Those in attendance at the Smithtown Veterans Day Ceremony got to hear Joshua Torres, a Hauppague High School student, read his winning essay “My responsibility to America”. Joshua, born in Mexico lives in Hauppauge with his family. Acording to Post Service Officer Tom Mooney, Joshua’s essay received the highest score receiving an overall grade of 389 out of a possible 400.Joshua’s essay will advance in National competition to VFW County level judging. Angela Musco and Rachel Black, also from Hauppague HS, won second and third place respectively.
Cash awards and Certificates will be awarded to the three winners and to other finalists from all participating schools at a post ceremony to be scheduled.
Tom Mooney, who administers the program, said that the participation and support from the schools is great. The competition is open to students in the Smithtown and Hauppauge School Districts. The Voice of Democracy is a VFW program dedicated to promoting patriotism and investing in future generations.