In celebration of the Army’s 250th birthday, the Association of the U.S. Army is proud to launch a writing and artwork contest.

The “Army Birthday Writing & Artwork Contest” celebrates America’s Army as it marks its 250th birthday on June 14. This nationwide contest, open to students from kindergarten through college, invites participants to reflect on their connection to the Army.

“This contest is a meaningful way to celebrate the Army’s 250th birthday by connecting students and young adults to the Army’s legacy,” said retired Command Sgt. Maj. Kevin Engler, deputy director of outreach and programs in AUSA’s Education and Programs directorate. “Through creative storytelling and traditional artwork, participants honor the values of service, sacrifice and leadership, while offering a personal lens into the Army’s continuing impact on their lives and communities.”

AUSA is accepting submissions April 22 through Aug. 8. Winners will be announced by Oct. 1.

Participants are asked to submit a 150-word message and a piece of traditional, nondigital artwork that reflects their connection to the U.S. Army.

Submissions must align with the theme “My Army, My Story,” and they may explore topics such as service, sacrifice, leadership, patriotism, resilience and the Army’s role in shaping history and the future.

Accepted forms of artwork include drawings (pencil, charcoal or ink), paintings (watercolor, oil or acrylic) and mixed media (collages or prints).

Students from kindergarten through college are invited to participate. Submissions will be evaluated in six age groups to ensure fairness.

Submissions must include the entrant’s full name, grade level and phone number or email address.

They can be sent by email to education@ausa.org.

Winning entries will be recognized during AUSA’s Annual Meeting and Exposition in Washington, D.C., in October. They also will be featured on AUSA’s website, social media platforms and publications, and included in a special Army birthday “Army Matters” podcast.

For more information, click here.