Each year, more than 60,600 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 nearly $1 million 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! 

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 to their local participating VFW Post. Use the below link or QR code for Post 4850 as applications must be turned in by midnight, Oct. 31, 2025. 

2025-26 Theme

"How are you showing patriotism and support for our country?”

ENTRY APPLICATION: Patriot's Pen