The American Legion, the nation’s largest veterans organization, is inviting all members of Springfield and surrounding communities to join them in sponsoring young men to attend the 70th Session of Virginia Boys State.
"We are seeking boys with outstanding qualifications in character and leadership to attend one of the most respected and selective educational programs of government instruction ever designed for high school students," said Dick Vatter, Commander of Springfield Post 176.
High school juniors are selected in early spring by local American Legion posts to attend the program, which will be held at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Va., from June 17-23, 2012.
"It is a participatory program where each young man becomes part of the operation of his local, county and state government," said Vatter.
The candidates’ names are submitted by local schools for their recommendation to attend The American Legion Boys State program. Boys who are home schooled are dealt with on an individual basis through the American Legion selection process.
The training at The American Legion Boys State is objective and practical with city and state governments operated by the students elected to various offices. Activities include legislative sessions, court proceedings, law enforcement presentations, assemblies, bands, chorus and recreational programs.
"The American Legion’s Boys State program is a unique way for young men to learn about the American system of government by taking part in a mock governmental system," said Ken Knight, Post 176 Boys State Chairperson.
American Legion Boys State is currently conducted in 49 Departments of the American Legion; Hawaii does not conduct a program. As separate corporations, Boys State vary in content and method of procedure, but each and every Boys State adheres to the basic concept of the program – that of teaching government from the township to the state level.
The American Legion Auxiliary sponsors a similar program for young ladies called Girls State.
For more information on The American Legion’s Boys State program, please contact Ken Knight at: patken107@verizon.net.