Grand-Prize winner, a 15 year old Jacob Walters from Peosta, Iowa:

What does a free and strong America mean to me?

It means I have the right to follow my dreams, to strive for success, to be innovative, to do as I, the individual sees fit. A free America is a place where you are free to think as you please. A country that thrives, not because of the government, but because of the people. A place where everyone can aspire to succeed, any goal can be accomplished; all you must do is try.

It’s a place where no one is treated different because of religion, race or gender. The promise of freedom is what called our ancestors to endure many hardships and make a new life together. They all came together, and by embracing their differences, they grew stronger. That’s what a free America means

to me; a place where we all have an equal chance of success.

What does a strong America mean to me?

It’s a place that is unified, that stands ready to defend its freedom, and to help those without it, get it. An America that doesn’t tolerate oppression. A nation that has self discipline, responsibility and appreciation for those who died to defend it. Strength that we use to defend our belief in individual freedom.

To me, a free and strong America is a land of opportunity were you can chase your dreams, and where we have a chance to make them come true.