8th Grade Student, Max Wehseler, wins First Place in VFW Patriot's Pen
Congratulations Max! 1st Place winner of VFW Patriot’s Pen
The first-place winner was Max Wehseler. He is an 8th grader at St. Francis of the Lakes Catholic School in Brainerd. Max is also in Scouting and the Civil Air Patrol.
Max received a check for $200 for his essay at an award ceremony at the Brainerd VFW on Tuesday, November 14, 2023.
This annual competition is for students living within 50 miles of Brainerd, Minnesota. It is writing a 300-to-400-word essay by students in grades 6 - 8. Judging is based on theme knowledge, theme development and clarity of ideas. Local prizes are $100, $150 and $200. Nationally $5,000. The 2023 - 2024 Brainerd VFW Patriot's Pen writing competition theme was, "How are you inspired by America?" There were 70 entries this year in Brainerd.
His Essay:
I am inspired by the many great traditions and ideals of the American people. I am inspired when I see the American flag hanging proudly. I am inspired when I see people hanging the American flag above their businesses and homes all proudly displaying the American flag. I am inspired by America when we help all the struggling countries that are full of unrest. I am inspired because the United States has had problems, but we all figure out how to work together and work through the problems and persevere. When I see someone wearing a veteran's hat, I feel proud and know a sense of gratitude toward those who served and kept America free. I am inspired when I hear about 9/11. It was a very sad tragedy, but it brought America together against terrorists. It makes me proud and inspires me when I hear about all the first responders and ordinary civilians who went back into the burning towers to save their fellow Americans. I am inspired when I see Americans working together as one people and work to fix things and make the world a better place. I am inspired when I see strong American families, when I see parents working hard to make sure their kids have everything they need. I feel inspired when I see people standing up for themselves and their opinions, being respectful and courteous all the while. I am very proud to be an American citizen in a just nation where we are free to speak out opinions. I am inspired by America when I see our leaders show pride in their positions but also know that there is more to know and learn from others. I deeply respect those who support our leaders even though it may not be who they voted for. I am inspired by the national parks and the beautiful terrain that has been preserved by us and everyone before us so future generations can look at the untouched land the same as us. That is why I am inspired by America.