The first Švyturys Camp for Lithuanian youth in the United States ends with a day of reflection, celebration, and new beginnings.
Švyturys Camp 2024 wrapped up its seventh day with a sense of pride and joy, marking the conclusion of a meaningful journey for the young participants. This first camp for Lithuanian youth in the United States has been a great success, providing an experience that will be remembered for a long time.
A Day of Reflection and Farewells
As the last day 7 of the camp began, excitement and nostalgia were in the air. The campers, who had spent the week learning about their Lithuanian roots, military discipline, and teamwork, were now preparing to leave the campgrounds that had been their home for the week.
The day began with packing personal items and cleaning the campsite. With the help of their instructors, the campers worked together to ensure everything was in order, reinforcing the lessons of responsibility and teamwork that had been a focus throughout the camp.
A Special Goodbye Ceremony
Parents eagerly waiting to see their children were greeted with a display of discipline and unity. As the campers emerged from the woods, their voices echoed with chants that showed the spirit and pride they had developed during their camp.
A particularly moving moment was the lowering of the flags, symbolizing the end of the camp. This was followed by the singing of the Lithuanian national anthem, “Tautiška giesmė,” led by the campers, most of whom were born and raised in the United States. The anthem, sung with emotion, highlighted these young people’s strong connection with their Lithuanian heritage over the week.
The campers, staff, and volunteers gathered for a group photo, capturing the historical moment of the first Švyturys Camp for Lithuanian youth in the United States.
The Success of Švyturys Camp 2024
The success of Švyturys Camp 2024 was clear in the growth and learning experienced by the campers. Over the week, they participated in various activities that not only deepened their understanding of Lithuanian culture but also helped them develop important life skills.
Daily Highlights
Day 1: Setting the Foundation
Švyturys Camp 2024 began with over twenty children from Illinois, Michigan, and Florida, aged 12-17. The day involved setting up tents, an orientation, and a flag-raising ceremony featuring the flags of the United States, Lithuania, and the Lithuanian National Guard. The evening ended with a traditional Lithuanian dinner and a campfire, where the campers started building bonds and preparing for the week ahead.
Day 2: Building Skills and Community
The second day focused on engaging Lithuanian-American youth in activities to build their skills and knowledge. This day was filled with learning and growth, fostering community and deepening the participants’ understanding of their Lithuanian heritage.
Day 3: Overcoming Challenges Together
Campers eagerly participated in various skill-building activities despite rainy weather to promote teamwork and camaraderie. The challenging conditions didn’t dampen the camp spirit; instead, they reinforced the bonds among the participants, highlighting the resilience and unity within the group.
Day 4: Water Skills and Military Insights
The fourth day was dedicated to developing water skills and gaining military insights. Campers learned essential survival skills, such as water filtration, and enjoyed a swim in a nearby lake. The day also included educational sessions led by representatives from the Lithuanian Armed Forces, who shared valuable insights into military life and its importance.
Day 5: Modern Technical Education
On the fifth day, activities centered around drone flying and technical education. Under the guidance of experts like Rudis, campers participated in practical sessions on drone operation, adding modern technical skills to their learning experience and broadening their understanding of technology’s role in today’s world.
Day 6: Preparing for the Future
The sixth day focused on preparing for future challenges and adventures, with activities centered around developing new skills and connecting with nature. Campers engaged in various learning activities and concluded the day with a dinner in the forest, reflecting on the experiences and skills gained throughout the camp.
Day 7: Emotional Farewell
As the camp drew close, Day 7 was marked by an emotional farewell. Having formed strong bonds and acquired valuable skills, campers prepared to say goodbye. The final day culminated in a week filled with growth, learning, and connection, leaving a lasting impact on everyone involved.
Recognizing the Staff and Organizers
The final day also included a special moment where the camp staff and organizers were recognized for their dedication and hard work. The contributions of these individuals were key to the success of Švyturys Camp 2024, and their efforts did not go unnoticed – Camp Closing.
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.
