Each year, more than 80,600 students in sixth through eighth grades enter the VFW’s Patriot’s Pen annual youth essay contest for a chance to win their share of more than $1 million in local and national awards. Each first place VFW Department (state) winner receives a minimum of $500 at the national level, and the national first place winner wins $5,000!
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. Students interested in participating must submit their essay prepared on this year's theme, with a completed 2026-2027 entry form, to their local participating VFW Post. The entry form can be downloaded below. Applications must be turned in by midnight, Oct. 31.
The 2026-27 theme is:
Want to Apply? Read the rules and eligibility requirements found on the below Entry Form.
PP District to Department Chairman Summary
PP District to Department Post Awards Report