For 47 high school seniors, the Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas Youth Tour was more than a trip to Washington, D.C. It was a chance to see history up close, honor heroes past and present, make lasting memories and form new friendships.
Before heading to D.C. to visit the monuments and memorials that honor America’s earliest leaders, delegates heard from a present-day public servant, state Sen. Dave Wallace of Leachville, who shared about his service in the Vietnam War.
“What we always have to remember is that freedom is not free,” Wallace said. “Those names on that Vietnam Veterans Memorial in D.C. are the men and women who gave up all their tomorrows, so we can have the freedom that we have today.”
Wallace’s message became personal for the delegates when each student received the name of a Vietnam War service member from near their hometown whose name is engraved on the memorial. At the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in D.C., students searched for those names on the wall — a quiet, sobering reminder of the sacrifice behind the freedoms they were there to learn about.
“Youth Tour gives students the opportunity to experience history where it happened and see how the lessons of the past connect to the leaders they can become,” said JD Lowery, Youth Tour coordinator and director of community and economic development for the Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas.
Youth Tour, held June 13-19, was especially meaningful as the capital city prepared to mark the nation’s 250th anniversary. Throughout the trip, delegates reflected on the leaders who helped shape the country and the ideals that continue to guide it.
The following essays, written by three delegates, share their experiences and reflect on the lasting influence of some Founding Fathers.
Leading by Example
BY KAMBREE ALLEN
SHERIDAN, C & L ELECTRIC
During America’s 250th anniversary, history came alive more than ever when strolling through Washington, D.C. We witnessed how the leadership of George Washington still shapes our country. Touring his home at Mount Vernon and seeing the Washington Monument made us realize that his legacy is so much more than the pages of a history book.
One of the most memorable stops was Mount Vernon. We enjoyed learning about Washington’s farm and how he took care of the land. We were surprised to
discover that he was not only our first president and a military commander, but also an innovative farmer who experimented with crops and promoted prudent land management. After touring his home, we came to know more about him than just being a Founding Father. Mount Vernon, during America’s 250th celebration, made us think that values Washington lived by are still reflected in our nation today.
“What stood out to me is that Mount Vernon wasn’t just some historical monument, it was a home full of love and life. It was a home that reflected the values that George Washington held, the values that our nation seeks to pursue,” said delegate Maggie Poteat of Bryant (First Electric).
Walking through Washington’s home made it clear that honesty, service and humility were part of his everyday life before they were part of the foundation of our country.
Seeing the Washington Monument made us think about how much he affected the United States. The obelisk structure represents his character, his ability to lead and his willingness to put our country before himself. After two terms as president, he voluntarily relinquished power, setting an example of unselfish leadership that still sustains our democracy today.
What we learned from this Youth Tour experience is that the legacy of Washington lives on — not just in the monuments built to honor him, but also in the leadership, service and accountability that is still shaping our nation 250 years after its creation.
Ideas that Endure
BY SOFIA MERRIMAN
BELLA VISTA, CARROLL ELECTRIC
Walking through Washington, D.C., delegates quickly realized that the city is a living archive of American ideals.
“It is where every street echoes with history and every monument reminds you that one person can make a difference,” delegate Eilam Holland of Mena (Rich Mountain Electric) said.
This concept is brightly reflected through the landmarks of Thomas Jefferson’s legacy: the Thomas Jefferson Memorial and the National Archives.
The Jefferson Memorial rises in quiet grandeur by the glimmering and tranquil Tidal Basin. Completed in 1943, the marble columns and domed roof encircle a 19-foot bronze statue of Jefferson. With the Declaration in his left hand and his figure captured midstride, Jefferson stands as a symbol of advancing democracy.
Four curved walls of the memorial chamber capture Jefferson’s key principles for the young country: the universality of human rights, the choice to practice any faith, the belief that liberty is a gift from God and the idea that laws must evolve as society progresses.
The rotunda bears Jefferson’s solemn vow: “I have sworn upon the altar of God eternal hostility against every form of tyranny over the mind of man,” truly reflecting his commitment to build a strong and lasting nation. The Jefferson Memorial faces north toward the White House, with the Washington Monument in the middle, creating a symbolic link of legacy between the Founding Fathers.
It is easy to feel what delegate Isaac Merriman of Bella Vista (Carroll Electric) described: “The beauty is awe-inspiring and the atmosphere mirrors Jefferson’s sense of duty for our homeland.”
The National Archives exhibits the most iconic documents of American freedom: the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. They rest under dim protective light, and the faded ink still carries the promise our Founding Fathers established.
Learning that the museum is a home for billions of records across all three branches of the U.S. government, delegate Hudson Smith of Bentonville (Carroll Electric) reflected, “The foundation of our country is in the fight for the power of justice and against inequality.”
Today, Washington, D.C., is a hub where political, economic and military actions ripple across the world. It was there our delegates got to explore the country’s past, respect its present and picture its bright future.
Foundation Still Stands
BY REMY VONDRAN
PALESTINE, WOODRUFF ELECTRIC
Many students only know Alexander Hamilton through the musical “Hamilton.” After visiting Washington, D.C., Youth Tour delegates gained a better understanding of his real impact on American history.
One of the stops on the trip was at the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing. Hamilton’s portrait appears on the $10 bill. Seeing where money is produced reminded us of his role as the first Secretary of the Treasury. His ideas helped establish the nation’s financial system and continue to influence our economy today.
Another meaningful visit was at the U.S. Capitol. While walking through the building, we saw portraits and artwork honoring important figures from American history, including Hamilton. A statue of Hamilton in Statuary Hall recognizes his contributions in the American Revolution and the groundwork he helped lay in our government. Seeing these things made in tribute to him helped us understand the gravity of his contributions to our nation.
Through his writings, like the Federalist Papers and his work at the Constitutional Convention, he helped convince Americans to support the new Constitution and build a stronger nation.
Fellow delegate Shari Bell of Damascus (Petit Jean Electric) said: “Stay ready so you don’t have to get ready,” which perfectly described Hamilton’s life. He constantly prepared himself to lead and serve others.
Throughout the week, delegates encountered many examples of American leadership — from the Founding Fathers who shaped the nation to veterans like Sen. Wallace, who defended its freedoms, and today’s public servants, including Arkansas Sens. Tom Cotton and John Boozman, whom the delegates met at the U.S. Capitol.
The experience also shined a light on the next generation of leaders. Delegates selected Kailyn Burroughs of Mount Vernon (First Electric) to represent Arkansas on the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association
Youth Leadership Council, earning her a $5,000 scholarship while continuing to develop her leadership skills through state and national cooperative programs. Through Youth Tour, delegates learned that history is not only something to study, it is something they have the opportunity to carry forward.