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A Thompson Falls student's essay has been recognized at the national level. Marley Neesvig, who is entering the seventh grade at Thompson Falls Junior High wrote an essay for the Clark Fork Valley Elks Lodge's Americanism Essay contest. The topic for the contest for the 2020-2021 school year was "How can patriotism be demonstrated?"

Neesvig's essay was chosen a winner at the local level, moving on to the state competition. The essay was then chosen as one of the top three in the state for fifth and sixth graders. At the national level, Neesvig's essay was chosen as the third-place winner.

Clark Fork Valley Elks member Doug Padden, a junior high teacher in Thompson Falls, has been administering the contest locally for about six years. He believes this is the most recognition a local essay has received. "On a scale of 1 to 10, I'm in the 30s," Padden said of his excitement for Neesvig. "That was an amazing essay." He noted that she had a lot of detail in her writing, and that thousands of kids from across the country enter the competition each year.

Neesvig received a $100 check from the local lodge, and a plaque from the national competition. Her essay follows.

" How can Patriotism be Demonstrated?"

by Marley Neesvig, Thompson Falls Elementary

How can patriotism be demonstrated? Patriotism, according to the Webster Dictionary, is "love for or devotion to one's country." Patriotism can be demonstrated in multiple ways. Showing love and devotion for America doesn't require a holiday, such as the Fourth of July. Though many do not realize it, patriotism was recently shown in November when record-breaking counts of Americans exercised their right to vote in the 2020 U.S. election.

The votes casted showed support for the American government. Just as important is showing support for American veterans and the military, who have committed so much of themselves to support our freedoms. Patriotism can be donating and contributing to organizations that support our military. This includes monetary contributions or volunteering your services or time. Building relationships with veterans or current service men and women is another great way to thank them for everything they have done, or are currently doing to help us and our country.

I believe some of the simplest actions speak the loudest. Flying the American flag, visiting a national park or monument, buying American made goods, and learning American history are a few more examples of basic demonstrations that show deep patriotic honor. Understanding who America is and how we became what we are might be the most important way to demonstrate patriotism.

The Fourth of July, arguably the most entertaining demonstration, celebrates the independence of American rule by the British. Over 230,000 patriots fought in the Revolutionary War. Roughly 6,800 patriots died, 6,100 were wounded, and 20,000 were taken prisoner while protecting the Declaration of Independence signed in 1776.

Patriots, the first American soldiers and those who serve today, deserve appreciation. I am proud of the things I do that demonstrate patriotism for America.