At its mid-winter convention, the Washington State Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) recognized an Edmonds-Woodway High School senior for her entry in the VFW Voice of Democracy Audio Essay contest. Katerina Nguyen’s essay was awarded fifth place honors.

The audio essay contest is open to all high school students, and Katerina’s essay addressed this year’s theme, “Is There Pride in Serving in Our Military?” The convention was held in Yakima Jan. 21, and at the awards banquet that night Katerina was recognized for her essay. In addition to a plaque, she also received a scholarship.   

To prepare for this year’s contest and understand the motivations and feelings of veterans regarding their combat experiences, Katerina interviewed members of the Edmonds VFW Post #8870. She successfully incorporated their highly personal and emotional reactions to what they had experienced into her essay. This was the fourth consecutive year that Katerina has won this essay contest at the Post level and the second time that her entries have won honors at the District level, which qualifies for Washington State consideration.

During her high school career, Katerina has maintained a 4.0 GPA while pursuing a rigorous academic program. She has participated in varsity level athletics and played an active role in several student clubs. She hopes to attend the University of Washington next fall.

— Submitted by Fred M. Apgar