More Than 150 Youth Descend on Fort Jackson for Nation’s Premier Youth-Led Summer Encampment
FORT JACKSON, S.C. — On the historic grounds of the 3rd Battalion, 34th Infantry Regiment at Fort Jackson, something remarkable is happening—something that defies expectations of what teenagers can do when given the opportunity to lead.
This week, more than 250 youth and adult volunteers from across the mid-Atlantic region gathered for the 2025 South Carolina Wing Civil Air Patrol Summer Encampment, a weeklong immersive training that blends military discipline, aerospace education, character development, and team leadership. Of those, 170 are cadets, and 115 are first-time students—young men and women who will graduate this Saturday, many forever changed by the experience.
What makes this program extraordinary is not just where it takes place, but who is running it.
Unlike traditional camps or leadership seminars, this encampment is planned, managed, and executed by youth, many of whom are high school and college students. From sunrise drill training and classroom instruction to logistics coordination and morale-building, the cadet staff lead most aspects of the operation—supported by a team of adult mentors and military professionals.
“We believe in building leaders by letting them lead,” said Col. James Brogan, South Carolina Wing Commander. “What you’re seeing at Fort Jackson isn’t just a ‘camp.’ It’s a command post for youth development. These cadets are running a mission—and they’re doing it with excellence.”
Set on a working U.S. Army installation, the program offers first-time cadets a structured but inspiring environment. Days begin at 6 a.m. with formation and training. They include hands-on aerospace education, drill and ceremonies, leadership seminars, and evening reflection. Cadets march, learn, serve, and grow—together.
The program is hosted by Civil Air Patrol, the official auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. In addition to its emergency services mission and aerospace education outreach, CAP operates one of the most impactful cadet programs in the country—offering teens ages 12 to 21 hands-on leadership experience grounded in military values and civic service.
For cadet staff—those who’ve previously completed encampment and now return to lead—it’s an even greater challenge.
“This has been a very challenging week, yet rewarding to see the cadets learning and growing around me,” said Cadet Col. Jackson Rowe, the cadet encampment commander. “You’re not just telling people what to do. You’re guiding, mentoring, and inspiring others to own their decisions. That’s real leadership.”
Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of adult volunteers, including CAP officers, veterans, educators, and current service members, provide oversight and mentorship. The mission is youth-led.
“We’re preparing these cadets not just for CAP or even the military, but for life,” said Maj. Justin Greenway, CAP-USAF liaison for South Carolina. “They’re learning resilience, communication, and responsibility in ways most adults never experience.”
Graduation will be held Saturday, July 26 at 3 p.m. at Fort Jackson in front of an audience of more than 400 attendees. Families, supporters, and media are invited to attend as 115 cadets officially complete the program. The ceremony will include flight presentations, remarks from senior leadership, and a reflection on a week of transformation, teamwork, and triumph.
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Lt. Col. Elizabeth Peace
South Carolina Wing Public Affairs Officer