The Remsen VFW Memorial Post 982 recently held its annual Patriots Pen and Voice of Democracy essay contests for students in the Remsen Central School District. Both essay contests are designed to foster patriotism by allowing students the opportunity to express their opinions on democracy.

The Patriot’s Pen Contest was open to students in grades 6-8 and required them to write a 300-400 word essay on this year’s theme -- “America’s Gift to my Generation.”

Patriot’s Pen Essay Contest winners were:

1st - Sabrina Gates

2nd - Tayler Nelson

3rd - Alex McCormack

The Voice of Democracy program was open to student in grades 9-12 and required them to write and record a 3-5 minute audio essay on this year’s theme – “American History: Our Hope for the Future."

Voice of Democracy Essay Contest winners were:

1st - Breanna Williams

2nd - Samantha Boucher

3rd - Brooke Greene

The students read their winning essays as part of the Remsen Veterans Day Ceremony that was held at the VFW.

Congratulations to all of the essay contest winners!