Students in Mrs. Schulz and Mrs. Lybbert’s Social Studies class at Pella Middle School participated in this year’s Patriot Pen essay contests, sponsored by the Pella VFW Post 5242. The theme this year was “How Are You Inspired By America”. The VFW uses some of the money from poppy sales over Memorial Day to honor the winning students.

This year’s winners are
First place: Madison Rowley “Inspiring Patriots” $100
Second place: Sydney Uitermarkt “Friend of Freedom” $50
Third place: Kole Speer “Patriot Pen” $50
Fourth place: Cecelia Boll “Patriot Heroes” $50

Notes from the class:
Madison was inspired by honoring her great grandpa who served in World War 2. She believes that all people should stand up for our country. She also wrote about patriotism can be seen all around us in many shapes and forms. No matter who you are, you can show patriotism for our county. Our country and people here inspire her every day to be patriotic.

Kole talked about his great, great uncle who was born in Bloomfield getting drafted into the Army as an infantryman and serving in Vietnam where he died in service to our county. He also wrote about having faith in his essay.

Cece says it means alot to win this award and it shows that hard work and determination can make anything possible. She’s honored to receive this recognition from our VFW.