TYPE OF FUND: Designated DATE ESTABLISHED: 3 September 2013
PURPOSE: To enable the Senior Army Instructor (SAI) of the Preston High School Army JROTC program to pay expenses for equipment, travel to competitive events and other program expenses.
DISTRIBUTION: Upon request by the SAI, recommendation by the Fund Advisor and approval by the TCF Board of Directors. All distributions will be to the Preston High School Army JROTC program.
VARIANCE POWER: If in the judgment of the TCF Board of Directors, the restrictions and conditions of the fund become unnecessary, incapable of fulfillment or inconsistent with the charitable needs of the community, the TCF Board of Directors maintains the right to modify the terms of this fund.
FUNDING: The initial $20,000.00 to establish this scholarship fund came from the members of The American Legion, George D. Jackson Post 56, Kingwood, West Virginia.
BACKGROUND: The American Legion was chartered and incorporated by Congress as a patriotic veterans organization devoted to mutual helpfulness. It is committed to mentoring youth and sponsorship of wholesome programs in our communities, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting strong national security, and continued devotion to our fellow service members and veterans.
The Army JROTC Program is a natural for American Legion support. It has a mission to “motivate young people to be better citizens” and accomplishes the mission by providing exceptional opportunities and lifelong skills to America’s youth. Featuring programs that build character, develop higher self esteem, achievement scores and improved academic performance, it also provides many opportunities for expanded extracurricular activtities through competitive orienteering, drill and marksman ship events. They also provide color guards that provide a sense of patriotism to many community events.
The JROTC Program became an elective course of instruction at Preston High School in 1993 and has since that time earned many local, state and national honors. Post 56 is proud of its support of JROTC as well as American Legion Baseball, Boys State, Girls State and many patriotic community activities over the years.