VFW Annual Youth Scholarship Competitions

More than $3 million in scholarships and awards are presented each year.

The Patriot's Pen theme for this year is:

“How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?”

Downloadable form

The Voice of Democracy theme for this year is:

“How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?”

Downloadable form

The Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Award

for Elementary, Middle and High School Teachers and their Schools

Downloadable form  (2025-2026 form not yet available)

Rules and eligibility requirements

Downloadable form (2025-2026 form not yet available)

The submission deadline for Patriot's Pen / Voice of Democracy essays / 

Teacher of the Year Awards 

is October 31, 2025.

These can be turned into your local school at the front office.

If you need applications for these you can contact the Americanism Chairman 

or the Post Adjutant at VFW Post 27. 

watchontherhein@gmail.com

https://vfw-org-hqagarhxahbybyd9.z01.azurefd.net/-/media/VFWSite/Files/Community/Youth-and-Education/Voice-of-Democracy-Entry-Form-Fillable.pdf?v=1&d=20250307T220736Z&la=en