MADISON – Benjamin Arn of Madison has received the 2022 Billy Michal Student Leadership Award.

Arn, a junior at Bob Jones High School, was nominated and selected among all Alabama students in grades 8-12 to receive the leadership award.

The Billy Michal Student Leadership Award is given annually to one student from each state and the District of Columbia who demonstrates the American spirit in his or her community. The award endorses the values of leadership, teamwork, tolerance, creativity and perseverance for all Americans, regardless of age.

When Billy Michal was six years old during World War II, he helped his one-room school in Zimmerman, La. win a statewide contest for collection of scrap metal. Michal understood that every citizen, no matter how small, could contribute to victory for the United States in the war.

Michal’s example, along with actions of millions of other students, demonstrated that service to country and community helps create active, engaged citizens. With this award, the National World War II Museum promotes these values to students nationwide and honors individuals who exemplify the qualities.

As our country’s future leaders, these youth embody the values of citizens from World War II.

Arn was a guest at the 2022 American Spirit Awards on June 9-10 in New Orleans, La. at the National World War II Museum. The event honored individuals and organizations whose work reflects the spirit of people who served the United States during the World War II years.

In addition, the American Spirit Awards provides vital support for the museum’s educational programming. Anyone who wants to support the outreach of the museum and the American Spirit Awards can email fundraisingevents@nationalww2museum.org.

Benjamin Arn’s parents are Mark and Sheila Arn.

The National World War II Museum’s address is 945 Magazine St. in New Orleans, La. For more information, call 504-528-1944, email info@nationalww2museum.org or visit nationalww2museum.org.