Americanism Essay Contest Winners
Winning Essays: 2017-18 Americanism Essay Contest
Why Our Veterans Are America's Heroes?
This year's winning essay from Division I (5th/6th graders) is from Cloe L. Eveleth Lodge #1161.
For all Veterans thank you for bravely doing what you've been called to do so we can safely do what we're free to do. On the battlefield, the military pledges to leave no soldiers behind as a nation, let it be our pledge that when they return home we leave no Veteran behind. I've never had a bullet fly by my head but I've experienced freedom because of men and women who did! Forever thankful to every Veteran's sacrifice. Thank you Veterans for stepping forward when others step back. For placing yourself between us and danger. For serving our country. For protecting our freedoms.
We don't know them all but we should give back to all.
I believe with all my heart, hope to die, stick a needle in my eye, that standing up for America means standing up for the God who has blessed our land.
Never give up - thank you very much!! Love you Veterans.
This year's winning essay from Division II (7th/8th graders) is from Huda N. Mankato Lodge #225.
Are all veterans heroes? Does being a soldier in any of the armed forces automatically make you a hero? We all know heroes who have extraordinary powers like Superman, The Flash or Wonder Woman, but the definition of heroes are people sacrificing their own lives to save another, Doctors, teachers, therapists, and police officers are examples of heroes. The list goes on. Its not the uniform that makes the veterans heroes. Its what they do that makes a hero. For instance, Dakota Myers saved 36 Marines and soldiers. He earned an award called a Congressional Medal of Honor but he didn't like that everyone called him a hero because he was just doing the job he loves.
According to dosomething.org, veterans make up 12% of the adults who are homeless in the US. Nearly 10 million veterans are older than 65 years old, meaning that they're vulnerable in this society. A lot of vets served in the Vietnam war by saving many of their own pals meaning that there heroic or selfless. But most of the people are unstable from that horrific experience. Some of our heroes struggle from PTSD (Post traumatic stress disorder).
In 2014, 2.9 million veterans had service related disabilities. Some of those veterans sacrificed their lives for others and not everyone cares about it. Without veterans our lives wouldn't be the same. Without them we wouldn't be free or we wouldn't have our rights. Some people might be peasants to the British. Or we might be sucking up to Hitler's grandson. The whole idea is we wouldn't have our rights if we didn't have veterans.
In conclusion, some veterans are heroic, brave and fearless and I don't think they get respected as much as they should. I would like to say that they're honorable, brave and valiant. I'm so glad that we have great people that fight for our country.
Why Our Veterans Are America's Heroes?
This year's winning essay from Division I (5th/6th graders) is from Cloe L. Eveleth Lodge #1161.
For all Veterans thank you for bravely doing what you've been called to do so we can safely do what we're free to do. On the battlefield, the military pledges to leave no soldiers behind as a nation, let it be our pledge that when they return home we leave no Veteran behind. I've never had a bullet fly by my head but I've experienced freedom because of men and women who did! Forever thankful to every Veteran's sacrifice. Thank you Veterans for stepping forward when others step back. For placing yourself between us and danger. For serving our country. For protecting our freedoms.
We don't know them all but we should give back to all.
I believe with all my heart, hope to die, stick a needle in my eye, that standing up for America means standing up for the God who has blessed our land.
Never give up - thank you very much!! Love you Veterans.
This year's winning essay from Division II (7th/8th graders) is from Huda N. Mankato Lodge #225.
Are all veterans heroes? Does being a soldier in any of the armed forces automatically make you a hero? We all know heroes who have extraordinary powers like Superman, The Flash or Wonder Woman, but the definition of heroes are people sacrificing their own lives to save another, Doctors, teachers, therapists, and police officers are examples of heroes. The list goes on. Its not the uniform that makes the veterans heroes. Its what they do that makes a hero. For instance, Dakota Myers saved 36 Marines and soldiers. He earned an award called a Congressional Medal of Honor but he didn't like that everyone called him a hero because he was just doing the job he loves.
According to dosomething.org, veterans make up 12% of the adults who are homeless in the US. Nearly 10 million veterans are older than 65 years old, meaning that they're vulnerable in this society. A lot of vets served in the Vietnam war by saving many of their own pals meaning that there heroic or selfless. But most of the people are unstable from that horrific experience. Some of our heroes struggle from PTSD (Post traumatic stress disorder).
In 2014, 2.9 million veterans had service related disabilities. Some of those veterans sacrificed their lives for others and not everyone cares about it. Without veterans our lives wouldn't be the same. Without them we wouldn't be free or we wouldn't have our rights. Some people might be peasants to the British. Or we might be sucking up to Hitler's grandson. The whole idea is we wouldn't have our rights if we didn't have veterans.
In conclusion, some veterans are heroic, brave and fearless and I don't think they get respected as much as they should. I would like to say that they're honorable, brave and valiant. I'm so glad that we have great people that fight for our country.
Winning Essays: 2016 Americanism Essay Contest
"Why is it Important to Vote?" - Division I Winner
This year's winning essay from Division I (5th/6th graders) is from Julia R. Brainerd Lodge #615.
It seems like a common word in the English language. Voting. Defined by the Merriam-Webster dictionary as an “expression of opinion or preference”, voting is that and much more. We as Americans take that simple word for granted. When George Washington was elected president, only white men who met the land ownership requirements could vote. Now, any American citizen, eighteen or older, that is registered to vote may do so. We have certainly come a long way.
Though it may seem like your vote is just a drop of water in a wide sea, your vote truly does count. If everyone thought their vote didn't count, and no one voted, where would we get? Nowhere. Your vote could even break a tie in your local election! If you don't cast a ballot, then you are giving up your rights as an American that many others are not privileged to have.
So, you think you are too busy? Is a scheduling challenge really a reason to not vote? I think not. Thousands of people, soldiers and citizens alike, fought for us and their right to vote. Just taking an hour out of your day to go to the polls honors all of the heroic men and women who fought for our rights. If it is a difficulty making it to the polls, consider voting absentee of by mail. Just take the time to vote.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt said, “Nobody will ever deprive the American people of the right to vote except the American people themselves, and the only way they could do this is by not voting.” I believe he is right. It is very important to vote so you can give your input on the government leaders, social issues, and much more.
This year's winning essay from Division II (7th/8th graders) is from Nasteho A. Mankato Lodge #225.
In 2016, 57.9% of people voted. What that means is over 90 million people did not vote. Using your voice, understanding what the Electoral College is, and realizing that there was a time that groups of people weren't able to vote, could help others change their perspective about voting.
First of all, everyone has a voice and if everyone votes they're using it. When people vote for their choice, they are showing how they feel about what the person is representing. For example, if I was voting for someone who wants to get new computers for schools that need it, it shows that I care about the education of kids. If people don't vote they can't argue about who wins or loses because by not voting it shows they're okay with the outcome. The quote “If you don't vote, you lose the right to complain” makes a really good point.
Next, most people think that the votes toward the president election don't count because in the end the Electoral College is the one that represents the states. As that might be, your votes still go towards electing representatives, both state and federal. Congress members win by popular vote.
Lastly, let's take a moment to go back in the past and remember that there were people who had to fight hard to be able to vote. African-American men weren't able to vote until the 15th Amendment was passed in 1870. Even though African-American men were finally able to vote, women weren't. Many women, including Lucy Burns and Alice Paul, were main leaders of the women's suffrage movement. It wasn't until the 19th Amendment, which was ratified in 1920, that women were able to vote.
In conclusion, I learned the importance of voting. I learned that people have a way to use their voice, that understanding what the Electoral College is will help and that groups of individuals weren't always privileged to be able to vote. As soon a I turn eighteen I want to be counted as one of those 57.9% who voted.
"Why is it Important to Vote?" - Division I Winner
This year's winning essay from Division I (5th/6th graders) is from Julia R. Brainerd Lodge #615.
It seems like a common word in the English language. Voting. Defined by the Merriam-Webster dictionary as an “expression of opinion or preference”, voting is that and much more. We as Americans take that simple word for granted. When George Washington was elected president, only white men who met the land ownership requirements could vote. Now, any American citizen, eighteen or older, that is registered to vote may do so. We have certainly come a long way.
Though it may seem like your vote is just a drop of water in a wide sea, your vote truly does count. If everyone thought their vote didn't count, and no one voted, where would we get? Nowhere. Your vote could even break a tie in your local election! If you don't cast a ballot, then you are giving up your rights as an American that many others are not privileged to have.
So, you think you are too busy? Is a scheduling challenge really a reason to not vote? I think not. Thousands of people, soldiers and citizens alike, fought for us and their right to vote. Just taking an hour out of your day to go to the polls honors all of the heroic men and women who fought for our rights. If it is a difficulty making it to the polls, consider voting absentee of by mail. Just take the time to vote.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt said, “Nobody will ever deprive the American people of the right to vote except the American people themselves, and the only way they could do this is by not voting.” I believe he is right. It is very important to vote so you can give your input on the government leaders, social issues, and much more.
This year's winning essay from Division II (7th/8th graders) is from Nasteho A. Mankato Lodge #225.
In 2016, 57.9% of people voted. What that means is over 90 million people did not vote. Using your voice, understanding what the Electoral College is, and realizing that there was a time that groups of people weren't able to vote, could help others change their perspective about voting.
First of all, everyone has a voice and if everyone votes they're using it. When people vote for their choice, they are showing how they feel about what the person is representing. For example, if I was voting for someone who wants to get new computers for schools that need it, it shows that I care about the education of kids. If people don't vote they can't argue about who wins or loses because by not voting it shows they're okay with the outcome. The quote “If you don't vote, you lose the right to complain” makes a really good point.
Next, most people think that the votes toward the president election don't count because in the end the Electoral College is the one that represents the states. As that might be, your votes still go towards electing representatives, both state and federal. Congress members win by popular vote.
Lastly, let's take a moment to go back in the past and remember that there were people who had to fight hard to be able to vote. African-American men weren't able to vote until the 15th Amendment was passed in 1870. Even though African-American men were finally able to vote, women weren't. Many women, including Lucy Burns and Alice Paul, were main leaders of the women's suffrage movement. It wasn't until the 19th Amendment, which was ratified in 1920, that women were able to vote.
In conclusion, I learned the importance of voting. I learned that people have a way to use their voice, that understanding what the Electoral College is will help and that groups of individuals weren't always privileged to be able to vote. As soon a I turn eighteen I want to be counted as one of those 57.9% who voted.
Winning Essays: 2015 Americanism Essay Contest
"What the Pledge of Allegiance Means to Me" - Division I Winner
This year's winning essay from Division I (5th/6th graders) is from Beatriz Gabriel of Worthington Lodge #2287.
I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. What does it really mean?
"I pledge allegiance", really stands for I promise to be true. "To the flag", stands for the symbol of our country. "Of the United States of America", stands for a country where people choose others to make laws for them. "For which it stands" stands for the flag that means our country. "Under God" the people believe in a supreme being. "Indivisible" stands for our country that cannot be split into parts. "With liberty and justice" means with freedom and fairness. "For all" stands for each person in the country.
To me the pledge of allegiance stands for "I pledge to be true to the symbol of our country, and for each state that has joined our country, where people choose to make laws for them, and for the flag that means our country, for the people that believe in a supreme being, and for our country that cannot be split with freedom and fairness for each person in the country."
The Pledge of allegiance was written by Francis Bellamy. It was published in the juvenile magazine, "The Youths Campaign." That is what the Pledge of Allegiance means to me.
This year's winning essay from Division II (7th/8th graders) is from Hailey Turner-Hubbard of Brainerd Lodge #615.
When I put my hand on my heart, look up at the flag, and recite the Pledge of Allegiance, I'm reminded of the respect and love I have towards my country. I think of the soldiers that have sacrificed everything, including their lives, so that citizens of America are able to live freely. There are two things in the Pledge of Allegiance that really stand out to me.
The Pledge states that we are "one nation, under God." I believe this means that we have the right to believe in whomever and whatever we please. Without soldiers fighting for us, there is a chance I wouldn't have that liberty. This also reminds me that our nation was founded on religion. I believe this goes towards many religions, not just Christianity. It tells me that our country comes from many different religious backgrounds, but we're still one united nation.
I think the pledge is also a promise. It's my promise that I'll be loyal to my country and the values it was founded on. I'm also promising to honor my country and the soldiers that have fought for it. To show my loyalty I can participate in governmental things such as voting. I'm too young for that, so for now I can study our nations history. Our nation wouldn't be what it is today if we didn't keep this promise.
By saying the Pledge of Allegiance, I'm reminded of my love and respect towards my home. The United States of America.
"What the Pledge of Allegiance Means to Me" - Division I Winner
This year's winning essay from Division I (5th/6th graders) is from Beatriz Gabriel of Worthington Lodge #2287.
I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. What does it really mean?
"I pledge allegiance", really stands for I promise to be true. "To the flag", stands for the symbol of our country. "Of the United States of America", stands for a country where people choose others to make laws for them. "For which it stands" stands for the flag that means our country. "Under God" the people believe in a supreme being. "Indivisible" stands for our country that cannot be split into parts. "With liberty and justice" means with freedom and fairness. "For all" stands for each person in the country.
To me the pledge of allegiance stands for "I pledge to be true to the symbol of our country, and for each state that has joined our country, where people choose to make laws for them, and for the flag that means our country, for the people that believe in a supreme being, and for our country that cannot be split with freedom and fairness for each person in the country."
The Pledge of allegiance was written by Francis Bellamy. It was published in the juvenile magazine, "The Youths Campaign." That is what the Pledge of Allegiance means to me.
This year's winning essay from Division II (7th/8th graders) is from Hailey Turner-Hubbard of Brainerd Lodge #615.
When I put my hand on my heart, look up at the flag, and recite the Pledge of Allegiance, I'm reminded of the respect and love I have towards my country. I think of the soldiers that have sacrificed everything, including their lives, so that citizens of America are able to live freely. There are two things in the Pledge of Allegiance that really stand out to me.
The Pledge states that we are "one nation, under God." I believe this means that we have the right to believe in whomever and whatever we please. Without soldiers fighting for us, there is a chance I wouldn't have that liberty. This also reminds me that our nation was founded on religion. I believe this goes towards many religions, not just Christianity. It tells me that our country comes from many different religious backgrounds, but we're still one united nation.
I think the pledge is also a promise. It's my promise that I'll be loyal to my country and the values it was founded on. I'm also promising to honor my country and the soldiers that have fought for it. To show my loyalty I can participate in governmental things such as voting. I'm too young for that, so for now I can study our nations history. Our nation wouldn't be what it is today if we didn't keep this promise.
By saying the Pledge of Allegiance, I'm reminded of my love and respect towards my home. The United States of America.
Winning Essays: 2014 Americanism Essay Contest
"What Veterans Day Means to Me" - Division I winner
This year's winning essay for Division I (5th/6th) is from Kristen T. of Mankato Lodge #225.
When I think of Veterans Day, I think of all the servicemen and women that risked their lives so that us Americans could have freedom. It takes a true serviceman to do something that amazing! I have many veterans in my family tree, my grandpas, my father, was named Marine of the year, then I have two brothers, one currently in the Marines, and one that just finished his four years. I am so proud of my family, and for all the Veterans out there that have made this world a wonderful and safe place to live.
Freedom has a price, and everyone deserves to pay it, but because of these servicemen and women, they paid it for us. Veterans day is a day to honor and remember these Veterans for the great sacrifices that they have made for us. Military families sometimes miss Holidays and special occasions together.
It doesn't take a big man or woman to do big things, because big or small, you can always do big things. I always keep all veterans that have served, or still serving right now in my prayers. Being a veteran is a big responsibility, and they should be good role models for everyone. It is my hope that kids in the world look up to veterans and give them the respect they deserve. It is also my hope that everyone remembers Veterans day and cherishes the thought of our brave heroes.
"What Veterans Day Means to Me" - Division II winner
This year's winning essay for Division II (7th/8th grade) is from Cayanne K. of Red Wing Lodge #845.
Veterans Day...for some it might just simply mean getting off school or work, sleeping in, maybe a nice barbecue with friends and family, and at one point that’s all it. ever meant.
I've only thought about what others wanted me to think about Veterans Day. I have learned from a young age that this federal holiday is meant to honor those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, but before writing this essay I never really put much thought into how I felt about such an important day. To be honest, I don't think to pray for all of the U.S. military veterans every single day. I’m not thankful enough for these courageous people. So the question, What does Veterans day mean to me? ... there is no right or wrong answer, but for me Veterans Day is all about apologizing for not thanking those who deserve it most and making it up by dedicating November 11 each year to men and women who have put our lives in front of theirs not even knowing who we are. I am proud to say that lately I have been putting all veterans, not just my relatives and close friends, in my thoughts and prayers more often. All of these Americans have made such a difference in all of our lives. I now know I will look at Veterans Day with more respect, and I'm sorry it wasn't so important to me!
Winning Essays: 2013 Americanism Essay Contest
"What the National Anthem Means to Me" - Division I winner
This year's winning essay for Division I (5th/6th) is from Riley B. of Bemidji Lodge #1052.
The National Anthem is played at almost every sports event, you might hear it on Independence Day, and it is part of every day life for most patriotic Americans. The song is so common yet rarely will people take the time to consider what it means. To me the National Anthem symbolizes bravery. I recognize bravery because the song was made in the chaos of a battle. The closing verse strongly recognizes my feelings for this song. But I do not just recognize the soldiers in Fort McHenry, or even the soldiers fighting in the war of 1812. I also recognize all the brave men and women that have fought to keep our country safe for over 236 years. Each war posed new challenges and threats that took bravery to overcome. The National Anthem makes me feel grateful for being lucky enough to live in such a great country with people that are willing to give their lives just so you and I can live a good life. Because of these reasons I will feel proud the next time I hear the Star Spangled Banner played at a sporting event or any other event. I will also remember how brave our country has been to get where we are today, and how lucky I am to live in it. I hope you will too.
"What the National Anthem Means to Me" - Division II winner
This year's winning essay for Division II (7th/8th grade) is from Dax M. of Bemidji Lodge #1052.
The National Anthem is one of the most important parts of America's history. It was written by Francis Scott Key, a lawyer and a poet. He wrote it while witnessing Fort McHenry being attacked. This poem was written in 1814 during the war of 1812. The poem was later turned into a song with the tune of a popular song in America, "The Anacreontic Song". In 1916, Woodrow Wilson, the president, made the Star Spangled Banner the national anthem, as many people call it today in America. What does the National Anthem mean to me? It shows our freedom. It shows what our country went through to achieve freedom. It shows that all the lives that were taken for our country. It shows that even when there were bodies lying around the soldiers and they were scared and thought they would never see their families again, they still fought, they were courageous. They had hope in the midst of darkness. Whenever you hear the National Anthem, you shouldn't just sing it like it's a chore, you should think of the words you are singing, and think about what your ancestors went through so their children and grandchildren would be safe and live happy, prosperous lives. A quote from Nathan Hale before he was killed said, "I only regret that I have but one life to give for my country." That is how all of us should think about our country, we should be willing to give our lives for God, and the United States of America.
Winning Essays: 2012 Americanism Essay Contest
"Why I Am Proud To Pledge Allegiance To Our Flag" - Division I winner
This year's winning essay for Division I (5th/6th) is from sixth grader Laura W. of Brainerd Lodge #615.
Every morning, we recite the Pledge of Allegiance. Most of us don't really pay attention to what those 31 words we know by heart mean, but they mean more than most most other words we use during the school day. Those 31 words signify what it means to be an American, and I'm proud to recite it every morning.
First of all, the Pledge of Allegiance unites all Americans together. Every one from Alaska to Florida, from Texas to Minnesota, is held together by the one thing we recite every morning. The Pledge of Allegiance holds Americans together.
Secondly, the Pledge of Allegiance reminds all of us about the troops fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan right now, and those who have fought in wars before to ensure our nation's freedom. In America we're allowed the freedom to pursue "life, liberty and happiness", unlike in some countries of the world. The troops fighting for us ensure we will keep that freedom.
And lastly, I'm proud to recite the Pledge of Allegiance because it's reminding people of the freedom that everyone gets no matter their race, religion, gender, creed or anything else. The Pledge of Allegiance keeps the diversity in America alive.
In conclusion, I'm proud to recite the Pledge of Allegiance because it holds all Americans together, it reminds us about the troops who have fought for our country, and it reminds of of our freedom and diversity in America.
"Why I Am Proud To Pledge Allegiance To Our Flag" - Division II winner
This year's winning essay for Division II (7th/8th grade) is from eighth grader Brock D. of Thief River Falls Lodge #1308.
Our Flag is a national symbol that represents not only our pride as Americans, but also our freedom and liberty earned by our own sweat, toil, and blood.
The words of the pledge are an outline of our commitment to the flag; telling us why it represents us, and we represent it. While it compels us to commit to our nation, it also tells us we are unified with our countrymen in common rights. This flag shows our unity in every city and town. It surrounds memorials and national monuments. It constantly receives standing ovations from crowds attending sports games, military events, parades, and every day events such as boy scouts, city council meetings, and even the Elks Flag Day Ceremony. No matter the event, it is honored greatly because of its promise that we are "one Nation, under God". Our flag prompts integrity and determination dating back to the Revolutionary War where it was used to motivate our soldiers to become one sovereign and independent nation. Ever since America's independence, it has been a solemn reminder of our common bond, too, whether covering a casket of a lost soldier or waving majestically over our Capitol. It reminds us of our history in every American classroom. It units our past, present and future.
United we stand.
Our flag is the basis of our country's unity. That is why I am proud to pledge allegiance to our flag.
"What Veterans Day Means to Me" - Division I winner
This year's winning essay for Division I (5th/6th) is from Kristen T. of Mankato Lodge #225.
When I think of Veterans Day, I think of all the servicemen and women that risked their lives so that us Americans could have freedom. It takes a true serviceman to do something that amazing! I have many veterans in my family tree, my grandpas, my father, was named Marine of the year, then I have two brothers, one currently in the Marines, and one that just finished his four years. I am so proud of my family, and for all the Veterans out there that have made this world a wonderful and safe place to live.
Freedom has a price, and everyone deserves to pay it, but because of these servicemen and women, they paid it for us. Veterans day is a day to honor and remember these Veterans for the great sacrifices that they have made for us. Military families sometimes miss Holidays and special occasions together.
It doesn't take a big man or woman to do big things, because big or small, you can always do big things. I always keep all veterans that have served, or still serving right now in my prayers. Being a veteran is a big responsibility, and they should be good role models for everyone. It is my hope that kids in the world look up to veterans and give them the respect they deserve. It is also my hope that everyone remembers Veterans day and cherishes the thought of our brave heroes.
"What Veterans Day Means to Me" - Division II winner
This year's winning essay for Division II (7th/8th grade) is from Cayanne K. of Red Wing Lodge #845.
Veterans Day...for some it might just simply mean getting off school or work, sleeping in, maybe a nice barbecue with friends and family, and at one point that’s all it. ever meant.
I've only thought about what others wanted me to think about Veterans Day. I have learned from a young age that this federal holiday is meant to honor those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, but before writing this essay I never really put much thought into how I felt about such an important day. To be honest, I don't think to pray for all of the U.S. military veterans every single day. I’m not thankful enough for these courageous people. So the question, What does Veterans day mean to me? ... there is no right or wrong answer, but for me Veterans Day is all about apologizing for not thanking those who deserve it most and making it up by dedicating November 11 each year to men and women who have put our lives in front of theirs not even knowing who we are. I am proud to say that lately I have been putting all veterans, not just my relatives and close friends, in my thoughts and prayers more often. All of these Americans have made such a difference in all of our lives. I now know I will look at Veterans Day with more respect, and I'm sorry it wasn't so important to me!
Winning Essays: 2013 Americanism Essay Contest
"What the National Anthem Means to Me" - Division I winner
This year's winning essay for Division I (5th/6th) is from Riley B. of Bemidji Lodge #1052.
The National Anthem is played at almost every sports event, you might hear it on Independence Day, and it is part of every day life for most patriotic Americans. The song is so common yet rarely will people take the time to consider what it means. To me the National Anthem symbolizes bravery. I recognize bravery because the song was made in the chaos of a battle. The closing verse strongly recognizes my feelings for this song. But I do not just recognize the soldiers in Fort McHenry, or even the soldiers fighting in the war of 1812. I also recognize all the brave men and women that have fought to keep our country safe for over 236 years. Each war posed new challenges and threats that took bravery to overcome. The National Anthem makes me feel grateful for being lucky enough to live in such a great country with people that are willing to give their lives just so you and I can live a good life. Because of these reasons I will feel proud the next time I hear the Star Spangled Banner played at a sporting event or any other event. I will also remember how brave our country has been to get where we are today, and how lucky I am to live in it. I hope you will too.
"What the National Anthem Means to Me" - Division II winner
This year's winning essay for Division II (7th/8th grade) is from Dax M. of Bemidji Lodge #1052.
The National Anthem is one of the most important parts of America's history. It was written by Francis Scott Key, a lawyer and a poet. He wrote it while witnessing Fort McHenry being attacked. This poem was written in 1814 during the war of 1812. The poem was later turned into a song with the tune of a popular song in America, "The Anacreontic Song". In 1916, Woodrow Wilson, the president, made the Star Spangled Banner the national anthem, as many people call it today in America. What does the National Anthem mean to me? It shows our freedom. It shows what our country went through to achieve freedom. It shows that all the lives that were taken for our country. It shows that even when there were bodies lying around the soldiers and they were scared and thought they would never see their families again, they still fought, they were courageous. They had hope in the midst of darkness. Whenever you hear the National Anthem, you shouldn't just sing it like it's a chore, you should think of the words you are singing, and think about what your ancestors went through so their children and grandchildren would be safe and live happy, prosperous lives. A quote from Nathan Hale before he was killed said, "I only regret that I have but one life to give for my country." That is how all of us should think about our country, we should be willing to give our lives for God, and the United States of America.
Winning Essays: 2012 Americanism Essay Contest
"Why I Am Proud To Pledge Allegiance To Our Flag" - Division I winner
This year's winning essay for Division I (5th/6th) is from sixth grader Laura W. of Brainerd Lodge #615.
Every morning, we recite the Pledge of Allegiance. Most of us don't really pay attention to what those 31 words we know by heart mean, but they mean more than most most other words we use during the school day. Those 31 words signify what it means to be an American, and I'm proud to recite it every morning.
First of all, the Pledge of Allegiance unites all Americans together. Every one from Alaska to Florida, from Texas to Minnesota, is held together by the one thing we recite every morning. The Pledge of Allegiance holds Americans together.
Secondly, the Pledge of Allegiance reminds all of us about the troops fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan right now, and those who have fought in wars before to ensure our nation's freedom. In America we're allowed the freedom to pursue "life, liberty and happiness", unlike in some countries of the world. The troops fighting for us ensure we will keep that freedom.
And lastly, I'm proud to recite the Pledge of Allegiance because it's reminding people of the freedom that everyone gets no matter their race, religion, gender, creed or anything else. The Pledge of Allegiance keeps the diversity in America alive.
In conclusion, I'm proud to recite the Pledge of Allegiance because it holds all Americans together, it reminds us about the troops who have fought for our country, and it reminds of of our freedom and diversity in America.
"Why I Am Proud To Pledge Allegiance To Our Flag" - Division II winner
This year's winning essay for Division II (7th/8th grade) is from eighth grader Brock D. of Thief River Falls Lodge #1308.
Our Flag is a national symbol that represents not only our pride as Americans, but also our freedom and liberty earned by our own sweat, toil, and blood.
The words of the pledge are an outline of our commitment to the flag; telling us why it represents us, and we represent it. While it compels us to commit to our nation, it also tells us we are unified with our countrymen in common rights. This flag shows our unity in every city and town. It surrounds memorials and national monuments. It constantly receives standing ovations from crowds attending sports games, military events, parades, and every day events such as boy scouts, city council meetings, and even the Elks Flag Day Ceremony. No matter the event, it is honored greatly because of its promise that we are "one Nation, under God". Our flag prompts integrity and determination dating back to the Revolutionary War where it was used to motivate our soldiers to become one sovereign and independent nation. Ever since America's independence, it has been a solemn reminder of our common bond, too, whether covering a casket of a lost soldier or waving majestically over our Capitol. It reminds us of our history in every American classroom. It units our past, present and future.
United we stand.
Our flag is the basis of our country's unity. That is why I am proud to pledge allegiance to our flag.