The ten semi-finalists in the 70th annual Voice of Democracy Scholarship competition at Litchfield High School were announced on Friday.

They are Damon Burdell, Keighlee Cox, Cole Eichelberger, Carlee Ernst, Ellen Fleming, Alexander Jackson, Devan Morgan, Jordan Morgan, Grace Thrasher, and Clayton Walch.

The Voice of Democracy Scholarship Competition is a national audio and essay contest that is sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars and Auxiliary. The title of this year's theme is, American History: Our hope for the future. These essays were selected from 40 essays entered by the high school. The 10 semi-finalists will record their essays and submit their recordings for judging. All students freshman through seniors in high school were eligible to participate.

On the local level, the first place winner will receive $500 and a gold V.O.D. Medal, and his or her CD will advance to the 12th district judging. Second place winner will receive $200 and a silver V.O.D. Medal. Third place will receive $100 and a bronze V.O.D. Medal.

All semi-finalists will be awarded a certificate of merit, and be honored at an awards banquet on December 2, at the Litchfield VFW Hall.