Inspiring the Next Generation of Patriots
Working alongside America's youth and instilling a sense of patriotism has always been — and will always be — a VFW priority.
Our Commitment to Youth
Through scholarships, recognition programs, and educational initiatives, the VFW invests in young Americans who will carry forward the values of service, citizenship, and patriotism for generations to come.
VFW Youth Scholarship Programs
The VFW is dedicated to promoting patriotism and investing in our future generation. If you are a democracy-loving high school student interested in a $35,000 college scholarship or a patriotic middle school student interested in winning $5,000, these scholarships may be for you.
🎤 Voice of Democracy
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, more than 26,400 ninth through 12th grade students from across the country enter to win their share of more than $1.4 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program.
💰 National First Place: 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.
2025-26 Theme:
"How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?"
⏰ Deadline: Students must submit their audio essay with a completed entry form to their local participating VFW Post by midnight, Oct. 31.
$1.4 Million+
In Educational Scholarships Awarded Annually Through Voice of Democracy
✍️ Patriot's Pen
Each year, more than 60,600 students in sixth through eighth grades enter the VFW's Patriot's Pen® annual 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!
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.
📝 Essay Requirements: Students must submit a 300- to 400-word essay on the annual patriotic theme with a completed entry form to their local participating VFW Post.
2025-26 Theme:
"How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?"
⏰ Deadline: Applications must be turned in to a local VFW Post by midnight, Oct. 31.
$1 Million
In State and National Awards Through Patriot's Pen Annually
Recent Patriot's Pen Winner
🏆 Evelyn Newbigging - 2024-2025 First Place Winner
Eighth Grade Student, Lancaster, South Carolina
Evelyn Newbigging was named the 2024-2025 Patriot's Pen first place winner. Her essay on the theme, "My Voice in America's Democracy?" won the national first place $5,000 award. Newbigging was sponsored by VFW Post 12136 located in Indian Land, South Carolina.
VFW Teacher Recognition Programs
"Without our nation's veterans, America wouldn't be the great nation it is today. Our youth deserve to learn about our rich history, traditions and the role of our veterans in creating and shaping America."
🍎 Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Award
Each year, the Veterans of Foreign Wars selects elementary, middle, and high school teachers to participate in the Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher program. This prestigious award recognizes three exceptional teachers - one each from the elementary, junior high and high school levels - for their outstanding commitment to teach Americanism and instill patriotism in their students.
⏰ Deadline: Teacher nomination entries must be received at a local participating VFW Post by Oct. 31.
2025 Teachers of the Year
🏆 Tim Smiddy - Elementary School Level
Fifth Grade Teacher, Staunton Elementary School, Staunton, Illinois
Sponsored by VFW Post 1241 in Staunton, Tim was chosen for his passion and work promoting patriotism and a respect for our nation's veterans and military service shown through his annual hourly program called the Patriot Club. He spends months organizing the program, training his students to aptly perform the responsibilities of a color guard, every year growing and expanding the program to ensure the service and sacrifice of all local military members and veterans are remembered and honored.
🏆 Christie Wingo - Middle School Level
STEM Teacher, Colorado Springs Christian School, Colorado Springs, Colorado
Sponsored by VFW Post 7829 in Monument, Colorado, Christie was chosen for her continued efforts to prepare responsible citizens while encouraging a strong passion for STEM and fostering an atmosphere that values hard work, collaboration and bettering their community.
🏆 Nicole Petrosillo - High School Level
Teacher, West Milford Township High School, West Milford, New Jersey
Sponsored by VFW Post 7198 in Hewitt, New Jersey, Nicole was chosen for the energy and dedication she brings to her classroom, along with the many veteran-centered projects she oversees throughout the year. From her work as the War and Remembrance Ceremony Committee leader and coordinating care packages for deployed K-9s and military members, to ensuring her annual curriculum has connections to World War II, PTSD and the effects of war, her dedication to honoring America's service members, veterans and instilling civic-mindedness is a proven facet of her teaching method.
Why Youth Education Matters
"The VFW believes that an educated, patriotic youth is essential to preserving our republic. By investing in young people today, we ensure that the principles of liberty, democracy, and service will endure for generations to come."
Our youth and education programs do more than award scholarships and recognize achievement. They create opportunities for young people to engage with their communities, learn about American history and values, and develop into the leaders our nation needs. Through essay contests, speaking competitions, and recognition programs, we challenge students to think deeply about citizenship, sacrifice, and service.
Get Involved with VFW Youth Programs
Students, teachers, and educators are encouraged to explore VFW youth and education opportunities. Find your local VFW Post to submit scholarship entries or teacher nominations. Local VFW Posts across Alabama are ready to support young people in their educational journeys and recognize excellence in citizenship and patriotism.
Youth Scholarships Teacher Award 
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