Legion youth programs kick off the summer

Summer for The American Legion and its youth signifies three weeks filled with education, competition and teamwork. It's during these warm months that three of the Legion's top-notch youth programs get under way: Boys Nation, Shooting Sports Air-Rifle Championship and baseball World Series.

On July 22, The American Legion and 98 Boys Nation senators will celebrate the program's 65th year in Washington, D.C. The weeklong program will educate the young men on the structure and function of the federal government, all while providing the senators an opportunity to visit historical landmarks around the Washington area. Stay updated on the young mens' daily activities by reading stories, viewing photos and watching videos on the Boys Nation website.

The Legion's 21st annual Junior 3-Position Air Rifle National Championship will once again be held at the USA Shooting Range Facilities at the Olympic Training Center in, Colorado Springs, Colo., August 2 - 7. During this event, 30 competitors are entered in either the precision or sporter category and shoot a .177 caliber air rifle in the prone, kneeling and standing position. The 30 competitors will be narrowed down to the top 16 until a winner is crowned in both the sporter and precision categories. Visit the Legion's shooting sports website for updates during the event.

And the highly anticipated American Legion Baseball World Series swings into action Aug. 12-16 in Shelby, N.C. The 86th Legion World Series will be filled with military events, concerts and patriotism. More importantly, fans unable to attend the World Series will have the ability to view game highlights and photos via legion.org/baseball and watch all 15 games live on ESPN3 for free. Fans can visit the Legion website during the event to find a direct link to ESPN3.