LeRoy W. Homer Jr. Memorial Award student essay contest now open for 2026-2027 school year

The LeRoy W. Homer Jr. Memorial Award Essay Contest is now open for the 2026-2027 school year! The contest is once again sponsored by the Evesham Township Disabilities and Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee.

Those eligible to submit for the contest include 8th grade students at DeMasi Middle School, Marlton Middle School, St. Joan of Arc School, as well as senior students at Cherokee High School.

One winner will be selected from each school. Winners will receive a $250 cash prize. 

This award is named in honor of LeRoy W. Homer Jr., a citizen of Evesham township and a veteran of our armed forces who lost his life in the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.

LeRoy W. Homer Jr. was the first officer on United Airlines Flight 93, which was hijacked by terrorists on that fateful day. Along with the other crew members and passengers, he bravely fought back against the hijackers, saving countless lives by preventing the aircraft from reaching the intended target in Washington, D.C.

The theme of this year’s contest is “Service Before Self"

Entrants should first answer this question. Why is service to others important in a community and country? Considering the qualities that made LeRoy W. Homer Jr. a hero, essays should also explain how they personally have shown selflessness, an unyielding commitment to the well-being of others, and personal excellence.

Click here for the full application and contest rules.

Submissions are due by 4 p.m., Friday, October 23, 2026. Submissions can be emailed to Karen Maratea at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.