Amanda Browning wins second place in Fleet Reserve Association’s essay contest
MADISON – Patriotism is the base of being an American and supporting the United States of America, especially for the veterans of the military who took to keeping the citizens and patriotism safe and secure. Recent Madison Academy graduate Amanda Browning is a true patriot and exhibited that part of her personality by winning second place in the Fleet Reserve Association 2024-2025 Americanism Essay Contest among high school seniors.
“I’m incredibly honored to have won the award and the experience of writing my essay deepened my appreciation of veterans and recognizing their service to our country,” said Browning, as the 18year old readies herself to attend Samford University to study health sciences and one day hoping to be a doctor in occupational therapy. The Fleet Reserve Association Branch 112, the only branch in Alabama, is part of the national veteran’s charity organization of Navy, Marine and Coast Guard and joins in with the national organization for the annual Americanism Essay Contest opened to students in grades seven through 12. Participation is free with cash awards presented to each of the top three essay winners in each grades. First place pays $150, second is $100 with third earning $50. The Alabama first-place winners are automatically entered into the Regional competition with Regional winners advancing to the Nationals where each winner is awarded $1,500.
Each year a different topic is presented to the essay writers. The most recent was “What Memorial Day Means To Me.”
Browning, the daughter of David and Kourtni Browning, carried a 4.0 grade point average away from Madison Academy where she was named to the President’s Student of Distinction and President’s Volunteer Service Award all four of her high school years. Browning was her senior class President, was awarded the Congressional Service Award and Girl Scout Gold Award. For the last five years, she has played for the United Volleyball Club Team. “I feel grateful for this award and I look forward to keep using my voice to express my appreciation for veterans in our community,” added Browning.
Students in schools, church schools and home-schooled are eligible to compete in the contest. Next year’s topic will be “America at 250 years, What It Means To Me.” Essay details and how to enter can be obtained by contacting Fleet Reserve Association Public Relations Director Michael Kenny via e-mail at mjkbubba@ att.net.
