It was a special occasion Dec. 14 as Peachtree City VFW Post 9949 members, their wives and guests announced the winners of the 2007 Patriot’s Pen Contest awards banquet. Middle school students penned an essay entitled “Why I am an American patriot,” while high school students completed a written and video presentation entitled “My role in honoring America’s veterans.” The winners are (l-r): Taylor Smith, Rising Star Middle, first place tie; Elyssa Clayton, Bennett’s Mill Middle, first place tie; Holly Gibbs, Booth Middle, third place tie; Gregory Pemu, Booth Middle, third place tie; Meghan O’Donnell, Starr’s Mill High, first place; and Tosin Ajayi, Our Lady of Mercy, second place. Photo/Ben Nelms.