The 2026-2027 contest is open!
Under VFW’s Youth and Education umbrella, VFW hosts an annual oral-written essay contest for middle school students. The essay contest encourages young minds to examine America’s history, along with their own experiences in modern American society.
2026 THEME:
"What a Veteran Taught Me About America."
WHO CAN ENTER:
Patriot's Pen is open to middle school students in grades 6, 7, and 8 who are enrolled in a public, private, parochial high school, or home study program.
APPLICATION:
- Prepare your original 300- to 400-word essay; use of AI is strictly prohibited.
- Applications must be submitted online via the website called Scholars App.
- For more info, click here: Scholars App
DUE DATE:
October 31, 2026
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POINT OF CONTACT:
Suzzie Thomas
US Army Veteran
suzzie.thomas@gmail.com
cell: 805.535.9839
Flyer
To download the flyer below,
click here: 2026-2027 Patriot's Pen
