Voice of Democracy & Patriots Pen

Voice of Democracy® Audio-Essay Program

Since 1947, the Voice of Democracy® audio-essay program has offered high school students a chance to earn scholarships. Students in grades 9-12 share their thoughts on democracy and patriotism. They create and submit a recorded essay on a selected theme each year.

Annually, more than 26,400 students participate, competing for their share of over $1.4 million in educational scholarships and incentives. The VFW awards a $35,000 scholarship to the national first-place winner. This scholarship goes directly to the winner’s chosen American university, college, or vocational school. Additional national scholarships range from $1,000 to $21,000. Each VFW Department guarantees a minimum $1,000 scholarship for its top winner.

To enter the 2025-2026 program, students must complete an official entry form and submit their recorded essay to a participating local VFW Post by midnight on October 31. Visit your local VFW Post to learn more and ensure your submission is received on time.

Fill out a Entry Form
Read More about the VFW Voice of Democracy Program

Patriot’s Pen Youth Essay Contest

The VFW’s Patriot’s Pen® essay contest offers students in grades 6-8 an opportunity to share their perspectives on American history and patriotism. Each year, more than 60,600 students participate, competing for nearly $1 million in state and national awards.

The VFW awards the national first-place winner a $5,000 prize, while each state’s first-place winner receives at least $500 at the national level.

The VFW Commander-in-Chief selects a patriotic theme, and participants write a 300- to 400-word essay based on that theme. For the 2025-2026 program, the theme is: "How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?”

Students interested in entering must complete an official entry form and submit their essay to a participating local VFW Post by midnight on October 31. Visit your local VFW Post to learn more and ensure your submission is received on time.

Fill out an Entry Form
Read more about the Patriot’s Pen Program