VFW Voice of Democracy 2026–27 — audio essay contest

The Veterans of Foreign Wars judges original 3–5-minute audio essays, with a maximum five-second tolerance, in the student’s own voice. Submit MP3, not video, plus typed essay and signed official form through one participating local VFW Post. Judging weights originality 35%, delivery 35%, content 30%; selected post entries advance to district, state and national judging. Keep the essay body anonymous: no name, school/address or identifying race, sex, religion, national origin/personal details; general American identity relevant to the theme is allowed. No music, singing, poetry or sound effects. The student is sole author and certifies no inappropriate AI/ChatGPT use. One post/competition per year; do not reuse this essay for another VFW contest. VFW retains nonexclusive audio/essay/name/likeness promotional rights.