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			 The VFW’s scholarship competitions are dedicated to promoting 
			patriotism among America’s youth. Students are asked to submit an 
			essay in response to a question or statement on a subject that 
			encourages them to consider how democratic ideals and principles 
			apply to their lives. Each year the VFW awards more than $3 million 
			in scholarships and awards to middle and high school students who 
			participate in the two competitions. 
			 
			This year’s Voice of Democracy theme asks students, “My Vision for 
			America.” The Voice of Democracy scholarship competition is an 
			audio-essay competition open to students in grades 9-12. The 
			national winner will receive a $30,000 scholarship. Prizes are 
			awarded at the Post, District and State level as well. 
			 
			  
			The Patriot’s Pen competition is open to students in grades 6-8. 
			This year, students are asked to reflect on the statement, “What 
			Freedom Means to Me.” The national winner will receive a $5,000 
			award.  
			 
			Students should submit their entry (along with a completed entry 
			form) to their participating local VFW Post. For further information 
			please go to www.vfw.org or contact the Illinois VFW Adjutant at 
			vfwil@vfwil.org. 
			
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-VFW Department of Illinois- 
 
ABOUT THE VFW: The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. is a nonprofit veterans’ 
service organization comprised of combat veterans and eligible military service 
members from the active, Guard and Reserve forces. Founded in 1899 and chartered 
by Congress in 1936, the VFW is the nation's largest organization of war 
veterans and its oldest major veterans’ organization. With nearly 1.9 million 
VFW and Auxiliary members located in almost 7,000 Posts worldwide, “NO ONE DOES 
MORE FOR VETERANS.” The VFW and its Auxiliaries are dedicated to veterans’ 
service, legislative advocacy, and military and community service programs 
worldwide. For more information or to join, visit our website at VFW - Veterans 
of Foreign Wars USA. 
				 
			[Mike DeRoss, Voice of Democracy 
			Director] 
			Related Article 
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			announces kick-off of annual $30,000 Scholarship Competition 
			
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