“Are You Proud of Your Country?”

Just ask the students of Perdido Elementary/Middle School, and they will tell you that they are indeed “Proud of Their Country.” Commander Billy Gates and Danny Nall from Atmore’s VFW Post 7016 recently recognized this year’s winners in the Patriots’ Pen Essay contest. Students from Perdido Middle School took the top three places, finishing, first, second and third for the local Post. This year’s topic was “Are You Proud of Your Country?” Students wrote their essays based on this topic in early October. Students shared their opinions as well as the feelings of local Veterans in their winning essays. Most of the students have parents and grandparents who have served in the military, so they know first hand of the sacrifices that our military makes on a daily basis.

Winners from Post 7016 were: 1st place – Evan Williams

2nd place – Ashley Presley

3rd place – Tori Clark

Evan Williams received an additional recognition for placing third in the District’s VFW and Ladies Auxiliary.

Also being recognized was Perdido teacher, Ms. Gerri McDonald, for instilling a sense of pride and patriotism in the students at Perdido Elementary/Middle School.

Pictured from left to right: Mr. Danny Nall, Tori Clark, Evan Williams, Ashley Presley, Commander Billy Gates

Pictured: Commander Billy Gates, presenting Ms. Gerri McDonald with her certificate of recognition.