West Hartford, CT (July 4, 2013) – Ethan Swain, a Senior at William Hall High School in West Hartford, will represent Connecticut at American Legion Boys Nation to be held in Washington, D.C. beginning July 19th. Swain was selected by the counselors of American Legion Boys State held the last week of June at Eastern Connecticut State University.
American Legion Boys State is among the most respected and selective educational programs of government instruction for U.S. high-school students. Participants learn the rights, privileges and responsibilities of franchised citizens. The training is objective and centers on the structure of city, county and state governments. During the session Swain was elected as Attorney General by the 200 plus delegates. “The election was intense and exciting. To be elected, each candidate had to win the nomination for his specific party, and I was required to give several speeches proving my value as a candidate. After winning my party's nomination, I debated against the other party's candidate with a question and answer period. I felt apprehensive about the Q & A, but ironically it proved to be my strength. Overall, the week-long experience was unforgettable and helped me become a more informed citizen," said Swain.
Two representatives from each of the 49 Boys States will represent their state at Boys Nation where the young leaders receive an education on the structure and function of federal government. Each delegate acts as a senator from his Boys State. The young lawmakers caucus at the beginning of the session, then organize into committees and conduct hearings on bills submitted by program delegates.
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The week of government training also includes lectures, forums and visits to federal agencies, national shrines, institutions, memorials and historical sites. On Capitol Hill, Boys Nation senators meet with elected officials from their home states.
“American Legion Hayes-Velhage Post 96 is extremely proud of Ethan and his achievements at Boys State and wish him continued success at Boys Nation.” said Post Commander Ken Hungerford.
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With a current membership of 2.4-million wartime veterans, The American Legion was founded in 1919 on the four pillars of a strong national security, veterans affairs, Americanism, and youth programs. Legionnaires work for the betterment of their communities through more than 14,000 posts across the nation.
The American Legion of West Hartford is open to military veterans who have served honorably during a wartime era and military personnel currently on active duty. Further information is available at www.post96.org or visit Hayes-Velhage Post 96 at 45 Raymond Road, West Hartford, CT 06107, phone 860-233-9029.
