"The American Legion Auxilliary truly believes in the education of our youth and in the importance of patriotism. In the spirit of encouragement for the pursuit of knowledge, each year our National organization gives a topic for an Essay Contest for 3-12th grade as well as Special Needs Class. It's hoped students will be encouraged by their teachers and parents to research (maybe even include interviewing people), obtaining information and then writing an essay on the given topic. The whole process provides an educational and sometimes enlightening experience for everyone involved - students, teachers, parents, and volunteers who help with the judging.
After placing first on the local level (which encompasses five school districts, three private schools, and homeschoolers) Bridget Jones’s essay (entitled “What can I personally do to promote Americanism in my school or community?”) placed first in her class (grades 5&6) in the state of Washington. Bridget’s essay was sent on to be judged on the Western Division National level (which encompasses 13 states) where she again placed first. Bridget was awarded this beautiful certificate, $50, and $50 was given in her honor to the National American Legion Auxiliary’s Scholarship Fund.
American Legion Auxiliary, Art Semro Unit 28, has just sent out the information on this term’s (2018/19) Americanism Essay Contest to the schools and is using this opportunity to publicize the contest to homeschoolers as well as others in the community. This year’s title for the contest is “How can we address and prevent veteran homelessness in our communities?”. Due to the fact that homelessness, much less veterans' homelessness, is probably not something taught in our schools, the Washington Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) was asked for some materials on the subject. These resource materials were sent to the schools and are available to homeschoolers by contacting ALA, Unit 28’s Americanism Chairman" – Jane Montaney, American Legion Auxilliary at (509)760-1433.