Help Save Bossier Parish Young Marine’s Program After Federal Funding Loss

Bossier Parish Sheriff Julian Whittington received notice that he would lose $15,000 in Federal Funding for the "Young Marines Program" unless he would sign a letter “pledging that no prayer or mention of God would be allowed” in the programs. However, Whittington said he is appalled by the government’s decision and refused to sign the letter, foregoing the grant.

In fact, in his letter to Governor Bobby Jindal and a number of Senators, Congressmen and State Representatives, the Sheriff wrote:

"As a Sheriff, Christian, and American citizen, I am writing you to express my frustration and concern over the persistent aggression and infringement of our religious freedoms which have been imposed upon the law enforcement grant programs, specifically related to the Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement."  The letter goes on to say, "As Sheriff of Bossier Parish, I will never sign the requested letter preventing these "inherently religious activities" from being part of our program.  I think this is an area where compromise is not an option and request it be given your prompt attention."

We applaud the Sheriff for his stand and feel the majority of Kiss Country listeners feel the same!  We've received hundreds of phone calls, Facebook messages and emails like this one from Brandon Sims,

"Concerning the Young Marine Program that the Bossier Sheriffs sponsor, it is an absolute travesty that this group is subject to losing funding due to a mere mention of God in their motto. This program absolutely changes lives and makes honorable citizens out of otherwise troubled youth.  If I had the means, I would replace the entire $15,000 out of my pocket, with crisp In God We Trust bills, with a stipulation that God remain in the Young Marines motto."

 

With that said, we're starting the "In God We Trust Campaign!"  If you believe in this cause and the stand that Sheriff Whittington has made and you'd like to help fund the Young Marines Program, please make a check out to:

"Young Marines Program"

The mailing address is: P. O. Box 850.  Benton, LA.  71006

Any amount will be greatly appreciated.

Gary and Julie spoke with Sheriff Whittington this morning about his decision.  If you'd like to hear what he had to say you can hear it below