While the number of support programs and resources the military offers to widows has increased quite a bit since the days of World War II, the method of friends coming together to lend support to someone in need has stayed the same.

And that's something the Tacoma chapter of the Society of Military Widows embraces to help those involved with the group get through tough times.

"Conversation is a cure-all," said Jean Lingg, the chapter's president.

The chapter, comprised of about 37 local widows from all branches of the military, meets once a month at the McChord Field Clubs and Community Center. The meeting is a chance for the women to keep up with what's going on in each other's lives and continue to support each other, while also hearing from different guest speakers.

"Most are beyond the grieving stage but some are still struggling," said Lingg, who joined the chapter a few months after her husband - a WWII veteran - passed away in January 2009.

While most of the chapter's members are in their 70s, Lingg feels they all have something to offer younger widows who may be interested in checking out a meeting.

"We're all comfortable with the military life and the desire to maintain a tie to the military," said Lingg, 78. "Today (young widows) have so much support - their husband's units are very cohesive. I think it's good but they might still need someone to talk to. I feel people need to talk out their problems."

The next meeting is set for Nov. 2, with a social hour from 11 a.m. to noon. Lingg encourages any young widows interested in seeing what it's all about to come and check it out.

"If we can listen and help them, that's what we're there for," she said.