TVC Congratulates the Winners of the First Annual "Honoring America's Veteran Entrepreneurs" Essay Contest

The Veterans Corporation, in partnership with Military.com and the Veterans Business Journal, are pleased to announce the winners of the 2007 "Honoring America's Veteran Entrepreneurs" Youth Essay Contest, part of Entrepreneurship Week 2007. Entrepreneurship Week 2007 is sponsored by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, Inc.com, and The New York Times.

Students nationwide submitted thoughtful essays nominating parents and grandparents to be chosen as "Veteran Entrepreneur of the Year". The first place winners from both age groups will receive a trip to Washington D.C., where they will receive their awards at a formal reception on March 1, 2007, honoring public and private sector leaders in advancing the cause of Veteran entrepreneurship. Both first place winners will also receive a $500 United States Savings Bond to be used toward their education.

The first place essay for ages 16-18, submitted by Brittany Anne Clair of Pennsylvania, provides an inspiring look at her father, James A. Clair, a former United States Marine and current business owner who joined the Army National Guard at the age of 40 to make a positive impact on the Guard and on his country.

Carleen Sierra Nieman of Indiana earned first place for ages 12-15 for her essay nominating her father, Timothy Carl Nieman, a disabled Veteran who followed his dreams of entrepreneurship while supporting his country in the Indiana Guard Reserve.

In addition, ten Honorable Mention awards were handed out to students from across the country. Honorable Mention awardees will receive a $50 United States Savings Bond to be used toward their education.

In the 2007 "Honoring America's Veteran Entrepreneurs" Essay Contest, students, ages 12-18, were asked to write an original essay about why their parent or grandparent should be recognized as America's First Veteran Entrepreneur of the Year.

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