AUBURN – District 9 Chairman Donald W. Linscott Jr. announced the winners of the 60th “Voice of Democracy Scholarship” for 2007-08 year’s patriotic theme: “My Role in Honoring America’s Veterans.”

These students are in grades 9 through 12.

First place was won by Steven W. Penney from Mt. Valley High School and sponsored by Post #1641, Rumford.

Second place winner was Donald J. Linscott, home schooled and sponsored by Post #1603, Auburn.

Third place winner was Ian C. Wilcox, from Livermore Falls High School and sponsored by Post #3335, Jay.

The winners of the Patriot’s Pen essay contest, “Why I am an American Patriot,” for 6th through 8th graders were:

First place was won by Amanda W. Bennett, from Lewiston Middle School, sponsored by Post #9150, Lewiston.

Second place was won by Jill R. Jacobs from Oxford Hills Middle School and sponsored by Post #9787, South Paris.

Third place was won by Julian R. Pierce from Oxford Hills Middle School and sponsored by Post #9787, South Paris.

These students will be honored and presented their award on Sunday, Jan. 27 at 3:30 p.m. at the Captain Frank W. Hulett Post #1603, 588 Minot Ave.

The first place winners in both categories have been forwarded to the Maine VFW for the state competition, and will compete against the other 10 district winners. Winners will be announced at the annual VOD & Patriot Pen banquet.