"Why Veterans are Important to our Nation's History and Future" was the theme of the 2014-15 annual audio essay competition sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars across the country.

Nearly 40,000 high school students enter the competition, which began in 1947, competing to win part of $2.2 million in educational scholarships on the district, state and national levels.

The national first-place winner receives a $30,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient's American university, college or vocational-technical school.

Parkland High School instructor and VOD Coordinator Dale Ritter, a VFW Post 12099 member and author of several military books, endorses the VFW's concept that this competition is an excellent tool to give students an opportunity to express themselves on democratic ideas and principles.

Sophomore Avery Boyer of Allentown garnered first place. Sophomore Tatiana G. Holowathy of Schnecks-ville followed in second and freshman William McMahan of Allentown took home third place.

Winners at Parkland High School received monetary gifts and plaques before moving on to regional competition.

Judges from the community for this year's event included Gold Star Mother Carol Resh of Fogelsville; Dr. Dennis Blankowitsch, retired principal of Ritter Elementary School, Allentown; SSgt. Erin M. Roe of the Pa. Army National Guard; SSgt. Bryan Brandmeir of the 213th Regiment; SSgt. Jonathan Mazza, Pa. Army National Guard recruiter and career counselor, Post 12099 Commander Michael Schnur and his wife Ann Schnur.

Locally, The Military Nursing Corps of Pennsylvania VFW Post 12099, which meets at the Gen. Curtis Armory, 15th and Allen streets, Allentown, sponsors the annual Voice of Democracy contest at Parkland.

Post 12099 welcomes other school districts interested in having their high school students enter the VOD contest, to do so.

Contact Past Commander Joe Zeller at 610-298-3254 or by email annawertman@verizon.net.