Bristow Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary Post 3656, VFWA, recently held an essay contest open to all Bristow High School students in grades 9 through 12. The contest was held to create awareness and honor veterans and their sacrifices. All essays were required to be submitted by Nov.1.
Students chose one of two topics for their essays: “If you could speak to one of the survivors of the 1941 Wake Island Battle, what would you say? What lessons can be learned from the events on Wake Island?” or “Do you think it is important to construct and maintain monuments as a dedication to our veterans? What other ways can we honor and show respect to our American veterans?”
As part of the contest process, VFWA members strongly encouraged entrants to conduct research for their essays and visit the Wake Island Memorial on the Bristow VFW grounds. The Wake Island Memorial is the only memorial in the 48 contiguous states dedicated to the Battle of Wake Island.
Contest submissions needed to be three to six paragraphs in length, true to topic, and free of AI generated material. All submissions will be judged by a three-judge panel. Winners of the contest will be announced during a special ceremony with winners receiving certificates and cash prizes. Awards of $200, $100, and $50 will be awarded to First, Second, and Third Place winners respectively