CLINTON, S.C. — The fellowship hall of First Presbyterian Church was filled with community spirit on Saturday evening, August 9, as the American Legion Post 56 and Auxiliary Unit 56 came together to celebrate achievement, and invest in the future. Families, local leaders, and veterans gathered to recognize outstanding young men and women who represented Clinton in Palmetto Boys State, Palmetto Girls State, and the Nathan M. Wolfe Law Cadet Academy — as well as to pay tribute to Gold Star families whose loved ones made the ultimate sacrifice
The ceremony began with a warm welcome to several distinguished guests, including Clinton Mayor Randy Randall and his wife Kim, Laurens County School District 56 Assistant Superintendent Dr. David Pitts, Thornwell Charter School Principal Melissa Moore, Laurens County Sheriff Don Reynolds, Clinton Police Chief Michael Addison, and leaders from the South Carolina American Legion Auxiliary.
A moving part of the evening was the presentation honoring Post 56’s 2025 “Gold Star Family of the Year,” the Eggleston family — Karen, Molly, and Avery. The Egglestons lost their husband and father, SSG Brandon Eggleston, in 2012 while he was serving in Afghanistan. The family received a certificate of recognition for their sacrifice, and Molly shared a few words with those in attendance.
After a blessing from Auxiliary Chaplain Mrs. Melanie Young and a shared meal, the formal program began with the Pledge of Allegiance and a POW/MIA remembrance. Commander Rossie Hanna then recognized the young men who attended Palmetto Boys State: Avery Barnes, Noah Garrett, Jacob King, Matthew King, Charles Orr, Hunter Pingley, William Wyatt, and Luke Young (represented by his grandfather, Calvin Young).
Auxiliary President Ms. Jane Hanna honored the Palmetto Girls State delegates, who attended the program at Presbyterian College: Jackeline Alcudia, Lillie Corley, Zia Patel, and Ada Ruth Tiller.
Mr. Russ Cantrell, Post 56 member and Resident Counselor at the Nathan M. Wolfe Law Cadet Academy, introduced the Law Cadet Program participants: Jalen Bluford, who earned the distinction of #1 male cadet and received a $1,000 scholarship from the American Legion Department of South Carolina, along with Shaniya Conway and Hayden Lollis.
The Legion also expressed deep appreciation to the community members and businesses whose donations helped send the students to these programs: Mrs. Emily Bailey, Mr. Chip Cooper of Cooper Motor Company, Mr. Walter Hughes of Sadler/Hughes Apothecary, and Mr. Alex Riley of Carolina Stitches.
Before closing, speakers thanked First Presbyterian Church for hosting the event, the planning committee and volunteers for their efforts, and the parents, educators, and community leaders for supporting local youth.
As the final words of thanks were spoken, there was a shared sense in the room that this evening was about more than just certificates and accolades. It was about honoring fostering leadership, and building a stronger community. The students stood as symbols of hope and promise for Clinton’s future, while the presence of Gold Star families was a poignant reminder of the price of freedom. In one night, past sacrifice and future potential came together — and the legacy of service that binds them will carry on for generations.
