Marine Corps News, news from Iraq - Marine Corps Times

Quick Links

http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2009/11/military_hood_taps_110509w/
news/2009/11/military_hood_taps_110509w

Tragedy assistance group was at Hood during shootings


By Karen Jowers - Staff writer
Posted : Thursday Nov 5, 2009 18:40:10 EST

About 20 surviving families of prior military losses were about to go on a field trip at Fort Hood when the base was locked down because of the shootings, said Ami Neiberger-Miller, a spokesman for Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors.

TAPS is headquartered in Washington, D.C., but opened a branch office at Fort Hood earlier this year. The national non-profit organization offers support for anyone suffering the loss of a military member.

Neiberger-Miller said the families were still in the office as of 5 p.m. Eastern Time. Although they couldn’t receive phone calls, they were text messaging.

“Obviously with such a sad turn of events, even more families stationed at Fort Hood will need the services TAPS provides,” said Kim Ruocco, TAPS program manager for survivor support.

“We’re here to support the families in the midst of tragedy,” Neiberger-Miller said. “In the coming weeks, months and years we’re here to offer them support.

“It’s hard for our surviving families when an incident happens with a loss of life. They remember that raw feeling of pain when two people come up to your door,” Neiberger-Miller said.

“But there’s also a great deal of empathy and they want to reach out and offer comfort.”



Rodolfo Gonzalez / Austin American-Statesman via AP Army Lt. Gen. Robert Cone gives a news conference after a shooting in Fort Hood, Texas on Nov. 5.

Contests and Promotions

Service Members Of The Year


promo Nominate Someone Today!
Know someone with whom you are proud to serve? Nominate them for a 2010 Military Times Service Members of the Year Award.

FREE AFG or IRQ I Served Sticker


promo Click here so we can send you a FREE AFG or IRQ I Served sticker

Win The Military Times Fitness Package Sweeptakes


promo ENTER TO WIN...
The Fitness Package includes a Bowflex Classic Home Gym, a push-up and pull-up bar and more to keep you fit and active. Click here for more info.

Marketplace

Mil-Mall


Hooah! Button
Created by an active duty soldier, the Hooah! button is a must-have for anyone who wants to spread the Hooah!

Military Discounts


Save on your purchases!
In honor of your military service, you can find regular and name brand products at a special discount.

Shoplocal

  Shop Local
Local Online Deals
Find the best deals at your local stores.