By Tyler Brown, For Iron County Today
The Cedar City American Legion Post 74 and American Legion Auxiliary Post 74 are proud to sponsor five outstanding young men and 14 outstanding young women to attend the 2026 Utah Boys State and Utah Girls State programs.
Boys State and Girls State are the premier youth programs of the American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary. These programs are internationally recognized leaders in civics education and character development, offering students a unique, hands-on experience in government and public service.
Often described as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, participants engage in leadership training, learn the fundamentals of citizenship, and gain valuable insight into civic responsibility. Graduates of Boys State and Girls State join a distinguished group of alumni known for being civically engaged and accomplished members of their communities.
During the program, veterans and community leaders mentor students, emphasizing the importance of patriotism, leadership, and public service. Participants also earn three college credits in political science, and many are eligible for additional scholarships.
The Cedar City American Legion and Auxiliary extend their sincere appreciation to the following organizations and individuals for their generous support:
State Bank of Southern Utah; Cedar City Rotary Club; Cedar City Lions Club; The Dixie and Anne Leavitt Family Foundation; Southern Utah Mortuary; Colonel Alva Matheson; Leonard and Georgia Smith-Johnson; Ken and Amalia Wells; and Mr. and Mrs. Tucker.
Their continued support helps make this important opportunity possible for local students.