Needham Jones Back to School Boot Camp

HATTIESBURG, MS (WHPM-TV)- Males between the ages of 12 to 14 received tools to help prepare them for the new school year at the African American Military Museum.

Young men learned the importance of leadership, time management, core values, and life skills exemplified by true American heroes, military, and civilian.

Instructors went over topics of responsibility and integrity, teaching young men the significance of becoming a successful citizen in society.

Retiree Lieutenant Colonel Fredrick Varnado says he wants the camp participants to understand the courage and sacrifices made to get them where they are today.

"We didn't get to where we are just because it all happened at once. We had to go through some challenges and obstacles that we learned and we want to share with them things about character, commitment, and integrity," said Varnado.

The Needham Jones Back to School Boot Camp is an annual event free to participants.

On the web: http://www.hattiesburguso.com/