Two Russellville High School rising seniors were chosen this year to join boys from across the state for Alabama Boys State in May: Brayden Bendall and Patrick Crummie.

Boys State was founded by the American Legion, and its purpose is to teach young men about the United States government through active participation and unique experiences. During the week, the boys attend meetings, hold elections and debates, form a mock government and listen to speakers.

“It teaches you how the government works and how to be a good leader and citizen,” Crummie said.

For elections, the boys formed two parties: the Nationalists and the Federalists. Each attendee had to choose his party and platform, which dictated the tone of debates and speeches.

“You really had to know what you were talking about with strong details to support your platform,” Bendall said.

Crummie was on a platform committee for his party, and Bendall ran for the Senate Associate Justice Seat 5 for the Nationalist party. He did not win the position, but he did have to deliver a speech.

“It was a little nerve-wracking, but I just got up there and got it over with,” Bendall said.

It was a learning experience for the boys in many ways.

“I didn’t realize how many small but important jobs there are in the government,” Crummie said.

And while neither of the boys have the desire to work in the government or political field, they said they appreciate the knowledge they gleaned from the program, especially since they are close to voting age. They both said it was an overall good experience, and they are glad they were chosen to attend the week-long program.

“I’m glad it showed me the process of how elections work,” Crummie said. “I learned that you have to take things at more than just face value.”

“It gave me a better understanding of what’s going on and the effort and knowledge that goes into an election,” Bendall agreed. “I didn’t know it was that deep.”