Georgia National Guard members belay for camp children during a 
summer camp for Guard children.

Youth Camp Helps Guard Families

Georgia National Guard family member's children gathered in the north Georgia woods for a four-day camp recently.

It was the first for Georgia as part of the National Guard Bureau's new Youth Program.

"It's designed to help Guard families," said Jawana Latimer, Georgia's Youth Program coordinator. "The Guard not only looks out for Soldiers, but also their spouse and children."

According to Latimer, the camp was the first, but other programs are on the way such as a day care center during the Family Readiness Conference.

During the four-day camp near Dahlonega, children participated in many outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, rock climbing, and team building skills. 

"It was awesome," said Brian Lyon after climbing the wall and overcoming his fear of heights. "I didn't think I could, but I just kept trying."

Not only did the children have fun, but also Guard Soldiers who helped chaperoning them.

"I enjoy it, you're helping family members while their parents are deployed," said Staff Sgt. Clovis McDowell, a Family Readiness sergeant. "I think this camp challenges and entertains them and it also teaches them persistence and communication skills."