The Veterans of Foreign Wars annual scholarship programs are underway, offering winners at the national level up to $35,000. Awards are paid directly to the U.S. college, university, vocational or technical school of the winner’s choice.
The Voice of Democracy audio-essay program for high schoolers in grades nine to 12 is asking for submissions on the theme “Is America Today Our Forefathers’ Vision?” The Wimberley 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 Joseph Hill, grade 12, Ella Malone, grade 12, and Chloe Swindle, grade 11.
The Patriot Pen essay program is open to students in grades six to eight with this year’s theme “My Voice in America’s Democracy.” 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 Ella Brassow, grade seven, Tenley Rosborough, grade 8, and Luke Howe, grade 6. Ella Brassow went on to win at the district level.
For rules and entry forms go to vfw. org/community/ youth-and-education/ youth-scholarships. Entries must be submitted to Post 6441 by midnight, October 31, 2024.
Judges are also needed as recent rule changes require all judges to be community members outside the VFW organization.
For information about volunteering as a judge or submitting an entry, contact VFW Post 6441 Program Chairman, Kerry Ridgway, at vfw6441kjr@ outlook.com.
