VFW Post 4190 is proud to announce the start of its 2026-2027 Youth & Education Programs, offering students, Scouts, educators, first responders, public safety professionals, and community leaders opportunities for recognition, scholarships, and awards that promote patriotism, citizenship, leadership, and service.
Each year, the Veterans of Foreign Wars invests in the next generation of American leaders through nationally recognized programs that encourage participants to reflect on the values that make our nation strong. Through scholarship competitions and recognition programs, VFW Post 4190 seeks to honor those who demonstrate excellence in education, leadership, community service, and civic engagement.
Voice of Democracy & Patriot's Pen
2026-2027 Theme "What a Veteran Taught Me About America"
Students are invited to participate in the VFW's premier youth scholarship programs. This year's theme, "What a Veteran Taught Me About America," challenges students to reflect on the lessons, values, and experiences shared by our nation's veterans.
The Voice of Democracy audio-essay scholarship program is open to students in grades 9-12 and offers the opportunity to compete for scholarships at the Post, District, State, and National levels, including a national first-place scholarship of $35,000. For additional information visit VFW Post 4190 Voice of Democracy.
The Patriot's Pen essay competition is open to students in grades 6-8 and provides opportunities to earn awards and scholarships at every level of competition, including a national first-place award of $5,000.
Teacher of the Year
VFW Post 4190 is also accepting nominations for the Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Award Program. This program recognizes exceptional educators who promote civic responsibility, patriotism, American history, and citizenship in their classrooms.
Teachers in grades K-5, 6-8, and 9-12 may be nominated by students, parents, fellow educators, administrators, veterans, or community members. Outstanding teachers advance through competition at the Post, District, Department of Alabama, and National levels.
Scout of the Year
The VFW Scout of the Year Program recognizes outstanding Scouts who demonstrate leadership, citizenship, patriotism, and community service. Eligible members of Scouts BSA, Venturing Crews, Sea Scouts, and Girl Scouts USA are encouraged to apply.
Participants compete for scholarship awards and recognition beginning at the Post level and advancing through District, Department of Alabama, and National competition. National Scout of the Year scholarships include awards of $5,000, $3,000, and $1,000 for the top three winners.
Public Servant Awards & Recognition
VFW Post 4190 is also accepting nominations for the Veterans of Foreign Wars Public Servant Awards Program, which recognizes outstanding individuals who go above and beyond in service to their communities.
Awards are presented to deserving professionals in the following categories:
- Law Enforcement Officer
- Firefighter
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
- 911 Dispatcher
- Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technician
Nominees should demonstrate exceptional professionalism, leadership, dedication to duty, and service to the citizens they protect. Public Servant Award recipients may be recognized at the Post, District, Department of Alabama, and National levels.
Community members, supervisors, fellow public servants, and local agencies are encouraged to nominate deserving individuals whose commitment and sacrifice reflect the highest ideals of public service.
Public Servant nominations must be received by December 15, 2026. For additional information visit VFW Post 4190 Public Servant Awards website.
For additional questions please email Post.4190.vfw@gmail.com ATTN: Jr. Vice Commander or you can call You can call the post to leave a message at (256) 351-8929.
