VFW presents scholarships to essay contest winners

FALLBROOK – Fallbrook Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 1924 and the VFW Auxiliary hosted an awards ceremony Nov. 12 honoring the local student winners of its annual patriotic essay contests. These bright and articulate students read their essays with confidence among proud family members, teachers and guests.

Voice of Democracy is open to students in grades 9 through 12. The theme for this year was "My Responsibility To America". The first place award of $500 was won by Hannah Diverde, second place and $300 went to Maribel Rueda, and the third place winner of $200 was Carlos Mejia.

Patriot’s Pen is open to junior high school students. The theme this year was “The America I Believe In.” The first place $100 scholarship winner was sixth grader Brenna M. Sturgeon. Following the ceremony, in celebration of the students’ success, a festive dinner was held in their honor.

A memorable part of the evening was when Hannah's great-grandmother, Pauline "Scotty" Snyder, presented Hannah with a commemorative medallion that she received for being one of the first 50 women to support the construction of the Women in Military Service for America Memorial. The Memorial is located in Washington D. C., adjacent to Arlington National Cemetery.

Snyder was one of the very first female Marines, joining the Marine Corps in 1940. She is now a young 98 years old. “I taught the men how to land airplanes at Miramar,” proudly stated the sprite great-grandmother of seven. Contest organizers said, "We were honored to have this woman Marine veteran in our presence as well as sharing her patriotism with the students. Scotty is a true inspiration."

Also in attendance were student teachers and faculty, many family members and several comrades of the VFW and the Auxiliary who graciously volunteered in support of this event. Dominick’s Deli provided food for the event, showing community support, care and appreciation for Fallbrook's veterans and children’s patriotic programs.

Fallbrook VFW Post 1924 also appreciates all participating judges, teachers, and mentors who facilitated and encouraged the Voice of Democracy program.