TOPSHAM — Emily Smith, a senior at Mt. Ararat High School, has been awarded first place in the Department of Maine Veterans of Foreign Wars Voice of Democracy program.
The Voice of Democracy is an audio essay competition that has been ongoing for 70 years. The topic for this year’s essay was “Why My Vote Matters.” After winning post competition at the Rev. Joseph Lamarre Memorial Post 2197 in Topsham, Emily went on to compete and win in VFW Maine District Seven competition.
Winners from all 11 Maine districts attended an awards banquet Jan. 12 in Bangor, where Smith’s entry was declared the state of Maine winner for 2018-2019.
She was awarded a certificate of achievement, a medal and a check for $750. In addition, she will receive an all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C., to represent Maine in National competition.
Previously in Post 2197 competition, she was given a certificate of achievement and a check for $200, as well as a check for $150 for her district win. Smith is the second Voice of Democracy competitor sponsored by Post 2197 to reach the state finals, and she is its first state champion.
VFW Post 2197 is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping fellow veterans and veterans’ programs as well as the local community. The post actively seeks new membership of those who have served in areas of conflict. For more information, visit the post’s Facebook page, VFW post 2197 in Topsham, or contact the post commander at cha_rogsteve@comcast.net.
PHOTO: Emily Smith is congratulated on her state championship Voice of Democracy entry by VFW Department of Maine Commander, Christopher Armstrong, left, and VFW National Assistant Adjutant General, Robert Wallace. (Submitted photo)
