Each year, since 2005, the Gladbrook American Legion Auxiliary presents a Citizenship Award to a 8th grade student. Students are nominated by teachers who spend the most time with them and finalists receive votes from the entire staff. Nominees are nominated on their exemplary personal characteristics of respect, responsibility, trustworthiness, cooperation, and caring for others. Lisa Reinhard, Gladbrook Auxiliary Americanism Chair, presented the award on Wednesday, June 3, at the G-R Middle School Awards program. “The American Legion Auxiliary is the world’s largest patriotic women’s organization. It holds citizenship in high regard. The Auxiliary was established 96 years ago to support our veterans, the military, and their families. Few show more regard for the characters of citizenship than those who are willing to give their lives for this country. Citizenship encompasses the qualities of respect for others, cooperation, trustworthiness, and responsibility for one’s actions. Integrity is key to citizenship, with a strong belief in doing what is right even when it may not be the most popular thing to do”, was Ms. Reinhard’s message to the students. Twelve students were nominated this year, Britiney Ackley, Paige Adair, Tyler Beenken, Colton Clark, Rachel Cooley, Madison Denny-Weber, Justina Eggers, Taylor Gienger, Elizabeth Hernandez, Jackson Kiburis, Jada Schlampp, and Jadon Spear. The Auxiliary’s 2015 Citizenship Award went to Colton Clark, son of Shannon and Jodi Clark, Gladbrook. Colton’s name was engraved on the plaque.