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 26,400 students in Grades 9-12 from across the country enter to win their share of more than $1.4 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. Download and complete the 2025-2026 Rules and Entry Form
2. Document your essay as a Text File using Word or Notepad
( do not include your name or school in the document )
3. Record your essay as an Audio File
( verify that the length of the recording is within the specified time limits )
4. 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
Jim Davis davis1824@comcast.net 770-235-4858
5. 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.
6. Submit your completed Entry Form, Text File and Audio File by eMail to one of the Program Co-Chairmen
About the 2024-2025 Winner
Tri Vu, a high school senior at Central High School from Manchester, New Hampshire, was named the 2024-2025 Voice of Democracy first place winner. Tri's speech on the theme, "Is America Today Our Forefathers' Vision ?" was awarded the top prize of a $35,000 college scholarship. He was sponsored by Queen City Memorial VFW Post 8214 in Manchester, New Hampshire.
Click here to read his essay.
See the complete list of 2024-2025 National Winners
See the list of all National Awards
