Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8870 announces student essay contests

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #8870 in Edmonds announced its Annual Student Essay Contests, inviting all students, including those in private and home-school settings, to participate. The “Youth Essay Program” targets students in grades 3 to 5, requiring a 250-word essay on “How I Respect the American Flag,” with cash prizes for the top three winners. For grades 6 to 8, the “Patriot’s Pen” program asks for a 300- to 400-word essay on demonstrating patriotism, offering $450 cash prizes for first-place winners. High school students in grades 9 to 12 can enter the “Voice of Democracy,” which requires a three- to five-minute audio recording and a written essay on showing patriotism. Winners at each grade level receive cash prizes, with the grade 12 winner awarded a $1,500 scholarship.

All entries must be submitted by October 31, 2025, either online or by mail. The Washington State winner will also receive an all-expense-paid trip to Washington D. C. for a tour and recognition. Detailed contest instructions can be found on the post's website.