
As yesterday’s defenders of freedom, we proudly welcome today’s military service members and veterans to join our ranks and become part of our proud tradition of service. Our shared bond is forged through service and sacrifice—whether on the battlefields of Korea, the Persian Gulf, Kosovo, the Global War on Terrorism, or peacekeeping missions around the world.
The courage and dedication of those who served have helped preserve the freedoms we enjoy today. At VFW Post 5456, we honor that legacy by continuing to serve our fellow veterans, our military families, and the Elbert County community.
We invite you to join us in fellowship, service, and remembrance. Welcome to VFW Post 5456, proudly serving Elbert County, Georgia.
Our programs support our service members while they are on the front line, as they are being discharged and long after they return. Your donation will be immediately directed to the VFW programs where your support is most urgently needed.
Commander Stephen L. Brown LTC(R)
I am proud to announce the winners of our 2025–2026 Voice of Democracy, Patriot’s Pen, and Teacher of the Year awards. These programs highlight the incredible talent, dedication, and patriotism found within our local schools.
The theme this year:
"How Are you Showing Patriotism And Support For Our Country"
Voice of Democracy (Grades 9–12)
Daniella Govea-Alcalde, a 12th grader at ECSHS, was our Post 5456 winner and went on to place 2nd in the VFW District 2 competition.
Gracie Kidd, a 12th grader at ECCHS, earned 2nd place at the Post level.
Myla Hood, an 8th grader at ECMS, received 1st place at Post 5456 for her outstanding essay and also placed 2nd in District 2.
We are proud to recognize the following educators for their commitment to teaching and inspiring patriotism in the next generation:
K–5: Amy Barden, 4th Grade Teacher
6–8: Jamie Keblish, 8th Grade Teacher
9–12: Daniel Ulrich, who also earned the honor of District 2 Teacher of the Year
Please join us in congratulating these exceptional students and teachers. Their dedication to education, citizenship, and patriotism reflects the very best of Elbert County.
We are proud to support our youth and educators and look forward to continuing our work in service to our Veterans and our community.
Auxiliary Youth Art Contest & ScholarshipsEntries Due March 31, 2026Questions?email: vfwaux5456@gmail.comCall/Text 762-251-9260To download an application, visithttps://vfwauxiliary.org/scholarships/young-american-creative-patriotic-art-contest/https://vfwauxiliary.org/what-we-do/youth-activities/
Young American Creative Patriotic Art ContestStudents in grades 9-12 have the opportunity to compete for $15,000 in nationalscholarships. This scholarship contest recognizes young artists and encouragespatriotism in youth. Entries will be judged on the originality of concept, presentation andpatriotism expressed, content of how it relates to patriotism and clarity of ideas, designtechnique and total impact of work.
3-Dimensional Patriotic Art Scholarship ContestStudents in grades 9-12 have the opportunity to compete for $5,500 in nationalscholarships. The VFW Auxiliary started the 3-Dimensional American Creative PatrioticArt Contest to recognize up-and-coming artists and encourage patriotism in youth.Students must submit an original -dimensional piece of artwork. Digital art, jewelry andweapons are not accepted.
Illustrating America Art ContestLocal students in grades K-8 can share how they view our world through their drawingsand paintings while competing for national awards. The contest rewards the artisticabilities of elementary and middle/junior high school students. Students must submit anoriginal two-dimensional piece of artwork.