Program Description
Established in 1947, our Voice of Democracy audio-essay program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves in regards to a democratic- and patriotic-themed recorded essay. Each year, more than 64,500 students in Grades 9-12 from across the country enter to win their share of more than $2 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program.
The national first-place winner receives a $30,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient's American university, college or vocational/technical school. The other national scholarships range from $1,000-$16,000, and the first-place winner from each VFW Department (state) wins a minimum scholarship of $1,000 and an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C.
VFW Post 12002 is once again proud to support this Program and provide the following additional cash prizes at the Post level :
1st Place Winner - $200.00 2nd Place Winner - $150.00 3rd Place Winner - $100.00
How to Apply
1. Read the Rules and Eligibility Requirements
2. Download and complete the 2021-2022 Entry Form
3. If you have any questions, contact Post 12002's Voice of Democracy Program Chairman :
Dennis Parmer dennisparmer@hotmail.com 678-704-7410
4. Submit your Entry Form, typed Essay and Audio Recording by Mail or eMail to the Program Chairman by midnight on October 31
About the 2020-2021 Winner
Erin Stoeckig, a high school junior from Mayo High School in Rochester, Minnesota, was named the 2020-2021 Voice of Democracy first place winner. Erin's speech on the theme, "Is This the Country the Founders Envisioned ?" won her a $30,000 college scholarship. Erin was sponsored by VFW Post 1215 and its Auxiliary in Rochester, Minnesota.
Watch Erin deliver her speech during the VFW's first-ever virtual Parade of Winners