Robert G Morton Post No 3834 Veterans of Foreign Wars of the US

The Voice of Democracy has been the Veterans of Foreign Wars’ (VFW’s) premier scholarship program. Each year, nearly 57,000 high school students compete for more than $2 million in scholarships and incentives. Students compete by writing and recording an audio essay on an annual patriotic theme.

The Voice of Democracy is open to students in grades 9-12 by the Oct. 31 deadline who are enrolled in a public-private or parochial high school or home study program in the United States, its territories and possessions; or dependents of U.S. military or civilian personnel in overseas schools. Although U.S. citizenship is not required, students must be lawful U.S. permanent residents or have applied for permanent residence (the application for which has not been denied) and intends to become a U.S. citizen at the earliest opportunity allowed by law.

Any 10th, 11th, or 12th grade student who is currently enrolled as a JROTC Cadet actively engaged in the JROTC Program, and one who meets the criteria for the award.

Criteria.
1. Possession of individual characteristics contributing to leadership including:
a. Positive attitude toward the Junior ROTC program.
b. Outstanding military bearing and conduct both in and out of uniform.
c. Personal attributes (self-confidence, initiative, flexibility, judgement).
d. Patriotism (commander or member of color guard, drill team with or without arms, flag protocol instruction team, and actively promote Americanism).
e. Courtesy (dependability, punctuality, human relations, respect, cooperation).
f. Growth potential (capable of assuming high leadership responsibilities in JROTC Unit with additional training and experience).
2. Attainment of a grade of "B” in JROTC with an overall average of "C” in all subjects for the previous semester. Must not have a failing grade in an

The close relationship between the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Boy Scouts of America dates back 100 years when VFW Post 2100 teamed up with another civic organization to establish Troop 1 in Everett, Washington. That century-long affiliation has fostered true patriotism, community service, and strong, moral character throughout the ensuing decades. During World War, I and II Boy Scouts played a major part in helping collect food and other items to support the troops in the war. Since that time scouting has continued to be a supporter of the VFW and scouts have grown up, joined the military, fought in wars, and subsequently become members of the VFW. It is a natural effort therefore that we focus the efforts of those who have been scouts to continue and guide the VFW posts in the support of the Boy Scouts of America. The BSA has and continues to provide first-class youth development and education program for use by qualified organizations.

Without our nation’s veterans, America wouldn't be the great nation it is today. Our youth deserve to learn about our rich history, traditions, and the role of our veterans in creating and shaping America. Each year, the Veterans of Foreign Wars selects elementary, middle, and high school teachers to participate in the Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher program.