Once again, the Qualicum Beach Legion Branch 76 looks forward to receiving entries for the Royal Canadian Legion’s annual Literary and Poster Contest.
During the poppy campaign, Canadian school children have an opportunity to express their understanding of the national Remembrance Day service, and the act of honouring our military heritage through art and literature.
The contest is initiated through School District 69 (Qualicum) schools, who receive a teaching aid package from the Legion each September to assist teachers in guiding children through the contest elements.
“Last year we had strong participations from all schools and we’re looking forward to this year’s entries,” said Walter Sweet, President of Qualicum Beach Legion Branch 76. “I encourage all students and teachers to participate in this very meaningful Legion Remembrance Contest. 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. Please take this opportunity to thank our many veterans for their contribution.”
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There are four age categories: Senior – Grades 10, 11 and 12; Intermediate – Grades 7, 8 and 9; Junior – Grades 4, 5 and 6; and Primary (poster contest only) – Grades 1, 2 and 3.
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 Qualicum Beach Legion youth chairman works with the schools to keep them advised of the entry deadline and judging dates.
Initial judging takes place at the branch in November. The winning entries progress to further judging at the zone, provincial and national levels. Qualicum Beach winners receive a monetary award and a certificate of participation.
The national winning entries, along with the names of the entrants, are published online at http://www.legion.ca/youth/contests
The winning entries for the four categories are displayed at the Canadian War Museum from July 1 to May 1 of the following year.
For the poster contest, the second-place winners, and any receiving an honourable mention, are also displayed in the foyer of the House of Commons during the annual Remembrance period in November.
As well, the Legion sponsors a trip to Ottawa for the senior national winners in the four contests to attend the national Remembrance Day service where they place a wreath on behalf of the youth of Canada. They also have an opportunity to meet and visit with the Governor General.
— NEWS Staff, submitted