Boys Nation elects 2009 leadership

Christopher Andrews, 17, of Green River, Wyo., was elected president of The American Legion Boys Nation this week at Marymount University in Arlington, Va. An incoming senior at Green River High School, Andrews plans to attend Michigan State University to study math and science."It is an honor and privilege to be elected," Andrews said. "I bring the confidence to lead in this position. It is all about commitment, and I thank The American Legion and Boys State for this opportunity."Kyle Gaines, 17, of Ormond Beach, Fla., was elected Boys Nation vice president. He plans to attend Georgetown University, then pursue a career with the Central Intelligence Agency."I am honored and thankful for this opportunity," Gaines said. "My goal is to bring leadership to the senate, and knowledge of political issues to advise the president."Andrews and Gaines took their oaths of office July 22, administered by the Hon. Alan Lance, Judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims and Past National Commander of The American Legion.Each American Legion Boys Nation delegate, having already participated in Boys State, represents his home state as a senator. The senators caucus at the beginning of the session, organize into committees and conduct hearings on bills. These activities allow delegates to learn proper legislative procedures followed by the U.S. Senate.The American Legion Boys Nation provides aspiring young men with an opportunity to learn about the federal government and participation in the electoral process.