American Legion Auxiliary Unit #547 Lublin offered Owen-Withee students the opportunity to participate in the annual Americanism Essay Contest. The seventh graders in Mr. Eichstadt’s English class took on the challenge. The title for this year’s writing contest: “Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday and the Veterans who Fought for Our Freedom” allowed the students to discover more about the fundamental rights and freedoms we enjoy today. It also gave them better insights into what our Veterans have done for us in the past and for what they are still doing for us today. Only one local winning essay may be sent on for Department (state) competition. Several students wrote wonderful essays, and were recognized with patriotic items. The winner, Kasil Mueller, son of Heather and Justin Mueller received a cash prize. Enjoy reading his winning essay. All the seventh graders enjoyed patriotic cupcakes to celebrate their accomplishments…and to celebrate the 250th birthday of our country.

“Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday and the Veterans who Fought for our Freedoms”
Kasil Mueller
Patriotic decorations, parades, flags, fireworks, and birthday cakes will be seen during 2026 as we Americans celebrate 250 years since the birth of our nation. Major cities and small towns will hold special events. Families will vacation to view national monuments, historical exhibitions, mountains, lakes, and the many riches of this “land of the free, home of the brave.” The celebration will be grand.
While honoring our country, we must reflect on the veterans who fought to build and preserve it. We salute 250 years of these heroes! A veteran is anyone who served honorably in any of the six military branches. The Army, Navy, and Marine Corps were all founded in 1775, so they have been serving our country since the Revolutionary War. In the Civil War soldiers fought to keep the union together. During World War I, the Coast Guard was formed to help defend the peace. Following World War II, the Air Force was established for air missions to keep America strong. Year 2019 saw the beginning of the Space Force taking the protection of our nation to a new level. Veterans of all six branches have served and continue to secure our national defense and basic freedoms.
Being an American today means being free, thankful, and proud because of what veterans have given us. It also means to stand up for what is right and to help others. In other words, along with our freedom comes responsibility. As students we must study, learn, work hard, and grow into productive adults of this great nation. We look to veterans living in our small hometowns. They grew up going to our schools, walking our streets, and helping our neighbors.
When I think about our local veterans, I see people who show courage, kindness, and love for others. In particular I think about my neighbor, Denny, a Navy veteran who served during the Vietnam War. Denny was always there to help anyone in need. He participated in the color guard at our local sports games, mentored Badger Boys, and was even part of the local EMS and fire department for over 30 years. He modeled to me that helping others matters. As a student in a small community, I can carry on Denny’s legacy by helping a neighbor, thanking a veteran for their service, and just taking care of my small town. Being part of a community and part of a country both mean doing my part to make a difference.
As we celebrate 250 years of the United States of America, let’s remember that because of all the brave men and women who served our country, we have our freedoms. My message to veterans is simple: Thank You. Thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and your love for America. I will pass it forward. Let’s all enjoy the birthday celebration with parades, fireworks, and a big piece of cake!