VFW presents awards, scholarships in annual patriotic essay competition

FALLBROOK – Fallbrook Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 1924 and its Ladies Auxiliary recently hosted an awards ceremony honoring the local student winners of its annual patriotic essay contests. These bright students read their essays with confidence among proud family members, teachers, and guests.

The Voice of Democracy contest is open to students in grades 9 through 12. The topic for this year was, “Why I’m Optimistic About our Nation’s Future.” The first place $500 scholarship winner was Sarah Verschoor. Noteworthy recognition is given to Verschoor who was also a finalist in last year’s Patriot’s Pen essay contest.

The Patriot’s Pen competition is open to junior high school students. The topic this year was, “What Patriotism Means to me.” The first place $300 scholarship winner was Amanda M. Smith. The second place $200 scholarship winner was Jack A. LeFavour and third place $100 scholarship winner, Jennifer Vizzuett.

In celebration of the students’ success, a pizza party and ice cream social was held in their honor. In attendance were select students, teachers and faculty, many family members, and several comrades of the VFW and Ladies Auxiliary who also graciously volunteered their support to the event.

The VFW and Ladies Auxiliary said Vince’s Pizza and Yogurt Palace provided the donations of pizza and yogurt. The organization also acknowledged the judges, teachers, and mentors who facilitated and encouraged the Voice of Democracy program.