VFW District 12 (17 VFW Posts) conducted their Awards Banquet Saturday, Jan. 13, 2024 at Collinsville VFW. Categories were Patriot Pen (500 word written essay ) Voice of Democracy (audio essay three to five minutes. ) and Teacher of the Year. The top three finishers were recognized, and the First Place winner advances to State for judging.

The Patriot’s Pen theme was “How are you inspired by America?” District 12 received 390 entries, First place was awarded to Katelyn Davin from Staunton. Katelyn received a certificate, a monetary prize and will move on to the Illinois VFW State finalists.

Voice of Democracy theme was “What are the greatest attributes of our Democracy?” District 12 received 165 entries, First Place was awarded to Sarah Wright from Staunton. Sarah received a certificate, a monetary prize and will move on to the Illinois VFW State finalists. 2nd Place was awarded to Lucy Taylor also of Staunton. Lucy received a certificate and a monetary prize.

Teacher of the Year recognizes our nation’s top teachers for their exceptional commitment to teaching Americanism and Patriotism to their students by promoting civic responsibility, flag etiquette and patriotism in the classroom. First Place (K-5) was awarded to Mr. Tim Smiddy of Staunton. Mr. Smiddy developed and implemented the Patriot Club for his 5th grade class. The Patriot Club is an hour long program every spring and pays tribute to our military members and Veterans.