SUSSEX COUNTY, N.J. — Sussex County officials are inviting middle school students to participate in the 2026 “Design a Pin Contest” for the county’s annual Military Veterans Salute event.
The contest is sponsored by the Sussex County Board of Commissioners, the Department of Health and Human Services Division of Senior Services and the Sussex County Veterans Committee.
Each year, the county distributes commemorative patriotic pins to veterans attending the Sussex County Military Veterans Salute at the Sussex County Fairgrounds in November. The winning student design will be turned into the official pin for the 2026 event.
Officials said students in grades 6 through 8, including homeschooled students, are encouraged to submit hand-drawn designs expressing appreciation and support for military veterans.
The design must include the words “Sussex County” and the year “2026.” Computer-generated images will not be accepted.
Contest entries must be submitted by June 19 to the Sussex County Division of Senior Services at One Spring St. in Newton.
Submissions must include the student’s name, address, phone number, grade level and school information, along with a school point of contact.
Officials said entries will be judged by members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion, and student and school identities will not be shared with judges to ensure fairness.
The contest winner will receive a $200 prize and will be invited to attend the Sussex County Salute to Military Veterans parade scheduled for Nov. 1 at the Sussex County Fairgrounds in Frankford Township.
County officials said the annual event honors the sacrifices and contributions of military veterans from Sussex County.
Additional information is available through the Sussex County Division of Senior Services at 973-579-0555, ext. 1226, or by email at seniorservices@sussex.nj.us.
