Sohie Jensen, a junior at East Islip High School North in Islip Terrace New York, was named the 2022-2023 Voice of Democracy first place winner for Sayville VFW Post 433. Sohie's speech on the theme,  "Why Is The Veteran Important?”.

Click Here to listen to her essay

Established in 1947, our Voice of Democracy audio-essay program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves in regards to a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay.  Each year, nearly 25,000 9-12 grade students from across the country enter to win educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program.  Students compete by writing and recording an audio essay on an annual patriotic theme.

Pictured here right to left, VFW Post 433 Adjutant Russell Gobetz, Peter Jensen, Sophie Jensen, Lisa Jensen, VFW Post 433 Commander Bill Borthwick.