Summer Camp Benning. © National Infantry Museum
Welcome to Summer Camp Benning 2013 ~ A week long adventure into the history of the US Army.
Campers will experience a different period in time each day beginning with the Revolutionary War and concluding with Modern Operations. Along the way we learn the basic principles our great country was founded on and how our service men and women fight to keep us free. Group activities, living history lessons, re-enactments, and interaction with Soldiers both active and retired help us to understand the sacrifices that have been made to keep this country great.
Ages 9-18
New for 2013: The camp is expanding from half-days to full-days to allow more time for activities and to meet the demands of campers and their families. Lunch – included in the price of the camp – will be based on the rations Soldiers received during the time period the campers are studying.
Fees: $200 per camper. A discount of $20 is offered to those who sign up by April 30, 2013. Some scholarships are available.
Location: National Infantry Museum, 1775 Legacy Way, Columbus
To Register: Call the Education Department at 706-685-5814. Registration can be done by phone, at the museum, or online at www.nationalinfantrymuseum.org/special-events.
2013 Camp Sessions
June 10-14 and July 22-26
“Objective: The Last 100 Yards” (Ages 9-15)
Step back in time to experience the U.S. military like never before. Follow the battles from the Civil War to current day engagements in Afghanistan as told through the museum’s signature exhibit, The Last 100 Yards. This camp includes three half-days at Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center, focusing on the importance of water conservation. Campers will walk in the footsteps of Soldiers, participating in reenactments and engaging with veterans about their experiences in the military.
June 17-21
“An Adventure Through Time” (Ages 10-15)
Dive deeper into each major conflict in U.S. military history. From learning about the extensive planning that was involved in each operation during World War II to advanced tactics that help Soldiers today stay safer and faster on the modern battlefield, campers will see first-hand what it takes to secure our freedoms. Mock Vietnam reconnaissance missions will establish the importance of teamwork, leadership, and communication among campers.
June 24-28
“Follow Me!” (Ages 11-15)
Almost every Soldier will pass through Fort Benning for training during their military career. Before it was claimed as the Home of the Infantry, Fort Benning was inhabited by Creek Indians. In this session, learn about the ecology that surrounds us and how the area grew into a local treasure by exploring the museum’s Fort Benning gallery in-depth. Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center will partner with this camp to teach about local edible plants, native animals such as the red-cockaded woodpecker, and topography.
July 8-12
“Leadership Camp” (7th grade students and up)
The Army Values instill eight distinct qualities in a Soldier. In this session, campers will gain a greater understanding of how each characteristic is instrumental to being a great leader. Hands-on exercises will challenge campers to work as a team to make difficult decisions. Strategies and principles from key military leaders will be dissected and applied to daily obstacles. Local veterans will also discuss the meaning of ethics and honor. An off-site service project for a local veteran will be conducted during the camp.
June 3-7
Counselor-in-Training (8th and 9th grade students only)
This course is designed for youth who are interested in becoming camp counselors at the National Infantry Museum. Candidates must have attended at least one Summer Camp Benning session in 2012. Counselors-in-Training will attend staff training and one Summer Camp session of his/her choosing as a camper. CITs must also volunteer to work a minimum of one Summer Camp session in 2013. In addition to expanding leadership skills, CITs will learn communications techniques and productive decision-making processes. (Registration for CIT course is $100.)
