Voice of Democracy

Established in 1947, our Voice of Democracy® audio-essay program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves in regard to a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay.  Each year, more than 26,400 Freshmen (9th) through Senior (12th) grade students from across the country enter to win their share of more than $1.4 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program. 

The national first place winner receives a $35,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient’s American university, college or vocational/technical school. A complete list of other national scholarships range from $1,000-$21,000, and the first-place winner from each VFW Department (state) wins at least a scholarship of $1,000. Students interested in participating must submit their audio essay prepared on this year's theme, with a completed 2025-2026 entry form, to their local participating VFW Post. Find your sponsoring local VFW Post as essays must be turned in by midnight, Oct. 31. 

The 2025-26 theme is: 

"How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?”

Commander’s Corner – January 2026

Comrades, Families, and Friends,

As we welcome the New Year, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude for your continued dedication to our mission and to one another. 2025 was a year of growth, service, and community—and 2026 is shaping up to be even stronger. Together, we will continue honoring veterans, supporting families, and strengthening the bonds that make Post 280 a true home.

What’s Ahead in 2026

We have a full calendar of programs and events designed to serve our veterans and engage our community:

🥞 Monthly Pancake Breakfasts

Our signature breakfast continues each month, bringing the community together and helping fund vital programs. We’ll need cooks, servers, greeters, and cleanup crews to keep this tradition thriving.

📍 State Convention – February

We’ll be representing Boone County at the State Convention, sharing our accomplishments and learning from Posts across Missouri.  We will also find out who the State winners are for Voice of Democracy and Patriot Pen.

💼 Man Show – March

A great opportunity to showcase the VFW, connect with the public, and raise awareness for our mission.

🎉 Family Fun Days – April

One of our biggest community events of the year. Games, food, activities, and outreach—this event takes a team, and we’re excited to make it even bigger in 2026.

* National Day of Service – May

In May, we join Posts across the nation in a coordinated day of service. This is our chance to show Boone County what service after service truly looks like.

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We Cannot Do This Without You

Every program, every event, every act of service depends on volunteers. Your time, your hands, and your heart are what keep this Post moving forward.

Whether you can give an hour a month or a full day at an event, your participation matters. When comrades step up, our programs grow. When we work together, our community feels it. And when we serve side by side, we honor the legacy of every veteran who came before us.

If we want these programs to continue—and to expand—we need your help.

Your Post needs YOU in 2026!!!

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A New Year of Service and Strength

As we begin 2026, I want to thank each of you for your loyalty, your service, and your commitment to our mission. May this New Year bring you health, purpose, and pride in the work we do together.

Here’s to a year of unity, service, and continued success for Boone County VFW Post 280.

Happy New Year and thank you for all you do.

In comradeship,

Edward L. Miller Jr.

Commander, VFW Post 280