By Joyce Jackson — Congratulations to the winners! A congratulatory luncheon was held Saturday, March 1, 2025 for the winners of the Sierra – Tahoe No. 137, Fleet Reserve Association (FRA) Essay Contest in Carson City.
First place for each grade level received $100 each, second place winners received $75 and third place winners were awarded $50 each.
Several local area schools were contacted in mid-September 2024 and given the opportunity to have their 7-12th grade students, including those home schooled to participate in the 350-word essay contest themed “What Service Means To Me.”
The goal of this activity is primarily to promote the spirit of Americanism and Patriotism among our country’s youth. Students that placed 1st in each region will then have the opportunity to compete on a national level. The grand prize for the 1st place winner nationally is $1,500.
A total of 69 students participated this year. The essays for each grade level were judged by a panel of FRA Branch and Auxiliary members. The winners were determined by a proven scoring system that considers the depth of the content, individuality, grammatic structure, legibility and overall presentation. The parents and teachers that attended the luncheon were also congratulated for encouraging and teaching these young people the value of leadership, self-confidence and community.
Jim Jackson, Sierra-Tahoe No. 137 Branch President stated, “It is encouraging to know that there are so many youth in our community that are dedicated to a better future for America.”
John Fox, FRA member and Chairman of the Americanism Committee stated, “I was pleased that we had the continued support and participation from a few schools but would hope next year more Middle Schools & High Schools will offer this opportunity to their students.”
Jan Solberg, Sierra-Tahoe No. 137 Auxiliary President stated that, “ it is great to see such wonderful thoughts coming from the minds of the future of America. I just want to say thank you to all of the winners and to all that participated.”
