30 Days of Taps Honors Fallen Heroes | Birmingham News

Every afternoon this September, the Alabama National Cemetery will ring with the live sound of “Taps” — a moving 30-day tribute called 30 Days of Taps, led by Real Taps for Real Heroes. Founded by veteran bugler Matthew Burford, who’s played the solemn call for 26 years, the initiative brings live trumpet performances to honor fallen service members and revive a fading tradition. With fewer than 20 trumpet players in Alabama now capable of playing “Taps” live — down from 60-70 two decades ago — Burford is rallying musicians, even retirees like philosophy professor Travis Coblentz, to step up. For Coblentz, it’s a humbling, deeply meaningful way to give back — proving that honoring heroes doesn’t require uniform or service, just a willing heart and a trumpet. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/2d29c048d4c16d39