DHS student writes second place VFW essay

      Andrew S. Dickerson of Donaldsonville High has written the second place essay in the 2016 Voice of Democracy and Americanism program essay contest.

     Presented by the Gonzales Memorial Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3693 at a ceremony on April 10, Dickerson was awarded $500 for his submission. The theme for the 2016 Voice of Democracy essay was “My Vision for America”. Other 2016 winners are Emily J. Medine of East Ascension High in first place with $1,000 and Alexis M. Soniat of East Ascension High in third place with $250.

     Post 3693 and its Auxiliary have had a long standing partnership with Ascension Parish schools, both public and private, and home schooled children in these programs. The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) established the Voice of Democracy program (VOD) in 1947 to provide students grades ninth to twelfth the opportunity to express themselves in regards to democratic ideas and principles. The Americanism Program promotes patriotism, teaches respect and proper care for the U.S. Flag, and recognizes elementary, middle and junior high students.

     There are four categories based on school grade. Category one kindergarten winners are Claire Kootz, Jewel Darr and Maddy Bercegeay. Category two first and second graders winners are Destiny Durgapasad, Graham LeBlanc and Jocelyn Howell. Category three third and fourth grade winners are Addie LeBlanc, Kasen Despino and Gage Laiche. Category four fifth and sixth grade winners for the essay contest are Kylie Trosclair, Kendall Berthelot and Gracie Frederic.