Warwick Valley High School senior reports on American Legion Boys State experience

WARWICK — During a recent meeting at Warwick's American Legion Post 214, Warwick Valley High School senior Noah Daigle addressed its members to report on his experience at Boys State this past July.
American Legion Boys State is a week-long program that immerses high school students in citizenship and leadership training.
While there, they learn the practical aspects of government as it exists in New York State and also participate in physical fitness, teamwork and other activities, under the guidance of American Legion counselors and U.S. Marines.
Daigle learned through an early experience, for example, that making his own bed to perfection but not helping his roommate, a late arrival to the program who wasn't available to make his, was not appreciated by his Marine supervisor in very strong terms.
"It was a life-changing experience," said Daigle. "I learned it's all about teamwork."
He also reported that he won all but one of the mock elections for city, county and state offices that are organized and held by the young men in the program.
And after learning how government works, Daigle said he brought back some ideas to help improve his own community.
Before attending the Post 214 meeting, Daigle sent a letter to the members thanking them for sponsoring him to what he described as an unforgettable experience.
"My commitment to attending a service academy and serving my country," he wrote, "was further solidified during my week at Boys State."
- Roger Gavan