Program Description
Established in 1947, our Voice of Democracy audio-essay program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves in a democratic- and patriotic-themed recorded essay. Each year, more than 25,000 students in Grades 9-12 from across the country enter to win their share of more than $1.5 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program.
The national first-place winner receives a $35,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient's American university, college or vocational/technical school. The other national scholarships range from $1,000-$21,000, and the first-place winner from each VFW Department (state) wins a minimum scholarship of $1,000.
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 2023-2024 Entry Form
3. If you have any questions, contact one of Post 12002's Voice of Democracy Program Co-Chairmen :
Lee Saffold eleesaffold@gmail.com 404-667-0581
Joshua Cassan joshuacassan@gmail.com 912-659-8785
4. Although the deadline for submitting entries is midnight on October 31,
we would appreciate it if you could have your entry in by October 26.
5. Submit your Entry Form, typed Essay and Audio Recording by eMail to one of the Program Co-Chairmen
(Do not put your Name on your Essay)
About the 2022-2023 Winner
Scotland Stewart, a sophomore at Franklin County High School in Winchester, Tennessee, was named the 2022-2023 Voice of Democracy first place winner. Scotland’s speech on the theme, "Why is the Veteran Important ?" won him a $35,000 college scholarship. Scotland was sponsored by VFW Post 1893 in Estill Springs, Tennessee.
Watch as Scotland delivers his speech during the VFW's Parade of Winners award ceremony (Click on the "2022-2023 Voice of Democracy Winner" shortcut in the "2023 Legislative Conference" video window) ... or read the Text of his Essay here