HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Commander Bart Rodgers of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Garrett-Owenby Post 7807, and Committee Chairman – Junior Vice Commander Mike Cosgro hosted a second annual awards banquet to honor students, teachers, and public servants, consisting of law enforcement, firefighters, and paramedics that serve the community of Towns County. The banquet was held Monday, Jan. 14.

VFW Quartermaster Brandy Creel presents an award

Each year, the VFW has recognized exceptional performance for outstanding commitment to education and public service. Also recognized are high school students who participated in the VFW’s essay contests known as Voice of Democracy, and Patriot’s Pen for middle school students.

Teachers of all grades could be nominated by fellow teachers, students, supervisors or other interested individuals. Teachers who promote civic responsibility, flag etiquette, and patriotism, striving to help students develop a better understanding of democratic values and beliefs, are prime candidates for the award. This year’s winner was John Butler of Towns County Elementary School.

Nominated law enforcement candidates included Georgia State Patrol Trooper Scott Stanley, Hiawassee Police Department Detective Brandon Barrett, and Towns County Sheriff Chris Clinton.

Towns County High School participants in the Voice of Democracy essay contest included Braxton Barrett, Cade Poston, Mai Lim, Kayla Peacock, Lindsey Giles, Bazya Smith, Emily Vargas, Hunter Quinton, along with third place winner Riley Livingston, second place winner Alison Markham, and first place winner Austin Fairless.

The winner of the Patriot’s Pen essay contest was Jayden Taylor of Towns County Middle School.

Attendees included Towns County Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw, Towns County School Superintendent Darren Berrong, Hiawassee Mayor Liz Ordiales, and Chief Paul Smith of the Hiawassee Police Department.

VFW Post 7807 extends gratitude and appreciation to the VFW Auxilary who provided and served a delightful lasagna and spaghetti dinner.