Schmitt-Manecke Donner VFW Post 1638 and Auxiliary of Merrill recognized the winner of the Voice of Democracy essay contest. The theme for the essays was “Is there pride in serving in our military?” Shown with winners from left are, State Commander Larry Kutschma, VOD Chair Tracey Jopek, 3rd place winner Brandi Ellenbeck a Junior at MHS, 1st place winner Joshua Weix a Senior who is Home Schooled, Post Commander Michele Rathke, 2nd place winner Mackenzie Baacke a Senior at MHS, VOD Chair Russ Iwen, and Ladies Auxiliary President Toni Smith.