There is an abundance of energy, youthful grins, and pattering feet in the hallways of the Indianapolis Sheraton this week. This year, for the first time, the AW2 Symposium has included children in the event. The AW2 Program recognizes that the entire family is paramount to a Soldier’s recovery and that these are trying times for the children of wounded Soldiers, our youngest heroes. Eight months ago, while planning the Symposium, we vowed to include children, and, through a collaboration with the National Military Family Association’s Operation  Purple®  Summer Camp program, we made it happen.

More than 30 children of severely wounded, injured and ill Soldiers travelled to Indianapolis with their parents and are participating in AW2’s Operation Purple Indy Ultimate Urban Adventure Camp. The Operation Purple program includes activities such as rock climbing, arts and crafts, and horseback riding, as well as trips to local state parks and museums. Also, each day the children discuss their feelings with trained professionals in a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment.

Last night while I was waiting for the hotel elevator after a long day, I noticed a family with two boys in backpacks (larger than them) waiting to go to their room. I asked if the boys were having fun at the camp. Both of them had these adorable grins on their faces as they talked about their fun the park and the bowls they painted during “paint your own pottery” activity. Only after leaving that family did I truly understand the importance of this week for both the Soldiers and their children.
 

Be sure to check back here, during the week, to read what children think of the camp experience and see pictures of them interacting and enjoying themselves. Also, many thanks to the awesome AW2 and Operation Purple team for providing this experience for the children!