Minnesota National Guard Child & Youth Program State Teen Panel member Lily Johnson represented the National Guard as a delegate at the Joint Service Teen Council Summit held June 1-6 in Pentagon City, Virginia.

Johnson, who also serves as the Army directorate teen panelist representing the Army National Guard, was one of 17 military teen representatives from all of the services and components who presented to the nation’s top leaders on issues that affect today’s military youth.

“During a special briefing held at the Pentagon, we presented concerns, including the challenges that geographically dispersed youth face, as well as how some official documents are redacted and affect the eligibility of Gold Star youth,” Johnson said. “The council was made up of teens from military bases around the world, each bringing a diverse perspective to the table. Our collaboration leads to strong connections and teamwork.”

The teens also toured Washington, D.C. and visited the national monuments during the five-day summit.

“This experience not only strengthened our leadership skills but also our understanding of the overall impact we can have in the military community,” Johnson said.

Story by Cristina Oxtra

Minnesota National Guard Public Affairs