Operation Purple Camp: Koettel Family Embraces Unique Summer Experience
This summer marked our 21st year of Operation Purple Camp®, and each camp season brings the most amazing stories from military families. From peer connections to exploring nature, we get military kids unplugged from the demands of military life and provide a safe and nurturing environment just to be kids.
Each year, we collect feedback from our campers and families to ensure we continue to provide a dynamic camp experience. This year is no different, and I had the privilege of chatting with Navy veteran Ashley and her three camp kids—Kora, Alyza, and William—who shared their story of being a dual military family and how Operation Purple Camp in Jamestown became the highlight of their summer.
Why Operation Purple Camp?
For Ashley and her husband, Navy sailor Shawn, the decision to send their children to Operation Purple Camp was weighed by both practicality and the desire to meet military kids. Ashley knew two things would be important: budget and whether her kids were ready for a full week of sleepaway camp.
“Summer camps are expensive for our family because we have six kids,” Ashley said. “Operation Purple Camp being free to families like ours is a big help for us, and it is so meaningful to give our kids this kind of summer experience where they are around other kids in similar situations as them…it is extremely beneficial.”
As for Ashley’s second concern, sleepaway camp can be exciting and nerve-wracking for most families. Through our Operation Purple Camp informational sessions held before camp, families quickly learned that it would be their first time at an overnight camp for many kids. Camp counselors, including NMFA’s very own Christy and Becca, shared that while transitioning from day camps to sleepaway can present new challenges, kids quickly prove to us their independence and excitement for all that camp has to offer.
“We are thankful to have had this experience this summer,” exclaimed Ashley.
In agreement with their mom and now one month post-camp—Alyza, William, and Kora still gleamed about the overall experience and were excited to share their top highlights.
A Glimpse Into Camp Life
As we delved into their overall camp experience, I quickly learned about camp routines, bunkmates, favorite camp counselors, and cabin challenges.
Here are a couple of top highlights that made their time at camp so memorable:
- Alyza, age 9, loved making new friends and fondly recalled their nature drawing activity. It wasn’t just about the art but about bonding over a shared experience.
- William, age 12, enjoyed a variety of activities, from air riflery and archery to card games in the cabin. He was particularly proud of mastering new card games and felt a sense of accomplishment that stayed with him.
- Kora, age 7, cherished swimming and playing basketball in the pool. The group activities, especially those involving water games, stood out as highlights for her.
Camp Connections and Memories
The children also shared how being surrounded by other military kids made the experience special. For them, being with peers who truly understood their lives was a rare chance. This connection fostered strong bonds, making activities and group challenges more enjoyable. From friendly competition in sports like football and basketball to quieter moments like playing board games and enjoying nature, the camp offered a well-rounded experience. They appreciated the chance to try new activities and share laughs with counselors, who added to the fun.
Camp Memories for a Lifetime
Operation Purple Camp made a lasting impact on Ashley’s children. They returned home with a trove of memories and newfound confidence. Their stories highlight the importance of our programs in supporting military families and offering children a space to grow and connect.
As the summer winds down and school approaches, the memories from Operation Purple Camp will remain a cherished part of their, and many military families, summer adventure.
Thank you to Ashley and her kids for sharing their wonderful camp experiences. We look forward to hearing more campers' stories and continuing to support programs that make a difference in the lives of military families.
By: Angela Sablan Tenorio, Content Manager
