Shaw teen earns youth-of-the-year award

Published April 19, 2007
By Senior Airman John Gordinier
20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- The Shaw Air Force Base Teen Center recently announced its 2006 Youth of the Year. David Contee won the award for outstanding volunteerism to the community and his self-improvement activities.

The 17-year-old Crestwood High School senior is the son of Barbara and retired Master Sgt. Howard Contee. David has attended the teen center and the Shaw AFB Boys and Girls Club Keystone program for four years.

"Honestly, I didn't think I had a chance to win," David said. "When I found out the results, I was ecstatic. It's something I can say that I've done."

The Keystone Club develops leadership skills and encourages responsibility among teen club members.

According to the Keystone Web site, the program focuses on six core areas: service to club and community, education and career, free enterprise, social recreation, unity, and leadership development.

There are many Keystone clubs across South Carolina and the nation, said Davin Watson, 20th Services Squadron program coordinator. Each branch of the club chooses a youth-of-the-year winner. The winners compete at state, regional and national levels winning scholarship money and awards.

David plans to attend college after high school graduation. Although he has not decided which college to attend, he has decided that he wants to study political science and dreams of one day becoming a lawyer.

"I think David is a bright young adult, who will become very successful at whatever he puts his mind to," Mr. Watson said. "His ambition and motivation will take him far."