OperationTaps

Thanks Keith, you had me worried when you said you couldn't get into the site. I've already had emails from people who can see some PR opportunities that I never thought about. Especially in your area of South Florida, I can already imagine TV news stories about your new corps. I'll be keeping everyone updated, and I'll certainly post more about the rules. More info to come. Tom Allen www.operationtaps.org

Robbie, If the method of the challenge is unclear, please let me know. The point is for the DCA organizations to drive the process. Bugles Across America is more of a central dispatch for individuals to volunteer. As I mentioned, the process can be an ever changing one. Also, there may be some corps who are already very active in their community and may have ideas to help others. Tom Allen OperationTaps.org

Keith, Did you have trouble getting to the site? www.operationtaps.org

I am pleased to announce the launch of a new web site: www.operationtaps.org The goal of this site is to gather and provide information on the topic of the playing of Taps at military honors funerals, and to encourage drum and bugle corps organizations to proactively drive a process of providing live Taps buglers in their respective communities. At the heart of effort is a challenge to all DCA corps (Competing, Alumni, Mini-Corps, and Brass Ensembles) with a contest that will conclude in conjunction with DCA weekend 2008. Over the past week, I've previewed the site with a panel of highly respected drum corps professionals, including Hall of Famers, Sponsors, Educators, Administrators, and the Founder of Bugles Across America, Tom Day. I have also sought advice and approval from a wide collection of US Military Vets including Vietnam vets and current vets who have served and are scheduled to serve again. It has received an overwhelming "Thumbs Up" from all of the above. Please review the site. The participation of the DCP community is vital to this effort. Over the next few weeks, we may be revising and fine tuning some of the details of the DCA Challenge. Your comments and suggestions are absolutely encouraged, even if it's just a "Thumbs Up." Thank you in advance for your involvement. Tom Allen www.OperationsTaps.org