Does Patriotism Still Matter

ysailgFHS;ODIFHAbigail Barnard, an 8th grade student at Charles Hughes Middle School was named the 2010 Patriot's Pen 1st place winner. Her speech on the theme "When is the Right Time to Honor Our Military Heroes?" won her a $10,000 savings bond. Abigail was sponsored by VFW Post 7385 in Mesquite, Nevada.  

READ THE WINNING SPEECH  
WATCH HER DELIVER HER SPEECH  
SEE ALL 2010 NATIONAL WINNERS  
YOU TOO CAN WIN!
WHO CAN ENTER:
The Patriot's Pen program is open to students in grades 6-8, who are enrolled in a public, private or parochial high school or home study program in the United States and its territories.

HOW TO ENTER:
Students should first ask a teacher or youth group leader to supervise their progress in the competition. Then the student should contact a local VFW Post and establish a contact person who is a member of that Post or its Ladies Auxiliary.

Next, it's time to start drafting considering this year's theme: "Does Patriotism Still Matter?" Essays must not exceed 400 words and be submitted to the Post, along with the completed Patriot's Pen entry form no later than November 1, 2010.

JUDGING CRITERIA:
Knowledge of the theme is worth 30 points: You must show a thorough knowledge of the theme in your work. Demonstrate you have researched the issue extensively.

Content is woth 35 points: Clearly express your ideas in an organized manner. Fully develop your theme and use transitions to move smoothly from one idea to the other.

Delivery is worth 35 points: Speak in a clear and credible manner.

ACCESS COMPLETE RULES AND INFORMATION  

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TEACHERS AND YOUTH LEADERS:
The National Association of Secondary School Principals has placed the Patriot's Pen program on the NASSP National Advisory List of Contests and Activities for 2010-2011.

VFW thanks all of America's teachers and youth leaders for the time, effort and committment they invest in our...