Two Newport High School students have been recognized by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) for their essays in this year’s Voice of Democracy scholarship competition.
The national program, sponsored by the VFW since 1947, encourages high school students to reflect on civic responsibility and patriotism through writing. Students begin by competing at the local VFW post level, with winners advancing through district, state, and national rounds for the opportunity to earn scholarships, including a national first-place award of $35,000.
This fall, VFW Post 4227 in Toledo invited students from Lincoln County middle and high schools to participate. The 2024–25 essay prompt asked students to reflect on the question: “How are you showing patriotism and support for our country?”
At a ceremony held January 24 at the Toledo VFW Post, Commander Jim Buisman presented Jeff Winchester, a Newport High School student, with a certificate and a $200 award in recognition of his essay.
Fellow Newport High student Vera Kyei earned honors at both the local and district levels. She first received a certificate and $300 award from Toledo VFW Post 4227. Kyei then traveled to the VFW district headquarters in Sweet Home, where District Commander David Welch and Scholarship Chair Theresa Dearman presented her with another certificate and an additional $300 award for winning the district competition. Her essay will now advance to the state level for consideration for a larger scholarship.
In addition to the Voice of Democracy program for high school students, the VFW also sponsors the Patriot’s Pen essay competition for students in grades 6 through 8. Information about both programs, including future deadlines and themes, can be found at [www.vfw.org](http://www.vfw.org).
Students interested in additional scholarship opportunities can also explore hundreds of listings through ScholarsApp.com.
Information for this article was provided by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4227.