VFW celebrates 100 years

On May 8 the Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of Washington celebrated its 100th Anniversary with a 1920's theme event. This event was also a recognition of winners of the VFW's essay competition and included Teacher of the Year awards.

VFW has three essay awards: Youth Essay (grades 3-5), Patriot's Pen (grades 6-8) and Voice of Democracy (grades 9-12). This year the winner of the State Youth Essay was Konner Reese, a 4th grader at J.A. Wendt Elementary School. Patriot's Pen was Brayden Hilton, a 7th grader at J.C. Thomas Middle School. Braydon's essay went on to the National Competition with entries from every state. He received a nice award. Voice of Democracy essay written by Colton Vik also went on to State.

The State Teacher of the Year was Don Cox from Wahkiakum High School. He was recognized and later Wahkiakum High School was awarded the VFW's Washington School of the Year.

"Wahkiakum Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5297 is extremely proud of the students and teachers in our schools," said Bob Roche, VFW member.