Children and Youth

5th Grade Flag Essay Contest

General Information

The purpose of The American Legion of Iowa Essay contest is to develop deeper knowledge and appreciation for the United States Flag on the part of elementary level students. Other objectives of the contest include the ability to gain knowledge of flag etiquette and respect for the flag.

Eligibility

Participants shall be citizens of or lawful permanent residents of the United States. All contestants must be students enrolled in the fifth grade in a public, parochial, military, private or state accredited home-school.

Essay

The format for the essay is limited to the following:

• A one (1) page document

• Contains 300 words or less

• Double-spaced

• 12-point font

• The student’s own words and effort

The essay is to reflect the student’s perspective of what the United States Flag represents to them using facts from the United States Flag Code.

Department Guidelines are here. https://www.ialegion.org/flag-essay/ 

High School Constitutional Speech Contest

The purpose of The American Legion High School Oratorical Scholarship Program is to develop a deeper knowledge and appreciation of the Constitution of the United States among high school students. Other objectives of the contest include the development of leadership qualities, the ability to think and speak clearly and intelligently, and the preparation for acceptance of the duties and responsibilities, rights, and privileges of American citizenship. 

The contests are held at Post, County, District, Area, Department and National level.

The Post level contest is normally in November.  First place at Nationals is an $18,000 scholarship.

Detailed information can be found here.  https://www.ialegion.org/oratorical/

American Legion Boys State

The American Legion of Iowa Boys State is a week-long, hands-on experience in the operation of the democratic form of government, the organization of political parties, and the relationship of one to the other in shaping Iowa government. Through the Boys State objective of learning by doing, young men will learn about city, county and state government more in one week than they would in an entire semester of high school.

Boys State is an exercise in leading as well as following others. Elections are an opportunity to show the ability to perform under pressure and to show character in the face of victories and/or defeats. Boys State will test skill in solving problems and working effectively within a team.

Boys State is an opportunity to gain pride and respect for our form of government and the price paid by people to preserve democracy. The week contains ceremonies and assemblies as well as marching and pageantry. Guest speakers, such as Past National Commander of The American Legion David Rehbein, and former Director of the Iowa High School Athletic Association Bernie Saggau, along with Iowa Government Leaders attend each year to offer their vision and advice.

Boys State is a chance to meet new people. Boys State offers an opportunity to meet people who represent Iowa’s diversity in heritage and culture. One of the finest objectives afforded to young men by Boys State is the friendships they will form with other Boys State citizens, many of whom will become lifelong friends.

Legion baseball

Since 1925, American Legion Baseball has contributed to the development of good sportsmanship and good citizenship while providing wholesome recreation for the nation’s youth.

The history of American Legion Baseball has proved that American youths receive on the baseball diamond a thorough understanding of sportsmanship, teamwork, and good citizenship – valued traits for America’s future leaders.

Department of Iowa

American Legion Baseball in the Department of Iowa is divided into two categories, Senior and Junior.

Post 298 has supported Legion Baseball most recent years and supported multiple teams some years.  

Junior Shooting Sports

Post 298 does not have a junior shooting sports program currently active.  There are other posts in the area that do have programs and welcome our youth to participate.  For more information email the post at ialeg298@gmail.com and we will get contact information for you.

Scouting

Based on the principle of duty to God and country, the Scouting program is for all youth, ages 6 through 21, regardless of ethnic background, creed, or physical or mental ability. In cooperation with organizations like The American Legion, Scouting offers a way for dedicated volunteers of the community to bring fun, adventure, and leadership skills to young people. Scouting provides effective character building, citizenship training, and personal fitness opportunities for youth.

Working together, the Boy Scouts of America and The American Legion have created a strong foundation of leadership, service, and community for America’s youth.

Post 298 has always been a strong supporter of Scouting, and that support continues today.  Marion Post 298 has been the sponsor of Cub Scout Pack 58 for over 70 years.