LIVERMORE FALLS – Ian Wilcox of Livermore Falls placed third for his grade level in the national Fleet Reserve Association Americanism Essay Contest.

Wilcox had to first win at the branch level. The award was presented by Benjamin H. Clardy, Americanism chairman and past president of the Fleet Reserve Association Branch 156.

Wilcox then won at the New England level to be eligible for the national 10th grade level. He placed third at that level out of nine individuals.

The New England regional president awarded Wilcox the regional and national plaques, regional and national certificates plus two $1,000 U.S. Savings Bonds on June 3.

Each year the association sponsors the National Americanism Essay Contest, with a different subject each year. The contest is open to all seventh to 12th grades. Next year the subject will be “What the United States Flag Stands for.” For more information on the contest, go www.far.org/essay.