Four nervous Union elementary school students, who were called to the principal’s office, were shocked to learn that they were the  prize winners in the 2025/26 Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Auxiliary's National Art Contest- "Illustrating America”. An even bigger surprise was learning they shared nearly $300 in prize money. Twenty nine students from two local elementary schools participated in the contest. On April 16, 2026 VFW Auxiliary President Cathy Milstead and VFW Patriotic Art Coordinator Julia Larsen presented checks and certificates to the excited winners. Congratulations to the winners. 1st place  (K-2nd): Fiona Graham- 2nd Grade, 1st place (3rd-5th): Amari Gore - 5th grade, 2nd place (3rd-5th): Mason White - 5th grade,  3гd place (3rd-5th): Colton Brooks - 5th grade. Their original award winning artwork has been submitted to the next round of judging at the district level, and could advance through the state level to the national competition.

The VFW Auxiliary's National Patriotic Art Contest is held annually and invites budding young artists from our community to display their artistic talents in a patriotic way to compete for recognition and prizes. The purpose of the contest is to introduce, encourage and recognize young artists with patriotism through art. Entries are judged on patriotic themes and technique.

The contest is open to all art students in grades K-8, attending public, private, or parochial schools and home study programs. While the support of art teachers is welcomed, it is not required and any student wishing to participate may do so independently by contacting the VFW Auxiliary in Calabash. Coordinator Julia Larsen told Union elementary school principal, Mr Jennings, that the 2026/27 contest will be announced toward the end of 2026. She is looking forward to the schools continued participation to which Principal Jennings enthusiastically agreed.