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Who writes the TAPS memorial?
Most memorial articles we publish are written by a classmate or close friend, usually working in concert with the next of kin. Some are group efforts involving several people who knew the subject at different times during his or her life. Memorials also are written by the next of kin or a close family member.
What about family approval?
It is the responsibility of the memorial writer to get written approval of the article from the next of kin. Without approval, the article cannot be published. A simple signature at the bottom of the draft article will do.
Occasionally, no relatives are found even after the most diligent search. The article writer then must secure approval from the class president.
Who qualifies as the next of kin?
The next of kin are surviving spouses (whether they've remarried or not). If the graduate is divorced or there is no surviving spouse, the next of kin is the graduate's oldest surviving child. If the graduate never married, the parents qualify as the next of kin. If there are no surviving parents, then the next of kin is the oldest surviving sibling. If there are no siblings, the next of kin is the closest surviving relative.
How will I get the information I need?
The Association of Graduates keeps a file on each graduate, known as the Cullum File. Some graduates have regularly updated their files, some have not. Copies of this material can be requested for the purpose of writing the memorial article by calling 800 232-4723, ext. 1623, or e-mail Memorials@aogusma.org.
Other sources are classmates, colleagues, comrades-in-arms, and family members.
What about length?
Articles should be 800-1,000 words, or four double-spaced, typed, or word-processed pages. Every article is subject to editing for length and syntax. If an article is excessively long, it will be returned to the writer. Exceptions are made in the rarest of circumstances (former superintendents and commandants of cadets, chiefs of staff of the Army, etc.).
What about a photo?
Each article is published with a photo. Select a photo that represents how the graduate would prefer to be remembered. If a suitable photo cannot be found, the graduate's Howitzer photo will be used.
Is there a standard format?
A typical memorial article presents the facts of the graduate's life in chronological order. It includes life before West Point, an account of significant achievements and activities as a cadet, assignments and achievements in the military, marriage and children, retirement or separation from the military, important activities in civilian life, anecdotes and quotations, and an impressionistic section quite like a eulogy.
Can I write a memorial for myself?
Writing your own memorial article is a prudent way to help family and classmates accomplish a difficult task while ensuring TAPS readers see the story of your life as you want it told.
What about typefaces?
Because articles are now scanned into our computer, please do not submit articles typed in all capital letters or in flowery typefaces easily misread by the scanner. Sending a PC-compatible disc is appreciated. Articles can be e-mailed, but a hard copy with signed approval from the next of kin also will have to be provided.
How long is it until the article is published?
Articles that are the appropriate length and submitted with approval from the next of kin will be published in the order in which they are received. At this time, it takes about 6-9 months. The next of kin will receive two complimentary copies of the issue in which the article appears.
Can I order extra copies?
Extra copies can be ordered by check or credit card for $5 for the first copy and $3 for each additional copy.
Where do I send the draft article?
(Please include a completed NOK approval form.)
Memorials Editor
Association of Graduates
698 Mills Road
West Point, NY 10996
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