East High School senior Colter Heckman has been selected as a senator for Boys Nation in Washington, D.C., July 17-24.

Boys Nation is an annual American Legion program that includes civic training, leadership development and a focus on Americanism.

"It was honestly really exciting," Heckman said of the selection. "At first I was an alternate, so I got the call actually a little bit late. So it was kind of surprising and it was just actually really exciting to get that information and know all the work that I put in was rewarded."

Heckman previously served as a city judge, party vice-chairman, and U.S. Senator at Wyoming Boys State, which had more than 60 student delegates.

"I'm really looking forward to just the whole experience and what all I'll gain out of it," said Heckman. "Visiting all the museums and everything, hopefully getting to meet the president, really just all the activities and getting to make connections that will probably be lifelong with all the other senators."

Heckman will be joined by Steven Anselmi-Stith from Rock Springs, in representing Wyoming.

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