TOPSHAM — Emily Smith, a senior at Mt. Ararat High School has been awarded first place in the Department of Maine Veterans of Foreign Wars Voice of Democracy program.

The Voice of Democracy is an audio essay competition that has been ongoing for 70 years.  The topic for this year’s essay was “Why My Vote Matters.”

After winning post competition at Reverend Joseph Lamarre Memorial Post 2197 in Topsham, Smith went on to compete and win in VFW Maine District Seven competition.  On Jan. 12, in Bangor, the winners from all 11 Maine districts attended an awards banquet where Emily’s entry was declared the state of Maine winner for 2018 -19.

Smith was awarded a Certificate of Achievement, medal, and a check for $750.  In addition, she will receive an all-expense paid trip to Washington D.C. to represent Maine in national competition.  Previously in Post 2197 competition, she was given a Certificate of Achievement and a check for $200, as well as a check for $150 for her district win.

Smith is only the second Voice of Democracy competitor sponsored by Post 2197 to reach the state finals, and she is its first state champion.