VFW Patriot's Pen 2025 - 2026 |
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Judging is based on theme knowledge, development and clarity of ideas. Local prizes are $100, $150 and $200. Nationally $5,000.
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Check back in August 2026 for the next Patriot's Pen competition theme.
December 6, 2025: Scarlett Salakian took first place in Minnesota 6th District completion. She now competes at the Minnesota state level.
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(l-r) 6th District PP/VOD Chairman David Goode, Sauk Rapids Auxiliary President Terry Kipka, Scarlett Salakian, and 6th District Commander Don Lohse at 6th District meeting on December 6, 2025.
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(l-r) 3rd place Jack Krebsbach, 2nd place William Delaney and 1st place Scarlett Salakian on November 11, 2025.
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November 5, 2025: Some 57 entries were received this year. Awards were presented at the November 11, 2025, Brainerd VFW Post and Auxiliary meeting.
Scarlet Salakian is the Brainerd VFW 1st place winner in the 2025-2026 Patriot's Pen writing competition. She is an 8th grade student at St. Francis of the Lakes School. Her prize is $200.
The essay theme was, "How Are You showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?" |
Scarlett Salakian
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Patriotism means showing respect and love for your nation. The real question is how to do that? How can one best support his or her country? Here are some ways I do this, starting with knowing about the foundation on which the United States government rests on-the Constitution. This document that created our entire government system is the most significant of the United States. Not only does it lay out the government, but it also gives us our rights such as freedom of speech, freedom to petition, the Bill of Rights and so on. Being informed of these rights is key to embodying a patriotic citizen.
Being informed is a critical responsibility that I fulfill. Knowing what is going on with not only my country, but the world is extremely important. The best part is that this can be as simple as turning on the TV to watch the news, or even getting the news passed on from others. In this way, I can hear about new laws or bills passed, I become aware of conflicts going on and the new developments in technology.
Another way I show patriotism is by speaking out. Voicing opinions on important matters is one of America's core values. This freedom of speech lets me say what I think about politics for example or actions being taken by the president to help improve our country. If I don't agree with something happening, it's my right to say that.
Overall, I show the most patriotism by simply being respectful, whether this means standing for the national anthem or proudly reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. This can also mean respecting others and their property which is very important if the United States wants to build upon a peaceful and functional society.
In conclusion, these are several ways that I show patriotism and support for my country. I'll end with a quote from JFK that states that you have a duty to your country other than just relying on what your nation can do for you. "Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country."
Being informed is a critical responsibility that I fulfill. Knowing what is going on with not only my country, but the world is extremely important. The best part is that this can be as simple as turning on the TV to watch the news, or even getting the news passed on from others. In this way, I can hear about new laws or bills passed, I become aware of conflicts going on and the new developments in technology.
Another way I show patriotism is by speaking out. Voicing opinions on important matters is one of America's core values. This freedom of speech lets me say what I think about politics for example or actions being taken by the president to help improve our country. If I don't agree with something happening, it's my right to say that.
Overall, I show the most patriotism by simply being respectful, whether this means standing for the national anthem or proudly reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. This can also mean respecting others and their property which is very important if the United States wants to build upon a peaceful and functional society.
In conclusion, these are several ways that I show patriotism and support for my country. I'll end with a quote from JFK that states that you have a duty to your country other than just relying on what your nation can do for you. "Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country."
William Delaney, 7th grade at Forestview Middle School,2nd place $150 award.
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Jack Krebsbach, 6th grade at St. Francis of the Lakes School, 3rd place $100 award.
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December 9, 2025: Letter: Dear Mr. Persons and Post 1647. Thank you so much for the amazing opportunity to do the wonderful essay contest. It was super fun and thank you for the $150! I hope to do it again next year! William Delaney
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This annual competition is for students Iiving within 50 miles of Brainerd, Minnesota. It is writing a 300-to-400-word essay by students in grades 6 - 8. Judging is based on originality, content and delivery. Local prizes are $100, $150, and $200. Nationally $5,000. The 2025-2026 competition theme was, "How Are You showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?"
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Use bit.ly/3Jm6XuA or the QR code.
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Photographs of the winners are required for social media, including this website, Facebook, and the Brainerd Dispatch newspaper. Do not apply if you are not comfortable with this.
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The deadline for submission is 10 pm on Friday, October 31, 2025.
Questions, contact Mark Persons [email protected] or 218-820-0727.
The judges' decisions will be published here on or about November 15, 2025.
Winners from the previous year are further down this page. That should give you an idea on how to compete.
Questions, contact Mark Persons [email protected] or 218-820-0727.
The judges' decisions will be published here on or about November 15, 2025.
Winners from the previous year are further down this page. That should give you an idea on how to compete.
If you are unable to work with the QR code, then:
- Print the entry on an 8-1/2 by 11-inch plain white paper
- All entries must be in English
- Comply with the rules and fill out the entry form.
- Do not convert the entry form to another format.
| patriots_pen_rules_and_eligibility.pdf |
Mail or drop off the printed entry, photo and entry form at the Brainerd VFW, 309 South Sixth Street, Brainerd, MN 56401. Or email to: [email protected]
(l-r) B93 Morning Host Bill Satre and Brainerd VFW member Mark Persons.
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The interview was aired on KBLB/B93 FM Radio and on KUAL-FM Radio on October 3, 2025
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As a teenager living in the US, I'm starting to realize how important my voice is in our democracy. I believe Democracy is about people having a say in important topics, and that includes me. Even though I'm not old enough to vote, there are still plenty of ways to get involved and make a difference. My voice in American democracy means using my opinions, ideas, and actions to help shape the future for myself and others. Even though at my age I can't vote yet, I can still advocate for the issues that matter to me. I can push for change doing things like, writing a letter to my local representatives, raising awareness through social media, or even starting a petition. By speaking out in such ways, I can help ensure issues like climate change and mental health problems continue to be on the List for discussion. There are so many ways to get involved at my age as well. I can join school clubs that encourage me to use my voice like student council. Also volunteering in my community, or even just talking about what's going on in the world with my peers can help make a difference. Something I do need to keep in mind when advocating for something is that it isn't just about shouting about what's wrong, it's also about being part of a solution and encouraging others to do the same and care about things that matter. Having a voice in democracy isn't just a right, it's a responsibility. In today's world, it's easy to get caught up in rumors or misinformation, especially on social media and in school when one thing leads to another. So being responsible on social media is very important. It's also important to fact-check and understand the issues before coming up with opinions or sharing information. I've learned that everyone has a voice and that it's okay to change my mind when I learn new things and that listening to others can help me see things from different perspectives. In conclusion, my voice in American Democracy is about more than just waiting until I'm old enough to vote. It's about speaking up for what I believe in, staying informed on the truth, and encouraging others to do the same. Even as a teenager, I can make a difference in the world around me.
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January 11, 2024: Zimal Khan from Prior Lake, Minnesota, was the Minnesota VFW 2024-2025 Patriot's Pen competition first-place winner. She received $300 in an award ceremony at the Minnesota Midwinter Convention.
Zimel went on to national competition. |
November 12, 2024: Local winners in the Patriot's Pen writing competition were honored in a ceremony at the Brainerd VFW. Kylee Nelson read her entry aloud for the group.
(l-r) 3rd place Clare Caughey, 2nd place Olivia Nelson and 1st place Kylee Nelson
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November 8, 2024: Kylee Nelson of Brainerd is the Brainerd VFW first place winner in the 2024-2025 Patriot's Pen writing competition. Kylee is a 6th grade student at Forestview Middle School. She competed in a field of 46 applicants and her prize is $200.
Kylee won 1st place in Minnesota Sixth District VFW competition and received $750. |
Kylee Nelson
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To me, America's Democracy is like a big storm cloud. All of our voices are raindrops. With all of our voices, we make an ocean, but if nobody says anything, we are just a dry storm. Each raindrop makes a difference. In America we live in a Democracy. We all get a say in America's tomorrow. Not all countries have the rights we do. I can share my voice by voting, participating, and speaking up.
Participating in America's Democracy isn't just about voting. I can participate in community organizations or join a club. I may not be able to vote in elections yet, but I can vote for my school, or in clubs. That's very powerful.
In America, we all have a voice in our Democracy. I plan on using mine. If I don't speak up for myself, who will? I know I can't solve all of our problems, but if I see a problem in my community, I'm going to use my voice in America's Democracy and try to fix it. If people see kids like me saying something, maybe it will inspire adults to listen, and make changes too! How do you eat an elephant? One bit at a time. I'm the future of this country. I need to start somewhere! For example, if I have a concern about my school's lunches, or recycling program, I can tell a teacher, or my principal. If we all come together, as one, we can start making changes.
Having a voice in America's Democracy means I get to share my opinion, how I think and feel, also what I believe is right. It feels good knowing your voice matters. Listen. Even if you don't agree with someone, it's important that their voice is heard. My voice in America's Democracy can inspire others to speak up for themselves, and what they believe is right.
My voice in America's Democracy is important because it's a way for me to share my opinions, ideas, and to have a say in America's tomorrow. Not every county has the rights we do in America, like voting for a president. By participating, voting, speaking up, knowing my voice matters, and adding to our storm cloud, I can make a difference for a better tomorrow!
Participating in America's Democracy isn't just about voting. I can participate in community organizations or join a club. I may not be able to vote in elections yet, but I can vote for my school, or in clubs. That's very powerful.
In America, we all have a voice in our Democracy. I plan on using mine. If I don't speak up for myself, who will? I know I can't solve all of our problems, but if I see a problem in my community, I'm going to use my voice in America's Democracy and try to fix it. If people see kids like me saying something, maybe it will inspire adults to listen, and make changes too! How do you eat an elephant? One bit at a time. I'm the future of this country. I need to start somewhere! For example, if I have a concern about my school's lunches, or recycling program, I can tell a teacher, or my principal. If we all come together, as one, we can start making changes.
Having a voice in America's Democracy means I get to share my opinion, how I think and feel, also what I believe is right. It feels good knowing your voice matters. Listen. Even if you don't agree with someone, it's important that their voice is heard. My voice in America's Democracy can inspire others to speak up for themselves, and what they believe is right.
My voice in America's Democracy is important because it's a way for me to share my opinions, ideas, and to have a say in America's tomorrow. Not every county has the rights we do in America, like voting for a president. By participating, voting, speaking up, knowing my voice matters, and adding to our storm cloud, I can make a difference for a better tomorrow!
2nd place, Olivia Nelson from Brainerd, an 8th grader at St. Francis of the Lakes School. $150 prize.
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3rd place, Clare Caughey from Fort Ripley, an 8th grader at St. Francis of the Lakes School. $100 prize.
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Olivia Nelson won 2nd place in Minnesota VFW Sixth District completion and received $500.
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September 23, 2024: (l-r) Mark Persons and Mike Williams from the Brainerd VFW were interviewed by Brad Mielke on WWWI Radio about Patriot's Pen and Voice of Democracy competitions.
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2021-2022 VFW National Patriot's Pen Winner
2020-2021 VFW National Patriot's Pen Winner
2019-2020 National youth scholarship winners
2018-2019 VFW National Patriot's Pen Winner
2017-2018 VFW National Patriot's Pen Winner
2016-2017 VFW National Patriot's Pen Winner
2015-2016 VFW National Patriot's Pen Winner
2020-2021 VFW National Patriot's Pen Winner
2019-2020 National youth scholarship winners
2018-2019 VFW National Patriot's Pen Winner
2017-2018 VFW National Patriot's Pen Winner
2016-2017 VFW National Patriot's Pen Winner
2015-2016 VFW National Patriot's Pen Winner
4th and 5th graders participate in the Essay Competition
Students in grades 9 - 12 are eligible to compete in the VFW's Voice of Democracy
Scouts K-12 compete for the Scout of the Year Award
Students in grades 9 - 12 are eligible to compete in the VFW's Voice of Democracy
Scouts K-12 compete for the Scout of the Year Award
