Students ‘Engage with Democratic Values’

Each year, VFW provides high school students from across the country and other parts of the world the opportunity to express themselves through a democratic- and patriotic-themed recorded essay. This premiere program is Voice of Democracy (VOD). Likewise, middle school students may participate in the Patriot’s Pen written essay contest.

In April, the 2025–2026 VOD Department winners and the Patriot’s Pen national winner traveled to historic Valley Forge, Pennsylvania. There, they participated in Founding Forward’s Spirit of America Youth Leadership experience.

During the four-day trip, students were active in an immersive civic education experience designed to deepen their understanding of the founding principles of the United States and the responsibilities of citizenship.

Through interactive seminars, leadership activities and discussions, they explored the ideas of freedom, democracy and civic engagement while connecting with peers from across the country.

Participants also toured historic sites throughout Philadelphia and Valley Forge, including landmarks where the Declaration of Independence was debated and adopted, gaining a firsthand appreciation for the events and sacrifices that shaped the nation.

“At the VFW, our mission has always been to serve our nation — not only by honoring those who defended it, but by investing in the future they fought to protect,” VFW Programs Director Lynn Rolf III said. “Programs like Voice of Democracy inspire young leaders to think deeply about their responsibilities as citizens, engage with democratic values and find their voice.”

Rolf said this year’s trip to Philadelphia was even more poignant given this is America’s 250th birthday.

The traditional Parade of Winners took place during the trip at the historic Union League of Philadelphia, culminating with the announcement of the first-place winner of the $35,000 T.C. Selman Memorial Scholarship.

VFW Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief Glenn Umberger Jr., and VFW Auxiliary President Lois Callahan were joined by Twisted X Senior Director of Sales Clayton Smith to announce this year’s winners. The trip is made possible through the support of Twisted X. 

This year, 28,478 students from grades nine through 12 participated in the contest. Olivia Drewniak, a senior, won this year’s VOD contest. Drewniak, sponsored by VFW Post 7738 in Bath, Maine, received the top prize.

Nearly 83,000 students in grades six through eight from across the country as well as the Pacific areas, Europe and the Panama Canal entered the Patriot’s Pen contest.

This year’s top winner is Andrew Ge, who was sponsored by VFW Post 75 in Danville, California. He earned a $5,000 award for his essay.

“By fostering civic awareness, patriotism and leadership, we help ensure the next generation is prepared to carry forward the principles of Americanism that define our country,” Rolf said.

The VFW is now accepting entries for its 80th annual Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen competitions. To win a share of nearly $2.7 million in scholarships and awards, middle- and high school students must explain “What a Veteran Taught Me About America.” The deadline to enter is Oct. 31, 2026. To read more about the contests or download the entry form, visit vfw.org/YouthScholarships.

This article is featured in the 2026 July/August issue of VFW magazine, and was written by Janie Dyhouse, senior editor for VFW magazine.