Robert spent the first week of summer this year at The American Legion Boys' State in SUNY Morrisville. This New York program began in 1938 and is rich with tradition in advanced citizenship.
For a week, more then 1000 High School Juniors take an active role in the creation of State and Local Government. Working with US Marines and Legionnaires, the boys are divided into two parties and assigned to one of the political parties, a county, and a city. The boys then run for an office to which he aspires. The purpose of Boys State is to inspire and instill a deep sense of responsibility and obligation to the principles of Democracy by teaching the duties, privileges and rights of American citizenship.
The days were long and began at 6:00 AM with reveille and physical fitness, morning assembly, city caucus, and meetings followed by drill instruction. At night after TAPS it was lights out!
Robbie went with 3 other boys from town but they were separated upon arrival. He really enjoyed the physical fitness and especially liked the Marine assigned to him. He learned how to make his bed military style but I noticed that skill didn't come home with him! Rob also enjoyed some of the amazing speakers that came to Boys' State. It was a program he won't ever forget.
Connor, Rob, and Paul at the meeting about Boys State.
Mom unsuccessfully tries to go and get a kiss goodbye.
The lamps, chairs and garbage need to be in a particular place too.
Yep, all ready for our boy.
See even safe "cheese".
The highlight was the very cool vending machines.
For a week, more then 1000 High School Juniors take an active role in the creation of State and Local Government. Working with US Marines and Legionnaires, the boys are divided into two parties and assigned to one of the political parties, a county, and a city. The boys then run for an office to which he aspires. The purpose of Boys State is to inspire and instill a deep sense of responsibility and obligation to the principles of Democracy by teaching the duties, privileges and rights of American citizenship.
The days were long and began at 6:00 AM with reveille and physical fitness, morning assembly, city caucus, and meetings followed by drill instruction. At night after TAPS it was lights out!
Robbie went with 3 other boys from town but they were separated upon arrival. He really enjoyed the physical fitness and especially liked the Marine assigned to him. He learned how to make his bed military style but I noticed that skill didn't come home with him! Rob also enjoyed some of the amazing speakers that came to Boys' State. It was a program he won't ever forget.
Connor, Rob, and Paul at the meeting about Boys State.
The Rush boys ready for their week away.
Taking a school bus to SUNY Morrisville.
Sitting on the hill watching the Parade.
Can you find my serious son?
Robbie's favorite Marine.
Making the bed is serious business. If you mess it up, they throw it out the window.
Taking a school bus to SUNY Morrisville.
Sitting on the hill watching the Parade.
Can you find my serious son?
Robbie's favorite Marine.
The lamps, chairs and garbage need to be in a particular place too.
Yep, all ready for our boy.
See even safe "cheese".
The highlight was the very cool vending machines.
He came back with quite a tan too.
I know this girl....she would really benefit from this. When is Girls State and where do I sign her up?
ReplyDelete