Passion. Honor. These are just some of the elements that are clearly seen in the writing of WSHS students honoring the Veteran’s of Foreign Wars.  Every year, the VFW holds an annual essay contest for grades 8-12. Students who wish to participate fill out a form that tells the years essay theme.  “Does America Still Have Heroes?” was the chosen theme for this year, and a lot of creativity and emotion went into the writing of all the essays submitted.

After the deadline approached, students turned in their essays to be read over and judged by our local VFW organization in Cabool.  The winners were announced on December 8^th in the Grimes Auditorium by veteran Mr. Benson. Starting with 8^th grade, Mr. Benson declared that Hayley Drahon received third place, Montana Hardey received second place, and first place went to Samantha Earls who received $200. In the high school, third place went to senior Erika Renshaw, second place went to freshman Summer Hanson, and the grand winner was freshman Sarah Bandy who received $250.

As students applauded the winners, Mr. Benson then announced the recipient of the Teacher of the Year award.  The VFW honored high school history teacher, Chris Rodgers.  Congratulations to the winners for not only writing such excellent essays but for honoring our veterans.

High School VFW winners