The Jefferson American Legion Post #11 recently announced its essay contest winners.

Fifth graders at Greene County Middle School wrote essays about “What the US Flag Means to Me” and Flag Essay Chair Barb Labate says the purpose of the essay contest is to develop a better understanding and appreciation of the US flag. The first place recipient was Brynlee Winkelman, second place went to Anna Eischeid and third place was Aidan Deal.

Labate says there were 94 essays and she could tell the students definitely had more knowledge about the flag and a deeper appreciation for it. Fifth grade teacher Kim Braun oversaw the contest. First place was $30, second place was $20 and third place was $10.