WASHINGTON D.C., DC — Grief is something many of us will experience in our lifetime and those who’ve lost loved ones while serving their country are working together so nobody has to grieve alone.
In a perfect world, the men and women they’ve lost would be beside them, fishing rods in tow, but instead, they’re bonding with others over their grief.
“I lost my brother in January of 2006. Marine Lance Cpl J. Kyle Price, but I just like to call him Kyle,” Rachel Hunsell said.
“I’m representing my husband Capt. David S. Wilson who was in the U.S. Navy.” Sara Wilson said.
“I’m here to represent my father Major Paul C. Voelke who passed away in Afghanistan in 2012.” Benjamin Voelke said.
The loss that binds them together has given birth to new and lasting relationships.
On Saturday, the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors known as taps, gathered outside along the tidal basin, for a peaceful day of fishing.
Sara said her late husband would want his children to always enjoy the great outdoors. “He died when my children were ages 2 and 6. And because they were so little, we never had a chance to learn about the parks with him, we never learned to fish,” she said.
Before they took to the water, they had a class where they learned the basic techniques of fly fishing. It’s through these moments, Rachel Hunsell said lifelong friendships are formed, and healing prevails. “The most meaningful moments for me is connecting with other survivors outdoors,” Hunsell said.
There’s nothing that can happen to bring their loved ones back, but spending a few hours of the day, learning a lifelong skill and helping another process the grueling loss of a loved one, it’s how they’re honoring those who’ve paid the ultimate sacrifice.
“I’d hope that my dad is proud of me. Everything I do is for him. I love him so much, even though he’s not here with us and I think he’d be proud of me because everything that I do is for him,” Benjamin said.