Press Release: 12-15-2011

A patriotic essay by Abbott Middle School sixth grader Monica Morales has earned her first place in the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1293’s Patriot's Pen contest.

Monica’s bested students throughout VFW Post 1293’s area, which includes Waukegan, Gurnee, Round Lake and North Chicago. The contest asked students to write a 300-word essay answering the question: “Are you Proud of Your Country?” Monica’s writing detailed her travels to other countries, and why she feels lucky to live in the United States.

"She had excellent perspective about visiting other countries. A couple of Vietnam vets read the essay, and they got really inspired by it. It was a hands down winner, for sure," said Matthew Burleson, of the VFW Post 1293.

As the Post’s winner, Monica received a cash prize and an invitation to the VFW District 5 recognition dinner next month. If her essay is chosen as the top essay in the District she will have the opportunity to advance her essay to the State-wide Patriot’s Pen contest.

Email Contact: nalajakis@wps60.org

Monica poses with Mr. Matthew Burleson, of the VFW Post 1293, sixth grade communications teacher Mr. Michael May and Abbott Principal Mr. Tim Bryner.