Three Pella Middle School students and a 6th grader from Jefferson Intermediate School received recognition from VFW Post 5242 Monday.

Post Commander Patrick Stark says the Patriot’s Pen essay project returned this winter, with 6th through 8th grade students submitting essays about patriotism and citizenship.

This year’s winners were chosen with the VFW and the local Auxiliary, and included:

Brooklyn Sorheim – 1st Place, $100 prize

Runners-up (also received medals and a cash prize):
Ellie Plants
Elizabeth Vandevoort
Evan Smith

Commander Stark was joined by Mary Stark with the VFW Auxiliary to present to Vandevoort at Jefferson and to the three Pella Middle School students.