Patriot’s Pen
(Grades 6–8)
The Patriot’s Pen competition is a nationwide VFW youth essay program for middle school students in grades 6–8. Students write a 300–400 word essay based on this year’s theme, reflecting on patriotism, citizenship, and the contributions of America’s veterans.
Open to public, private, charter, and homeschool students. Local winners advance to District, State, and National levels, where the top national prize is $5,000.
Voice of Democracy
(Grades 9–12)
The Voice of Democracy program is the VFW’s premier audio‑essay competition for high school students in grades 9–12. Students record a 3–5 minute spoken essay on this year’s theme, sharing their thoughts on democracy, freedom, and the role of veterans.
Open to public, private, charter, and homeschool students. Winners advance through Post, District, State, and National levels. The national first‑place scholarship is an impressive $35,000.
