For over three decades, Camp Cadet has been a beacon of discipline, integrity, and teamwork for youth in the region. This week-long, overnight summer camp, designed for youth ages 12-15, offers a unique experience that combines fun, education, and character development within the framework of a “mini police academy.” Held annually, Camp Cadet is sponsored by the Pennsylvania State Police and has become a cornerstone in the community, helping shape the future leaders of society.
The camp offers a diverse range of activities, from horseback riding and scuba diving to shooting and team-building challenges. These activities are designed to instill values such as respect, discipline, and teamwork. Campers also receive presentations and demonstrations from various law enforcement agencies, including the Secret Service, FBI, and local SWAT teams, providing them with rare, hands-on experiences.
Kurt Katzenmoyer, President of the Board of Directors for Camp Cadet Troop L, emphasized the camp’s commitment to personal growth. “When you come to camp, we don’t necessarily want you to be a police officer; we want to mold you into a better person so you can be one of our future leaders of society. I like to say that’s what we’re molding, and I’m very proud of what we’ve achieved over the years,” said Katzenmoyer.
Reflecting on his own experience, Katzenmoyer, who graduated from Camp Cadet in 1987 and went on to a successful career in law enforcement, spoke of the lasting impact the camp has had on its participants. “There are so many successful graduates out there. We have best friends who met here; for instance, my best friend and I graduated from camp together, and now he’s our chief paramedic here. He came back to camp to give back. I want these kids to be self-giving of themselves out in the community and help each other out.”
Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Ethan Brownback, who serves as the Troop L Public Information Officer and Director of Camp Cadet, highlighted the unique opportunities the camp provides. “They get to try on all the high-speed, low-drag gear that law enforcement uses. We throw smoke bombs, flash bangs, and even have the bomb squad blowing stuff up. They learn how to shoot a rifle properly, ride a horse, scuba dive—it’s just a really, really fascinating camp.”
Trooper Brownback emphasized the camp’s core values: “Our mottos here at camp are growth through discipline and achievement through teamwork. We also really hammer on integrity and respect—things that are definitely missed with this generation. These cadets that come here are learning all those great attributes that will help them be successful later in life and build them into future leaders in our community.”
Camp Cadet operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, relying heavily on donations from the community to cover its operating costs, which total around $55,000 annually. Although the camp only charges $210 per cadet, the actual cost per camper far exceeds this amount. Katzenmoyer appealed to the community for continued support: “Every dollar you give goes directly towards our kids and the betterment of Camp Cadet.”
The dedication of the staff, all of whom are current or retired law enforcement officers or military personnel, is central to the camp’s success. “Our staff are with the cadets 24/7—they’re definitely our rockstars and do a fabulous job as senior instructors,” said Brownback. “The transition that you see in these cadets from day one to graduation day is just fascinating, and that’s why I keep coming back every year.”
Brownback shared his vision for the future. “I want Camp Cadet to be such a valued camp that there’s a waiting list to get in. We’re not quite there yet, but we’re getting close,” Brownback shared.
