Established in 1947, our Voice of Democracy® audio-essay program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves through a recorded, democratic- and patriotic-themed essay. Each year, more than 26,400 ninth through 12th-grade students from across the country enter to win their share of more than $1.4 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program.
The 2026-27 theme is:
"What a Veteran Taught Me About America.”
Students interested in participating must submit their audio essay on this year's theme, along with a completed entry form, to their local participating VFW Post. Download the 2026-2027 entry form, then find your sponsoring local VFW Post. Essays must be turned in by midnight, Oct. 31.
