Each year, more than 60,600 students in sixth through eighth grades enter the VFW’s Patriot’s Pen® annual youth essay contest for a chance to win their share of nearly $1 million in state and national awards. Winners at the Post level will receive 1st place - $200, 2nd place- $150, and 3rd place- $100. 1st place winners will then have the opportunity to advance to the District, State, and National competition and compete for the top prize of $5,000!
The Patriot’s Pen® essay contest encourages young minds to examine America’s 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.
The 2025-26 theme is:
"How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?”
Students must write a 300-400 word essay on the selected theme and submit their typed essay using the QR code located on the attached flyer.
The deadline for submissions is by midnight, October 31, 2025.
The I.P. "Sarge" Bell Memorial Post 3377 winners from the 2024-2025 contest:
1st Place: Aida A. Perez-Frias
2nd Place: Mia J. Smith
3rd Place: William A. C. La Nasa
For additional information regarding this program, please contact Kristin Shaw at 419-619-1688 or send an email to quartermaster3377_2023@outlook.com.
