Patriots Gave Warm Welcome To Families Of Fallen Soldiers Visiting Training Camp

Patriots players usually end up signing autographs and taking pictures with fans after training camp practices. Friday’s practice was of great importance for Deatrich Wise Jr. and Joe Cardona as they spent some time with families of fallen soldiers.

Deatrich and Joe have a special place in their hearts for the military. Joe is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and holds a rank of Lieutenant in the U.S. Navy Reserve. Deatrich is connected to our military service men and women through his mom. She was an Army nurse for 22 years. David Andrews, N’Keal Harry and Jarrett Stidham were at the tent after practice.

This year is the third Patriots training camp for the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors organization. Organizations of this kind stand out to Deatrich and make him proud to be part of the Patriots.

“It really is a great feeling to know that I’m on a team that honors people who serve for our country. Definitely, the TAPS organization have lost loved ones to military war and all that goes into it,” Deatrich said. “It’s just a great thing what they do to give back and let them know that we are with them in this time and we’re with them when they lose people. They can come watch us practice, come to our games, etc. We’re here for them, as they’re here for us.”

TAPS is created to help families of fallen soldiers. It offers a lot of benefits, including companionship during grief.

That’s how Jessica Harper got involved in the process.

 “I joined TAPS in 2008 after my sister’s fiancé, Staff Sergeant Michael Hollander, was killed in Iraq in 2007,” she said. “TAPS openly embraced my family.”

Jessica joined TAPS, and now works on the connection between families and the sports and entertainment industry.

“We create opportunities for families to honor their fallen heroes with their favorite sports teams like the Patriots and also those in the entertainment industry. So, we kind of get to bring the joy,” Jessica added.

Melanie Cargilo’s brother, Captain Matthew August, lost his life in Iraq in 2004. He was a big fan of the Patriots, and Melanie enjoys attending Patriots practices.

“I feel like when I’m able to come to these events that he’s with me as well, and I’m carrying on for him,” Melanie said. “I just know how much he would absolutely love it.”