Hampton Bays High School junior Samantha Deleg earned an impressive fourth-place finish at the state level in the Veterans of Foreign Wars’ annual Voice of Democracy essay contest. Deleg advanced to the state competition after receiving local recognition from VFW Post 535, alongside fellow junior Samantha O’Neal and senior Vasyl Datsyuk.

For the contest, students composed original essays responding to this year’s theme, “How are you showing patriotism and support for our country?” Their thoughtful submissions highlighted personal perspectives on civic responsibility, service and national pride.

In her winning essay, Deleg wrote about her service as the first sergeant of the Civil Air Patrol. As a member of the patrol since the eighth grade, Deleg has shown patriotism through acts of community service, including welcoming home veterans at MacArthur Airport as part of the Honor Flights program. She has served in her patrol’s color guard, working her way up to become the American flag bearer during local parades. She also participates in Wreaths Across America and flag placements during the holidays. As a further display of her service and patriotism, Deleg is a member of the Southampton Town Police Explorers program. In school, she participates in the Photography and Striving for Wellness clubs, as well as the No Place for Hate program.

“I poured my heart into my essay,” said Deleg, who said she wrote it well into the night, when she does her best writing. “I am very proud of it and my service.”

Deleg said she has always known that service is a large part of who she is, and she plans to continue serving by studying pre-law in college. “I think I can help a lot of people in the future,” she said.

The Hampton Bays School District congratulates all three high schoolers on their recognitions.