The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is dedicated to promoting patriotism and investing in our future generation. If you are a democracy-loving high school student interested in a $35,000 college scholarship or a patriotic middle school student interested in winning $5,000, these scholarships may be for you.

Voice of Democracy:

Established in 1947, our Voice of Democracy audio-essay program provides students, in grades 9-12 who are enrolled in a public, private or parochial school or home study program, with the unique opportunity to express themselves in regards to a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay.  VFW Post 7234 selects three winners, with the first place winner advancing to the state level,  and awards $500, $250 and $150 respectively.   The winner, advancing to the VFW Department (state) competition wins at least a scholarship of $1,000.

The national first place winner receives a $35,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient’s American university, college or vocational/technical school.  The 2023-24 theme is:
“What Are the Greatest Attributes of Our Democracy?”

Patriot’s Pen:

Students in grades 6-8, enrolled in public, private or parochial school or home study program, enter the VFW’s Patriot’s Pen youth essay contest for a chance to win their share of state and national awards. VFW Post 7234 awards $500, $250 or $100 to 1st, 2nd, 3rd place winners respectively.  Each first place state winner receives a minimum of $500, 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. The 2023-24 theme is:
“How Are You Inspired by America?”

How To Enter:

VFW 7234 serves the lower Sussex County area.  The contest is open to all local students, and children/grandchildren of Post members.  Rules and eligibility requirements are available from VFW 7234, email [email protected] or (302) 539-9981,  or download forms from vfw.org/YouthScholarships.  Essays must be submitted by midnight October 31, 2023.  Completed entries may be delivered or mailed to VFW Post 7234, attn: Patriot’s Pen/Voice of Democracy, 29265 Marshy Hope Way, Ocean View, DE 19970.