A.L.L.E.C.A.

American Legion Law Enforcement Career Academy

The American Legion believes that our young people have a strong sense of patriotism and a high regard for law and order. The objective of the American Legion Law Enforcement Career Academy (ALLECA) is to provide a first-hand look at the role of a police officer in promoting and safeguarding America’s freedom and rights. As only one of 17 such programs in the Country, it is the belief of the Department of Arizona that the young men and women who take part in the ALLECA program will develop favorable attitudes toward law enforcement and will spread those attitudes throughout their communities and among their peers. The ALLECA program is not a “boot camp” or a camp for problem or incorrigible, unmanageable teens.

THE PROGRAM This could be described as a one-week mini-police academy. Sessions are planned annually during summer vacation. Discipline is strict with vigorous physical training, running, and calisthenics included. Training begins at 5:00 a.m. and concludes at 9:00 p.m. each day after which, clothes will be washed, and dormitories cleaned. Obstacle courses and defensive tactics are planned. Various government and criminal jus-tice officials will be guest speakers. Basic instruction will be by certified police officers from various Arizona police agencies.

All applicants must either be enrolled in a recognized school or have just graduated. They must have reached their 11th birthday in the month preceding the academy or have not reached their 19th birthday by the start date of the academy. They must be proficient in English, must be of good moral character, present a neat appearance and come well recommended by a school and pass a physical fitness test. The applicant does not need to be a relative of a member of the American Legion or any other organization to be admitted.

Website: www.alleca-az.org