A record six students from James Monroe High School attended the American Legion Mountaineer Boys State (ALMBS) at Jackson’s Mill, WV from June 12 through June 19. Those attending included Caleb Broyles, Braydie Carr, Luke Fraley, Luke Jackson, Dylan McDade, and Jace Taylor.
ALMBS is a leadership and citizenship experience in which participants recreate state government and civil society in an immersive setting. Caleb Broyles, Braydie Carr, and Dylan McDade served as attorneys, Luke Fraley as a journalist, Luke Jackson as a forensic technician, and Jace Taylor as a journalist, band member, and cabin magistrate. ALMB helps students develop the values of respect, civility, compromise, and selfless service while creating lasting friendships and networking opportunities.
Luke Jackson said of the experience, “Boys State is an amazing experience. I learned what it means to be a patriot and became a better citizen.”
Jace Taylor added, “I got to meet a lot of amazing people and participate in many activities that not only taught me about my country but also my capabilities.”
Luke Fraley noted, “I learned so much about the importance of patriotism, leadership, and responsibility.”
Generous scholarships from American Legion Post 100 in Union and American Legion Rowe-Jones Post 145 in Peterstown made their participation possible. The American Legion Auxiliary sponsors a parallel Mountaineer Girls State. Interested High school juniors and seniors interested in either opportunity should contact Scott Womack at scott_womack@hotmail.com or via FaceBook Messenger.