Several students, teachers and public servants were honored last week at a banquet organized by VFW Post 5886 in Smithfield.
The VFW has a national program called the VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Award, which honors local educators who promote civic responsibility, flag etiquette and patriotism. The local VFW honored Selma Elementary School teacher Lanetta Lockheart, Four Oaks Middle teacher Ida Robbins and Cleveland High teacher Carol Redfield with the Award.
The VFW recently held an essay contest for middle school students called “Patriots Pen” and for high school students called “Voice of Democracy” which encourages students to write an essay on a given topic. This year’s topic was “What Makes America Great”. Four Oaks Middle School student Alex Chavez was selected as the winner of the middle school contest and was awarded a certificate and $250. Cleveland High School student Jeremy Luz was selected as the winner of the high school contest and was awarded a certificate and $500.
All of these programs have the potential of moving forward to district, state and national level competitions where they may receive more accolades. Mrs. Robbins and Mrs. Redfield were selected as winners at the district level and will be honored this January before moving on to the state level competition.
The VFW also recognized local public servants. EMT Paramedic Daniel Selph with the Johnston County Emergency Services was presented a “VFW Public Servant Award Citation and Plaque” for his service in the community.
Sheriff Steve Bizzell nominated Deputy Brittany Smith for her community service and she was also presented a “VFW Public Servant Award Citation and Plaque” for her exceptional service.
