GBS was established in 1940

with the goal of making young men and women (Girls State sponsored by

the American Legion Auxiliary) knowledgeable about the rights and privileges,

and duties and responsibilities of American citizenship. Duckworth was

among approximately 400 other rising male seniors throughout the state

selected to attend the program this summer on the campus of Georgia Southern

University.

The program is a 7-day experience

that literally creates a 51st state where participants are elected to

city, county and state government positions, laws are passed and then

enforced by appointed officials and a judicial system. Some of the most

sought after positions are the state level offices; especially the office

of governor.

Duckworth says the idea of

running for governor was something he had not given much thought to until

the last minute.

"It was mid-week and we

were gearing up for campaign speeches when I decided I would run for the

office. I did a lot of speech writing, staying up until 2 to 4 a.m.,"

he recalls.

On the fifth day of the program,

the winners of each political party's primary election address the citizens

of the state and a general election is held. Duckworth says he could not

believe it when he was declared the winner.

Secretary of State Cathy Cox

officially swore Duckworth into office.

"I was amazed I was elected

after jumping into this at the last minute. However, I really put a lot

of effort into my speeches and campaign platform. The vote was close;

I ended up winning just by three [votes]," he said.

At the end of GBS, program

officials select two exceptional participants to send to Boys Nation,

the American Legion's national program. Duckworth was one of the two selected

to represent Georgia. Held in Washington, D.C., Boys Nation exposes participants

to government at the federal level. Participants enjoy many privileges

during the program including meeting the President.

Duckworth says he decided to

apply to GBS because his brother had participated in it two years prior

and had a great experience. He says he would recommend the program to

anyone interested in government or politics.

"I learned a lot about

how city, county and state government works. The experience taught me

leadership values that I will use throughout my life. It was a very rewarding

experience that I will not soon forget."