(Litchfield)--The Litchfield VFW and its Ladies Auxiliary announced the three finalists in this years Patriots Pen essay contest. They include: Madeline Ellis, Ellen Flemming, and Hannah Niemann.

The finalists were selected from a field of fifty students from the 5th thru 8th grade at Litchfield Middle School. The three finalists and their parents will be honored at a banquet on December 7th.

The first place winner will receive a 150 dollar savings bond and a gold medal; the second place winner will receive a 100 dollar savings bond and a silver medal; and the third place winner will receive a 50 dollar savings bond and a bronze medal.