Alumni Comments

Alumni Comments
February 15, 2007
Upon briefly visiting his high school for a cadet inspection briefing, and sending him a "Hi" afterwards, we were sent this -
Thank you. I meant to say hi to you but I got tied up in what was going on.
I want to thank you for letting me attend your camp last year. it was so much fun. you taught me a lot of things that I am grateful for and have been trying to apply this year. The most important of these lessons, to me, is learning to take the back seat once sometimes.
This year we applied that to our exhibition rifle routines and it has resulted in the best and most creative routines that any of us have seen.
Another thing I'm trying to work on is not looking so serious all the time. I know i looked that way when I was talking. im trying to fix that.
I really wish I would of went up to you today to thank you in person. When I think back to the camp last year I remember all the fun I had meeting new people and the field trip to Jamestown, mostly because I did not think the woman was actually going to shoot the musket.( it made me jump a little bit ).
I had a great time. I am happy that some of my friends got to have the same great experience I got from there. I hope you can attend our awards banquet. Once again, thank you for giving me such a great experience that I can always look back on when things get tough. M.A.
The "Veterans Day" Class November 9-12, 2006
To see this classes CRITIQUE, Click here

I thought AIFCV conference was awesome, though I wish there were more leadership challenges, and maybe a few less speakers. More outside activities. I would like to come and join this leadership conference again because during this time I said what I wanted, but I was also learning so I held back to gain the knowledge of the others that had great leadership traits, but I know that if I get a chance to come back I will be able to share all that I have gained. Thanks for everything. (signed) I would definitely like to come back as a senior. (signed) Everything was fun and good - just a great experience. Regarding the food - "xx Extra, x Extra xx" The food was kick butt! Keep it up! Jamestown Settlement - RUSHED Hot showers!! ==========================================================
From a Nov 04 student - e-mail received Aug 2006. Hello, my name is T____ L__________ and I attend in November of 2004. I believe it was the third leadership conference available. I wanted to let you of my accomplishments. I was accepted to the Air Force Academy and I am now training to become and officer in Colorado Springs. I hope you remember me and know that your leadership conference is amazing. I attended the Freedom Foundation Conference in Pennsylvania. And I have to say I enjoyed your much more. I hope you and your wife are well. And enjoy the rest of your summer. Thank you very much. TL, Clinton, Utah -------------------------- From an April 2005 student who also attended another YLC and provided her comparison--- I am going to write this out of all honesty. Here it goes: Both of the leadership conferences had many differences. One was more about leadership and teamwork whereas the other one seemed predominately about history and our futures. The Leadership Conference in Williamsburg knew just what to put into a leadership conference. I felt that I got to learn about leadership, different leadership techniques, and how to apply leadership in every day life. There was also an outstanding team building set of games where you had to use everyone's thoughts in your group to come out ahead. I really enjoyed the free enterprise system game we played, because it taught me how to handle money in certain situations. But, even though there were many speakers and leadership building time it seemed as though there was enough time to get to bond with the people you were there with! I especially loved getting to know people from all across the US. I thought the days seemed long when I was there, but looking back onto it, it almost seemed like the time flew bye. I think it was well put together and an overall entertaining experience. I have applied all that I have learned from this conference into everything I do today. I have applied these teachings into such things as ROTC, clubs I am in around school, and taught other people in leadership positions around school with what I learned there. The Leadership Conference aboard the USS Yorktown was a very interesting conference. When I arrived at the USS Yorktown it was outstanding because I loved that we were staying aboard a piece of US history. There were many good speakers, but I felt that they did not necessarily teach me about leadership. They did have some good subjects to talk about, and debate about, but it almost seemed as though a lot was about history. Do not get me wrong, because I love history and the speakers were superb. But, I would have loved to learn more about leadership and do more teamwork. There was one teamwork session but it was short and not a whole lot of teamwork. There was a lot of time to tour the ship, and that was fine also, but I felt that I toured the ship more than I learned about leadership skills. And, because of always having to wait on what to do the days got really drawn out, and I was kind of sad that I didn't get to meet everyone that was there. I really loved the formal dinner and dance the night before we had to leave. I overall had a great time and enjoyed myself. Overall both conferences were good, but for a leadership conference I just felt like the YLC Colonial Virginia [AIFCV] taught me more. Both were very enjoyable, and had outstanding speakers. Also, both YLC's had outstanding tours when it came to the historical aspect. As I said earlier I am a history fan, so of course I enjoyed the tours. Everything I wrote is how I feel as an individual. I may feel one way whereas someone else may feel a different way, but if I am chosen to go to a leadership conference then I would love to learn about leadership and its' forms. Therefore if I had the choice I would go back to the YLC Colonial Virginia [AIFCV] one. [ TT ] * * * * * * * * * * * * * From a student who completed our Leadership Program in April 2003, and is now attending the US Naval Academy- Sir, I hope you are having a great new year. The "Dark Ages", are not as bleak and miserable as they were made out to be. Academics are going well. I have the best teachers, whose enthusiasm is infectious. I got into Arabic classes next year, which is pretty competitive and tough, but I think that officers should have some background in another language. Besides that academics are flying by. Athletics consume most of my time. Our first class Physical Mission Officer (PMO) made me the PMO private (so I help with the physical remedial workouts etc). Thus, my mornings at 0530 I am running and workout with the company and following school until about 1800 I have crew practice. It’s a new sport for me and very demanding physically. I love it. We are officially in season next week so we will get to race on the water. (All winter we have been on rowing machines) As far as military training goes, we are in the process of selecting summer assignments. I am proud to say that I am one of two freshmen selected to attend jump/airborne school at Ft. Benning. I am looking at taking an early block so I can finish up my mandatory summer assignments and free up next summer. Airborne school qual will hopefully open up many specialty school options. Mr. Turner, do you know of any midshipmen that have been able to attend RANGER school? I have heard rumors that there will be one this year. What are the prerequisites for doing RANGER school over the summer? It seems a rare opportunity, but the Navy-Army specialty schools seem to be exchanging training of late. Any information you have on this would be appreciated. Freshman year is rapidly soaring by. Soon I will be a Youngster and I cannot wait. Thanks for your time and support in the past. Mr. Townsley and Mr. Turner, your leadership through the American Independence Foundation incited my interest in a military academy. Mr. Turner, your relentless motivation both at the seminar and at the WestPoint candidate dinner has helped shape my goals as far as military branch. Thank you again for all of your support. Very Respectfully, [ JT ] * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Colonel Townsley, Hey it's [ EF] from xxxxx, NH. I wanted to thank you for that last e-mail and the International Youth Democracy Summit program looks very interesting. I am printing the application right now. Also there were a few things that I wanted to add to my critique that I did not have time to write down. I really just want to thank you for the greatest weekend of my life. As Mrs. Nancy said, "There aren't many people that get this kind of opportunity" and she is right which is why I am very thankful for everything. I understand that it was a bit of a hassle between J and I trying to organize transportation and applications and I think that everything worked out very well. When I first signed up for the program I wasn't sure what to expect. The only thing I had ever been to that was similar to this was The National Girl Scout congress. I participated in the Girls Congress as a delegate, but I enjoyed the AIFCV YLC much more because there were a lot less people (955 less people to be exact) and we all had the chance to learn about each other. Having the free time or "break time" allowed us to learn about different schools and JROTC programs across the country. I met some amazing people and I actually have been keeping in touch with some of them (AG and of course JP). I never thought I could learned so much about myself within such a short amount of time. Some of the presentations were truly amazing and very unforgettable. (My favorite presentation was definitely the Winning Colors. It taught us so much about each other and how to deal with the people that are around you when you are in any situation, especially one with a leadership role.) And its not that I learned as much new information as the fact that I learned about things I already knew and I learned how critique myself and find the right way to do certain jobs. A lot of it dealt with taking what I already knew and actually applying my skills to perform tasks and complete objectives within a team. Working in groups was a great idea because it allowed us to really get to know each other but also taught us how to manage a small group. I think that the entire program was amazing and it is something that every high school student should be allowed to participate in... but I do have a few ideas of thing we could do differently. I mean these are just some ideas from the perspective if someone that has attended the conference and I think that these could make the program a little bit MORE enjoyable, not that they would be any better, but just a few things that we could tweak. 1. I was thinking, since we were always with the same people in our groups, yes we did get to know each other and learn who is the leader in the group and everything like that, but what if at some point later on in the conference during a team challenge activity (not that it could count towards the total points) but what happens if you switch members around? Everyone gets used to who is in your group pretty quickly. This way when you move members around and assign project you get the attitudes and perspectives of another person. You always said that everything would be different if there were different kids there and I think that switching a few people up would prove your point. 2. I also thought that we should have some form of party at the end... not a huge party but someone could bring a boom box and we could listen to different music (nothing offensive). This would be something to do if the camp fire gets rained out again. Not only would this be a lot of fun but this would give everyone a chance to hear what other people listen too 3. Another thing was the Ice Breakers... It was a lot of fun and we did get break the ice between each other but by the 20th time you said what your favorite TV show was or where you were from it started to get boring/repetitive. I know that it worked great as a time killer for the SC to get organized and get everyone registered but maybe something more physical to get to know each other would be a better idea. Something that would have us working as a team from the start. puzzles that had to do with where people were from and as each new person came they would be able to solve another piece of the puzzle. Then again sometimes we were waiting 30 minutes for the next person so having some kind of team building/get to know you activity would help. It is definitely a good idea to have something that lets us get to know each other but I think that it would have been more interesting if we had more than one task to complete!! (By the way these are just some suggestions. I am trying to not say anything negative about everything that went on there because I think that everyone that attended had an amazing time and these are just some idea that came to mind. I wouldn't want you to get offended by anything so if you have any questions about anything I have written please let me know. You can e-mail me back or Call me. I am not home too often because I am at school or work, but if I receive your message I will call you back as soon as possible.) 4. The Leadership notebook/binder was really great. It was very organized and I used it every day. I was thinking that next time maybe there should be some more paper or even better yet, we could put a piece or two behind each person in the speaker section then that way when I or someone else were to go back and look at the notes we took we can see exactly who was the speaker and have the Bio right on hand. Any ways enough of my blabbering!!! I really just wanted to say thank you to you, Earl, Mrs. Nancy, our SC's and everyone else that made this weekend possible and as you can see now we have this extremely long email. I guess that's the real evidence that I had a wonderful time. I've created some relationships that will last a long time, if not a life time (even if they are with people really far away.) And if there was one thing I learned.. well I guess I can't say there was one thing I learned, I have learned so much. Never Mind! An old Girl Scout leader always said that, " If its the right time, at the right place, with the right people, something amazing will happen." And with all honesty something amazing did happen this weekend its a memory that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. Thank-you Sincerely, [EF] * * * * * * * * * * * * *
From "College Class" Nov 05 - EW - Dear Colonel Townsley, As I look back today on my high school year, the AIFCV conference struck a chord in my mind. I remember not only the pride of attending the conference, but also the people I have met. I find another cadet that has attended the conference at a drill meet or a military ball, and remember all of the leadership challenges, discussions, and breaks. Every so often, a freshman will ask about the AIFCV conference, bringing back fond memories of the trips we took. Thank you for the conference and thank the DAV for affording me the opportunity to attend it. v/r, EW * * * * * * * * * * * * *
**** April 2006 ****
The "Awesome, All Friends" Class


46 students from 10 states and 34 high schools
The historic tours were really good except for the rainy, cold Williamsburg tour, but other than that they were awesome. The class schedule and time allocation was good except for having so much stuff to do and not having enough sleep, therefore making us tired the next day. Therefore, I would like to be able to go to bed earlier. The sleeping cabins were great except for the limited number of showers and beds were a little uncomfortable. *********** Colonel, Overall, I enjoyed myself very much. However, there are a few things that I would change. 1) I would allow more time for breaks, so that we could get to know each other better. 2) I would have the Free Enterprise session more centralized. It seemed that everybody was doing their own thing. I would like to thank you so much, and hope that my critiques are helpful. ********* I really enjoyed the historic figures; I suggest adding more; Abe Lincoln, Stonewall Jackson, General Lee, General Grant, [Captain] John Smith. ********* More sleep, more breaks and less speakers and more group/hands on activities. Earl is awesome!! ********* Would like to come back as a Senior Coordinator. [signed] ********* Everything was great. I had a great time and would love to come back again. The tours were great except for the rain during the CW tour, but that’s something you can’t help. [ No name ] ********* I think that the schedule needs to be on time. The tours was boring. I would like to come back as a senior rep. [ No name ] ********* I enjoyed the conference! - The Free Enterprise challenge should have been longer and more organized. - I think we should have had a little more down time to catch up from the trip here. - The Williamsburg tour was too long, especially in the [rainy] weather. - I really enjoyed the History challenge; it was something I really excelled in. ********* Everything was good except getting caught up with those tour guides. They was taking too long. Please get some better cabin beds with some thicker mattress because I had to stack to on that bed. But everything else was good. Also, the cofe had a mouse in there, so I guess you need to check that out, please really do. ********* I thought that it was very good. I will love to come back to learn some more. [ signed ] ********* [ Name ] would be greatly interested in returning as a senior consuler in November or next April. ********* I would be willing to come back as a senior. [ signed ] ********* Less time of some speakers (some took too long) Like to come back as a counselor!! More motivated speakers! Counselors were cool! Should [ unreadable? pass out? ] our shirts a little earlier. A little more punctual & organized! But overall good job!! I HAD FUN ********* I think that the games could be better for the groups. Also, the speakers are a little lengthy. I think that the groups should pick games and ideas to have a little more input instead of following a created schedule. ********* [Speaker’s name] never bring [gender] back again because I saw [gender] had no control over [gender] presentation. ********* Overall, this was a great experience. I have learned a lot. I would do this again, hopefully on days with better weather. Need more time to sleep. Need to have more to do at Jamestown [Historic Jamestowne]. We didn’t see anything. Yorktown was boring. Need to have more time to sleep. ********* Signed – I would like to come back next year as a senior counselor, and anything else you may need me to do, I will. Check weather forecast! And visit part 2 of Jamestown [Jamestown Settlement], it’s a better part. ********* Signed – I loved everything and I hope everyone did also. The only thing I would change would be the fish. Everything else was good, however the fish was not great. ********* Signed – I would really enjoy coming back as a senior councilor or in any other position possible. I would love to come back and help in any way. Thank you very much. More paper for notes in notebook for people who write big like me. ********* I love historic tours, but Jamestown [Historic Jamestowne] was really boring. Plus 25 girls and 3 stalls and showers wasn’t great. A lot of cold showers. I really, really loved it and I REALLY REALLY want to be a Senior Leader next year. I love interactive speakers, they are interesting and keep me AWAKE! Jamestown [Historic Jamestowne] was really boring, and I wish we could have seen the better part of it. Overall it was pretty good though. ********* Historic tour was a little boring. Washington was Excellent Sojourners were Excellent Games and food were outstanding Little more break time would have been nice. ********* Have maybe one less speaker so we have more time to tour the area, especially Jamestown [ Historic Jamestowne] ********* Overall, I thought the conference was awesome. I really enjoyed the program, & the people were cool. I heard a lot of profanity & dirty jokes, but other than that, things were excellent. Keep up the good work! PS – Awesome staffers. I enjoyed talking with all of you! PPS – I would also like to be a counselor in the future! [signed]******** I loved the tours [ not the guides ..aka (historic) Jamestown] The Group was very nice. Some of the food, esp breakfast could have more choices. [Regarding Nat’l Sojourners presentation] I would like to know more of changes though. [Regarding Historic Jamestown tour] boring tour guide although knowledgeable. Maybe sit in groups less when we dine. ********* I enjoyed the conference greatly. I really like the experience I gained from it. I think there should have been more time for the Free Enterprise Challenge. ****** I think some of the classes should be outside because most of the day we are inside on very beautiful days. It would change things up a bit. ********* Jim Rice was really related to the students and got us involved. I learned a lot from him. Make sure he comes back next time. ********* Colonel – This conference was amazing. I have been to other conferences before, but this one was so much different. I really enjoyed the number of students that attended, any more would be too many. I am very interested in coming back. I have learned so much about myself as a student, a person and especially as a leader, and I feel that if I came back as a Senior Counselor it would further my learning. [Signed] *********** I thought that the classes went too late into the night. Making the conference one day longer would help make the schedule less hectic. On a whole, I thought that this conference was excellent. It was very well run and I learned a great deal about leadership. I also thoroughly enjoyed the historical aspect. I hope that more and more people continue to come and enrich their leadership skills at this outstanding conference. Instead of going to the archaeological site of Jamestown, we should have gone to the restored fort area [Jamestown Settlement]. The [Colonial] Williamsburg tour was really great, but we could have waited in a building somewhere until it stopped raining, rather than go on with the tour in the rain. This was an excellent leadership conference that challenged me in many ways, and helped me define my limits better. A few things I would change would be to make the classes end earlier, so that we are able to pay attention. Another thing would be to make the Jamestown tour longer because we were not able to see the rebuilt part of it [Jamestown Settlement].
**** November 2005 ****
The "College"" Class
21 students from 6 states and 13 high schools

“This has been a great experience! Something I will always, always remember.” “This weekend was one of the greatest weekends of my life.” “The best 4 days of my life that I spent here as opposed to sitting around at home doing nothing. This week has taught me so much about myself that I didn’t even know, and I will take this experience, as well as the many friendships I have made with me throughout the future, as well as the rest of my life.” “Building the Flag reflected a lullaby.” “The AIFCV’s Youth Leadership Conference has helped me out a lot. I’ve learned to be a better and more efficient leader. I have made friends and had fun during the conference.” "The girl counselors (returning Seniors) didn’t really interact with the girls. They also didn’t really acknowledge the chaperone. If they had a problem, they didn’t work through the chain of command. Personally, I think if they had a problem w/ one of the girls, they should of either talked to that individual & the chaperone instead of going to the director.” “I would love to come back again & will try and keep in touch.” “I enjoyed the conference yet the schedule was very full & non-stop -- perhaps you could add another day so we can take it a bit slower. Other than that, I enjoyed this experience & have learned a lot leadership, history and myself. Thanx again!”

Class of Apr 03 Mr. Townsley, Hey this is Jeremy Topp. I hope you remember me from the American Independence foundation and York High's NJROTC. I am just writing to tell you that the Naval Academy is an awesome place. With plebe summer behind me I am now pursuing rigorous academic course, varsity cross country, and served first term as the plebe company commander. It’s a pretty stressful environment but I can't imagine myself anywhere else. I just thought I would drop a line to let you know how I was doing. Thank you for all of your training and support. Very Respectfully, Jeremy Topp USNA '09
Class of Nov 02 hello sir, dont know if you remember me, (i was in your original ylc class) but i received your email and just wanted to let you know i have a new email here. news update: ive graduated with honours and am now a freshman at the university of mary washington in fredericksburg, great fun. my aol account wont be active much longer so you can send me the usual semiannual ylc updates at (e-mail address) (thats a zero before the v's). hope all is well and the conference continues to be a smash hit! maggie o'toole
Class of Apr 03 Hello Mr. Townsley, and thanks for the email. Things are going pretty well im about to turn 18 on august 2nd yay! and im off to Longwood University on august 25th class of 2009 to major in Criminal Justice. Right now im still living in gloucester and graduated from high school last month. hope all is well in your life. e-mail me sometime and let me know how u are doing. thanks for the consideration. Take Care God Bless! Dupree R. Foster aka Foster from Gloucester :-)

**** April 2005 ****
The "Wind Talker"" Class
42 students from 10 states and 31 high schools


I am going to be PCS-ing to Ramstein Germany so i don't believe i will be able to see many of the great people from camp any time soon, even though i would love to. Thanks again for all the hard work and effort you put into the program and we all loved it and appreciate it. Thank you. SB I just want to thank you for giving me the opportunity to go the leadership conference. I meant a lot to me and I had a great time. Looking back at it now I wish I was a little more outspoken. The thing I am most proud of is the skit it's not like me to do that in front of people. Anyway thanks again, since going to this conference I am prouder in my history and learned a lot. I would gladly go again. TB This conference helped to learn how to voice my opinions and ideas more without being shy or nervous. It also taught me how to work better with others. Thanks. A big thanks for the conference!!!. It was awesome. The only thing that bothered me was the time allotted for break (even though I know it's hard to pack all that in, in 4 days. Overall, very well put on and keep up the good work!!! I will continue to remember the things instilled to me at this conference & would love to come back. Sincerely, JP Thank you!! And I had soo much fun this weekend. I didn't think I would enjoy myself that much, but I loved every minute that I was awake. My group rocked, and so did everyone else!! Thank you, RN It would be nice to have a little more free time and games together. The conference was awesome!! Thank You for a wonderful conference I had the best time with all these teens. I hope I may come back and help in the future. Thank You. This conference basically increased my patriotism to my country. The historical sites allowed me to see exactly what the foundation of this country was built on. And the National Sojourners struck an immense amount of pride for my country in me that I cannot begin to explain it was truly an educational and exciting experience. -J I had a great time at the conference and found a lot of really awesome people that will definitely be leaders in the future. The staff was nice and the only problem was that I did not really like the food. We need some chowdah! But the sandwiches were good ... beds could be more comfortable. -SB Overall, I was happy with how organized everything was. More diversity, other students from other states. Speakers should go in the morning and talks in the afternoon. Great leadership games. I suggest being more detail oriented and teaching the students to work together more. I had an excellent time at the conference. I learned a lot and the staff was great. I had a good time becoming friends with all of the people there. I greatly enjoyed the tours, especially Colonial Williamsburg. My only complaint was the lack of chowdah! Go Sox!!! -KB I felt that most everybody seemed to enjoy whatever they were doing. I feel that some of the Senior councilors could have been more tough with students who are supposed to be here for learning about responsibility and leadership. My time spent at the conference was very entertaining. I wish we had more time to get to know the rest of the students. Other than that, everything was good. Maybe we should have more free time. -TW There should be less speakers and more time for tours and a little more time to sleep. There should also be a lot more time for the Free Enterprise system game. All together, a very well put together conference. It was a great opportunity for me to encounter kids with the same future goals. The only suggestion: a couple less speakers, or at least on the 1st night. I got a little scared when I was still listening about the Bill of Rights into 10:30 at night. Not a good way to open up the weekend. Longer sleeping hours!!! Maybe like 8 hours. And not 4.5 hours worth of speeches on the first night. I believe that everyone could have communicated a little better. -KW I think a lot of girls had attitudes toward each other. Maybe next we can have more time to get to know each other more. I enjoyed the conference a whole lot! I think that all of the speakers were interesting, well spoken, and fun! I enjoyed the sense of responsibility and freedom. -J

**** November 2004 ****
The "Purple Heart"" Class
40 students from 10 states and 30 high schools
We got into a time crunch, and the students didn't have time to write comments on their critique sheets. However, the conference was attended by the Commander in Chief of the Military Order of the World Wars, Colonel Bri Chabot, and his fantastic letter was published in their national magazine. The students rated this conference 3.85 on a 4 point scale.

**** April 2004 ****
The "Under the Boardwalk" Class

Great show you guys! Never stop helping people. Y’all are truly great leaders! Stay sweet and cool! We need to work in time in case we are running late for something. Great Conference! I would be honored to attend again in the future The people in the Conference were nice. I liked the whole think down to the good and the bad. It was good so thank you. More time for breaks between speakers. Good speakers great topics. Keep up the awesome work! Great Conference! I really enjoyed it! Hope to be able to attend others! Thanks. This program provided me w/ something that I have been searching for, but have not been able to find. It provided detailed classroom sessions explaining the theory of leadership, reinforced through opportunities to practice what was taught in a group of others with strong leadership abilities. The key to the success of the Conference was the concentration of so many talented young leaders in one place, with the support of highly capable adult guidance. The Conference as a whole I would label as highly laudable, influential, informative, and revealing. Yorktown – Did not get the full experience of actual battlefield because we were not allowed to get out and walk it. Throughout the overall of the Conference everything was great! I really enjoyed myself and my peers. I really learned a lot here at this Leadership camp. The experiences I’ve learned at the camp will apply to my everyday life as a token of my appreciation. I truly enjoyed every aspect of this weekend. Thank you and I would like to come back next year. I loved building the flag! It was a wonderful experience!! The rushed schedule would be the only thing I didn’t like!! Didn’t get enough time to buy souvenirs. But that’s okay, I’ll definitely come back!! I would like to say that I honestly answered this without hesitation. I enjoyed my stay here!! Thank you! Many of the speakers portraying the roles of characters were “tiring.” They seemed to be reading off of a script. They may have been informational, but I found it difficult to pay attention to such a speaker as this. It may be helpful to have the speakers engage us in more activity to keep us awake. Especially because we have such long and busy days. Another suggestion is to make lights out time earlier. Personally during the day I find it hard to concentrate on what the speakers are addressing without adequate rest. Overall, the Conference was good. Some slight changes would have made it even better. The classes were informational, but because of the busy schedule and little sleep time, it was sometimes hard for me to focus. But over all, I would say the Conference was a good learning experience. I had a great, fun, and exciting time at this Conference. Not only did I improve my leadership skills, but I learned so much more about myself. I enjoyed the Conference very much. Well put together w/ exceptional staff and faculty. The time was an excellent use of the weekend and I hope you will consider me next year! Thank you very much! This Conference has been good. I learned a lot of things about leadership. The food was good and the people were wicked cool and every kid that comes here should be fun for everyone! Peace. I had a wonderful time at the Conference. It was an awesome opportunity to meet new people who care and can relate to your concerns about the future. I would like to say thank you for making it such an enjoyable experience. The schedule was a bit cramped. I wish we had more time at certain places; a full day at CW (Colonial Williamsburg) would have been really nice. The preparation of the faculty was amazing; even when given assignments to speak spontaneously, they came up with quality messages. I don’t like green beans. I think it is more difficult for Virginians to be really interested in the tours because we’ve focused on the topics so much in school. But, it was wonderful to learn again w/ emphasis on leadership. I don’t mind the fast paced design with little free time, but I needed more time to get to know my peers better. I would have liked t time to spend strictly with my team or groups of teams in order to get to know everyone and make better friends The person reenactments I didn’t find enjoyable or increasing my pride or leadership, but it may be more due to the fact that I’m not a history buff. Before this, I was nervous about coming here. Knowing I have great skills in leadership, I am ready for the future. Thank you so much for having me here. Give my thanks to everyone. I learned a lot and I will use the methods learned in my future. Truly enjoyed this Conference and I believe it has greatly improved my skills as a leader. The small number of students and our interaction made this Conference very enjoyable. I have made great friends and challenged myself in so many ways thanks to the organization and instructions of this Conference.
**** July 2003 ****
The "Freedom Shrine" Class
23 Student's from Virginia and 11 high schools
I had no problem with the scheduling, although many would have preferred more free time. Great experience, I have learned a great deal. If knowledge is power, I have been empowered! Thank you, This was a great program! By “Increased understand of the free enterprise system” student wrote: Helped me a lot. By “Gain in leadership skills” student wrote: Most stuff I already knew. A lot of history was taken in. I haven’t studied American history before but feel like I know America from the very beginning to now. The conference was great! But next time here are a few suggestions: Better sleeping quarters More free time More space between classes Make classes more interesting Don’t have us in class till 10:30 at night Next July 4^th conference let the student watch fireworks, because many students were upset that they couldn’t see the fireworks. You really tried hard to take care of all of us. We should try some more recreation, i.e. canoeing, more games, and swimming, in between all the classes & space the speakers out more so people don’t get so bored & tired. Make it a full week. By “Schedule of classes & time allocation” student wrote: a little more extra time By “Quality of faculty presentation?” Student wrote: Some things were boring a little. By “Was the conference notebook helpful?” VERY! Thanks I really appreciate you giving me the opportunity to attend this conference. “Amazing knowledge is gained at this camp.” I enjoyed tremendously the experience. I feel that the conference was designed and was made to be a new understanding of leadership and patriotism. I would have liked more time between classes because it was very hectic with classes back to back on back. Overall I think the camp was a good experience for any cadet wishing to become an officer, and for everyone who just wanted to better him or herself. This has been 4 of the most exciting days of my summer. I would like to thank the staff for all they’ve done and for having me here. Spend 5 – 6 days and give campers more time and not jam everything into 4 days. Give people more free time to get to know each other. Food was GREAT! So was the Staff! The tours were extremely informative. I learned a lot and I’ve been going to Jamestown and Yorktown since I was in elementary school. Allow more time to sleep. “Tex” Turner and Joe Emerson were good and could keep us all interested in what they were saying. Overall a pretty good program. Some of the lectures were a little long though. Make Leadership Conference II so we can come back and learn even more. I for one enjoy history so if you receive any critical comments its probably cuz they don’t enjoy it (from experience). The rooms were good although lots of bugs but what can ya do? The schedule had too much History related things but not enough on leadership. I also think we should have done more with leadership like different activities. The speakers did excellent jobs and really made me feel as if I was really there. They answered all of our questions w/ great knowledge. Speakers were excellent!! Overall moral of conference really good

**** Apr 2003 ****
The "Hooah" Class
21 students from 2 states and 16 high schools
Allow more free time! Overall it was a lot of FUN! Better Destinations I have really enjoyed the conference and will recommend to anyone interested in gaining leadership skills. To sum it up in two words: Bravo Zulu. However, I wish there had been some time to run around, by that I mean some time to play sports or something along that line. All in all, I enjoyed my time here. However, I admit I enjoyed the outside activities.to a greater extent than indoor lectures. In addition, I think 1 hour of free time would be nice to wind down a little. (It wouldn't be a bad idea to push lights out another hour. Most of the people in my bunk (cabin) slept around 1-2 am. I enjoyed the food here & everything else exceeded my expectations. Thank you very much for having me! I feel like the groups should have a little more rec time so that it will better improve sleep at night. I think that more free time is needed. Overall activities were good. The speakers were OK. I know it was supposed to be a rigorous schedule, but a little down time would have been effective. Other than that I had a lot of fun and learned a lot. Ref: "John Rolfe" - student marked 4 and added margin comment ""but shorter" Ref: "Geo Washington" - Marked 3 w/ margin comment "little boring / monotone" I loved it! I really enjoyed all of the counselors and speakers. The idea of skits and silly awards etc, was awesome. The first night, I think we need a break between Petera and Rolfe because that was very tedious! Thank you so much! (smiley face) Great classes. More time in between. More time to eat. Enforce rule about lights out. Great environment - not loud More time to relax in the middle of the day Time for sleep was short. Some of the speakers were hard to listen to. Some just covered a lot of information we already knew. I think if the speakers repeat info, it's just like another day in school. It would be better with more time before lights out. Little crammed for time, the break on Saturday was appreciated. Some people such as (John Rolfe) spoke a little long. I had a wonderful time here. I've learned a lot. The staff is the best, but the students is better. I felt like home here. I think we should be here more than 4 days and night. I really enjoyed this conference. I missed the military ball for this and I think it was worth it. The people were great, the service was great and the overall (unreadable) itself. I've really learned a lot about history of Virginia and it should help me in the future. Also I'd like to say that my fife has really been enjoyable to play for everybody. Ha!Ha! There should have been at least a one hour break, preferably from 4-5, so that participants can play sport, socialize, rest, or take a shower. When we had free time like that yesterday (Saturday) everybody. Felt energized. There should be time to socialize so that we, as upcoming leaders, can share ideas and tricks of trade so that we can all improve. There should be more recreational activities instead of so much class time. The racks (bunk beds) were uncomfortable and kind of small. Everything else was fantastic. I had a great time. Everything was combined in a outstanding manner. Thanks for the opportunity. Something that I think may help the next conference is to have some ice-breaking games the first day or so. The food was great. Facilities impecable & faculty well prepared. I learned a lot & hope someday can attend to something like this in the near future. Time was pressured at times, I think one more day would have been perfect. Chaperones needed to be more alert when activities were going on. Note: Student margin comment for Ray Ferrera, Walt Zaremba, and "Overall Conference Rating was 'great wonderful' Great to be able to attend. Thanks for putting this all together for us. I really enjoyed Mr. Ferrara and Mr Tex.

**** Nov 2002 ****
The "First" Class
23 students from Virginia and 15 high schools
“I thought it was a great conference. I really appreciated the experience. If a multi-week conference starts, I think that the (unreadable) group and us should come and make sure it’s good” “Was fun. Should shorten speech times and number of speakers in a row and overall. All the speakers mostly put people to sleep and was very boring. Need to have more leadership activities and responsibilities. Although everything else seemed very fun and educational.” “Grateful to be invited to an opportunity of a lifetime. I really did absorb a lot. Thank you!” “I feel this should continue. The problems were minor and not extremely serious, but the leadership conference should continue and spread.” Two things. One, cabin with rugs or something in them. Two, more time for bed and time for the kids.” “Very motivating to pursue being a leader in my life.” “Some of the speakers were a little boring but other than that it was Great.” “I had fun but expectations were wrong. In the brochure and information you should advertise the patriotism of the conference more and add more leadership seminars and exercises. But it was still fabulous! Thanx.” “Loved being here!. I had a great time!” “I expected a more regimented weekend, but other than that it was pretty good.” “It was my understanding that this was a LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE. In reality it is a fine workshop on patriotism and early American History. As such, it can be fully appreciated for those merits, which are as essential as any for military members, young people, & would-be leaders. However, I felt that there were few true leadership classes, & should this be continued as a leadership conference that more emphasis be placed on leadership experiences.” “Outstanding organization. Would love to see how it progresses and assist.” “Need a more detailed list of what to bring and directions.” “Very well developed program. Highly recommended for anyone who has an interest in history or just for anyone in general.”
History - The AIFCV was founded April 30, 2002