Youth Programs

American Legion Boys State is among the most respected and selective educational programs of government instruction for U.S. high school students.    

For more information check out https://azboysstate.org/

 The American Legion’s National High School Oratorical Contest was started to develop a better understanding and appreciation of the Constitution of the United States on the part of high school students. 

 The American Legion's support for Boy Scouts of America began at the Legion’s first national convention in 1919. 

 Today, Legion posts sponsor more than 2,500 Scouting units across the country. This is natural for Legionnaires, who bring their service-learned skills and experiences as veterans to help build character and positive traits in our country’s youth. Few other post activities generate more goodwill from the community. 

The program is available to male and female high school students who have completed their junior year of high school and are in good academic standing. They should be of good moral character and possess a desire to learn more about the law enforcement profession. Their high school should recommend students who meet these qualifications to local posts who are sponsoring the Junior Law Cadet Program. 

 http://www.alleca-az.org/ 

 The American Legion Junior Shooting Sports Program is a gun safety education and marksmanship program that encompasses the basic elements of safety, education, enjoyment, and competition. Shooters use the .177 caliber air rifle. Both males and females can participate, through Legion sponsorship; disabled youth are encouraged to join, as competitive shooting is a sport that creates an equal playing field for all competitors.  

 The American Legion is a strong supporter of Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) and Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) programs across the country. Legion posts are urged to present medals available through American Legion Emblem Sales to the top JROTC and ROTC students in their area. 

An American Legion program embraced by members brings history to life as local veterans tell students about their experiences in the military. Students gain firsthand knowledge from the one who lived the story they are telling.

This open forum of learning from those who fought for our country instills patriotism and an appreciation for their freedom in America. They learn about the horrors of war, life in the military, and how service affected their lives and the lives of others. Veterans sharing their stories help students learn from and appreciate the sacrifices the individuals and their families have made.

In addition to sharing their personal stories, veterans may also discuss a wide range of topics, including how to:

• Help a family who has a deployed military servicemember
• Show support for troops
• Demonstrate respect for the American flag and its importance

The Veterans in Classroom (VIC) program also can benefit veterans. Sharing their military story with an appreciative audience can help them heal from psychological wounds from combat, deployment, or family separation. Veterans who have spoken to students generally describe the experience as rewarding.