Americanism Essay Contest is currently open for the year 2020. The program is being designed by the FRA for the students in grades seven through twelve, also including those who are homeschooled to assist them in their further quality education.
The awards are established to promote the spirit of Americanism and patriotism among our country’s youth. The granted funds will act as a valuable supporter for the recipients to overcome their financial hurdles and achieve their educational goals.
FRA is a congressionally chartered, non-profit organization. It represents the interests of current and former enlisted members of the Sea Service community, including the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. It is also accredited with the Board of Correction for Naval Records, the Physical Evaluation Board, the Physical Review Council, the Defense Finance and Accounting Service, and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
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Who May Be Eligible?
To eligible for the program, the candidates must be reviewing the given criteria:
- All entrants shall be students in grades seven through twelve (or equivalent).
- Entrants must be sponsored by a branch of the Fleet Reserve Association or a unit of the Ladies Auxiliary, or by an FRA Member-at-Large.
- A student may submit only one entry each year.
- Entries sponsored by the membership at large members shall be submitted to the national chairman and forwarded to an appropriate branch for judging in their respective grade groups.
- Students who are homeschooled are also encouraged to apply.
How to Apply
Students who are eligible according to the above criteria can download a pdf application form to apply for the scholarship. The complete form is to be mailed to the committee office. Candidates can find the office address according to their closet branch.
Supporting Documents
- The essay must be on the theme designated and shall not exceed 350 words.
- The essay must be legibly written or typed on one side of the paper with the title written or typed at the top of the article.
- Entry must be accompanied by a separate sheet stating the entrant’s full name; address, zip code, contact number, school grade, name of the school, or the words “homeschooled;” number of words in the essay; and the sponsoring branch/unit or sponsor’s name.
Benefits
The Grand National winner will get to receive a $5,000 award and some additional prizes for the top three essays in each grade category like a $2,500 award for first place, a $1,500 award for second place, and a $1,000 award for third place. The national winner will be granted an attractive plaque citing their achievement, and every entrant judged at the national level receives a certificate of recognition.
Application Deadline
All complete applications must be postmarked no later than December 1.
