Youth essay contest honors U.S. veterans

Memorial Day at the end of May is a time for the U.S. to come together and remember those who died to protect our country, as well as honor surviving veterans.

During the month of April, Lodi Funeral Home is hosting its annual youth essay contest titled “The True Meaning of Memorial Day.” The winning essays will be shared as the funeral home marks Memorial Day on May 29.

The contest, open to all San Joaquin County middle and high school students, was established to give county youths the chance to learn more about the service and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans.

“The contest inspires area youths to remember those who protect our country by serving in the military,” said Christine Taylor, mortuary manager for Lodi Funeral Home.

Winners of the contest will receive a cash prize — $500 each for first-place essays in the middle and high school categories, $200 to first runners up, and $100 to second runners up, the funeral home said.

Essay submissions will be accepted until April 30 from students enrolled in San Joaquin County area middle and high schools as well as private, charter and home schools.

The winning essays will be announced during the Memorial Day Patriotic Remembrance ceremony at 9 a.m. May 29 at Lodi Memorial Park, 5750 E. Pine St., Lodi.

“Lodi Funeral Home is committed to showing dedication and appreciation to veterans and members of the military,” Taylor said.