Evergreen Boys State is a leadership action program for male high school juniors to take part in a practical government course designed to give them a working knowledge of the structure of government.

 

This program is run by the American Legion. It will be held at Central Washington University in Ellensburg June 16-22. The website for more information is www.EvergreenBoysState.org.

 

You can apply on the website or through me — call 683-6419. I have to approve any applications and can discuss fees and transportation. Jack Grennan Post 62 would like to send three “citizens” to this program and is willing to help with fees and transportation for those chosen. This will be a life experience — you will work hard, have fun and make friends for a lifetime!

 

The first Boys State was in Illinois in June 1935.

 

New officers

The Olympic Peninsula Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America installed new officers at its December General Membership Meeting. LTC Tom Coonelly, USA (Ret.) became president.

 

As outgoing president I was awarded the MOAA Leadership Award by National President VADM Norb Ryan USN (Ret.). The chapter has a luncheon or event in the even months, the board meets in the odd months. If you are interested in learning more, give me a call at 683-6419.

 

The chapter supports veterans in this area, the NJROTC at Port Angeles High School, advises members of legislation impacting troops, veterans and their families and is a great way to network.

 

Chaplains Day

Please join the American Legion and VFW as we observe Four Chaplains Day at 11 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 3, at the American Legion Post, 107 E. Prairie St. All are welcome.

 

The four chaplains gave away their life jackets as the USAT Dorchester was sinking on Feb. 3, 1943, as a result of a torpedo attack by a German submarine. They have been recognized for their selfless acts of courage, compassion and faith. They demonstrated throughout the voyage, and in their last moments, interfaith compassion in their relationship with the men and with each other. Please come learn more about these four men and their sacrifice.

 

DAR meeting

The Michael Trebert Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution will be holding its Jan. 16 meeting starting at 10:45 a.m. at the North Olympic Skills Center in Port Angeles. The speaker will be Kathy Monds from the Museum at the Carnegie talking about Thomas Aldwell. He is the gentleman that Lake Aldwell was named for — the lake that is no more!

 

The February meeting is the George Washington Tea held on Feb. 16 at the First Presbyterian Church, 139 W. Eighth St. in Port Angeles.

 

At the tea awards will be given to an NJROTC Cadet for local conservation efforts, etc. If you are interested in attending and becoming a DAR member, contact the Regent, Joyce, at n7jpw@juno.com.

 

Contributors: DAR, Regent, Joyce Stroeher,n7jpw@juno.com; American Legion and MOAA, Lorri Gilchrist, cdrlgilchrist@gmail.com; VFW Commander Roger Padie, commander@vfwpost4760.com; Marine Corps League, Terry Roth, mroth@olypen.com; Korean War Veterans, Jerry Rettela, eletteor@msn.com; Fleet Reserve Association, Tom Flanik, gunny@sos.net.