With the final sunrise came closure. Day 7 marked not just the end of a week, but the beginning of something lasting – a memory etched in the heart of every camper.
The final day of Camp Švyturys 2025 was unmistakably different – no morning workouts. No whistle. No rush. Just a quiet start to a significant day. Yet, despite being granted the chance to sleep in, many campers still woke by 7 a.m., their internal clocks shaped by a week of discipline, bonding, and early mornings.
The night before, a massive farewell bonfire burned long past dark. Camp leader and brother Šaulys Linas Orentas told the campers:
Stay up as long as the fire lasts – you’ve earned it.
Dry branches were piled high by the kids, enough to fuel the flames until sunrise. But most, worn from a week of training and laughter, gave in to sleep around midnight. Only a few older campers stayed until the final flicker.
🎥 Video courtesy of Aušra Jasaite-Paulauskas
A Different Kind of Morning
Instead of drills and schedules, the morning was filled with anticipation. Parents would be arriving soon. Bunk gear was packed. Beds had been moved to the Aušros Vartai campsite the day before. The mood was one of celebration, pride, and nostalgia.
Breakfast? Legendary. Towering banana-filled pancakes drew high praise – even from the pickiest eaters.
Then came the final rehearsals: guitars tuned, lyrics reviewed. Campers worked alongside instructors Mindaugas and Lukas to prepare their farewell performance. This year’s song: Kipras Mašanauskas’ “Kokia nuostabi, Lietuva, esi.” Sung in harmony by young voices, it brought more than a few parents to tears.
The Closing Ceremony
By midday, families gathered in the clearing for the closing ceremony. Campers marched with their squads one last time, chants echoing over the hills of Rako Forest.
Each camper received a Certificate of Completion, an embroidered camp badge, and a small gift. These were presented by:
- Sandra Vasiliauskienė, Program Director and head of Civic Education at the Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union (Šauliai)
- Gintautas Vasilevskis, Advisor to the Lithuanian National Guard Commander and current Deputy
- Silvija Motiejūnas, Secretary of the Lithuanian National Guard Central Committee
Recognizing Dedication and Growth
Special honors were awarded to three campers for outstanding leadership and perseverance: Kristupas, Antanas, and Ąžuolas.
A powerful highlight was the solemn Šaulys Oath, taken by Lukas Mitrius of Detroit – a long-time scout and dedicated camp leader. The moment added weight to the ceremony, connecting campers to the deeper purpose of the Lithuanian National Guard and Riflemen’s Union.
Another standout moment: Linas Orentas, Camp Director, received a uniquely designed commemorative medal from the Lithuanian National Guard – a beautifully crafted metal token of gratitude and honor. It was his 52nd camp, and once again, his U-Haul trailer was packed with everything a successful camp could need. Linas’ behind-the-scenes dedication, preparing forms, contingency plans, and surprise activities, was instrumental.
Honoring the Backbone of Camp Švyturys
Additional commendations went to:
- Gvidas Sinkevičius (Alfonsas Smetona 5th Battalion, Lithuania)
- Pijus Šliumpa (Vytautas the Great 2nd Battalion, Lithuania)
- Sandra Vasiliauskienė (Program Director) – 2024 Interview with Sandra Vasiliauskienė
- Mindaugas Babonas (Instructor from California)
Volunteers who cooked, managed logistics, and provided round-the-clock support were warmly thanked. Names mentioned with deep gratitude included:
Diana, Ingrida, Giedrė, Silvija, Felicija, Aušra, Vilma, and camp medics Dovilė and Arvydas.
Brothers-in-arms from the scouting community also received praise – especially Taiyda and Andrius, whose daily presence was vital.
Finally, heartfelt thanks were extended to the Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union and the Ministry of National Defence of Lithuania, whose continued support makes this camp possible.
The Final March
As the flags were lowered and the chants quieted, something profound lingered. This camp, based on the bootcamp model, challenged and uplifted everyone. Boys and girls, older teens and younger kids alike, all found the strength they didn’t know they had. One parent noted:
My son came back standing taller. And not just physically.
Brother Linas has a saying:
If they sleep the whole way home, the camp was a success.
According to the moms we spoke to – mission accomplished.
Until Next Year
In just seven days, something powerful happened in Rako Forest. Friendships were forged, fears were faced, and kids discovered how far they could go.
Camp Švyturys 2025 is officially closed. But the lessons – and the pride – go home with every single camper.
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Švyturys Chronicles – Day 7
Until next year, little beacons. May your light never dim.
More on Camp Švyturys 2025: Camp Opening, Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, Day 4, Day 5, Day 6, Day 7
Vilma Kava is a Lithuanian-American author and journalist with a strong interest in Lithuanian culture and history. She has written two books that explore Lithuania’s heritage and traditions. Vilma regularly writes for Draugas newspaper, offering articles that resonate with the Lithuanian diaspora. She also contributes to the Lithuanian National Guard Facebook page, sharing stories and content that promote community engagement and cultural awareness.
