TAPS: Saluting our Fallen Heroes Dinner Concert and Auction

Tears are shed everyday for our brave military members that are no longer with us. While coping with such grief is tremendously difficult, loved ones of those lost should know that they are not alone on this journey.

Since 1994, the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) has provided support services to family members of those who served in the military and died due to diverse causes. This unbelievably remarkable organization of caring individuals has already made a significant impact in the lives of over 50,000 surviving kin, casualty officers and caregivers.

To continue serving the families of America’s fallen military, TAPS relies on the ongoing support of generous sponsors and individual donors. On Friday, June 26th, at Steve Grove’s Ranch at Cherry Creek in Centennial, CO, the organization hosted their uplifting annual event, Saluting our Fallen Heroes Dinner Concert and Auction. This country-western barn party was an exceptional display of patriotism, camaraderie and compassion.

The dinner is part of a series of events known as the Colorado Celebrity Classic, which lead up to a golf tournament at the esteemed and exclusive Eisenhower Golf Club at the US Air Force Academy. The Colorado Celebrity Classic is in its 10th year, and proceeds fund the Colorado Good Grief Camp Out near Fort Carson in August. This camp is specifically designed for children, 6-17 years of age, grieving the loss of a parent or sibling in the Armed Forces. Since 2006, this established fundraising event has raised more than $3 million, thanks to volunteers, celebrities and supporters.

Guests enjoyed delicious comfort food prepared by the Coors Cowboy Club “Chuckwagon Crew.” For eight years, these hospitable cowboys have come from Amarillo, Texas to serve their famous pit-roasted prime rib dinner and divine banana creme pudding. The mouthwatering spread always entices people to come back for seconds and thirds.

The evening’s entertainment included a number of talented artists: WildFire, John Adams and his critically acclaimed John Denver Tribute Band, country singing sensation, Carin Mari, as well as Nashville songwriters, Billy Montana and Frank Myers.

In addition to the unbelievable lineup of talented musical artists, celebrities involved in the Colorado Celebrity Classic included Bubba Gilliam (Blazing Saddles), Billy Van Heusen (Broncos player), Gen. Gene Renuart, USAF (Ret), Mike Rosen (850KOA Radio Talk Show Host), and many other well-known individuals.

To support TAPS, call 303-696-0450 or contact Lynne Cottrell at lcottrell@TAPS.org. Learn more about the organization and upcoming events at www.taps.org.