7220 E Wilshire Dr, Scottsdale, Arizona 85257, U.S.A. 480 941-9849
2025 VFW District 4 Patriots' Pen 1st place winner
MARA KYES
Mara Kyes is a seventh-grade student at Fountain Hills Middle School whose voice and vision are already making a difference. As the 1st-place winner of the Department of Arizona VFW District 4 Patriots’ Pen youth essay scholarship competition, she has distinguished herself as a thoughtful young writer with a deep love of her country. Her work reflects a maturity beyond her years, as she explores what it means to be patriotic in a complex and changing world.
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In her award-winning essay, Mara shared how she shows patriotism and support for our nation in her everyday life, blending personal responsibility, respect for others, and gratitude for the freedoms she enjoys. She writes with an optimism that recognizes our country’s challenges while still believing strongly in its promise and potential. That balance of hope and understanding shines through her words and offers a glimpse into how today’s youth see America and their role in shaping its future.
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Mara’s courage to express her beliefs and values is what truly sets her apart. By choosing to participate in the Patriots’ Pen competition and thoughtfully answering the essay question, she showed a willingness to stand up, be heard, and speak from the heart. The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7507 and District 4 are incredibly proud of her accomplishment and inspired by her example. Her voice reminds us that patriotism lives strongly in the next generation, and that with students like Mara leading the way, the future of our country is bright.
"How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?"
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People may not think a 13-year-old can have an impact on our country, but we are the future. Kids my age are involved in showing patriotism and support for our country in many ways. I am also actively involved in doing this in several ways. I show respect and appreciation for my country, I participate in academic involvement and stay informed on politics, and I am a good citizen and encourage others as well.
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There are several ways I show respect and appreciation for my country. I respect the American flag by saying the Pledge of Allegiance. I sing the national anthem at athletic competitions. Whenever I travel with my family, we always visit monuments or museums that represent our nation's history. Another way I show appreciation for my country is by participating in celebrations of our national holidays. These are some of the ways that I show respect and appreciation towards my country.
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I participate in school government and stay informed about current events and policies. I enjoy being involved with Civics Wednesday, where I learn about how the government works and the rights and responsibilities of citizens in our country. I follow current events regarding politics to stay informed about the issues affecting our country. I talk to friends and have conversations about the issues that are affecting our community and our families. These examples reflect the ways that I am involved and informed about current events.
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I strive to be a good citizen in several ways. I do this by showing kindness and respect to others. I also speak kindly and respectfully to my classmates and teachers. I follow rules. Even though I'm young, I know to follow the law and respect those who enforce the law. I act as a role model on how to distinguish right from wrong. I show respect for others who may hold different beliefs or points of view from me. The goal of our country's future is to be united and respectful, and not divisive because of our differences.
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These behaviors demonstrate the ways that I show patriotism and support for my country. It is important for me, as well as others my age, to show respect for my country and stay informed on politics. By being involved in these acts of patriotism at a young age, I believe that my generation will have a strong impact on the future.