“What Makes America Great” was the topic for Highland VFW Post 4772’s Patriot’s Pen essay competition. Twenty Highland Middle School students submitted entries into the competition. This is an annual contest sponsored by the National VFW. Each year there is a different theme. An awards ceremony was held at the Highland Middle School. All twenty of those students and their teachers received a certificate and a Patriot’s Pen lapel pin.
In addition, the top three winners were given a medal and a check ranging from $50-$100. Winning first place was Danika Birkhead, second place was awarded to Alahna Sampson, and third place was Izabel Harmon. First and second place entries have been sent into the district level of competition. The top entries at the district will be sent on to state, and the state winner to nationals. The winner of the national prize is awarded $5,000.
