Final week to enter VFW Auxiliary to Post #5981 National Anthem Singing Contest

VFW Auxiliary Gustave F. Kerndt #5981 has announced the VFW Auxiliary’s National Anthem Singing Contest, “Get Excited for the Red, White and Blue!” Local youth in Kindergarten through 12th grades can showcase their talent, display their patriotism and express their creativity while competing for their share of $2,000 in national awards.

Contestants must submit a recorded live unedited video of their solo vocal performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” The video must be recorded between July 1, 2023 and March 31, 2024. The student shall state name, age and grade level prior to the vocal performance. The student may sing acapella, with backing tracks or instruments, and in the arrangement and genre of their choice.

However, the student is not allowed to change the words and not allowed to lip sync. Entry will be judged on vocal ability, mastery of lyrics, originality or interpretation and entertainment value. The contest is designed to promote patriotism and encourage youth to learn the words to “The Star-Spangled Banner” while displaying their creativity and vocal talent.

Contestants begin by competing at the local VFW Auxiliary level. The first-place winner from each Auxiliary advances to the District competition, with District winners advancing to the State competition. The contest consists of two grade divisions, K-8 and 9-12, from students enrolled in a public, private, parochial school or home study program.

The State first-place winner in each grade division will be forwarded to Auxiliary National Headquarters. There is one National winner in each grade division, with awards for first, second and third place in each grade division. Winners will be notified via the email address provided on the winner’s entry form.

Contestant entries must be submitted to VFW Auxiliary Gustave F. Kerndt #5981 by this Sunday, March 31. Interested youth, parents/guardians, and teachers should email vfwauxiliarylansing@gmail.com for more information.