RUMFORD — The American Legion, Department of Maine, has announced that its 67th annual American Legion Dirigo Boys State will be held at Thomas College in Waterville during the week of June 15-19.

Post 24 is inviting members of the River Valley Area to join them in sponsoring young men to attend the program.

“These young men are the future leaders of America,” said Tricia Thurston, commander of Napoleon Ouellette Post 24. “We are seeking boys with outstanding qualifications in character and leadership to attend one of the most respected and selective educational programs of government instruction ever designed for high school students.”

High school juniors are selected in early spring by local American Legion posts to attend the program. “It is a participatory program where each young man becomes a part of the operation of his local, county and state government,” said Thurston.

In most cases, a sponsoring American Legion post, a local business or another community-based organization pays expenses associated with attending the program.

“I encourage the entire community – and in particular high school counselors, community leaders and business owners – to submit their recommendations for candidates to attend the American Legion Boys State program,” said Thurston.

Activities include legislative sessions, court proceedings, law enforcement presentations, assemblies, bands, chorus and recreational programs.

The program is a unique way for young men to learn about the American system of government, said Thurston.

For more information on the program, contact Fred Milligan at 418-770 or Kirk Thurston at 369-0831.