Established in 1947, our Voice of Democracy audio-essay program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves in regards to a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay. Each year, nearly 25,000 9-12 grade students from across the country enter to win their share of more than $2 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program.
The national first place winner receives a $35,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient’s American university, college or vocational/technical school. A complete list of other national scholarships range from $1,000-$21,000, and the first-place winner from each VFW Department (state) wins at least a scholarship of $1,000 and an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C.
The 2025 - 26 Theme is: "How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?"
Department 2024-25 Winners are:
Department of Vermont 1st Place Voice of Democracy Winner Benjamin Hourdequinsponsored by White River Post 2571, White River Junction, Vermont
See Ben's short bio here
For Ben's winning entry, to read click here, and to hear it, click here
Department of Vermont 2ndPlace Voice of Democracy Winner Mayla Landis-Marinello sponsored by Brown-Johnson Post 792, Montpelier Vermont
See Mayla's short bio here
For Mayla's entry, to read click here, and to hear it, click here
Department of Vermont 3rd Voice of Democracy winner Alex Montgomery sponsored by Robert E. Glidden Post 758, St. Albans Vermont
See Alex's short bio here
For Alex's entry, to read click here, and to hear it, click here
