By: National Park Trust

This summer, military families supported by Our Military Kids set sail for a day of conservation, connection, and discovery at Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area.

After a warm welcome and receiving their park passes, families boarded a ferry to Spectacle Island, one of the most unique islands in the Boston Harbor. Once ashore, participants split into three stewardship teams: one group removed pepperweed, an invasive plant species; another weeded and mulched a blooming butterfly garden; and a third tackled additional invasive species to help protect native plants and habitats.

Through their hands-on efforts, these young stewards made a real impact, restoring ecosystems and meaningfully giving back to public lands.

But the day wasn’t just about service but also connection. Military families bonded over shared experiences, found community in the outdoors, and enjoyed the chance to spend time together in a peaceful, scenic space.

To wrap up the day, the group joined a ranger-led hike, where they learned about the island’s dramatic transformation from landfill to national park. The hike highlighted the resilience of both the landscape and the people who care for it, a fitting parallel to the strength and service of our military families.