show people that when they think there are no more options, there is hope.”

Saturday night’s benefit remained true to character, defined by good music, enthusiastic supporters, lip-sucking, grilled ribeye’s cooked by Coors Chuckwagon Cowboy Club. The band, Wildfire, played everything from Al Green to God Bless America, enhancing a beautiful tribute to all soldiers defending our freedom. Band leader, Tony David received a Volunteer of the Year award.

The western themed event was held at the Ranch of Cherry Creek. Owner Steve & Marla Grove opened their working ranch to over 400 supporters. The state-of-the-art horse stalls and arena were cleared and clean as a whistle as it welcomed the TAPS families to celebrate the 11th year in true red, white & blue patriotic fashion.

Many of us live our daily lives without realizing the effects of war. But for those who live it hourly, daily, and try to continue life without their loved ones, TAPS is their savior. Since its founding, TAPS has assisted more than 55,000 surviving family members, casualty officers and caregivers. The National Military Survivor Helpline 1-800-959-TAPS (8277) receives an average 955 calls per month. Callers talk to a live person who offers compassion, support and assistance to families of America’s fallen military.

T*A*P*S. 3033 Wilson Boulevard, Suit 630, Arlington, VA 22201. 800-959-TAPS, 202-588-8277, www.taps.org