VFW honors the 'Voice of Democracy'

VFW Post 9094 honored area high school students who expressed admiration for heroes, patriotism and love of their country in the Voice of Democracy Essay Contest.
On April 7, winners from each of the county's high schools were honored with a dinner and awards reception.
"We want to commend the students on the good jobs they did," said post commander Rick Wilkin. "As a veteran, it makes you feel good. Some of the stuff they think up and write ... they do a real good job."
Sherry Mills, who announced the winners, and said, "Every year you read these, and sometimes something just grabs you."
Mills said this year in particular, several students wrote in to honor one particular teacher, Tricia Janse vanRensburg, who goes by "Mrs. Hahn" when she teaches at Whiteoak Jr./Sr. High School.
According to essays written in, Mrs Hahn has inspired students to support American soldiers who are serving overseas by making them care packages, making blankets and writing letters. As a result, many soldiers have written back and even come to visit the students when they return to town.
For being an inspiration, the post recognized Mrs. Hahn and presented her with a patriotic-themed clock.
Student essay winners who were present at the reception included Brooklyn Routt, Kaitlyn Fannin and Zara Jensen.
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