AMERICANISM

The VFW Americanism Program includes two flagship national scholarship contests aimed at students that promote patriotism and civic engagement:

🎓 Voice of Democracy (High School; Grades 9–12)

  • Format: Audio-essay contest (3–5 minute recording + written transcript) based on an annual patriotic theme.
  • Scholarship Awards:
    • 1st Place (National): $35,000 paid directly to the recipient’s U.S. college, university, or technical school.
    • Additional national awards range from $1,000–$21,000, and state (department) winners earn at least $1,000.
  • Next Steps: Theme for 2025–26 is "How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?”. Entries are due to local VFW Posts by midnight, October 31.

📕 Patriot’s Pen (Middle School; Grades 6–8)

  • Format: Written essay (300–400 words) on the same annual theme as Voice of Democracy for the 2025–26 school year.
  • Scholarship Awards:
    • $5,000 national 1st-place prize.
    • State winners receive at least $500.


đź“Ś How to Participate

  1. Find a sponsoring VFW Post in your area.
  2. Download official entry forms (Voice of Democracy & Patriot’s Pen) from vfw.org.
  3. Prepare your entry: record your essay and submit the typed transcript (VOD only), or write the essay for middle school.
  4. Submit completed entries to your VFW Post by October 31 each year.

Why It Matters

  • Supports more than $2 million in scholarships annually  .
  • Encourages students to engage deeply with American ideals, history, and active citizenship through writing and voice.
  • Winners receive recognition at the Parade of Winners and may earn trips, certificates, or public speaking opportunities.