The Veterans of Foreign Wars is once again holding its annual scholarship programs, offering up to $35,000 at the national level, paid directly to the U.S. college, university or vocational/technical school of the winner’s choice. The Voice of Democracy audio-essay program for high schoolers in grades 9–12 is soliciting submissions under the theme “What Are the Greatest Attributes of Our Democracy?” VFW Post 6441 awards first, second and third prizes of $2000, $1500 and $1000 respectively, with state-level awards up to $10,000. The grand prize at the national level is $35,000.
Last year’s local winners were 11th grader Grace Banks, 10th grader Chloe Swindle and 11th grader Ella Malone. Malone went on to win second place at the district level, where additional prizes are available.
The Patriot Pen essay program is open to students in grades 6–8 with this year’s theme “How Are You Inspired by America?” VFW Post 6441 awards first, second and third prizes of $300, $200 and $100, with state-level awards up to $1,000. The grand prize at the national level is $5,000.
Last year’s local winners were eighth grader Avianne Hershberger, seventh grader Doyle Banks and eighth grader Kate Sharp. Doyle Banks went on to win second place at the district level, where additional prizes are available.
Full rules and entry forms for both programs are available at vfw.org/community/ youth-and-education/ youth-scholarships. Entries must be submitted to VFW Post 6441 by midnight on Oct. 31.
Judges for the local contest include members of VFW Post 6441, its Auxiliary and other members of the Wimberley Valley community.
For more information about volunteering as a judge or submitting an entry, contact VFW Post 6441 Program Chairman Kerry Ridgway at vfw6441kjr@outlook. com.
