Sisters Middle School student wins Patriot’s Pen award

Sisters VFW Post 8138 presented the annual Patriot’s Pen essay contest award on Friday, November 5, 2021, to Jonathan M. Burks (aka Max). Jonathan received an achievement letter, a Patriot’s Pen medal, a check for $400, and two flag pins for his parents.

Jonathan’s essay on “How Can I Be A Good American” follows:

“My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country,” encouraged President Kennedy.

Living the American dream means no matter where you come from, no matter who you are, you decide what you want to do, and who you want to be.

It takes hard work, dedication, ingenuity, and hope.

America was bravely founded by immigrants who wanted liberty, equality, and the right to practice religion.

These immigrants were exceptional people; and we can still be so today.

Many people, who want to help our country, serve and assist us through the military and public protection.

Another way we can help is through donation.

Thousands of us have donated to shelters and helped others who were struggling to get back on their feet.

A good American protects the people they love.

Civil service, which is one of the most critical jobs, keeps this country safe.

They keep us from fires, rehabilitate us through infirmaries, and keep lawbreakers behind bars.

One of the key goals in the military is to protect our nation.

This conglomerate of synchronously moving individuals are standing by in case of an emergency or threat to the general public.

They improve our prosperity by stopping those who seek to do us harm.

These soldiers are fearless, since thousands of men and women have laid down their lives to keep us safe.

They keep order and what helps most people fall asleep at night, knowing that others are there to protect them.

With their constant avail, they destroy the chaos that would reek as far as the eye can see.

Jonathan is a 13-year-old student at Sisters Middle School.