Two Legion posts choose Boys State candidates
Two American Legion posts have announced their selections to attend Hawkeye Boys State this summer.
Clayton Boeke, son of Shawn and Sue Boeke, and Braydn Harbaugh, son of Chad and Kari Harbaugh, have been chosen by Prairie La Porte Post 373 to be delegates to the 78th American Legion Hawkeye Boys State held in Camp Dodge, Johnston, June 10 -16.
Paul Seitz, son of Jym Seitz, and Hunter Bolsinger, son of Rod and Heidi Bolsinger of Guttenberg, are the alternates for Post 373 in case one or both delegates are unable to attend.
Eric Ihde, son of Todd and Kathy Ihde, and Brandon Wahls, son of Shane and Hilary Wahls of Garnavillo, have been selected as delegates from Clay-Gar American Legion Post 723 of Garnavillo.
Kole Brandel, son of Tom Brandel and Joan Parker of Garnavillo, is the alternate in case one of the delegates is not able to attend. All seven are juniors in Clayton Ridge High School.
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The American Legion believes there is no better way to assure the survival of our republic than to train our young people in the ideals and objectives of American government. By teaching youth to understand and appreciate the basic principles involved in the successful management of a democratic society, America can remain strong and ensure our freedom for future generations.
Hawkeye American Legion Boys State is a unique six-day summertime educational program that does not emphasize classroom lectures and textbook learning. Instead, it focuses on participation and personal experience in a model state, complete with governing bodies and elected public officials. It is designed to mirror the structure and operation of its respective state government.
Being selected to represent their school, community and veterans organization at the Iowa American Legion Hawkeye Boys State is an honor; it is hoped participants will use the knowledge gained to take an active role in not only Boys State, but society as well.
Upon completing American Legion Hawkeye Boys State, participants join alumni of hundreds of thousands, numbering among its ranks judges, lawyers, educators, military leaders, federal, state and local government officials. Many of these individuals credit their success to the experience gained at American Legion Hawkeye Boys State.