March 2, 2026
VFW Award Recipients
Established in 1947, the VFW’s Voice of Democracy audio-essay program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves in regards to a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay, which centered around the question, "How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?"
This year's First Place Winner From OESJ Central School is Katlyn Elwood and 2nd Place winner from OESJ Central School Julia Elwood.
Each year, the Veterans of Foreign Wars selects elementary, middle, and high school teachers to participate in the Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher program. This year's high school winner is Mr. Jacque Mosher; middle school winner is Mr. Jordan Thomas, and elementary winner is Mrs. Mary Beth Hudyncia. Mr. Jordan was nominated by OESJ student Adrianna Elwood, and Ms. Hudyncia was nominated by OESJ student Harvey Elwood. All three teachers competed at the VFW district 3 level, where Mrs. Huydincia won first place and went on to compete at the VFW NY Department level, qualifying her to move on to the national level. Congratulations everyone!