Local students announced as VFW essay award winners

The local Veterans of Foreign Wars chapter recognized local students for their expertise and success in the annual essays contests.

Fifth grade students at Ritzville Grade School winning awards are Ashleigh Swartz, first place, and Madison Bartlett, second place.

At Lind-Ritzville Middle School, Julia Klein earned first place and Taylor Galbreath received third place.

In Benge, fourth grade student Brock Tracy netted a first place finish in both the local contest, as well as the District contest.

Also at Benge School, third grade student Henry McRae received first place, while classmate Presley Obrien earned second, and Mckaylynn Yarnell placed third in the local contest.

Fifth grade student Wes Tracy placed third locally. Issac Clinesmith placed second in the Patriot’s Pen contest, for sixth through eighth grade students.

Every year, the VFW holds a contest for students in third through 12th grade.

For the upcoming year, students in third through fifth grade can write about the theme, “What does a veteran mean to me?”

These essays are judged at the local level, with the first place essay continuing on to the district level.

For sixth through eighth grade students, the essay topic for next year’s contest is “America’s Gift to My Generation”.

The 300-400 word essay winner is eligible to receive $5,000, if it wins the national title.

Students in ninth through 12th grade must submit a three to five minute speech for their essay. The top winner receives a $30,000 scholarship, a trip to Washington, D.C., and awards from the local and district competitions.

All of the entries for the upcoming essay contest are due on Nov. 1.

The local contest is open for students at Benge, Ritzville and Lind school districts, as well as any homeschooled students.

Why are men and women in the military special?

By Henry McRae

Third Grade

I believe that men and women in the military are special. They earn many badges for their services and keep our country safe. If they weren’t here we wouldn’t be free.

They spend days, months, and maybe even years away from their families. They may get lonely. They might miss their children’s birthdays.

They’re risking their lives for our country. They don’t want war they want freedom for all of us! They probably don’t like fighting in foreign countries.

They can lose sight or hearing from explosions. They can have nightmares about war. When they get home their children may not recognize them.

They help other countries by giving them weapons, and food so we’re kind of their allies. They probably want a brighter future for all countries.

By Brock Tracy

Fourth Grade

Men and women in the military are special because they risk their lives, they stay away from family, they are loyal. It is hard for them to stay away from family. They risk their lives because they are good people. They are loyal to us.

Men and women in the military risk their lives because they want to protect their country and family. They protect our country because they don’t want us to die. They protect their family because they don’t want to let them down.

They protect us for freedom that we have. They earned freedom fighting. They have earned the right to fight.

Men and women in the military serve because they are loyal. They are loyal to us because they can trust us. They have trained to protect us.

Men and women in the military are very good people. They are good people because they protect us.

By Ashleigh Swartz

Fifth Grade

George Orwell said, “People sleep peaceably in their beds at night only because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf.”

American soldiers sacrifice their lives for our freedom. They give up time they could spend with their families. Men and women who serve in the military are special.

When people serve in the armed forces, they are protecting us. They are fighting off people that wish to harm our country. These men and women are fighting so we can live in peace and safety back home. Soldiers fight for our freedom. Soldiers risk their lives protecting our nation.

Military soldiers give up family time. When they are shipped out, they don’t get to see their loved ones for extended periods. They miss their family and friends. Many men and women in the military don’t get to see their children open Christmas presents or see their sibling’s weddings. They don’t get to attend family reunions or birthday parties. Soldiers can get homesick. Military soldiers are giving up quality family time to serve their country.

Military men and women are brave and kind. They put their lives on the line for us. They protect us and fight for our freedoms. They give up time with loved ones to fight for the U.S.A. Military soldiers are extremely important to each American.

The America I Believe In

By Julia Klein

Eighth Grade

The America I believe in is extraordinary. The America I believe in is so special because she stands for equality, freedom and sacrifice.

One of the most beautiful traits of America is the equality of this nation. People are treated equal no matter their race. All nationalities can go to school, participate in sports, and work together. That applies to culture as well.

This country was founded by immigrants from Germany, Russia, Britain, China, and many countless other countries. I feel America allows citizens to hold on to their heritage, but also take up their new lifestyle as an American.

Men and women also have equal opportunities. Being a woman, it comforts me to know whatever career I want to pursue I have the same chance as a man does to achieve my goals.

The America I believe in stands for freedom in all aspects of our lives. The First Amendment states that we have the freedom of speech and press, meaning we can express our opinions and have a voice in this country. In America, we also have an astonishing opportunity to receive an education. Brookings.edu states, “Fifty-seven million school-aged children in Africa don’t get to attend school.”

For me hearing this breaks my heart. It opens my eyes to realize school truly is a privilege.

Another remarkable freedom is the right to bear arms. Personally I have a deep passion for hunting. I get to spend quality time with my dad and enjoy the outdoors. I am very grateful to have all of these freedoms in America.

The America I believe in stands for the tremendous sacrifice of veterans who went to war and fought for our freedoms. Most willingly left the comfort of their friends and families to defend our country. Pbsnews.org states, “The total number of Americans killed in all U.S. wars is more than 1.1 million.”

I can’t even comprehend that over one million people gave up living a normal life to die for people they don’t even know. I greatly respect and thank veterans for the freedom they have given me and future generations.

The America I believe in stands for equality, freedom and sacrifice.

“While one day of the year is dedicated solely to honoring our veterans, Americans must never forget the sacrifices that many of our fellow countrymen have made to defend our country and protect our freedoms,” Randy Nuegebauer said.