Veterans of Foreign War member Mike Terry, who is stepping down as the local Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen contest chairman, presents a certificate and monetary awards to Christina Robinson of Oasis Academy. She placed first in District 4 and second in state.
The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1002 acknowledged the participants who competed in the Voice of Democracy speech and essay contest.
Christina Robinson, a freshman at Oasis Academy, captured first place in District 4 and second overall in the state competition. She received an award certificate and a $100 scholarship.
Hunter McNabb and Ariana Wolf, both students at Oasis, captured second and third place, respectively. McNabb received a $75cholarship and certificate, and Wolf was presented with a $50 scholarship.
The Voice of Democracy contest is for students in 9-12th grades. The Voice of Democracy Contest is an oral essay contest, and this year’s theme is “Why Are Veterans Important” for students in the 9-12th grades or equivalent if home schooled.
Robinson’s entry in the Voice of Democracy began with a salute to her grandfather, who served in the U.S. Army for two years.
“Our veterans are the foundation of our great country,” Robinson wrote. “Veterans like my grandpa are important because they provide American with safety and security, protect democracy, rights, and freedoms, and they learn values during their service, which later benefits their communities.”
Robinson said veterans may encounter pain, trauma, deep sorrow and sacrifice during their service, and they many faced atrocities that have presented life-long problems. She said it’s important to. Take care of the veterans.
“We must prioritize their health care and their mental health in honor of what they’ve sacrificed for our nation,” she said.
The Oasis freshman discussed their sacrifice in Biblical terms: “The Bible says in John 15:13 (NIV), Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends."
Robinson said veterans, was well as those soldiers who die ins rice of their country, exemplify Jesus’ words.
“Their sacrifices have enabled America to become the most powerful and prosperous nation in history,” she started. “Because of veterans, our society is a safe and wonderful environment where citizens have the opportunity to pursue their dreams.”
Robinson’s grandfather served during the Vietnam War, which is personal for her. He was able to return home, but may others weren’t so lucky.
“Of the 2.7 million American men and women who served in Vietnam, nearly 60,000 were killed, 150,000 were wounded and almost 1,600 went missing in action,” she pointed out.
“Veterans who served in the Vietnam war laid down their lives to protect democracy in South Vietnam. In similar fashion, veterans have risked their lives in various wars and conflicts throughout American history in order to protect freedom and combat oppression in many nations.”
“Military training teaches soldiers important core values, such as honor, courage, commitment, selfless service, integrity and respect.
Robinson said veterans have all had a role in shaping America as we know the country today.