Annual VFW youth scholarship competitions now open

submitted by Samantha Kreklau, Manchester District Library

The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. is now accepting entries into its 2017-18 Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen youth scholarship competitions. Students from across the globe recently took home their share of more than $3.3 million in scholarships and awards from last year’s competitions. The VFW’s Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen essay competitions are dedicated to encouraging a better understanding and appreciation of America, and to help foster patriotism among today’s youth. This year’s Voice of Democracy theme asks high school students to describe, “American History: Our Hope for the Future.” Voice of Democracy is an audio-essay competition open to students in grades 9-12. The national winner is presented the $30,000 award. The Patriot’s Pen writing competition is open to students in grades 6-8. This year, students are asked to reflect on the statement, “America’s Gift to My Generation.” The national winner will receive a $5,000 award. Student participants are asked to submit their entry (along with a completed entry form) to their local participating VFW Post. The deadline for student entries in both contests is October 31, 2017. Pamphlets are available at the Library.

For more information, contact Chuck Reed at 734.730.3767 or visit https://www.vfw.org/community/youth-and-education/youth-scholarships

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by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and founder of the Manchester Mirror.