Q. How many states are represented in the 2009 essay project?

A. There are currently 10 states and the District of Columbia with teens submitting essays to honor their veterans: Alabama, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Michigan, Minnesota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and Washington, DC.

Q. Why should I enter an essay or creative writing contest?

A. Entering writing contests give young writers a forum for their work while building a body of prose which can be used to show where they have had stories, poems, and essays published and have won awards.  Most colleges look at more than just a student's grades and SAT scores; they also examine any extracurricular activities, scholarships, and achievements a student has attained when evaluating them for admission.

A. Published examples of your writing and awards can also be used in press releases to market your work.

Q. Can I earn extra credit or a grade for participating in a creative writing project?

A. Most teachers are more than happy to give extra credit or a grade for such endeavors.  Several schools that are participating in the American Veteran, the Power of One project are giving the students that submit a story a grade or extra credit.  We suggest you ask your teacher about it and show this web site to familiarize them with the project.

 Q. If I submit an essay can I receive points which will help me earn a patch or award in Scouting?

A. According to some Scout Directors we have corresponded with, an essay for this project which has a community emphasis can count toward points earned for a patch or award. 

Q. What if I do not have a veteran to write a story about?

A. We suggest you contact us and we will match you with a veteran or active member of the U. S. Military.  There are many veterans and soldiers who do not have any one to write about their stories.   

Q. Your project states: "student's are in need of gaining a better understanding for the success of  America"; how can writing a veteran's story have an impact on the success of America?

A. At the end of WWII with victory by the Allied forces, then continuing amid the onset of the Korean War, through the War in Vietnam, and in the course of the Gulf Wars America has faced many challenges.  Yet, we have remained a strong, free and prosperous nation.  The following quote by veteran Frank Hayes., President of the Air Force Association's Iron Gate Chapter in New York gives the best answer how our veterans have had an impact on the success of America and why their individual stories need to be told.  "These are only the tips of the icebergs, of which my commanders and older friends were directly involved with. Working in their shadows was awesome and challenging. Even then, it was amazing how much was going on right in our midst. Much comes to surface in research that makes us appreciate the wisdom and courage of our leaders during our Nation's time of need. They never let us down, now is our chance to honor them with action, educating others about our great traditions."

Q. Who are the judges for this project?

A. We plan to consult with one teacher and two military veterans.  The teacher's certifications include Literature.  The veterans include a retired Lt. Colonel from the U. S. Marine Corps and a former Sgt. from the  U. S. Air Force.

Q. What expenses does the scholarship award cover?

A. The scholarship pays for the summer camp fee to one session at flight camp to the Museum of Aviation in Warner Robins, GA and hotel lodging if the winner stays with the sponsors in their assigned hotel suite.  It does not cover the cost of the winner's travel to or from the Museum of Aviation or the cost of meals for the winner.  If the winner chooses to stay in a separate lodging with an attending parent or guardian this cost is not included in the scholarship award.  The American Veteran Project does give the scholarship winner the option of a cash prize in lieu of attendance to flight camp.