Military Kids Essay Contest

We want to hear your unique story!

Your experiences as a Military Kid are valuable. Tell us about the challenges, triumphs and unique perspectives of growing up in a military family. Share with us what makes your journey special. Top 2 winners receive cool prizes!

• TOPIC: Your unique experience as a military child.
• WORD LIMIT/FORMAT: 500 words of less.  PDF or Word.
• SUBMIT: April 1 - 20, 2025.
• WINNERS ANNOUNCED: April 30, 2025.
• PRIZES: First Place: Nintendo Switch Lite.  Second Place: R2D2 Lego Set.
• ELIGIBILITY: Must have parent serving in or retired from the U.S. Military (active duty, national guard, reserves or retired). The writer of the essay must be a school-age child (currently K-12). Submission form must be completed and submitted by the PARENT or LEGAL GUARDIAN of the military child.

ADDITIONAL TERMS: If child's essay is selected as one of the winning entries, an MWR Staff Member will be reaching out for additional information and coordination for prize distribution. You must be willing and able to pick up the prize at the Defense Supply Center Columbus during the month of May 2025, if necessary. A photo of your child, either taken with your permission or submitted by you, will be used along with your child's first name to promote the Essay Contest on the official DSCC-MWR Facebook and Instagram pages. If your child's essay is selected as one of the winning entries, the essay may be shared on the official DSCC-MWR Facebook and Instagram pages. Essay must be reviewed by parent or legal guardian before submitting and free of personally identifiable (PII), sensitive or classified information included.