Members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and the VFW Auxiliary Post 4278 gathered in Washougal to celebrate local youth who excelled in the organization’s Illustrating America art contest. The ceremony highlighted the importance of patriotism, creativity, and community support for the next generation.
Student award winners
Adelaide Kessinger, a ninth‑grader at Washougal High School, earned first place at the post level for her 2024 drawing titled “A Soldier’s Memory.” Her 2025 painting, “Heart of America,” secured second place, demonstrating consistent artistic talent and a deep appreciation for the nation’s values.
Nora Scott, a tenth‑grader at Washougal High, received second‑place recognition for her 2024 painting, also at the post level. Both students were presented with cash prizes provided by the local Auxiliary, reinforcing the VFW’s commitment to rewarding young talent.
VFW’s mission and community impact
VFW Auxiliary member Susan Bennett explained, “Each year, both the VFW Post 4278 and VFW Post 4278 Camas‑Washougal Auxiliary sponsor art and essay contests with the goal of inspiring patriotism in students.” The awards ceremony took place at Jemtegaard Middle School, where Adelaide Kessinger visited art teacher Dani Allen to receive her honors. Although Adelaide created the artwork while enrolled in Jemtegaard’s art classes, she completed the pieces as independent projects, showcasing personal initiative.
Reflecting on her work, Adelaide said, “Art isn’t about how it looks, it is about how it makes you feel … and this is how I feel about America.” Bennett added, “I feel that it is very important for the students to be recognized by not only their peers, but also the district and the Post. Art is a great extension of the child, it shows their creativity, and our Post is so excited to recognize the talent and the great effort they put into creating the art for the contest.”
Future opportunities for Washougal youth
Washougal students are encouraged to continue participating in VFW‑sponsored programs. Essays for the VFW Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen contests are due by October 31, while art submissions for the Illustrating America competition can be entered through December 15, 2026. Additional contests, including the 2026‑2027 Young American Creative Patriotic Contest and the 3‑Dimensional Patriotic Art Contest for grades 9‑12, have a deadline of March 31, 2027.
These initiatives, supported by the Washougal School District, aim to foster a sense of national pride, artistic expression, and community involvement among students. By recognizing and rewarding young artists, the VFW Auxiliary helps build a foundation of patriotic values that align with the traditions of family, faith, and liberty cherished by the community.
Original reporting: Clark County Today (Vancouver WA) — read the source article.
