, , , ,

Senator Joe Manchin: Keynote Speaker at ALMBS Graduation – A Celebration of Leadership, Learning, and Achievement

We are thrilled to that Senator Joe Manchin will be the keynote speaker at the American Legion Mountaineer Boys State (ALMBS) graduation ceremony! As a dedicated public servant and a proud West Virginian, Senator Manchin’s inspiring journey from businessman to governor to U.S. senator embodies the spirit of leadership and civic responsibility we strive to instill in our Boys State citizens. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from one of our state’s most influential leaders. Join us for an unforgettable morning of celebration and inspiration!

Joseph “Joe” Manchin III, born on August 24, 1947, is an American politician and businessman who has been serving as the senior United States senator from West Virginia since 2010. Prior to his tenure in the Senate, Manchin was the 34th governor of West Virginia from 2005 to 2010 and the 27th secretary of state of West Virginia from 2001 to 2005. Before entering politics, Manchin was involved in his family’s business and managed a coal brokerage company.

The graduation ceremony marks the culmination of a week-long journey of learning, leadership, and camaraderie. It’s a time to reflect on the experiences gained, the friendships made, and the lessons learned. It’s also a time to recognize the hard work, dedication, and commitment of our ALMBS citizens.

/0 Comments
, , , ,

Spotlight on Talent: The West Fork River Revue at Boys State

Get ready for an evening of talent and entertainment at the American Legion Mountaineer Boys State program with the much-anticipated “Boys State Got Talent” show! This year, we’re thrilled to introduce the “West Fork River Revue,” a showcase of the incredible talents of our ALMBS citizens. From singing and dancing to comedy and magic, the West Fork River Revue is a annual celebration of the diverse skills and creativity within our Boys State community. Don’t miss out on this exciting event that promises to be a highlight of the program! Let’s cheer on our fellow citizens as they take the stage and share their unique talents with us all.

/0 Comments
, , , , ,

The Four Chaplains: A Tale of Heroism and Sacrifice and Edward Jones: Guiding Your Financial Journey

Edward Jones is a leading investment firm that was founded in 19221. The firm specializes in providing personalized financial solutions for individual investors. With a disciplined, established process that centers on its clients, Edward Jones offers a wide variety of investments, including certificates of deposit, bonds, stocks, and mutual funds. The firm operates more than 15,000 branch offices throughout North America, making it the brokerage firm with the most branch offices in the United States. Edward Jones is known for its long-term investment philosophy and its commitment to helping clients achieve their financial goals.

The Four Chaplains, also known as the Immortal Chaplains or the Dorchester Chaplains, were four chaplains who made the ultimate sacrifice while rescuing civilian and military personnel as the American troop ship SS Dorchester sank on February 3, 1943. The chaplains, George L. Fox, Alexander D. Goode, Clark V. Poling, and John P. Washington, came from different faiths – Methodist, Jewish, Reformed Church in America, and Roman Catholic respectively. When the ship was torpedoed by a German submarine, they helped other soldiers board lifeboats and gave up their own life jackets when the supply ran out. They joined arms, said prayers, and sang hymns as they went down with the ship. Their selfless act of courage and unity is remembered as one of the most heroic stories of World War II.

/0 Comments
, , , , ,

An Evening Tribute: Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Boys State

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, located in Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, is a historic monument dedicated to U.S. service members whose remains have not been identified. It serves as a symbol of honor and respect for the sacrifices made by these soldiers. In a special ceremony this evening at the American Legion Mountaineer Boys State program, a replica of this revered monument will be on display. This replica serves as a poignant reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of the unknown soldiers, bringing the spirit of this national monument closer to the citizens of Boys State.

/0 Comments
, , ,

Formal Review: A Tradition of Excellence and Achievement

Please join us for the Formal Review, a prestigious event that marks a significant milestone in our program. The ceremony will commence promptly at 6:30 PM on Saturday, at the main parade field. Parents/guardians/guests are requested to arrive no later than 6:00 PM for pre-ceremony preparations. This will be a moment to reflect on our achievements and celebrate the traditions that bind us. We look forward to honoring the dedication and hard work of all involved in the presence of our esteemed guests and leaders.

/0 Comments
, , , , ,

Swearing-In of Tomorrow’s Leaders: The Inaugural Ceremony with Judge Michael Aloi

We are pleased to announce the inauguration of the newly elected government officials of Boys State, to be installed by the Honorable Judge Michael John Aloi. This momentous ceremony marks the beginning of a new chapter in leadership and civic responsibility. Judge Aloi, with his esteemed legal background and dedication to justice, will preside over the installation, symbolizing the commitment to law and order that defines our democratic process. We invite you to witness the embodiment of our values and the promise of our future as these young leaders take their oaths and step into their roles to serve and lead with integrity.

/0 Comments
, , , , ,

Jerry West: The Mountaineer Boys State Alum Who Became Mr. Clutch

Jerry West, the legendary figure whose silhouette defines the NBA logo, left an indelible mark on basketball and on the hearts of those at Mountaineer Boys State. West, who attended the program in 1955 as a Nationalist in Gilmer cottage, passed away today, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and inspiration.

In his memoir, West recounts the pivotal summer of ’55, when he returned from Boys State to meet Fred Schaus, West Virginia’s coach, who would be the first to recruit him. It was at Boys State, held at Jackson’s Mill, where he met Willie Akers, forming a friendship and a competitive bond that would last a lifetime. West’s performance at Boys State not only showcased his athletic prowess but also instilled in him a newfound self-confidence and a sense of belonging.

His time at Boys State was a precursor to his storied career, from his heroic plays at West Virginia University to his enduring legacy with the Los Angeles Lakers. West’s journey from the courts of Morgantown to the glitz of Los Angeles was marked by the same determination and humility he carried from his days at Boys State.

West’s commitment to nurturing young talent, whether at fantasy camps or through mentoring, mirrored the values he cherished from Boys State—self-improvement and the pursuit of dreams. His departure to Los Angeles in 1960 may have been his third from home, but it was his time at Boys State that laid the foundation for a lifetime of achievements.

As we remember Jerry West, we celebrate not just a basketball icon, but a Mountaineer who exemplified the spirit of Boys State—leadership, community, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Rest in peace, Jerry West, the “Men of Tomorrow” will continue to be inspired by your story.

/0 Comments
, , , , ,

Mac Warner: Champion of Election Integrity and Visionary Leader

Andrew McCoy “Mac” Warner, serving as West Virginia’s Secretary of State since 2017, is a West Point graduate and a veteran of the U.S. Army JAG Corps. With a law degree from West Virginia University and an LL.M. in International Law, Warner has dedicated his career to upholding democratic principles and election integrity. His tenure has been marked by efforts to enhance election cybersecurity, reflecting his commitment to secure and fair electoral processes. A family man with deep West Virginian roots, Warner is also known for his advocacy for conservative values.

/0 Comments
, , , , , , ,

Honoring Service and Sacrifice: The American Legion Mountaineer Boys State Flag Retirement and Memorial Tribute

This evening is a solemn and significant occasion as we gather together, both in spirit and through this live stream, to honor tradition, memory, and service. Today, we are conducting a flag retirement ceremony, a respectful farewell to the symbols of our nation that have proudly flown over our heads. This ceremony is not just about the fabric and colors; it’s about the ideals, the sacrifices, and the unwavering spirit they represent.

We also take a moment to remember the cherished members of the Boys State Family who are no longer with us. In the “Post Everlasting,” we honor their contributions, their mentorship, and the legacy they have left behind. Their memories continue to guide us and inspire future generations.

Furthermore, we pay tribute to our female veterans, whose courage and dedication have been instrumental in shaping our nation’s history. Their service, often unsung, deserves our deepest respect and gratitude.

Join us as we reflect on these profound acts of patriotism and remembrance. May this ceremony remind us of the values we hold dear and the collective responsibility we share in carrying them forward.

 

Those honored during the Post Everlasting Ceremony are:

  • General Thomas “Tom” Bartlett III (ALMBS Graduate)
  • Paula Jean Booth (Past American Legion Auxiliary Department of West Virginia President)
  • Rocco Fucillo (ALMBS Staff and Supporter)
  • Katena Svingos Karnes (Past American Legion Auxiliary Department of West Virginia President)
  • Roger John “Kat” Michael (Past Sons of The American Legion Detachment of West Virginia Commander)
  • Jack Morgan (US Navy Veteran and ALMBS Supporter)
/0 Comments
, , , , ,

Leading by Example: Mark McMillion’s Impactful Journey

After retiring as a lieutenant colonel, Mark founded McMillion Leadership Associates, a company dedicated to delivering practical leadership training. But here’s the intriguing part: Mark returned to the program where it all began—West Virginia’s Premier Leadership Academy. As a West Point graduate, he had received unparalleled training in leadership, and now he was sharing those insights with the citizens of the program. His passion for developing effective leaders led him back to the very place where he honed his own skills. Mark’s mantra? “50% of great leadership is knowing when to get out of the way.” And he’s living proof that leadership isn’t just about giving orders—it’s about building trust, loyalty, and respect. So, whether in combat zones or classrooms, Mark McMillion continues to shape leaders who make a difference

/0 Comments