GFAFB Youth of the Year

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman R. Michael Longoria
  • 319th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  As the Grand Forks Air Force Base Youth of the Year, Michaela "Mikey" Murray, 15, is a true example of an extraordinary young woman.

Mikey was recognized by Boys & Girls Clubs of America for her sound character, leadership skills and willingness to give back to the community.

"She is always the first to volunteer at the youth center and for events all over the base," said Jessica Murray, Mikey's mother and 319th Force Support Squadron Child & Youth Program assistant. "She has grown into an outstanding young woman. She has done a lot this year."

Being named Youth of the Year is the highest honor a Boys & Girls Club member can receive. The title recognizes outstanding contributions to a member's family, school, community and Boys & Girls Club, as well as personal challenges and obstacles overcome. This program was founded more than 60 years ago through the generosity of Reader's Digest.

"It's really cool to be named as the base's Youth of the Year," said Mikey. "It's nice to be recognized for all my accomplishments. I didn't realize how much I've done this year until I saw it all on paper. It was a nice reminder."

Mikey competed for the North Dakota Youth of the Year award April 10 but was slightly beaten out by the youth of the year from Minot AFB, N.D. However, Mikey was not a least bit upset.

"I was happy just to be there and compete," said Mikey. "The girl who won it really deserved it. She is a sweet girl."

State title or not, Mikey's parents are still very proud of what their daughter has accomplished.

"Just seeing her up there representing Grand Forks AFB was amazing," said Mrs. Murray. "She made me so proud."

For her efforts, Mikey won a trip to visit the nation's capital with other military Youth of the Year winners.

Mikey is a five year member of the GFAFB Youth Center. She is active in Jr. Staff, Smart Girls and Missoula Children's Theater. Mikey also works as a mentor with the younger youth and has become a leader in most of the activities that she is involved in. When not participating in programming, Mikey likes to hang out in the Teen Room and create original songs to later sing for her friends and some of the staff.

"I enjoy writing all kinds of songs," said Mikey. "I would classify them as Country and Pop."