“Our local VFW Post would like to take this opportunity to have students and teachers from the different schools to participate in the programs for 2011 – 2012 which includes the Voice of Democracy, Patriots Pen and Teachers Award,” VFW post commander Mariano Fajardo said.
He said students from Grades 9 through 12 can join the Voice of Democracy with the theme “Is there pride in serving in our military?” Contestants are required to record their original 3-5 minute essay either on cassette tape or CD and complete the entry form.
The Patriot’s Pen is open for students from Grades 6 through 8. Contestants must write an essay of 300 to 400 words about this year’s theme which is “Are you proud of your country?”
All essays should be typewritten in English with no color or graphics and cannot be less than 300 words or greater than 400 in length.
The Teacher Award has three categories — K-5, 6-8 and 9-12.
Mariano said anyone may nominate teachers who teach citizenship education at least half of the school day in a classroom environment and promote America’s history, traditions and institutions effectively.
To nominate a teacher, describe your nominee in 350 words or less and why you feel your nominee should be selected, and then complete the entry form.
Mariano said there are three awards for the top three places in each category for the local level.
The winners from the local level will then advance to the next level which is the state level.
The top prize for students at the national level is a $30,000 scholarship for Voice of Democracy; $10,000 savings bond for Patriots Pen; and $1,000 cash for Teacher Award.
Fajardo said one of the goals of the VFW is to conduct educational programs to help students understand about America’s history, traditions, institutions, civic responsibility, flag etiquette and patriotism; and to recognize teachers who promote these goals.
Mariano said the deadline for submission of entries is Nov. 1, 2011.
Entry forms are available at www.vfw.org under “Community” subtitled “Programs.” Go to www.vfw.org/Communiry/Programs/.
For more information, contact Fajardo at 233-4865 or Peter Callaghan at 285-7383. You can drop entries off at the VFW Post 3457 on Beach Road in Garapan.
