Camp Tomahawk boys’ week Published June 11, 2014 By Senior Airman Frank Casciotta 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affais VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Vance hosted its first week of camp for local children June 2-6. Camp Tomahawk, a free summer camp for children between 9 and 11 years old who may not otherwise have the chance to attend a summer camp, is funded by the Enid Chamber of Commerce. This is the 40th year Vance hosted the camp. "The Enid Chamber managed to raise about $7,500 this year," said Capt. Blake Hamilton, the 71st Operations Support Squadron Weather Flight commander and Camp Tomahawk lead coordinator. "This would not have been possible without their fundraisers." Donations from approximately 40 local companies cover the cost of entertainment, shirts, supplies and snacks. The camp is divided into two weeks. One week for the boys and one for the girls. This year 20 boys attended the first week of camp. "I pretty much liked everything, and the counselors are so cool," said John Hill, an 11-year-old camper. "I don't want to leave. There's so much to do." Campers visited the Alabaster Caverns, took 20-minute plane rides at the Woodring Airport in Enid, visited Frontier City, played games at the base park and visited the Plains Pool on base. "I really like working with the kids, and it's a good thing we do for the community," said Senior Airman Jesse Kow, a 71st Operations Support Squadron air traffic controller and volunteer Camp Tomahawk counselor. Campers are accompanied 24/7 by volunteers from all over Vance. "We watch the kids day and night in case they need something and to ensure their safety," said Kow. Campers sleep on cots in the Community Chapel Activity Center. The cots are provided by the Outdoor Recreation office. More than 50 Team Vance members volunteered to support the summer camp this year.