Student entries must meet the criteria of the award to be eligible. On the day of the district competition students can self-nominate entries for special awards judges to review. Regular district judges will also be watching for, and nominating, entries for these awards

The George Washington Leadership Prize

George Washington stood at the center of the world stage through the second half of the 18th century and has continued to do so since his death in 1799. He played a pivotal role in every major event surrounding the founding of our nation in his roles as Commander in Chief, president at the Constitutional Convention, citizen farmer, and the President of the United States of America. His actions have been examples of civic responsibility, patriotism, and historic complexity over time and remain relevant in national dialogue today. 

Presented by the Washington Library at George Washington’s Mount Vernon, this $250 prize will be awarded to outstanding projects in both the Junior and Senior categories that demonstrate a clear understanding of the ideas and events defined by Washington’s life, leadership, and legacy. In addition to outstanding historical interpretation, we award special consideration to projects that seek innovative and compelling ways to tell the story of George Washington so that his timeless and relevant life are accessible to the world. 

The National Museum of the Marine Corps Award

The National Museum of the Marine Corps in partnership with the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation will present an award judged to be the best entry with a history of the Marine Corps subject within the guidelines of this year’s theme of “Turning Points in History." The award will consist of a check for $1000 to an individual winner, or divided equally between students of a winning group entry. In a rare case in which there are co-winning entries, the award will also be divided.

Students are encouraged to research a topic that involves the United States Marine Corps in turning points in American History . Just a few topics which reflect the theme, "Turning Points in History", include... the Continental Marines' involvement in the American Revolution, the Marine Corps' contributions in WWI, and the Battle of Midway as well as many other battles on the Pacific Front in WWII. For more information on the National Museum of the Marine Corps Award, please contact the Teacher in Residence at teacher@marineheritage.org.

Virginia Sons of the American Revolution VA History Day Medals

Representatives from local chapters of the Virginia Sons of the American Revolution (VASSAR) will present a new VA History Day/VASSAR medal and certificates for noteworthy projects which cover the Revolutionary War time period (1750 - 1800) within any category of both the Junior and Senior Divisions. This new award reflects the dedicated support that VASSAR has had with VA History Day over many years. 

Army Historical Foundation Award

The Army Historical Foundation, the official Foundation of the National Museum of the United States Army, responsible for fundraising, memberships, and attractions management. The Foundation was established in 1983 as a member-based, charitable 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our mission and vision are rooted in over five decades of experience in the Army history community. 

The Army Historical Foundation is honored to present an award judged to be the best entry (junior or senior level) with the history of the United States Army as its focus within any category in the Senior Division. Areas of consideration are the French and Indian War, the American Revolution, and WWII 80th Anniversary of D-Day in 2024. The award will consist of a life membership of the prestigious 1814 Society valued at $1,000.

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