For seventh grader Maren Beltramini, patriotism isn’t only discussed in history class or observed on holidays. It’s something she thinks about and practices in different ways every day.
That perspective recently made Maren the District 10 winner of the VFW’s Patriots’ Pen essay contest. Her essay will represent District 10 at the state competition, placing her among Massachusetts’ most accomplished young writers. District 10 covers posts in Amesbury, Beverly, Boston, Danvers, Georgetown, Gloucester, Haverhill, Ipswich, Marblehead, Methuen, North Andover, Peabody, Revere, Salem, Saugus, and Swampscott.
The annual contest invites students in Grades 6 through 8 to reflect on a patriotic theme through a 300- to 400-word essay. This year’s prompt, “How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?” challenged students to connect civic pride with their lived experiences.
Maren was one of nine students from Manchester Essex who chose to enter the contest. In her essay, she explored how patriotism can be expressed through gratitude, reflection, and service, ideas shaped partially by her family’s history.
Her father served five years in the U.S. Army, including a year deployed in Afghanistan. Maren credits his service with helping her understand the sacrifices made by members of the military and their families.
“The heroic actions of those that have and continue to pay for America’s freedom made me think, ‘What can I do for America?’” Maren wrote in her essay.
For Maren, that question has led to action. She shares her appreciation for service members by writing cards each Veterans Day, offering messages of encouragement and thanks to those who have served and those who are currently serving.
Her English teacher, Vidula Plante, says Maren’s essay stood out for its strong writing and thoughtful message.
“I am very proud of my students for thoughtfully considering their role in our country’s democracy,” Plante said. ‘They explored how civic pride, gratitude, and democratic engagement can be expressed beyond military service."
Plante also recognized the efforts of all nine students who participated in the contest: Bella Arnold, Harry Larabell, Eva Ollington, Amelie Munroe, Georgia Kordonis, Maren Beltramini, Lucia Ochs, Candace Stremple, and Ciara O'Rourke.
The essay contest has been offered to students since 2006 and allows students to connect with local veterans across the community.
District 10 VFW Commander Kim Emerling will visit Manchester Essex to present Maren with her regional award later this month. Maren and her family will also attend an awards banquet on Jan. 25 in Sturbridge, celebrating essay submissions from across Massachusetts. During the banquet, students around the state will be awarded scholarship funding for their essays.
As Maren’s essay moves onto the state level, her words serve as a reminder that sometimes the most powerful expressions come from simply asking how to make a difference.
