Each year, nearly 68,800 students in sixth through eighth grades enter the VFWs Patriots Pen youth essay contest for a chance to win their share of more than $1.4 million in state and national awards. Each first place state winner receives a minimum of $500 at the national level, and the national first place winner wins $5,000!
The essay contest encourages young minds to examine Americas history, along with their own experiences in modern American society, by drafting a 300- to 400-word essay, expressing their views based on a patriotic theme chosen by the VFW Commander-in-Chief. Before submitting your essay, read the rules and eligibility requirements. Your entry should be delivered to your sponsoring VFW Post which is VFW Post 4031, 1550 Main Avenue, Durango, CO. 81301. Applications must be turned in by midnight, Oct. 31, 2024.
Download and complete the 2024-2025 entry form here.
The subject for this year's Patriot pen Competition is:
"My Voice in America’s Democracy?”