Boys State

Boys State is a Program of the American Legion developed from the concept that youth should be offered a better perspective of the practical operation of government: that the individual is an integral part and commensurately responsible for the character and success of his government. As such, it is an activity of high educational value, born of a need for youth training in practical citizenship. To elaborate – Boys State is easily classified as a leadership action program where qualified male high school juniors take part in a practical government course designed to develop in the young citizens a working knowledge of the structure of government and to impress upon them the fact that their government is just what they make it.  To summarize – Boys State is an objective citizenship training program which inculcates individual responsibility to the community, state and nation. It is operated on the basis of the political government organization existing in Massachusetts, including all levels from the municipality to the state.  For more information please email the Post at: info@westwoodalpost320.com.

ALA Girls State/Girls Nation programs provide a nonpartisan participatory program that teaches eligible high school females responsible citizenship grounded in ethics, the principles of our nation's founders and respect for God and Country.  High school girls who have completed their Junior year spend an intensive week of study working together as self-governing citizens at Auxiliary sponsored Girls State programs in every state. Expenses associated with attending this program are paid for by Westwood American Legion Post 320.  Participants learn how to participate in the functioning of their state's government in preparation for their future roles as responsible adult citizens.

The American Legion, Department of Massachusetts, Inc. sponsors a "Student Trooper Program" in cooperation with the Massachusetts State Police Academy every year.

The goal is to recruit youths representing all communities and cultural backgrounds and to increase their understanding of the job of police officers. The program is designed to expose young adults to the demands of police training and to develop better relationships between the youth of our communities and the police that serve them.

The Student Trooper program is an intensive, one week, residential learning experience for young adults, ages 15 thru 17. The program is held at the Massachusetts State Police Academy in New Braintree.

The Student Trooper program is not a summer camp and is not designed for troubled teenagers. The program is mentally and physically demanding. The Massachusetts State Police Academy uses a paramilitary approach to training, and discipline is strict. Vigorous physical training, including running and calisthenics, is required. Reveille is at 5:30AM and "lights out" is at 10:00PM. Candidates should be highly motivated and willing to work as a team to succeed in daily challenges.

Veteran Massachusetts State Police trainers will provide classroom and hands-on training in topics such as First Aid/CPR, Criminal Law, Officer Safety, Crime Scene Investigations, Safe Driving, Leadership, Internet Safety, Team Building, and Physical Fitness. Student Troopers will also observe and participate in demonstrations by members of State Police specialty units such as tactical teams, the K-9 Unit, and the Air Wing.  Student Troopers who graduate from the program will be proud of their accomplishments. The lessons learned will serve them well for years to come.

The program is open to male and female high school students 15 - 17 years of age in good scholastic standing. They must be of good moral character and present a well-groomed appearance with hair neatly trimmed (males must be clean shaven).  Due to the rigorous training and stress involved in a paramilitary-type academy, those requiring special diets or having special physical needs cannot be accepted. The "Student Trooper Program "is open to all, regardless of race, color, religion, sex or nationality.  Participants must complete the Student Trooper Application by the date listed on the application.  In addition, a physical examination is required.  A medical form requiring a doctor's signature will be required upon your acceptance to the program.

This Program fills up quickly each year, thus Applicants should contact the Post Commander by March 15th each year at: info@westwoodalpost320.com.

The American Legion Oratorical Contest exists to develop deeper knowledge and appreciation for the U.S. Constitution among high school students. Since 1938, the Program has presented participants with an academic speaking challenge that teaches important leadership qualities, the history of our nation’s laws, the ability to think and speak clearly, and an  understanding of the duties, responsibilities, rights and privileges of American citizenship. The Program has featured numerous politicians and prominent contestants over the years, including former presidential candidate Alan Keyes and FBN anchor Lou Dobbs.  

Young orators earn some of the most generous college scholarships available to high school students. Over $138,000 in scholarships can be awarded each year. The overall national contest winner gets an $18,000 scholarship. Second place takes home $16,000, and third gets $14,000. Each department (state) winner who is certified into and participates in the national contest’s first round receives a $1,500 scholarship. Those who advance past the first round receive an additional $1,500 scholarship. The American Legion’s National Organization awards the scholarships, which can be used at any college or university in the United States.  

High school students under age 20 are eligible. Competition begins at the Post level and advances to a state competition. Legion Department representatives certify one winner per state to the national contest, where Department winners compete against each other in two speaking rounds. The contest caps off with a final round that decides the three top finishers.  

Speaking subjects must be on some aspect of the U.S. Constitution, with some emphasis on the duties and obligations of citizens to our government. Speeches are eight to 10 minutes long; three- to five-minute speeches on an assigned topic also are part of the contest.  

For more information please contact the Post at: info@westwoodalpost320.com.