Fred Needham VFW Post 2669 announced that Aaron Thomas, of South Kitsap, is its “Voice of Democracy” winner.

Thomas, a senior at Peninsula High School, will compete at the district level on Jan. 7 in Yakima. The state finals are Jan. 13 and 14 at VFW Post 239 in Bremerton.

This year’s Voice of Democracy theme asked students to explain, “Why I’m Optimistic About Our Nation’s Future.”

VFW’s Voice of Democracy essay competitions is dedicated to promoting patriotism among our nation’s youth. Students are asked to submit an essay in response to a question or statement on a subject which prompts them to consider how democratic ideals and principals apply to their lives.

The Voice of Democracy scholarship competition is an audio-essay competition open to students in grades 9-12. The national winner will receive the $30,000, T.C. Selman Memorial Scholarship Award.