Attorney General Bob McDonnell speaks at Boys State

As Attorney General of Virginia, Bob F. McDonnell provides legal opinions for the Commonwealth’s leaders and uses his position to fight against sexual predators, gang violence, identity theft and other injustices.

On Friday, McDonnell spoke to more than 800 rising high school seniors gathered in the Vines Center for the 66th annual American Legion Boys State of Virginia. Held at Liberty University for the past 19 years, the program teaches young men about state and local government.

McDonnell stressed the importance of service, sacrifice and generosity in our nation. Supporting those themes, he referenced two of his favorite Bible verses:

Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. — John 15:13
For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many. — Mark 10:45

“Service to others is so important, and Christ discussed that quite a bit in his public ministries,” said McDonnell, who is a potential candidate in the 2009 race for Governor of Virginia.

He is one of several dignitaries to speak at this year’s Boys State, held June 15-21. Other distinguished guests included Virginia’s Gov. Timothy M. Kaine and Lt. Gov. William Bolling.