Sabillasville, MD – During the week of July 25-31, 2010, nine medics and nurses from Ft. Detrick, MD provided medical support for a youth-camp that allows at-risk youth and sons of military personnel to enjoy a free week of camp. The medical personnel from the Medical Company of the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID) helped The American Legion, Western Maryland District at the District’s Camp West-Mar, which is located near Camp David in the Catoctin Mountains. The Camp was founded in 1959 to benefit the at-risk youth of Carroll, Frederick, and Washington Counties. The camp has provided a free camping experience to thousands of young men over the fifty-one years of operation.

These soldiers provided the valuable service of supervising the distribution of prescribed medications to the boys, and performing minor first aid for bumps and scrapes. Russell Myers, the District’s Commander explained, “Without the dedicated service of these nine soldiers, the camp would struggle to accomplish our program.” Mr. Myers also said, “They took a day out of their normal duties, but gave a precious gift to those that needed their assistance. Even though the soldiers were performing a serious duty, they found time to have fun too.”

Throughout the week the soldiers enjoyed participating in the activities with the boys. These events include rifle shooting, swimming, fishing, crafts, wide-area games, and team sports. The boys also toured the Antietam Battlefield and participated in the Jr. Ranger Program at the Catoctin Mountain Park.

Staff Sgt. Jesse Kaplan, who coordinated the week for the medics, said it best when he reminded everyone at the closing campfire that the best way to describe the American Legion’s and the soldiers’ efforts this week is with a core Army value we all share, “selfless-service”! For more information about the Camp contact District Commander Russell Myers at rmyers31@verizon.net.