Established in 1947, our Voice of Democracy audio-essay program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves in regard to a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay. Each year, more than 51,000 9-12 grade students from across the country enter to win their share of more than $1.9 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program. Read the rules and eligibility requirements, and download the 2025-2026 entry form application, as all student entries must be submitted to a sponsoring local VFW Post by midnight, Oct. 31.
The 2025-2026 theme is: "How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?"
All applications must be submitted to youth@vfw10076.org no later then midnight on 31 October 2025
Previous Post Winners:
2024
Post Winner(s): Naomi Bouwens
Runner(s) Up: Peony Kang
2023
Post Winner(s): Dev Gadhia
Runner(s) Up: Ellyce Wehner
2022
Post Winner(s): Amanda Collingham
Runner(s) Up: Mackenzie Bowman
2021
Post Winner(s): Amanda Collingham and Sophia Wagner
Runner(s) Up: Anna Shapley and William Stanton
2020
Post Winners: Jacy Duffy and Caelan Patel
Runners Up: William Stanton and Hattie Tobery
2019
Post Winner: Caroline Stanton
Runner Up: Sophia Wagner
