Tygart Valley VFW Post 3647 is proud to announce that Elkins High School senior Andrew Tesar has advanced to the West Virginia VFW District 4 level of the national Voice of Democracy (VOD) competition.

The Voice of Democracy program, sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, is a long standing national audio essay contest designed to promote patriotism and civic engagement among students in grades 9-12. Participants write and record a three to five minute essay on an annual patriotic theme, with entries judged on originality, content, and delivery. Winners at the local, district, state, and national levels receive scholarships and awards, with top national finalists earning significant educational support.

Tesar submitted his entry to Tygart Valley Post 3647 before the October 31 deadline. A dedicated student and athlete, he is a member of the National Honor Society and has played on the Elkins High School varsity boys soccer team for four years. He has also competed with FC Alliance in Bridgeport and contributed to the community through volunteer work with Seneca Soccer clinics, officiating youth soccer, and serving as a lifeguard at the Elkins YMCA.

After graduation, Andrew plans to attend Ohio University in Athens, Ohio, where he will major in Biological Sciences with the goal of becoming a dentist. He hopes to use his education to serve others and make a positive impact in his community.

Tygart Valley VFW Post 3647 congratulates Andrew on his achievement and wishes him success as he competes at the District level. Community members seeking more information about the Voice of Democracy program may contact the local post.