Americanism - This program is all about promoting patriotism. Members foster love of America by teaching young people and new citizens about our heritage. Each year, Auxiliary members present flags to schools and civic clubs, hold essay contests in schools, participate in parades and other displays on holidays, hold POW/MIA awareness ceremonies, get out the vote programs, patriotic parades, citizenship classes, etc.
The VFW Teacher of the Year award contest recognizes three exceptional teachers for their outstanding commitment to teaching Americanism and patriotism to their students. Each year, a classroom elementary, junior high and high school teacher whose curriculum focuses on citizenship education topics — for at least half of the school day in a classroom environment — can be nominated for the Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Award. Winners receive:
