4-H members and their families participated in an overnight 4-H Operation Military Kid Overnight Camp aboard the USS KIDD in Baton Rouge, La. on Nov. 12-13, 2010. The USS KIDD (DD-661) is the centerpiece exhibit of the Veterans Memorial, located in the heart of downtown Baton Rouge. The KIDD is an excellent example of the famed Fletcher-class destroyers of World War II. She is the only existing destroyer restored to her World War II configuration and is ranked as one of the most accurate restorations in a fleet of historic vessels that spans five continents. The USS KIDD is also designated a National Historic Landmark.

4-H youth and family members toured the decks with over 50 inner spaces, including the Officer’s wardroom, galley, sickbay, radio central, berthing areas and the ammunition handling rooms. On the main deck, a brass plate lists the names of the 38 men killed aboard the KIDD when a kamikaze crashed into her on April 11, 1945. Participants learned first hand the close-quarters of the boat as they slept in the bunks in the sleeping quarters. 4-H’ers gained a deeper respect for all of our military who have sacrificed so much for our freedom. A flag raising ceremony was conducted by the youth and there was a solemn time of reflection as they toured the granite memorial of our fallen heroes.

Anyone interested in joining 4-H or becoming an adult volunteer, please contact Jan Morgan at the 4-H office at 504-433-3664 or by email.