Since 1947, the Veterans of Foreign Wars has sponsored the Voice of Democracy essay contest for students in grades 9-12. Each year more than 40,000 students participate in this program that has a top prize of a $30,000 scholarship to the national first place winner. The state winners also receive a $1,000 scholarship as well as an all-expense paid trip to the nation’s capital – Washington, D.C. This year’s Voice of Democracy essay theme is “Why My Vote Matters.”
The VFW also sponsors a national essay contest for students in grades 6-8, known as the Patriots Pen. Each year, more than 132,000 students participate in this contest. The national contest winner receives a $5,000 scholarship and all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C. This year’s Patriot Pen essay theme is “Why I Honor the American Flag.”
Creston’s VFW Post 1797 is once again participating in both contests for local students. The top three local winners will receive monetary awards, and the local winners will advance to district and state competition. The deadline for completion of the essays is Oct. 31. Applications have been made available to students at both levels and also are available at the VFW’s national website: VFW.org. Questions regarding either contest may be directed to Creston VFW Post Commander, Gary O’Daniels by calling 641-782-8907.