February 25, 2023

By Stephanie Leary

Jack Ray VFW Auxiliary 5789 is excited to announce the kick-off of the VFW Auxiliary’s national anthem singing contest, Get Excited for the Red, White and Blue! Local youth in grades K-12 can showcase their talent, display their patriotism and express their creativity while competing for their share of $2,000 in national awards.

Contestants must submit a video of their solo vocal performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Video must be uploaded to YouTube and submitted to the Auxiliary along with a completed entry form for judging. The video must be recorded between July 1, 2022 and March 31, 2023. Entry will be judged on vocal ability, mastery of lyrics, originality or interpretation and entertainment value.

Contestants begin by competing at the VFW Auxiliary level. The first-place winner from each Auxiliary advances to the Department (state) competition. The contest consists of two grade divisions: K-8 and 9-12. The Department (state) first-place winner in each grade division will be forwarded to Auxiliary National Headquarters. There are National winners in each grade division, with awards for first, second and third place. Winners will be notified via the email address provided on the winners’ entry form in July.

The contest is designed to promote patriotism and encourage youth to learn the words to “The Star-Spangled Banner” while displaying their creativity and vocal talent.

Contestant entries must be submitted to Jack Ray VFW Auxiliary 5789 by March 31, 2023. Interested youth, parents/guardians and teachers can contact Stephanie at vfwauxiliary5789@gmail.com for more information.

Visit http://www.vfwauxiliary.org/what-we-do/youth-activities for eligibility requirements, contest rules and an entry form.