American Legion, State Police offer ‘Youth Week’ in June

HARRISBURG (Feb. 1, 2011) – The Pennsylvania American Legion is seeking applicants for the annual “State Police Youth Week” leadership program designed for young people with an interest in careers in law enforcement or military service.

The program, which is open to Pennsylvania youths who are 17 or younger and will have completed their sophomore, junior or senior year of high school prior to June 12, will be held June 12-18 at York College in York County.

Those selected as cadets will engage in team-building and self-esteem exercises and learn about the Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania National Guard, traffic and criminal laws, and other law enforcement-related topics. Cadets will march to their classes in platoon formation and have drill competition.  Recreational activities will be scheduled as time permits.

The program is not a recreational camp or a disciplinary camp for problem youths.

Interested youths can obtain an application by calling 717-730-9100 or by visiting the Pennsylvania American Legion website at www.pa-legion.com and proceeding to the “Programs” link.  Completed applications should be taken to a local American Legion Post, which will conduct applicant interviews and select candidates to sponsor.

Candidates must be in good physical heath and have at least average grades in school.

Officials said 104 cadets graduated from the 2010 program.