Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Va., -- Nearly 100 burn survivors visited Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall’s Fort Myer fire station Sept. 28 as part of the International Association of Firefighters sponsored Burn Camp held annually in Washington D.C. The all expenses paid, week-long camp helps burn survivors understand that they are not alone and that there is a larger support system for them. It serves as a life changing opportunity for burn survivors, camp counselors and firefighters to make a difference in the lives of young people.
The visit marked the 17th year that the JBM-HH firefighters hosted Burn Camp on the installation, and provided the opportunity for burn survivors to learn about the unique mission at the joint base. Deputy Joint Base Commander Lt. Col. John Dexter expanded on the mission of the joint base in his opening remarks to the campers prior to the day’s activities.
“As a joint command, our mission is to work as one, with all services coming together,” said Dexter. “All of you here today are a great example of that. You have come together in a show of strength and support for each other and all the other campers, firefighters, and camp counselors across the U.S. and Canada. I know Chief Miller and this great group of firefighters have some exciting things lined up for you.”
The activities for the campers consisted of performances by the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment’s Fife and Drum Corps, Drill Team and The U.S. Army Band. One camper, 17-year-old Daunte from Richmond, Virginia said that although he had visited the nation’s capital many times, he had never seen ceremonial performances. “I thought it was really cool and unique,” he said. Daunte and many of the other campers mingled with the service members after their performances, inquiring about the drill team bayonets and Fife and Drum corps instruments.
After enjoying a homestyle barbeque lunch prepared by the firefighters, the campers and counselors departed the joint base for the second half of the day’s activities, which included a visit to Arlington National Cemetery. This was one of the activities Kendall, a 17-year-old camper from Fresno, California, was especially excited about as this was her first-time visiting Washington D.C. “I’m looking forward to touring Arlington National Cemetery and the wreath laying,” she said. “I think it’s a huge honor that we are able to do the things we are able to do.”
To see photos from this year’s event visit https://www.flickr.com/photos/jbm-hh/albums/72177720302492018.
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