Learning about the past prepares us for the future

Think of the suspense, the survival, internal conflicts, external conflicts, the sounds, and the emotions absorbed into the greatest stories about war. My all time favorite stories to read and listen to are of World War II. I have read true, realistic fiction, and nonfiction stories about American, German, and Russian soldiers in World War II.

Also near and dear to my heart are the testimonies of Holocaust survivors, and also of those who didn’t survive the Holocaust. With the spirit of love, gratitude, and joy in the air, I feel I should mention a tribute that occurred in Fallbrook and nationwide to remember those courageous, selfless soldiers and veterans.

Last month, I had a fantastic opportunity that all high school students had a chance to take part in. The Veterans of Foreign Wars annually has an oral essay contest titled Voice of Democracy. Fallbrook and Oasis are just two local high schools in the nation that participated.

I entered in the contest last year as a freshman and enjoyed it significantly! This year was even more of an indulgence! The theme for the Voice of Democracy contest this year was “Does My Generation Have a Role in Future America?” I wrote, scribbled, jotted down, and poured many thoughts of mine into a single essay that basically answers, “Yes! My generation has a role in future America, and it’s a big role!”

I was extremely thrilled when I got the phone call from the Veterans of Foreign War post congratulating me for winning second place! The awards ceremony is an afternoon to remember. My great-grandfather, who’s a Pearl Harbor survivor, attended the ceremony. It was fantastic to see him with a huge smile throughout the ceremony.

Another fantastic occurrence was that the talented contestants that didn’t place with the Fallbrook post were able to be entered their essays in other school districts that didn’t receive any entries! Way to go Fallbrook!

Another contest I’m super excited for is Chapman University’s Holocaust Art and Writing Contest. I have all ready started my essay based on the survival story of Renée Firestone. I owe a big thanks to my teacher at Oasis High, Mrs. Poznanter, for getting me completely hooked on this contest and motivating me so that I was able to discover my passion for World War II stories.