American Legion Post 307 Proudly Supports Local Youth

LOCAL COMMUNITY

The American Legion plays a significant role in supporting local youth who excel in scholastic and leadership roles, to include those who participate in Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) programs, by providing mentorship, financial assistance, and recognition. Many Legion posts collaborate with local schools and JROTC units to offer guidance and leadership training, helping students develop essential skills for both military and civilian careers.

Additionally, the Legion sponsors awards and scholarships for JROTC participants who demonstrate leadership, academic excellence, and commitment to community service. They also host ceremonies to honor cadets and instructors, reinforcing the bond between veterans and the next generation of leaders.

To recognize local students who excel, Post 307 currently offers four separate awards:

1. Bill Detweiler Memorial Scholarship ($2500.00)

2. American Legion Leadership Award/Medallion ($500)

3. JROTC Military Excellence Award/Medal

4. JROTC Scholastic Excellence Award/Medal

BILL DETWEILER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

American Legion Post 307 in New Orleans also supports local JROTC programs through the Bill Detweiler Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship provides $2,500.00 towards tuition and is awarded to cadets who demonstrate exceptional leadership, character, scholastic achievement, service in school and community, citizenship, and patriotic values.

For example, in 2024, cadets from Brother Martin High School’s NJROTC program received this scholarship in recognition of their dedication and mentorship of younger students. The award helps encourage and support outstanding cadets as they continue their education and leadership development.

WHO WAS BILL DETWEILER?

Bill Detweiler was a dedicated advocate for veterans, a past National Commander of the American Legion, and a key figure in the development of the National World War II Museum. He served in the U.S. Army Intelligence Corps and later became a New Orleans attorney. Throughout his career, he worked tirelessly to support veterans, helping to shape policies and programs that benefited them.

Detweiler was instrumental in fundraising and programming for the National WWII Museum, ensuring that veterans were honored and their stories preserved. He also played a role in connecting military officials and local leaders to expand the museum’s reach1. His contributions earned him numerous accolades, including the French National Order of Merit for his work on behalf of veterans.

BOYS & GIRLS STATE

Ed Brauner Post 307 in New Orleans actively supports Boys & Girls State programs designed to educate high school students about government and leadership. The post provides financial sponsorships to help local students attend these programs, ensuring they have the opportunity to participate regardless of financial constraints.

Additionally, Post 307 hosts orientation meetings for Boys & Girls State attendees, where students and their families receive guidance on what to expect and how to prepare for the experience. Members of the post also engage with participants, offering mentorship and encouragement as they embark on this unique leadership journey.

WHAT IS BOYS & GIRLS STATE?

These are summer leadership and citizenship programs for high school juniors, sponsored by the American Legion. It focuses on teaching students about the mechanics of American government and politics through hands-on participation in a mock state government. Participants are typically nominated by their high schools and go through a competitive selection process.

During the program, students form political parties, elect officials, draft and debate bills, and engage in various government-related activities. Some states even include mock trials, journalism components, and emergency management simulations. The experience is designed to foster leadership skills, civic engagement, and an understanding of democratic processes.

AWARD/PARTICIPATION CRITERIA

BILL DETWEILER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Please check back soon for award criteria and application timelines.

AMERICAN LEGION LEADERSHIP AWARD

Please check back soon for award criteria and application timelines.

JROTC MILITARY EXCELLENCE AWARD

Please check back soon for award criteria and application timelines.

JROTC SCHOLASTIC EXCELLENCE AWARD

Please check back soon for award criteria and application timelines.

BOYS/GIRLS STATE PARTICIPATION CRITERIA AND REQUIREMENTS

Please check back soon for participation criteria and requirements for Boys State.

QUESTIONS?

For questions about the above programs please contact:

ED BRAUNER POST 307 | post307nola@gmail.com

NATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

The American Legion Sponsors National-Level Scholarship Programs that are available to high school students with exceptional academic and leadership qualities, including those participating in youth programs or connected to military services. For more information, click the American Legion logo below.