Looking for a little extra cash? This year marks the 70^th anniversary of WWII, and the National WWll Museum is hosting a “How do you define a hero?” essay contest with some intriguing prizes. High-school students applying could potentially win $1,000 for first place, $750 for second place or $500 for third place. Middle-school participants are welcome as well. There will be a winner in both seventh- and eighth-grade who will receive $250. The winning essays will be posted on the museum’s website along with honorable mentions.

Eighth-grader Hannah K., avid admirer of American history, has already started to write.

“I find myself fascinated with American history along with wars, and since it’s the 70^th anniversary of WWll, there’s not a better time to participate [in the contest],” she said. “I also think the prompt is pretty neat, allowing me to express my opinion.”

The submission deadline is March 31, and the museum is only accepting the first 500 applicants. Students interested in entering should also note that the essay has to be 1,000 words or less in length. Submissions can be uploaded with no entry fee through nationalww2museum.org and students must only apply once.

By Kathryn Etherton

Editor’s note: Brevard Public Schools policy prohibits the inclusion of middle-schoolers’ last names on district web sites.