Assemblyman Michael Fitzpatrick (R,C,I-Smithtown) today announced that the National Military Family Association (NMFA) is currently accepting applications for Operation Purple Summer Camps. Each “purple” camp is free and open to children of any uniformed service member, active duty or reserve component of the United States Military.

“While our brave military men and women serve abroad, the experiences of the family members they leave behind can sometimes be forgotten,” said Fitzpatrick. “These camps provide a memorable experience that can help these children cope with the stress of their parents’ deployment.”

The Operation Purple summer camp program was created by NMFA in order to give the children the tools to successfully face the challenges of dealing with the deployment of one or more of their parents to military service. Campers will also enjoy a week of engaging activities including swimming, horseback riding, exploring, archery, climbing, boating, and ropes courses. One of the camp’s main goals is to provide an unforgettable experience that will build bonds of friendship between military children that can extend a lifetime.

The NMFA will hold Operation Purple summer camps at three upstate New York locations: Redwood, Grieg and Angola. Camp Wabasso in Redwood, New York will be held July 13-18 and August 10-15 and is open for 8-15 year olds. Aldersgate Camp and Retreat Center in Grieg, New York will be held for 9-14 year olds on August 10-15. Angola, New York will host the Pioneer Camp and Retreat Center on June 22-27 and July 27-August 1, for 8-14 year olds.

Interested individuals can register online. Acceptance is not on a first-come, first-serve basis and priority is given to military children with a parent deployed or deploying anytime between May 2007 and November 2008. Registration for the camp is open until midnight on May 5.

Individuals can also contact Shelly Aiken, the New York National Guard Youth Program Coordinator by phone at (914) 788-7405 for additional details.