The deadline for the VFW’s annual Patriot's Pen youth scholarship contest is fast approaching.

Entries for the Patriot’s Pen essay competition must be received by Janice Clarke, Attales secretary, no later than Thursday, Oct. 27. Essays must be accompanied by a completed entry form to be eligible to win.

This contest is hosted locally by the  Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Absecon Memorial Post 9462, 433 White Horse Pike, Absecon, NJ 08201, and is open to eligible sixth, seventh and eighth grade students.

National winners will receive at least $500, and the first-place national award is $5,000.

This year’s Patriot’s Pen theme asks students to reflect and expand on “My Pledge to Our Veterans.”

Dedicated to encouraging a better understanding and appreciation of America, the VFW’s Patriot’s Pen essay competition helps foster patriotism among today’s youth.

For complete rules and to download the entry form, click here.