VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. –
More than 60 children of Virginia National Guard Soldiers and Airmen enjoyed a week of adventure and activities at the 20th annual Virginia National Guard Youth Camp July 26- Aug. 1, 2025, at the State Military Reservation in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
“We were proud to welcome 61 youth campers, supported by 26 dedicated adult volunteers and 23 exceptional teen volunteers,” said Bre Vaughan, child and youth program coordinator. “Together, this inspiring team created a week full of connection, growth and unforgettable moments.”
This year’s theme was “Your Adventure Starts Here.”
“Throughout the week, campers dove into experiences centered around science, history, technology, art and the National Guard, encouraging them to not only explore the world around them but also to discover more about themselves,” Vaughan said. “As members of National Guard families, they’re learning to take bold steps into new experiences with confidence and curiosity.”
According to Vaughan, some of the most memorable camper highlights included playing flag football with Lee Lee Kiddz, tackling the obstacle course provided by the Virginia National Guard Recruiting and Retention Battalion, participating in a hands-on martial arts instruction, reconnecting with friends from past camps, and relaxing and bonding during beach day.
Personnel from the 29th Infantry Division Band performed for the campers, explained more about being musicians in the Army, and answered questions about their instruments.
Members of the 34th Civil Support Team discussed their work, demonstrated decontamination techniques, and let campers put on protective suits.
Soldiers from Charlie Troop, 2nd Squadron, 183rd Cavalry Regiment offered campers a hands-on opportunity with their vehicles and equipment.
Finally, a crew from the 2nd Battalion, 224th Aviation Regiment landed a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter at the camp, where campers then got to sit in the helicopter and ask questions about its capabilities.
“One of the most powerful moments of the week was the flag retirement ceremony—a deeply moving and patriotic experience,” Vaughan said. “Several service member volunteers had the opportunity to retire the American flag alongside their children, creating a moment of unity and reflection that touched everyone present. We were also honored to have the Adjutant General join us for a special moment with our youth.”
Maj. Gen. James W. Ring, the Adjutant General of Virginia, visited camp on July 31, spoke with campers and volunteers, and recognized two of the volunteers for their outstanding work with the camp.
The camp wouldn’t be possible without the hard work of the volunteers. Year after year, they come from around the state dedicate their time and effort to make the week-long camp happen. The volunteers do everything from chaperoning in the barracks to making sure there is plenty of water to chaperoning the kids around in groups.
Many volunteers have been coming for most of the camp’s history while there are always people volunteering for the first time.
“Our adult volunteers shared how meaningful it was to form new friendships and build lasting memories with other Guard families, many of whom understand the unique challenges of military life,” Vaughan explained. “They also expressed immense pride in how they supported each other and the campers throughout the week.
“Meanwhile, our teen volunteers demonstrated outstanding leadership, flexibility, and teamwork, stepping into every task with enthusiasm and maturity well beyond their years.”
“As always, this camp is a celebration of the strength, unity, and resilience of our National Guard community,” Vaughan said. “We are deeply grateful to everyone who helped make this year a success, and to those who will join us in the years to come. We can’t wait to see what next year brings. Let the adventure continue!”