Established in 1947, the VFW Voice of Democracy audio-essay program provided high school students the unique opportunity to express themselves regarding a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay. Each year, nearly 25,000 ninth through 12th-grade students from across the country enter to win their share of more than $1.3 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. A complete list of other national scholarships ranges from $1,000 to $21,000, and the first-place winner from each VFW Department (state) wins at least $1,000.
Before submitting your essay, read the rules and eligibility requirements. Applications must be turned in by midnight, Oct. 31, 2024. Download and complete the 2024-2025 Voice of Democracy entry form here. After you complete the Entry Form, you can email it directly to the Post Adjutant.