Office News |2 min read

Helping the Families of Fallen Servicemen

Community is important. But what is community? In reference works, it’s defined as a social unit of any size that shares common values. If those values include national pride, compassion for the bereaved, and caring for the welfare of our neighbor, then we agree.

Dr. Stephen Maloney has been a part of the Anchorage community for 38 years now, 20 years as a Anchorage dentist, but he also a member of a much larger community. Dr. Maloney volunteers as a photographer for TAPS.

 

The TAPS Community

Anchorage dentist TAPS support

TAPS stands for Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors which cares for the families of fallen servicemen. The program offers compassionate care to all those grieving the death of a loved one serving in the Armed Forces. TAPS’ programs provide support and care to more than 40,000 military survivors through Survivor Seminars and Good Grief Camps, Quarterly TAPS Magazines, 24-hour phone support, and a network of professional resources.

TAPS began as a group of bereaved military families who lost their loved ones in a military plane crash in Alaska in 1992. Those families found comfort, connection and hope in talking with each other as they rebuilt their lives. After undertaking a two-year study of support services available for bereaved military families, Bonnie Carroll founded TAPS in 1994 and modeled it on best practices found in peer-based support programs. TAPS provides a safe and confidential program that supports people who are grieving.

If you would like to know what you can do to become a part of the TAPS community as a volunteer, or if you are a bereaved family member looking for support you can contact TAPS through their 24-hour phone line: 800-959-TAPS (8277)

Dr. Maloney shows his community support by volunteering as a photographer for various TAPS events throughout the year. Community is important.  Anchorage dentist, Dr. Maloney is proud to be part of both the Anchorage and the TAPS communities.