TOPSHAM — Reverend Joseph Lamarre Memorial Post 2197 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars has announced support of VFW national scholastic programs.

For high school students, the “Voice of Democracy” audio essay scholarship program is available. For junior high students, the “Patriot’s Pen” written essay is offered. This year’s topics are: “My Responsibility To America” for the Voice of Democracy, and “The America I Believe In” for the Patriot’s Pen. Both programs are judged at the Post, District, and State levels. The winners at each level move forward to the next level. The winners at the State level move forward to National judging. Last year across all levels, more than three million dollars in awards and scholarships were awarded. At the Topsham Post, we are extending an invitation to students, including home schooled, in SAD75, Brunswick, Lisbon, Durham, and Freeport. Students in areas not mentioned should check with their local VFW Post.

For more detailed information, instructions, and entry forms, go to the National VFW web site vfw.org. On the home page, select the “Community” block toward the upper right of the page, then select “Youth and Education.” From there you can select either of the programs. Last year’s winning entries are available to help get a feel for creating a successful entry. If there are additional questions, contact Post Commander Roger Stevens by e:mail: cha_ rogsteve@comcast.net. Entries must be submitted to the Commander by Nov 1st, 2016. Even first year students in high school and junior high are encouraged to participate as they can apply yearly until they graduate or become a state level winner.