Each year, nearly 68,800 students in sixth through eighth grades enter the VFW’s Patriot’s Pen youth essay contest for a chance to win their share of nearly $1 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! As well as scholarship from our District (Suffolk County) and from VFW Post 433. The 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 chosen by the VFW Commander-in-Chief. 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 2024-2025 entry form here. Submissions can be emailed directly to Russell@VFWRidersNY.org or can be mailed/dropped off at VFW Post 433.
The 2024-25 theme is:
"My Voice in America's Democracy?"
About the 2023-2024 winner ...
Bryant Day, an eighth grade student from Ashland, Ohio, was named the 2023-2024 Patriot's Pen first place winner. His essay on the theme, "How Are You Inspired by America?" won the national first place $5,000 award. Bryant was sponsored by VFW Post 9943 and its Auxiliary in Mansfield, Ohio.
Watch as Bryant delivered his winning essay during the VFW's Parade of Winners streamed live on Facebook, or read his essay here. See the complete list of 2024 national winners.
