South Carolina's Hezzie Griffis Post 30 and Auxiliary Unit 30 honored Edgefield community citizenry in September for exemplary accomplishments in leadership, service and education. The dinner-meeting occasion was marked by a strong sense of community and commitment, highlighting the initiation of a new member, recognizing our 2024 Teacher of the Year, and honoring the 2024 Boys State and Girls State delegates, says Post 30 Commander Winston Boddie.
Marine Corps veteran Justin Bailey was warmly welcomed to the post family. Drawing on leadership skills gained in the Marines and his passion for sports, he now serves as assistant varsity football coach at Wardlaw Academy in Johnston, S.C., setting a positive example for youth. His mentoring of young men and women aligns perfectly with Post 30’s core mission to develop future leaders while serving the community.
Jessica Coleman of W.E. Parker Elementary School in Edgefield was recognized by Post 30 as Teacher of the Year for 2024. A dedicated educator, Coleman made significant impacts with students at her school and within her community. Her passion for teaching and dedication to help youth succeed epitomizes values held by The American Legion, says Boddie says.
Boys and Girls State delegates for 2024 from local schools were presented with a Certificate of Appreciation for program accomplishments. Boys State delegates included Colt Bailey and Aiden Rearden from Wardlaw Academy, plus Brelan Baskett and Jimmy Bates Jr. of Strom Thurmond High School. Girls State delegates were Mattison McAbee, Paola Ramirez and Elizabeth McKee from Fox Creek High School in North Augusta, Ryan Raines from Strom Thurmond and Elizabeth Parks from Wardlaw Academy.
Delegates shared their personal experiences highlighting how the Boys State and Girls State programs fostered lasting friendships and cultivated essential leadership skills. They discussed how these programs enabled them to overcome challenges, collaborate with peers, practice public speaking, and gain valuable insights into local and state government.
Commander Boddie adds, “The occasion projected a wonderful expression of core American Legion values reflecting great credit upon participants. Hezzie Griffis Post 30 proudly congratulates the honored participants.”