The Qualicum Beach Legion is looking forward to receiving entries for its annual Literary and Poster Contest, a longstanding tradition tradition during the annual poppy campaign.
Elementary and high school students will have a chance to express their understanding of the National Remembrance Day Service, and the act of honouring Canada’s military heritage, through art and literature, according to a news release by Qualicum Beach Legion Branch 76.
The four age categories are senior (Grades 10, 11 and 12); intermediate (Grades 7, 8 and 9); junior (Grades 4, 5 and 6); and primary (Grades 1, 2 and 3), who participate in the poster contest only.
“This is an opportunity for young people to become aware of the sacrifice that so many made so that we are able to enjoy the freedoms we have in today’s society,” said Walter Sweet, president of Legion Branch 76, in the release. “Please take this opportunity to thank our many veterans for their contribution.”
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The poster contest is divided into two divisions — colour and black and white. The literary contest is divided into essay and poem divisions. Students may enter as many contests as they wish, but may submit only one entry for each category. The teaching guide is available online.
Winning entries will progress to further judging at the zone, provincial and national levels. Qualicum Beach winners will receive a monetary award and a certificate of participation, according to the release. Judging guidelines can be found online.
The winning entries for the four categories will be displayed at the Canadian War Museum from July 1 to May 1 of next year. The Legion also sponsors a trip to Ottawa for the senior national winners in the four contests to place a wreath on behalf of Canadian youth during the National Remembrance Day Service. They also have an opportunity to meet the Governor General.
Entries should be dropped off at Qualicum Beach Legion Branch 76 (180 Veterans Way) before Nov. 14.
— NEWS Staff, submitted