Loutsch and Schwagel Win VFW Essay Contests

Voice of Democracy:
Nathan Loutsch took first place in the 2018 Voice of Democracy essay competition for the Milbank area. Rhianna Wellberg earned second place, and Makenna Osowski was third. The top three winners were each awarded a medal and a monetary prize. Halli Essington, Peyten Wiese, and Korbin Leddy received honorable mentions and certificates.

Loutsch’s essay continues on to the district contest. District winners go to the state level. The winner from South Dakota receives an all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C.

The Voice of Democracy has been the Veterans of Foreign Wars’ (VFW) premier scholarship program since 1947. Students compete by writing and recording an audio essay on a patriotic theme. Why My Vote Matters was this year’s theme.

Patriot’s Pen:

Cassidy Schwagel was selected as the 2018 winner of the Patriot’s Pen for the Milbank area. Cassidy, an eighth grader, won the contest sponsored by the Milbank VFW and VFW Auxiliary. The competition is open to all sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students, including those who are homeschooled. Why I Honor the American Flag was this year’s theme.

Schwagel’s essay goes on to compete at the district level and possibly the state contest. The South Dakota winner receives an all-expense paid trip to Washington D.C.

Pictured: Nathan Loutsch, Rhianna Wellberg, Makenna Osowski, Halli Essington, Peyten Wiese, and Korbin Leddy.

Cassidy Schwagel & Rhonda Preller of the VFW Auxiliary presented the awards.