Washington State Youth Essay Program (2025-2026)
The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Department of Washington is proud to announce the
2025-2026 Washington State Youth Essay theme:
"How I Respect the American Flag”
Students in grades 3, 4, and 5 are invited to participate in this annual program by submitting an original essay on the theme. The Washington VFW and its Auxiliary sponsor this contest to encourage young students to reflect on patriotism and the importance of the American flag.
Program Rules & Guidelines
Originality – Students must write their own essay without the use of AI programs or AI-assisted writing Tools. Essays generated or assisted by AI will result in disqualification.
Format – Essays must be handwritten, typed, or computer-generated (clear and legible).
Special accommodations: Students with special needs who have difficulty with handwriting may use electronic media to type their essays.
Judging Criteria:
Theme Addressed – 30 points
Clarity of Ideas – 30 points
Theme Development – 40 points
Participation – Open to all students in Washington State, including homeschooled students. Participation does not require school sponsorship. Students may enter by contacting a local VFW Post or Auxiliary for official rules and an entry form. Find a local post here ---> Directory - VFW Department of Washington
Entry Form – A completed and signed Official Entry Form must accompany each essay. Incomplete or unsigned forms will not be accepted.
Ownership – Submitted essays become the property of the VFW Department of Washington and will not be returned. Participants should retain copies for their records.
Submission Deadline – Essays must be submitted to a local VFW Post or Auxiliary by October 31st, 2025. Late entries will not be accepted.
Essay Length – Not to exceed 250 words.
Anonymity – Do not include the student’s name, city, or school on the essay itself—only on the entry form.
Content Restrictions – No added color, artwork, or poetic formats will be accepted.
Local Judging – Essays will be judged at the local VFW Post/Auxiliary level before advancing.
Advancement – Local winners will be submitted to District judging by November 15th. Each Post/Auxiliary may submit:
1 winner per 15 entries for 3rd grade
1 winner per 15 entries for 4th grade
1 winner per 15 entries for 5th grade
For more information, please contact your local VFW Post or Auxiliary. We look forward to reading your inspiring essays!
