Dixon-Conderman VFW Post 2514 proudly upholds one of our core missions through our Americanism program: fostering patriotism, promoting unwavering love of country, and preserving the rich history and values that define America.
As defined by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Americanism embodies
"an unfailing love of country, loyalty to its institutions and ideas; eagerness to defend it against all enemies; undivided allegiance to the flag; and a desire to secure the blessings of liberty to posterity."
Our Post actively brings this to life in our community through education, ceremonies, youth engagement, and ongoing support for veterans and patriotic causes.
Key Ways We Promote Americanism at Post 2514
- Flag Retirement Ceremonies
We host dignified flag retirement ceremonies to honorably retire unserviceable U.S. flags that have become worn, torn, or faded. These solemn events follow proper protocol—often involving respectful burning—to ensure the flag is disposed of with the reverence it deserves, reflecting gratitude for the nation it represents and the sacrifices made under it.
- Voice of Democracy and Patriot's Pen Scholarship Programs
We enthusiastically sponsor and promote these national VFW youth contests, encouraging local students to explore patriotic themes and express their views on democracy, citizenship, and American values.
- Voice of Democracy: An audio-essay competition for high school students (grades 9-12), where participants record essays on an annual patriotic theme. Winners advance through local, district, and state levels, with national awards topping out at a $35,000 scholarship.
- Patriot's Pen: An essay contest for middle school students (grades 6-8), challenging them to write 300-400 word pieces on a yearly theme. Participants compete for local recognition and national prizes, including a top award of $5,000.
These programs invest in our youth, helping them reflect on America's history, principles, and their role in supporting our country.
- Missing Man Table Ceremony on POW/MIA Recognition Day
Each year on POW/MIA Recognition Day (the third Friday in September), we conduct the powerful Missing Man Table Ceremony. This symbolic table setting honors our Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action, reminding our community of their sacrifices and ensuring their stories and service are never forgotten.
- Continuous Community Support
We provide ongoing backing for key local veteran and patriotic initiatives, including:
- Veterans Stand Down – Assisting with events that deliver essential resources, services, and camaraderie to veterans in need.
- Veterans Wing of Religious Community Services – Supporting this dedicated space that offers housing, meals, and holistic care for homeless or at-risk veterans.
- Wreaths Across America – Participating in the annual wreath-laying ceremony at veterans' cemeteries to honor and remember those who served, while teaching younger generations about sacrifice and remembrance.
- Public Servant Award Program – Nominating and recognizing exceptional first responders in our community, such as law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, and dispatchers, through the national VFW Public Servant Awards for their dedication, integrity, and service above and beyond in protecting public safety.
- Teacher of the Year (Smart/Maher National Citizenship Education Teacher Award) – Nominating and supporting outstanding K-12 educators who excel in teaching citizenship, patriotism, flag etiquette, and civic responsibility, helping instill American values in the next generation through the VFW's annual Teacher of the Year program.
- Scout of the Year Program – Nominating and recognizing exceptional Scouts (Eagle Scouts, Girl Scout Gold Award recipients, Venturing Summit Award recipients, or Sea Scout Quartermasters) who demonstrate outstanding citizenship, patriotism, and community service in school, scouting, and beyond, through the national VFW Scout of the Year program that highlights youth embodying American values with scholarships and awards.
Through these efforts and more, Dixon-Conderman VFW Post 2514 works year-round to instill respect for our flag, educate on American heritage, engage our youth in patriotic expression, and keep the spirit of service alive in New Bern and beyond. We welcome members, families, and the community to join us in these meaningful activities—contact the Post for details on upcoming ceremonies, youth contest participation, or ways to get involved.
