Virginia Boys State participants Cole Martin (center left) and Seth Baron (center right) are honored by (from left) American Legion Commander Richard Lychman, American Legion members Max Mottesheard and Doyle Martin, and Vice Commander Dana Jackson.
Heather Bell
Editor
RADFORD – Each June, the campus of Radford University becomes an imaginary 51 state of the United States for the Virginia Boys State program, in which hundreds of rising high school seniors learn about government and civics through a week of elections, political maneuvering, legislation and visits from state political leaders.
“Virginia Boys State provides the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in one of three areas of government,” according to the American Legion. “Participants cultivate leadership skills and develop pride in American citizenship.”
“At Boys State, participants are exposed to the rights and privileges, the duties and the responsibilities of a franchised citizen,” it continues. “The training is objective and practical with city, county and state governments operated by the students elected to the various offices. Activities include legislative sessions, court proceedings, law enforcement presentations, assemblies, bands, chorus and recreational programs.”
Last Thursday, Sept. 4, Radford’s American Legion Post 30 honored the Radford High School students they sponsored to attend the program, seniors Seth Baron, Cole Martin and Garland Lard.
“One of my favorite parts of the week was debating over bills- even arguing at time – in the political process,” said Martin. “We had so many different people from all over the state and at the end of the day we all got along. It was a great experience.”
“My experience was one to remember and never forget,” said Baron. “This was an immensely life changing week. I met some of the greatest young men in the world and I learned something from each and every one of them. One of my favorite memories from boys state was singing the boys state anthem for the last time with everybody in the auditorium. This was one of those special moments of deep gratitude where you recognize how lucky you are to be where you are. This was an experience filled with the highest quality of brotherhood and companionship. I would like to give my sincerest of appreciation to everyone who made this possible and memorable. And to those who know… who’s the best city?!”
