As we remember Jerry West, we celebrate not just a basketball icon, but a Mountaineer who exemplified the spirit of Boys State—leadership, community, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Rest in peace, Jerry West, the “Men of Tomorrow” will continue to be inspired by your story.

Andrew McCoy “Mac” Warner, serving as West Virginia’s Secretary of State since 2017, is a West Point graduate and a veteran of the U.S. Army JAG Corps. With a law degree from West Virginia University and an LL.M. in International Law, Warner has dedicated his career to upholding democratic principles and election integrity. His tenure has been marked by efforts to enhance election cybersecurity, reflecting his commitment to secure and fair electoral processes. A family man with deep West Virginian roots, Warner is also known for his advocacy for conservative values.

his evening is a solemn and significant occasion as we gather together, both in spirit and through this live stream, to honor tradition, memory, and service. Today, we are conducting a flag retirement ceremony, a respectful farewell to the symbols of our nation that have proudly flown over our heads. This ceremony is not just about the fabric and colors; it’s about the ideals, the sacrifices, and the unwavering spirit they represent. We also take a moment to remember the cherished members of the Boys State Family who are no longer with us. In the “Post Everlasting,” we honor their contributions, their mentorship, and the legacy they have left behind. Their memories continue to guide us and inspire future generations.

After retiring as a lieutenant colonel, Mark founded McMillion Leadership Associates, a company dedicated to delivering practical leadership training. But here’s the intriguing part: Mark returned to the program where it all began—West Virginia’s Premier Leadership Academy. As a West Point graduate, he had received unparalleled training in leadership, and now he was sharing those insights with the citizens of the program. His passion for developing effective leaders led him back to the very place where he honed his own skills. Mark’s mantra? “50% of great leadership is knowing when to get out of the way.” And he’s living proof that leadership isn’t just about giving orders—it’s about building trust, loyalty, and respect. So, whether in combat zones or classrooms, Mark McMillion continues to shape leaders who make a difference

Welcome to the live stream of the American Legion Mountaineer Boys State Party Conventions! Today, we stand at the precipice of democracy in action as the Nationalists and Federalists unveil their platforms and introduce their candidates. This is a pivotal moment where the principles of good government come to life through active participation. As our future leaders articulate their visions for progress, we invite you to engage, deliberate, and decide. The general election this afternoon is not just a culmination of this process but a testament to the power of informed citizenship. Join us in this celebration of democracy and witness the shaping of tomorrow’s leaders.

Meet the 2024 ALMBS Banking Staff, who will lead our mock bank and provide citizens with invaluable hands-on experience in the financial industry. At ALMBS, participants can explore 10 different career paths, each playing an integral part in running a successful mock state.

Mark Shreve, an esteemed Vice Commander of The American Legion, is a paragon of selfless service and leadership. Hailing from the scenic Smoke Hole, West Virginia, Mark’s journey is one of dedication and commitment to the values that define our nation’s veterans.

Dr. E. Gordon Gee, currently serving his second term as the President of West Virginia University, is a distinguished leader in higher education with a career spanning over three decades. Born in Vernal, Utah, Dr. Gee graduated from the University of Utah with an honors degree in history and earned his J.D. and Ed.D degrees from Columbia University. He has held more university presidencies than any other American, including at The Ohio State University (twice), Vanderbilt University, Brown University, and the University of Colorado. In 2009, Time magazine named him one of the top 10 university presidents in the United States. Dr. Gee’s commitment to education extends beyond administration; he is the co-author of over a dozen books on law and education. Today, we are honored to have him as our keynote speaker at the American Legion Mountaineer Boys State.

Tony Caridi, known as “The Voice of the Mountaineers,” is a renowned sportscaster for West Virginia University’s Mountaineer Sports Network and West Virginia Radio Corporation’s Metronews Radio Network. Born on September 8, 1962, in Lockport, New York, Caridi’s passion for sports broadcasting was sparked by listening to the NBA’s Buffalo Braves, the NHL’s Buffalo Sabres, and the NFL’s Buffalo Bills1. He graduated from Syracuse University’s S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications in 1984. Caridi arrived in West Virginia in 1984 and has been a vital part of the state’s sports broadcasting scene ever since. In addition to his broadcasting career, Caridi is also a children’s book author. Today, we are honored to have him as a keynote speaker at the American Legion Mountaineer Boys State. Tony Caridi’s presentation is followed by the Americanism Team presentation on the US Flag Code.

Patrick James Morrisey, born on December 21, 1967, is an accomplished attorney and politician, currently serving as the 34th Attorney General of West Virginia. A member of the Republican Party, he was elected to the position in 2012, becoming the first Republican to serve in the role since 1933.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Morrisey grew up in Edison, New Jersey. He graduated with honors from Rutgers College with a Bachelor of Arts in history and political science in 1989. He also attended Rutgers School of Law–Newark, receiving his juris doctor in 1992.

Morrisey has had a multi-faceted career in law and public service, including roles as a former Partner and Practice Chair at a major national law firm, a former Chairman of the Republican Attorney Generals Association, a former Chief Counsel to the House of Representatives Energy and Commerce Committee, and an owner of his own law practice.

Throughout his tenure as