Tag Archive for: Americanism

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The Role of Americanism in Leadership: Lessons from ALMBS Flag Instruction

At the American Legion Mountaineer Boys State (ALMBS), leadership is more than just a concept—it’s a lived experience. One of the most impactful sessions in this premier leadership academy is the Flag Instruction class, where participants learn the proper handling, display, and respect for the U.S. flag. This class is not just about protocol; it instills a deep sense of Americanism, reinforcing the values that shape strong leaders.

Americanism, as defined by The American Legion, embodies loyalty, respect for institutions, and a commitment to civic responsibility. Through the Flag Instruction class, young leaders gain firsthand experience in discipline, honor, and patriotism, qualities essential for effective leadership. Understanding the significance of the flag fosters a sense of unity and pride, encouraging participants to lead with integrity and a commitment to service.

In today’s world, where leadership demands adaptability and moral clarity, the principles of Americanism serve as a guiding force. By embracing these ideals, youth leaders at ALMBS learn that leadership is not just about authority—it’s about serving others, upholding traditions, and inspiring future generations.

Through programs like ALMBS, young leaders are equipped with the tools to lead with purpose, ensuring that the values of Americanism continue to shape communities and the nation for years to come.

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Honoring Our Heroes: A Tribute to Veterans at Machpelah Cemetery

On Saturday, June 7, at 4:30 p.m., members of the American Legion Mountaineer Boys State Staff gathered at Machpelah Cemetery to honor the brave men and women who served our nation. Through the Flying Flags for Heroes initiative hosted by the Sons of The American Legion Detachment of West Virginia, attendees reaffirmed their commitment to preserving the legacy of veterans by placing flags upon their graves—a solemn act of remembrance ensuring their sacrifice was never forgotten.

A Moment of Reflection

The evening commenced with a heartfelt moment of prayer, invoking God’s mercy upon those who had faithfully served their country. This solemn reflection set the tone for the gathering, as participants paused to acknowledge the sacrifices made by generations of veterans.

The Flying Flags for Heroes Initiative

Launched in April 2020 by Past National Commander Michael Fox, the Flying Flags for Heroes program was founded to ensure that all veterans—whether laid to rest in national or local cemeteries—received due recognition for their service. Partnering with Preston Sharp, a passionate advocate for honoring veterans, the program quickly gained momentum. In 2022, The Sons of The American Legion officially adopted Flying Flags for Heroes as an ongoing initiative, reinforcing their dedication to instilling patriotism and respect for those who served.

Since its inception, the program had placed over 1.3 million flags on veterans’ graves across the country. This effort not only paid tribute to fallen heroes but also fostered civic responsibility, engaging younger generations in the tradition of remembrance. The Sons of The American Legion continued to expand the initiative, inspiring individuals to recognize veterans’ contributions year-round—not just on designated holidays.

Honoring West Virginia’s Military Legacy

West Virginia held a rich tradition of military service, and many prominent figures in the state’s history were laid to rest in Machpelah Cemetery. Among them was Colonel Jackson Arnold, a grand-nephew of General Thomas J. “Stonewall” Jackson. Arnold had been appointed by Governor John Jacob Cornwell as the first superintendent of the newly established Department of Public Safety, now known as the West Virginia State Police. His contributions to both state security and The American Legion Department of West Virginia, where he served as the first State Commander, were deeply respected.

Another distinguished veteran resting there was Louis Bennett, Jr., a fighter pilot in World War I. A true ace, Bennett flew with the British Royal Flying Corps in 1918 and demonstrated exceptional skill, downing three enemy planes and nine balloons in just nine days. Tragically, Bennett was shot down on August 24, 1918 and succumbed to his injuries, but his legacy endured throughout Weston—from the public library dedicated in his honor to the airstrip at Jackson’s Mill. His valor continued to inspire generations.

The Tribute Ceremony

As part of the evening’s commemoration, the honor guard presented a ceremonial three-volley salute, followed by Taps, a solemn farewell to those who had served. This act of respect solidified the community’s unwavering commitment to remembering and honoring veterans.

Through initiatives like Flying Flags for Heroes, the community ensured that the sacrifices of the nation’s heroes remained a cornerstone of collective memory. Over 150 Veterans were honored as part of the ceremony.

Thank you to all who joined ALMBS in this meaningful tribute. Your participation strengthened the bonds of respect, patriotism, and appreciation for our veterans—now and always.

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Voice of the Mountaineers: A Keynote by Tony Caridi at ALMBS, Followed by an Enlightening Presentation on Americanism and the U.S. Flag Code

Tony Caridi, known as “The Voice of the Mountaineers,” is a renowned sportscaster for West Virginia University’s Mountaineer Sports Network and West Virginia Radio Corporation’s Metronews Radio Network. Born on September 8, 1962, in Lockport, New York, Caridi’s passion for sports broadcasting was sparked by listening to the NBA’s Buffalo Braves, the NHL’s Buffalo Sabres, and the NFL’s Buffalo Bills1. He graduated from Syracuse University’s S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications in 1984. Caridi arrived in West Virginia in 1984 and has been a vital part of the state’s sports broadcasting scene ever since. In addition to his broadcasting career, Caridi is also a children’s book author. Today, we are honored to have him as a keynote speaker at the American Legion Mountaineer Boys State.

Tony Caridi’s presentation is followed by the ALMBS Americanism Team for a presentation on the United States Flag Code and Flag Etiquette. Today, we delved into the significance, the respect, and the protocol associated with our nation’s flag. The Stars and Stripes is not just a piece of fabric; it’s a symbol of our nation’s history, values, and unity. Understanding the Flag Code and proper flag etiquette is a way for us to show our respect and gratitude for our nation and those who have served it. So, let’s embark on this journey of learning and deepen our appreciation for the Star-Spangled Banner.

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Mastering the Art of Leadership: Discover the Secrets to Effective Leadership with Mark McMillion, a West Point Graduate and Internationally Seasoned Leader

Mark McMillion is a seasoned leader with over 25 years of experience, honing his leadership skills in diverse environments across the globe. As a graduate of West Point, he received unparalleled training in the art of leadership. With a strong foundation in engineering, Mark understands the importance of data-driven decision-making. His extensive military career included assignments in Germany, Norway, and two combat tours in Iraq, where he held various leadership positions.

Mark firmly believes that true leadership extends beyond giving orders or disciplinary actions. Building mutual trust, loyalty, and respect for others are essential qualities for effective leadership in any setting. Throughout his career, he held pivotal roles such as platoon leader, West Point assistant professor, battalion executive officer, and exercise planner for NATO. Each experience contributed significantly to his personal growth and leadership development.

Working alongside exceptional sergeants as a platoon leader, Mark learned that leading great teams often involves providing them with the necessary resources and allowing them to thrive independently. He often emphasizes that “50% of great leadership is knowing when to get out of the way,” while acknowledging that the remaining 50% can be more challenging. Mark has adeptly navigated complex leadership situations, gaining invaluable expertise along the way.

During his tenure at West Point as an instructor, Mark refined his presentation skills and took pride in shaping future Army leaders. He eagerly awaits the day when one of his former cadets acknowledges how their time at West Point profoundly influenced their rise to the presidency.

As the second-in-command of an artillery battalion, Mark assumed comprehensive responsibility for all aspects of the unit. Whether overseeing the maintenance of over 225 combat vehicles or mentoring young officers, he played a crucial role in preparing the unit for its next combat deployment.

His time at NATO provided him with a deep appreciation for the value of diversity. Collaborating with individuals from more than 20 countries, many of whom were non-native English speakers, sharpened his communication and presentation skills. Mark discovered that leadership is not about being the smartest person in the room; instead, it involves effectively leading teams of subject-matter experts by asking the right questions. His contributions as the leader of exercise content resulted in groundbreaking exercises for NATO.

Following his retirement as a lieutenant colonel in 2013, Mark founded McMillion Leadership Associates, a company dedicated to delivering practical leadership training to all levels of organizations. Additionally, he has taught leadership theory at West Virginia University. Mark holds a B.S. in Civil Engineering from the United States Military Academy at West Point and an M.S. in Cognitive Systems Engineering from The Ohio State University.

Mark, along with his wife Toni, has been happily married for over 30 years. They reside in Clarksburg, West Virginia, and are proud parents of four children.

 

For more information on Mark McMillion and McMillion Leadership Associates visit: https://mcmillionleadership.com/

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American Legion Flag Retirement Ceremony

How To Dispose of A Flag

  • The U.S. Flag Code suggests that when a flag has served its useful purpose, “it should be destroyed, preferably by burning.” For individual citizens, this should be done discreetly so the act of destruction is not perceived as a protest or desecration.
  • Many American Legion posts conduct disposal ceremonies of unserviceable flags, especially on Flag Day (June 14). Such ceremonies are particularly dignified and solemn occasions for the retirement of unserviceable flags.
  • Take your old flags to your local American Legion post.  They will be happy to retire your flags in their next disposal ceremony.
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ALMBS Flag Class Provides Americanism Instruction to Citizens

Title 4, United States Code, Chapter 1

As Adopted by the National Flag Conference, Washington, D.C., June 14-15, 1923, and Revised and Endorsed by the Second National Flag Conference, Washington, D.C., May 15, 1924. Revised and adopted at P.L. 623, 77th Congress, Second Session, June 22, 1942; as Amended by P.L. 829, 77th Congress, Second Session, December 22, 1942; P.L. 107 83rd Congress, 1st Session, July 9, 1953; P.L. 396, 83rd Congress, Second Session, June 14, 1954; P.L. 363, 90th Congress, Second Session, June 28, 1968; P.L. 344, 94th Congress, Second Session, July 7, 1976; P.L. 322, 103rd Congress, Second Session, September 13, 1994; P.L. 225, 105th Congress, Second Session, August 12, 1998; P.L. 80, 106th Congress, First Session, October 25, 1999; P.L. 110-41, 110th Congress, First Session, June 29, 2007; P.L. 110-181, 110th Congress, Second Session, January 28, 2008; P.L. 110-239, 110th Congress, Second Session, June 3, 2008, P.L. 110-417, 110th Congress, Second Session, October 14, 2008; P.L. 111-41, 111th Congress, First Session, July 27, 2009; P.L. 113-66 113th Congress, First Session, December 26, 2013; and P.L 115-305 115th Congress, Second Session, March 28, 2017.

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Flag Education

When any camper walks into Mountaineer Boy’s State he can feel the strong sense of patriotism that fills the grounds. No symbol best exemplifies that sense of patriotism than the American Flag, and the man who has gone to great lengths to educate all campers about the meaning of the flag none other than Senior Counselor Robbie Robinson.

“I teach flag appreciation and it’s amazing how many fifth graders do not know when to stand for the pledge. It amazes me that people do not know some of the basic facts about the flag,” Senior Counselor Robbie Robinson, said.

This was Robinson’s fourth year giving the powerful speech to the campers, and teacher them what the flag means to him.

“The flag means to me that a lot of people sacrificed their lives so I could live the life live today, and when people disrespect the flag means they are disrespecting me. We here at Boy’s State want some kind of Americanism every day in camp to instill different values in campers,” Robinson, said.

By Clark Palmer – Staff Reporter

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