An essay by sixth-grader Zach Auster, “What Patriotism Means to Me,” won first place for the VFW Post 401 in Albuquerque in the Patriot’s Pen essay writing contestsponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).
Students were to draft a 300-400 word essay, expressing their views based on a patriotic annual theme chosen by the VFW Commander-in-Chief. VFW believes strongly in good citizenship and fostering patriotism and encourages students to examine the nation’s history and their own experiences in modern American society. Over 100,000 students nationwide in grades 6 through 8 enter this yearly contest. Zach’s essay is now being considered for selection in the state competition, and a chance to represent New Mexico for one of 46 national awards totaling $46,000. The national first-place winner wins $5,000 and an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C. in March.
