Alexander Mack 

First place

Fox News Channel, CNN, ABC, and BBC News all have one thing in common, they’re news channels that keep people informed about what’s happening in the world. By watching or reading the news, I’m participating in our democracy. I don’t rely on just one source; instead, I watch, listen to, and read from multiple different news outlets. I enjoy talking with others about what I’ve learned and hearing what they’ve learned, whether their views lean left or right. Staying consistently informed about what’s happening in our country is one of the ways I show my love and respect for this nation.

For me, showing democracy and patriotism isn’t just about waving a flag or singing the national anthem, it’s about caring enough to understand what’s goin on in our country and wanting to make it better. When I read or watch the news, I’m learning about the challenges America faces, from political debates to economic struggles and social issues. Staying informed gives me a voice. It helps me think critically about what I believe in and how I can be part of the solution, not just a bystander.

Another way I show support for my country is by having respectful conversations with others, even when we don’t agree. In today’s world, it’s easy for people to get angry or shut others out over political differences. I believe real patriotism means listening to others, understanding their perspectives, and finding common ground. When I walk with friends or family about current events, I focus on facts and fairness, not only trying to “win” and argument. That kind of open-mindedness keeps our democracy and patriotism alive.

I also show patriotism through everyday actions. Coming from a military family with 20 years plus of service, I stand for the Pledge of Allegiance, thank veterans for their service, and participate in student elections by voting and speaking my voice because I know that’s how democracy begins, by being involved, even in small ways. I volunteer in my community when I can, because serving others reflects the values our country was built on: unity, hard work, and compassion. Supporting my community means supporting my country.

Patriotism isn’t about pretending our nation is perfect, it’s about loving it enough to want to improve and stay informed about it. I show my love for America by being informed, respectful and engaged. Every time I read an article, listen to a news report, or discuss the issues that affect us all, I’m contributing to a stronger, more united country. I believe that the more informed we are, the better we can work together to protect the freedoms and values that make the United States truly great.

Shauna Geiser 

Second place

Showing patriotism and support for our country is a choice we all have. Choosing to support our country unites us together no matter your race, culture, or beliefs. I can continue to show my patriotism and support by educating myself and others about our country’s history and values, supporting national symbols like the flag and the anthem, and engaging in civic activities.

Being informed about our country can encourage me to teach others. If I know what the people before me have endured so I can have freedom, I can be an advocate for them. My country is a democratic society with the right to vote. Knowing everything I can about my country’s needs and values can help me choose the right vote. If I know my rights, I can tell others about them, and help them make an educated decision on important issues by casting their vote.

Seeing an American flag reminds me of those who have fallen before me. Respecting any American symbol shows respect to the past and present veterans who fought for me. Showing my admiration for all flags and standing when necessary is one way that I can show my support for my country. The national anthem is another symbol that reminds me of the brave men and women that have fought for our country. Every event I attend where the national anthem is played, I ensure those around me are showing respect as well by standing, removing their hats, facing the flag, and putting their hand over their heart. Many before us have fought for us so the least we can do is respect all symbols symbolizing their bravery and determination.

Another way to show support for my country is by participating in civic activities. One way that I have demonstrated this is by creating a Quilt of Valor. A Quilt of Valor is a quilt given to a veteran who was touched by war. This is a small token of my appreciation to the veterans for their service to our country.

There are many ways to show patriotism and support for our country. I will continue to show my individual patriotism by educating myself and others about our country, respecting the flag and the national anthem, and by engaging in civic activities. Patriotism is supporting your country at all times and in America it’s an easy thing to do.

Gemma Greenwaldt 

Third place

The definition of patriotism is, the love, support, and devotion to one’s country, which includes pride and loyalty to its people and ideals. I show patriotism in lots of different ways, every single day. Today I will just tell you three different ways I show patriotism in my everyday life. Before I even do that though, I think it is important for you to think about a few questions. What does patriotism mean to you in this politically divided nation? Does it mean ruling with an iron fist, or extending a helping hand to other citizens? Does it mean the right to protest, or peacefully keeping your thoughts to yourself? Take a few minutes and let that sink in. Now that you have thought about those questions I think you can start to appreciate my viewpoint of patriotism. I will always choose the helping hand, seeing the good in people, and showing my patriotism. Small acts of patriotism daily, eventually creates a big impact on our people and our country. Patriotism to me means showing respect to people who protect this country, and what this country stands for.

One of the simple ways I show patriotism everyday is by showing respect to our flag. I always take off my hat, and place a hand on my heart during the national anthem. This shows respect to our country. I believe this is a simple and important way to show patriotism because the flag represents that through all the struggles our country has faced, and still faces today, it still flies today and represents our independence. Not only is this independence special from all the struggles, but also about the perseverance of everyone pulling together to protect one another, and our country.

Another way I show patriotism is by celebrating not only this country’s achievements, but also the people who help make those achievements a possibility. I do this by simply celebrating holidays like Independence Day and Veterans Day. I believe it is important to help celebrate these holidays because it represents more than just a fun time. It helps all the people around the world know at the end of the day we stand together. It also lets all the Veterans, and people currently serving or have served in the Army, Navy, Air Force, National Guard, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, know we appreciate them. In my eyes it is a great way to show patriotism.

This last one I am about to tell you is my favorite, but also the simplest. Using my freedoms daily and appreciating them. This sentence sums it all up—Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. I believe the most patriotic thing you can do is to simply use your freedoms. Our freedoms are one of the most important things that make our country the best country of them all. Our freedoms make our country worth fight for, so to me it would be a waste not to use what everyone has fought for, and what our service men and women continue to fight for so we have these freedoms. If no one used their freedoms what would be the point of our country?

In conclusion I hoped you learned that showing your patriotism doesn’t have to be big. It just has to come from your heart, and your appreciation to all the military personnel, thank you. This is how I show my patriotism to my country. I hope you learn how to show yours.