Operation Purple Camp 2010 Published March 13, 2010 By Susan M Pixley, State Youth Coordinator Massachusetts National Guard Wellesley, MA -- The National Military Family Association announced that Camp Marshall was chosen to host their popular Operation Purple summer camp is 4-9 July, 2010. The Association developed this free summer camp program in response to the need for increased support for military children, especially those whose parents are or will be deployed. "Our mission is to empower these military children - our youngest heroes - to develop and maintain healthy and connected relationships, in spite of the current military environment. Kids attending Operation Purple camp will have the opportunity to learn the skills to cope the stress of a deployment and make friends with other kids who are also missing their mom or dad," said Mary Scott, the Association's Chairman of the Board. "The National Military Family Association is excited to work with Camp Marshall on this very worthwhile program." Camp Marshall's camp program gives children a safe, fun, positive and hands on outdoor educational camp experience. The program's goal is to foster an understanding and respect for the natural world around them. The program is a weekly program starting Sunday afternoon and ending Friday afternoon with an awards ceremony. Campers who participate will have the opportunity to develop confidence, independence and foster respect for themselves and the world around them. Each night offers a special evening activity. Evening activities could include a talent show, dance, camp fire; capture the flag and so much more! Campers will live in rustic cabins that sleep 6-12 campers. Shower and bathroom facilities are located near by. All campers will have the option to participate daily in Agriculture, Horsemanship, Conservation and Waterfront programs. This gives all campers a well-rounded experience in Camp Marshall's focus areas of Agriculture, Horsemanship and Conservation. Registration for Operation Purple camp begins March 15, 2010. Applications will only be accepted online. Sign up at www.militaryfamily.org to receive email notices and camp updates. Each camp is "purple" and open to children of service members of any branch of Service, active duty, National Guard or Reserve, as well as children of members of the Commissioned Corps of the Public Health Service and National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration. Camps are free to all participants thanks to support from the Sierra Club and The Sierra Club Foundation. About Camp Marshall 4-H Camp Marshall features 275 unspoiled acres bordering Thompson Pond. For more than 50 years, it has been nestled in the rolling hills of Spencer, Massachusetts. Camp Marshall dedicates itself to providing a positive learning experience for youth. We provide a safe and fun environment with hands-on, outdoor, and agricultural experiences that foster respect, independence, and positive self-esteem. About the National Military Family Association Military families serve our country with pride, honor, and quiet dedication. The National Military Family Association is the leading nonprofit organization committed to strengthening and protecting the families of the men and women currently serving, retired, wounded or fallen. We provide families of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Commissioned Corps of the USPHS and NOAA with information, work to get them the benefits they deserve, and offer programs that improve their lives. Our 40 years of service and accomplishments have made us a trusted resource for military families and the Nation's leaders. To learn more, visit www.MilitaryFamily.org.