The Columbia High School JROTC “Eagle Battalion” 2024-2025 newly appointed Battalion Commander, C/LTC Joshua Howell was selected to attend the 87th American Legion Alabama Boys State from 26 May 2024 – 1 June 2024.
The creation of the Boys State Program is credited to Hayes Kennedy, who in 1935 was an instructor in the Loyola University School of Law in Chicago and Americanism Chairman of the Illinois Department of the American Legion. Hayes Kennedy became concerned about a project underway in the late 1930's called "Young Pioneer Camps" promoted by the Nazis to attract high school students. These camps would advocate the virtues of Fascism and Communism and the uselessness of democracy.
The Illinois Department of the American Legion approved Hayes Kennedy's project, and in June 1935, the very first "Boys State" in the nation was held on the grounds of the Illinois State Fair.
Alabama Boys State began in 1937. Today, the American Legion conducts a "Boys State" program in 49 states. Hawaii is the only state that does not have a Boys State program. District of Columbia delegates attend either the Maryland, Virginia, or DC Boys States.
Congratulations to OUR Commander!
Submitted by: CSM Nate Bartee