For Parents
Important Information About Boys State
2009 © Andrew Wilds Photography
This is a educational program. It is not a sports camp. It is a highly structured instructional program in local and state government.
We operate under a strict set of rules which must be accepted by each potential delegate. Parents of delegates need to understand how the program operates and what type of students will be attending. Although it is not a "boot camp", we do utilize moving about the campus in a military-like manner in order to maintain order and discipline.
We also conduct roll calls to make sure everyone is accounted for at all times. Many traditions are found at Boys State. The American Legion creed "For God and Country" is taken very seriously. Each session is opened and closed with prayer. The pledge to the flag of our country and other flag ceremonies are conducted. We respect all religious beliefs. No one is forced to participate in any religious or patriotic ceremony.
The American Legion Boys State program does not receive Federal, State or other public funds. All monies are raised through the local Posts. Our counseling staff are all volunteers.
College Day is Friday from 3—5:00 pm
How to contact your son:
Via U.S. Postal Service
American Legion Boys State
[Your son's name]
c/o Radford University
(rest of address coming soon)
Radford, VA 24142
Via Telephone
Boys State Admin: 9am — 10pm
(phone number coming soon)
Emergency: 10pm — 9am
(540) 831-5500 (Radford University Police Department)
Boys State Objectives
Boys State is a non-partisan program which encompasses the following objectives:
- To develop civic leadership and pride in American Citizenship.
- To arouse a keen interest in the detailed study of our government.
- To develop in the citizens a determination to maintain our form of government, primarily by bringing them to the realization of how great it is to be an American.
- To inculcate a sense of individual obligation to the Community, State and Nation.
