Applications for Voice of Democracy, Patriot’s Pen open through Oct. 31

Okmulgee County students are urged to enter two contests, sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).

The VFW is dedicated to promoting patriotism and investing in our future generations. High school students interested in a $35,000 college scholarship or a patriotic middle school student interested in winning $5,000, these scholarships may be for you.

Okmulgee County is host to VFW Post 1189 in Okmulgee and VFW Post 539 in Henryetta.

VFW members are currently visiting with local schools and sharing information about the two scholarship opportunities listed below. Deadlines are Oct. 31.

— Voice of Democracy

The 2023-24 theme is “What Are the Greatest Attributes of Our Democracy?”

Established in 1947, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) 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 9th-12th grade students from across the country enter to win their share of more than $1.3 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. Before submitting your essay, read the rules and eligibility requirements, and find your sponsoring local VFW Post as applications must be turned in by midnight, Oct. 31.

— Patriot’s Pen

The 2023-24 theme is “How Are You Inspired by America?”

Each year, nearly 68,800 students in 6th-8th grades enter the VFW’s Patriot’s Pen youth essay contest for a chance to win their share of more than $1.4 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. Before submitting your essay, read the rules and eligibility requirements, and find your sponsoring local VFW Post as applications must be turned in by midnight, Oct. 31.