Each year more than 84,000 students in grades 6-8 enter the VFW’s Patriot’s Pen youth essay contest for a chance to win their share of more than $55,000 in state and national awards. Each first place state winner receives a minimum of $500 at the national level, and the national first place winner wins $5,000 and an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C.
The essay contest encourages young minds to examine America’s history, along with their own experiences in modern American society, by drafting a 300- to 400-word essay, expressing their views based on a patriotic theme chosen by the VFW Commander-in-Chief.
The 2023-24 theme is "How are you inspired by America"
Want to Apply? Read the rules and eligibility requirements found on the below Entry Form.
PP Entry Form
VOD/PP Chairman's Manual
PP District to Department Chairman Summary
PP District to Department Post Awards Report
PP Score Sheet
VOD-PP Donation Flyer
