VOICE OF DEMOCRACY

         The VFW established the Voice of Democracy program (VOD) in 1947 to provide students grades 9-12 the opportunity to express themselves in regards to democratic ideas and principles. Prizes and scholarships can be awarded at the Post, District, state and national level. The national first-place winner receives a $30,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient's American university, college or vocational/technical school.

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        Each year, nearly 40,000 high school students from across the country enter to win a share of $2 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the VFW's Voice of Democracy audio-essay competition.   

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        The Veteran of Foreign War (VFW) is proud to present the Voice of Democracy Scholarship Program. The scholarship is open to students in grades 9-12 who are enrolled in a public, private or parochial high school or home study program. Voice of Democracy audio-essay program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves in regards to a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay.

POST 1929

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        Each year in March or April Petaluma Post 1929 gives applications to local high school counselor.   Students have until November 1 to complete and get their projects in to the Post.  The Post will send it’s first place winning selection to the district for state and national consideration, and notify the first, second, and third place winners.  In January these students will be honored at our annual awards dinner along with the Fireman and Policeman of the year.

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VFW Petaluma Post 1929
 and VFW Post 1929 Auxiliary

2018 - 19 Voice of Democracy
Patriot’s Pen,  and Civic Action 
Awards Presentations

The Winners

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Voice of Democracy
Essay Theme “Why my vote Matters”

First Place Winner, Theo J. Pologeorgis -  Petaluma High School, Petaluma.
Second Place, Rhiannon R. Powell - Technology High School, Rohnert Park.
Third Place, Johah M. Gotlieb - Credo High School, Rohnert Park

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Patriot Pen Essay
Patriot Pen Essay Theme “Why we honor the American Flag” 

First Place, Nazia N. Quadir - Kenilworth Junior High School
Second Place, Clay Dennis - Petaluma Junior High
Third Place, Nicholas Dennis - Wilson Elementary School 

Civic Awards

 Fireman of the Year - Battalion Chief Jeff Holden, presented by Chief Larry Anderson

 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year - Officer Patrick Gerke, presented by Chief Ken Savanon

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Congratulations to all the winners and honorees