From June 25 to 29, 2025, young adults from across the country gathered at Camp OBR for a healing retreat in partnership with the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS). Each came carrying the loss of a parent, sibling, or spouse who served in the military.
Over the course of the week, these campers bonded through culinary therapy, lakeside swims, campfires, ATV rides, and shared stories.They were joined by world champion pitmaster Erica Blaire Roby, who shared cooking lessons and her positive spirit. Led by an air of remembrance and community, they discovered that grief, when held together, becomes just a little bit lighter.
In one of the most powerful moments of the retreat, each young adult created and placed a dog tag in our memorial gazebo, a lasting tribute to the heroes who shaped their lives and whose legacies live on.
We are thankful to TAPS and to all who make Camp OBR possible—our donors, volunteers, and generous sponsor Pit Boss Grills. Their commitment helps create moments of hope, joy, and healing in the wake of deep loss.
At Camp OBR, healing takes many forms.
Some are loud and boisterous out on the lake.
Some are quiet and creative in the kitchen.
All of them matter.
