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 ninth through 12th grade students from across the country enter to win their share of more than $1 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program.
The national first place winner receives a $35,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient’s American university, college or vocational/technical school. A complete list of other national scholarships range from $1,000-$21,000, and the first place winner from each VFW Department (state) wins at least a scholarship of $1,000 as well as scholarship from our District (Suffolk County) and from VFW Post 433. Before submitting your essay, read the rules and eligibility requirements, and find your sponsoring local VFW Post 433 as applications must be turned in by midnight, Oct. 31. Download and complete the 2025-2026 Voice of Democracy entry form here. Submissions can be emailed directly to SVC@VFW433.org , can be mailed/dropped off at VFW Post 433, or submitted online here.
The 2025-26 theme is:
"How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?”
About the 2024-2025 winner ...
Tri Vu, a high school senior at Central High School from Manchester, New Hampshire, was named the 2024-2025 Voice of Democracy first place winner. Tri's speech on the theme, "Is America Today Our Forefathers' Vision?" was awarded the top prize of a $35,000 college scholarship. Sponsored by Queen City Memorial VFW Post 8214 in Manchester, New Hampshire, unfortunately Tri was unable to attend the ceremony, but accepted the award via video message. Read his essay here.
Want to catch up on everything that happened this year? You can watch the full Parade of Winners ceremony which was streamed live, or see last year's complete list of winners.
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