VFW Patriot’s Pen Program: Description and How to Participate
The VFW Patriot’s Pen contest is an annual essay competition designed for students in grades 6-8, encouraging them to express their thoughts on a patriotic theme and to develop their writing skills. Sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), this program provides students an opportunity to showcase their understanding of American values, freedom, and the importance of honoring our veterans.
Each year, the VFW selects a new theme for the contest, which challenges students to reflect on various aspects of what it means to be an American, the significance of our military, or other topics related to patriotism. This contest gives students the chance to engage with the history and spirit of the United States, all while honing their creative and critical thinking abilities.
How to Participate in the Patriot’s Pen Contest
-
Eligibility: The contest is open to students in grades 6-8. Participants do not need to have any military connections to enter; the competition is open to all students, regardless of background.
-
Theme: Each year, the VFW selects a theme that participants must base their essays around. The theme for the current year is usually posted on the VFW website or can be provided by your local VFW Post.
-
Essay Length: The essay must be between 300 and 400 words in length. The writing should be original, creative, and adhere to the given theme.
-
Submission Process: Students must submit their essays to their local VFW Post. Check with your local VFW Post for submission deadlines and additional details. The Post will then forward winning essays to the District level, and from there, they will proceed to the State and National levels.
Awards for the Patriot’s Pen Winners
The Patriot’s Pen contest offers impressive awards, including:
-
National Awards:
-
First Place: The national first-place winner receives a significant cash award and an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C. to participate in the annual VFW convention and ceremonies.
-
Second to Fifth Place: National runners-up also receive cash awards, though the amounts vary by placement.
-
-
State and Local Awards: In addition to the national prizes, students may receive prizes at the state and local levels. These can include cash awards, scholarships, and certificates of recognition from VFW Posts, Districts, or State VFW departments.
-
Certificates and Recognition: All participants at the local level usually receive a certificate of participation, with top entries being recognized during awards ceremonies at the Post, District, and State levels.
The Patriot’s Pen program is a fantastic way for students to engage with the values of American citizenship while earning the opportunity for educational scholarships, recognition, and even cash prizes. It’s an excellent platform for young people to make their voices heard on topics that are important to the fabric of our nation.
If you are a student or know someone who would like to participate, reach out to VFW Post 6664 for further information, including the current year’s theme, deadlines, and submission instructions.
