AMERICANISM

 

Voice of Democracy

Established in 1947, our Voice of Democracy® audio-essay program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves in regard to a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay.  Each year, more than 26,400 Freshmen (9th) through Senior (12th) grade students 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. A complete list of other national scholarships range from $1,000-$21,000, and the first-place winner from each VFW Department (state) wins at least a scholarship of $1,000. Students interested in participating must submit their audio essay prepared on this year's theme, with a completed 2025-2026 entry form, to their local participating VFW Post. Find your sponsoring local VFW Post as essays must be turned in by midnight, Oct. 31. 

 

The 2025-26 theme is: 
"How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?”

 

 

 

Patriot's Pen

Each year, more than 60,600 students in 6th through 8th grades enter the VFW’s Patriot’s Pen® annual youth essay contest for a chance to win their share of nearly $1 million in state and national awards. Each first-place state winner receives a minimum of $500 at the national level, and the national first place winner wins $5,000! 

The essay contest encourages young minds to examine America’s history, along with their own experiences in modern American society, by drafting a 300- to 400-word essay, expressing their views based on a patriotic theme chosen by the VFW Commander-in-Chief. Students interested in participating must submit their essay prepared on this year's theme, with a completed 2025-2026 entry form, to their local participating VFW Post. Find your sponsoring local VFW Post as applications must be turned in by midnight, Oct. 31. 

 

The 2025-26 theme is: 
"How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?”


 
Americanism is a set of ideas specific to the United States. Among its key concepts are freedom, equality, individualism, and democracy. It is believed that the United States is an exceptional nation because of these values. In short, you can say that Americanism is what makes people in the US American.

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Commander's Corner

Commander Ed Miller


 

A Message from Your Commander, Ed Miller (Marine)

Fellow veterans, families, and supporters,


It is my distinct honor to serve as the Commander of VFW Post 280. As a veteran, I understand the sacrifices made in service to our country, and I am deeply committed to ensuring that those sacrifices are honored, remembered, and supported.


At VFW Post 280, we stand together as a family—united by duty, camaraderie, and a shared dedication to preserving the legacy of those who came before us. Through community outreach, veteran assistance programs, and commemorative ceremonies, we uphold the traditions of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and strive to make a lasting impact.


As your Commander, my mission is to lead with integrity, foster meaningful connections, and ensure that VFW Post 280 remains a strong and welcoming place for all veterans. I encourage each of you to take part in our efforts, share your stories, and help strengthen the bonds that make this organization so special.


Thank you for your service, your support, and your dedication to honoring our nation’s heroes.


Yours in service,
Ed Miller
Commander, VFW Post 280