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, nearly 25,000 9-12 grade students from across the country enter to win their share of more than $2 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 applications must be turned in by midnight, Oct. 31 to the Merrimack post. Download and complete the 2023-2024 Voice of Democracy entry form here.
About the 2021-2022 winner ...
Daniela Mare, a junior at Sachem High School North in Lake Ronkonkoma, New York, was named the 2021-2022 Voice of Democracy first place winner. Daniela's speech on the theme, "America: Where Do We Go from Here?" won her a $30,000 college scholarship. Daniela was sponsored by VFW Post 9486 and its Auxiliary in Centereach, New York. Watch as Daniela delivered her speech during the VFW's virtual Parade of Winners award ceremony.
Want to catch up on everything that happened this year? You can watch the full virtual Parade of Winners ceremony which was streamed live on Facebook, or see this year's complete list of winners.
KANSAS CITY, Mo., - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is proud to join the nation in honoring the profound contributions, resilie...
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - On Monday, Jan. 19, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and its Auxiliary join the nation in honoring the life a...
There is always a hot meal on Thursday evening provided by Past Auxiliary President Frank Clayton. Thank you Frank! - The meal is inexpensive starting at $5.00 and the cost is only to cover the cost of the food. If you cannot afford it just let us know.
Join us Sunday mornings 10am - noon. The Post will be serving breakfast of eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes.!!! Weekly specials too!Join the Breakfast Club and earn a FREE Breakfast!
There is a lot of information on this website. Please take a look around and check back often as events and information changes.
Our programs support our service members while they are on the front line, as they are being discharged and long after they return. Your tax-deductible donation will be immediately directed to the VFW programs where your support is most urgently needed.
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