🇺🇸 VFW Honors Local Students for Patriotism! 🎉

Members of the Avoyelles Parish Veterans of Foreign Wars recently recognized several local students during a special awards presentation for the 2025–2026 VFW Patriot’s Pen and Americanism contests.

Presenting the awards were Michael Vead Sr., Vice Commander; Dale Lonidier, Commander for Marksville; and Rodney Barnett, District Commander. The VFW leaders commended the students for their patriotism, creativity and commitment to honoring the United States.

This year’s patriotic theme, “How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?” encouraged students to reflect on ways they demonstrate appreciation for America and its veterans. Conducted nationwide, the VFW-sponsored youth essay competition provides students an opportunity to express their views on an annual patriotic theme.

Americanism Contest Winners

• Category 1: Winner Charlotte Lemoine of St. Mary’s School in Cottonport (Teacher: Tammy Mayeux) - Recognized for her coloring of the American flag.
• Category 2: Winner Cecilia Musso of St. Joseph’s School in Plaucheville (Teacher: Kristen Rodriguez) - Honored for her drawing of the flag.
• Category 3: Winner Rose Blankenship of St. Anthony’s School in Bunkie (Teacher: Lori Scallan) - Recognized for her drawing of a historical event (not pictured).
• Category 4: Winner Liam Daigrepont of St. Mary’s School (Teacher: Adriene Robeau) - Honored for his essay titled “How I Honor Veterans.”

Patriot’s Pen Competition Winners

• First Place: Landon Valois, a seventh grade student at St. Mary’s School (Teacher: Mrs. St. Romain) - Also named the Louisiana State District 12 winner.
• Second Place: Ryleigh A. Maddie, a seventh grade student at St. Joseph’s School.
• Third Place: Abbey Guillot, an eighth grade student at St. Joseph’s School (Teacher: Loretta Seaberry).

VFW leaders expressed pride in all of the participants and praised the students for demonstrating respect for the American flag, appreciation for veterans and a strong sense of American values.