WASHINGTON (WUSA9) -- The Capitals have a long history with the military. The team doesn't just invite military personnel to games, the organization raise money for families of those men and women who died serving our country.
"Here in D.C. you see the presence of the military and you know the importance of what they do, day in and day out," said Caps defenseman John Carlson.
That relationship with military men and women is part of the reason the Caps sell these Courage caps and t-shirts.
The shirts and hats are in limited edition and they're so popular, they sold out a little more than half in the first two days.
Washington has been selling the military themed gear for four years with 100% of the proceeds going to TAPS, the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors.
The non-profit provides comfort and care for grieving families whose loved ones died while serving in the military.
"Personally, I'd like to say TAPS found me a couple of days after my husband passed away," said Tina Vickery.
Tina and Sgt. Cory Vickery were married for just over a year when he died.
They had a daughter McKenzie.
"He was for one was so fun," said Tina. "He was great with her. He taught her how to walk, how to crawl. He always used to say he would fight in any war so that his family wouldn't have to, and so I think that says a lot about him, in general."
Tina says Cory was a true patriot. He died on November 9, 2013, leaving his wife a single mother.
"I would love for her to know that her dad was still a hero no matter what," said Tina.
Cory did not die in combat, but by his own hand.
"He was still a hero it doesn't matter in the manner that he died. He fought and he sacrificed," said Tina. "It may not have been a physical wound, but mentally I want her to know that he may have been sick."
Tina says hockey provides a respite for families like hers -- time spent having fun instead of grieving.
Caps' John Carlson is glad they can provide that relief.
"It's so sad why they're part of this program, but it's also so nice to see how well they take [to] us and how excited they get and how chit-chatting for a couple of minutes here and there can put a smile on their face," said Carlson.
So when you buy a courage cap or t-shirt, think about the many military families, like Tina's who are learning to live without their loved ones. Your cool cap helps provide grief counseling, camps for kids, a 24-7 helpline and more.
None of that can bring back Sgt. Vickery or raise the spirits of his family, but it can provide intangible support to those he left behind.
