Students in Mr. Chad Eichstadt’s 7th grade and 9th grade English classes recently participated in the American Legion Auxiliary’s Americanism Essay contest. This year the essay title was “What does America the Beautiful mean to me (regarding veterans and our military)?” The students reflected on the theme and wrote their thoughts and personal experiences on this topic. Members of the sponsoring organization, American Legion Auxiliary Unit #547, Lublin, read the essays and judged them based on the scoring rubric. Awards of first, second and, third place at each grade level received cash prizes. All participants were recognized with sweet treats. First place winning essays have been sent on to the ALA Department (state) Americanism Chairman to compete with other winners from throughout Wisconsin.
The purpose of the ALA’s Americanism program is to inspire, recognize, and perpetuate responsible citizenship through education and acts of patriotism, as well as raise awareness and increase appreciation of the price paid for our fundamental freedoms. The Americanism Essay Contest is just one small piece of this program. ALA Unit #547 salutes Mr. Eichstadt and his students for their participation in this essay contest.
Grade 7 Winners: 1st place Nash Gruetzmacher; 2nd place Shea Stolfi; 3rd place Dulce Crisostomo-Herrera
Grade 9 Winners: 1st place Riah Renderman; 2nd place Lindsey Potocnik; 3rd place Sawyer Halida and Camden Anderson
America the Beautiful: What it means to me regarding the military and veterans
By Nash Gruetzmacher
America the Beautiful: A phrase that most Americans have become familiar with or have at least heard. It is a phrase that can be deciphered in many ways. To some, it is just a song. To others it is a calling that reminds people of who they are as an American citizen. Everyone has their own depiction of this phrase, and I am no different. I tend to think of everything that makes America special, and what made it that way. I think of what makes it The Land of the Free.
One thing is for certain, America stands out by being a place where citizens have free will. It is a country respected by many. But how did it come to be? I feel the true heroes of this country are underappreciated by the general population. They are not famous, they are not individually recognized, nor do they cross the minds of the average American often. I am talking about our veterans and military, both serving and non-serving. Our military personnel have made sacrifices for our country that are hard to fathom. They have abandoned their families with no guarantee of surviving, all for future generations and the freedom of the country. I personally gained a whole new level of respect for everyone who fought and died in the wars after I visited Washington D.C. Seeing all of the memorials made me really appreciate my freedom. After going through the holocaust museum, my perspective of World War II was changed. It made me realize how horrible Hitler really was. On the topic of World War II, I should mention my great-great uncle. He was a medic in World War II and was stationed in Iceland and France. My dad dug out a box of some of his old things, as well as some things he got during war. The most interesting in my opinion, being a pin that once belonged to a Nazi soldier. Seeing all of that yet again gave me a new appreciation for all U.S. soldiers. So, I feel that veterans deserve our utmost respect. They are the ones to thank for our freedom.
I am very thankful and proud to be an American. I feel the amount of freedom we have compared to other countries is unmatched. The fact that upon graduation, you can do whatever you want is amazing to me. You can also leave the country (with a passport) which some other countries do not allow. You really realize the freedom and how well-known it really is when you consider how many different races and people from all kinds of backgrounds there are in the U.S. Almost everyone's past relatives, or even themselves have moved here from somewhere else. The fact that people will leave everything behind including their families to live in the U.S. really shows how important it is to have a better life and your own choices.
Part of what makes the U.S so free is the style and amount of education. I feel that without the style of education the U.S. has, it would not be as free. Schooling is for the most part free to attend so all kids can get an education. Students are also taught a wide range of subjects. In other parts of the world, students may only be taught certain subjects based on the career they are pursuing. Since Americans learn a wide variety of subjects, they can go after any job upon graduation. I also feel that everyone getting equal education has helped society run smoother. Of course, most people know more than others about certain things, but everyone generally has equal knowledge in terms of what they were taught.
While “America the Beautiful” means something completely different to everyone, it remains a well-known term when addressing the U.S. I think of what makes the U.S. so special and the people that made it that way. Respect for America can be shown in many ways. Whether you take the time to thank a veteran or have a moment of silence to honor all who lost their lives fighting for our freedom. I greatly appreciate the country, and I couldn't be prouder to be an American.
What America the Beautiful means to me (regarding veterans and the military)
By Riah Renderman
America, known as land of the free, is a country full of beautiful creations and landscapes, amazing history, and a mix of many cultures. All these things make America beautiful, but the heart of our nation is found in the sacrifices made by our veterans. These brave people have fought to protect our freedoms, allowing us to enjoy everything our country has to offer without fear. Their courage and dedication not only keep us safe but also reminds us to appreciate the unique experiences that make America special. By honoring our veterans, we celebrate the strong spirit and unity that makes our nation what it is today.
Veterans are essential to our country because they show us what it means to be brave and to serve others. They help protect our freedoms and teach us valuable lessons about teamwork and strength. Their experiences can bring people together and remind us that we all have a role in keeping our country safe.
Veterans Day, which we celebrate on November 11, is a special time to remember those who have served in the military. It's a chance for us to think about the sacrifices they have made and to learn about the struggles some veterans face. Many veterans deal with challenges like injuries or mental health issues. These people have faced dangers and challenges that many of us couldn't even imagine, serving in different conflicts around the world. By honoring them on this special day, we show our thanks for their courage and hard work. It's time to think about the hardships they went through and to understand the support they need when they come home. Celebrating Veterans Day also brings our communities together, reminding us how important it is to appreciate those who have served. Through ceremonies, parades, and simple acts of kindness, we can show our respect and make sure that their sacrifices are never forgotten.
Today, veterans have made a big impact on our country in many ways. While serving they have helped protect us by allowing us to live in a place where we can express ourselves and chase our dreams. Through their bravery, they have defended our home from dangers, making sure that the future generations can feel safe and secure. Many veterans become leaders in their communities, using their skills and experiences to inspire others and help make America and our world a better place. They often work in public service or education to raise awareness about important issues and support other veterans. Their stories of strength and courage remind us how important it is to stay united and be thankful for the freedoms we have that most countries don't.
America is the way it is today because of its long history filled with struggles and successes, along with the values that shape its identity. The country was made up of ideas like freedom, equality, and the chance to be happy, which have helped it grow and change over time. From the early days of colonization to the fight for independence, the American spirit has shown resilience and determination. The different backgrounds of its people have created a beautiful culture, encouraging new ideas and creativity. It's important for us to know and appreciate this history because it reminds us of the sacrifices made by those who fought for our rights and freedoms. By learning from the past, we can work towards a better future, making sure we keep the values of liberty and justice alive for everyone. Showing our diversity and working together helps us strengthen the connection that unites us as a nation, making America a place where everyone can succeed.
America is an amazing and free country because it gives people the chance to express themselves and follow their dreams. This freedom helps us explore who we are, share our ideas, and make a difference in our communities, and that Veterans have created a place where everyone can succeed, encouraging new ideas and creativity. By embracing our differences and working together, we make our nation stronger, ensuring that America stays a place of hope and opportunity for many years to come, and that is why America is so beautiful.