Cypress Students Invited to Share Their Voice: VFW Post 8905 Opens 2025-2026 Youth Essay Contests
For Cypress-area students with something to say—and a passion for their country—VFW Post 8905 is offering an opportunity to be heard. Applications are now open for the Veterans of Foreign Wars’ annual Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen scholarship contests for the 2025-2026 program year.
With thousands of dollars in scholarships up for grabs, these national essay competitions invite middle and high school students to reflect on the meaning of patriotism in their lives. Local winners from Post 8905 in Cypress will advance to district, state, and potentially national levels—where prizes can reach as high as $35,000.
But at its core, this initiative is about more than just awards. It’s part of how VFW Post 8905 continues its mission of connecting veterans, students, and community members in shared service and purpose.
Speak Up for a Chance to Win
This year’s essay theme for both contests is: “How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?”
-
Voice of Democracy (Grades 9–12): Students will record a 3–5 minute audio essay in their own voice for a chance to win up to $35,000 at the national level.
-
Patriot’s Pen (Grades 6–8): Students will submit a 300–400 word written essay, with the top national winner receiving $5,000 and a trip to Washington, D.C.
Entries are due by midnight on October 31, 2025, and must be submitted to VFW Post 8905 in Cypress. The official contest rules and entry forms are available here:
You can also access information through Post 8905's website at vfw8905.org.
Mobile Sidebar Ad
Service That Reaches Beyond the Uniform
VFW Post 8905, located in Cypress, has long served as a place where veterans come together to support one another—and the community they once served in uniform. As part of the larger mission of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Post offers a wide range of services: from helping veterans navigate benefits and claims, to providing emotional support through the “buddy-buddy” program, which connects veterans experiencing post-traumatic stress with others who’ve faced similar struggles.
Their message to veterans is simple but powerful: "You were not alone then. You are not alone now."
The Post’s outreach doesn’t stop with veterans. Members actively engage with local civic groups, school leaders, and organizations to support causes like Toys for Tots, POW/MIA recognition, and the Buddy Poppy program, all while honoring fallen comrades through TAPS ceremonies and maintaining a dedicated Honor Guard.
Youth outreach is a cornerstone of that work. By hosting the Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen contests each year, Post 8905 is helping young people think critically about civic responsibility and patriotism—while creating meaningful connections between veterans and the next generation.
How to Enter
Students can download and complete their entry forms, then submit them—along with their essays—to:
VFW Post 8905
21902 Northwest Freeway
Cypress, TX 77429
With Post approval, digital submissions may also be accepted.
Mobile Sidebar Ad
More Than a Scholarship
In a world full of headlines and sound bites, these essay contests offer students something rare: a space to slow down, think deeply, and use their voice to shape conversations about America’s future.
For Cypress families, educators, and veterans alike, it’s a reminder that patriotism comes in many forms—and that even the youngest voices can carry powerful messages.
Stay with My Neighborhood News for more updates on local student opportunities, community events, and VFW Post 8905 initiatives throughout Cypress.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
