Recap from Shawn Sabia, USO-Metro​ Manager, Center Operations

USO of Metropolitan Washington-Baltimore hosted several military families from across the National Capital Region for a fun-filled weekend at Patriot Point. USO-Metro brought 14 families — a total of 54 individuals — from eight different duty stations in the DMV for a family camping trip.

For many of the guests, it was their first time ever camping. They were treated to delicious food, included freshly-caught crabs. The families spent hours on the water enjoying the mild fall temperatures courtesy of On The Edge kayaking and paddle boarding.

The rest of the weekend was full of fun crafts, family activities and a raucous game of Human Foosball, capped with some delicious s’mores.

The families were in awe of the beauty of Patriot Point and its mission of supporting wounded, ill and injured service members. The sounds of laughter and squeals of joy filled the air from kids that were thrilled to run and play with other military kids. Despite having never met before, they instantly felt a kinship in their shared military lifestyle. It is fair to say that the only ones happier than the kids were the parents. Parents overjoyed at how fast their little ones fell asleep after a long day of fun. Thank you to Patriot Point and the Military Bowl for assisting the USO in creating life long memories for these military families.