Veterans of Foreign Wars
VFW Patriot's Pen Essay Contest
Deadline
October 31, 2026
18 days left as of October 13, 2026
Award
Up to $5,000 (national first place)
Turn in your essay and entry form to a local VFW Post by midnight, October 31.
Download .ics Add to Google Calendar
Who it's for
Middle school students in grades 6–8.
What you need to apply
- 300–400 word essay on the theme
- 2026-2027 entry form
Your next 3 steps
- Read this year's theme.
- Write a 300–400 word essay.
- Turn it in to a local VFW Post by October 31.
Each first place VFW Department (state) winner receives a minimum of $500 at the national level, and the national first place winner wins $5,000!