VFW presents multiple awards at dinner

Students and their parents, firemen and policemen were honored at a recent dinner held at VFW Post 3838.

Awards, presented by master of ceremonies Tom Berkbigler, included first-, second- and third-place winners in the Voice of Democracy and Patriot's Pen essay contests and a policeman and fireman of the year award.

The awards included $300 for first place, $200 for second place and $100 for third place.

The Voice of Democracy theme was "My role in Honoring America's Veterans." Created in 1947, the contest is a scholarship program for high school students.

The first-place winner, who competes with winners nationwide, will receive a $30,000 scholarship to the American university, college or vocational/technical school of his or her choice.

The first place Voice of Democracy winner was Ethan Worthington of Cape Girardeau, who read his essay. The second place winner was Morgan Edwards, and third place winner was Caroline Retter.

The Patriot's Pen theme was "Why I Am An American Patriot." The nationwide competition gives sixth-, seventh- and eighth-grade students the opportunity to write essays expressing their views on democracy. The first place winner receives a $10,000 savings bond and an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C.

The first place Patriot's Pen winner was Courtney Monie. She was not present, but her essay was read. The second place winner was Morgan Edwards, and the third place winner was Caroline Retter.

The Policeman of the Year award was presented to Paul Zajicek. His award was accepted by his daughter, Kennedy, as he was called out on a four-alarm fire.

The Fireman of the Year award was presented to Brad Dillow.