•October 11, 2017•

Sullivan’s Veterans of Foreign Wars Post is still accepting entries for the 2017-2018 VFW Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen scholarship competitions. The deadline for student entries in both contests is October 31.

The VFW’s scholarship competitions are dedicated to promoting patriotism among America’s youth. Students are asked to submit an essay in response to a question or statement on a subject that encourages them to consider how democratic ideals and principles apply to their lives. Each year the VFW awards more than $3 million in scholarships and awards to middle and high school students who participate in the two competitions.

This year’s Voice of Democracy theme asks students, “American History: Our Hope for the Future”. The Voice of Democracy scholarship competition is an audio-essay competition open to students in grades 9-12. All judging is based on the recorded audio –essay. The national winner will receive a $30,000 scholarship. Prizes are also awarded at Post, District and Department level.

The Patriot’s Pen 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. Prizes are awarded at all levels of competition.

Students should submit their entry (along with a completed entry form) to their participating local VFW Post. For further information and entry forms go to www.vfw.org. For questions or assistance contact Illinois VFW Headquarters at vfwil@vfwil.org.