In an age of 50-inch, high-def plasma screens, the irony is that kids today sometimes have a tough time seeing the big picture.

What are the events and sacrifices that shaped the past century? Wars, certainly, but do they even teach much about them in high school?

One of the goals of an essay contest sponsored by Veerans of Foreign Wars Post 914 in West Mifflin asked high school seniors to consider the impact of veterans on their lives today.

"Many of us take for granted our freedom and we do not understand how many people died for us to get our freedom," wrote Kyle Axelson, top winner of the annual Walter R. Kuczma scholarship.

Kyle was awarded $300 for his short essay.

The students' words are especially worthy to note as we celebrate Independence Day tomorrow.

Two other recent graduates of West Mifflin Area High School -- Sarah Mauer and Benny Vann -- won $200 and $100 for their entries.

Seniors at the high school related to a veteran of foreign war were eligible for the contest.

Kyle's entry began with a quote from Calvin Coolidge: "Patriotism is easy to understand in America; it means looking out for yourself by looking out for your country."

The former president also said -- and this is not in the essay -- that "the business of America is business."

Appropriate in this case, as Kyle intends to study business management and accounting at Penn State McKeesport.

"The students who participate in this contest learn about democracy and the way of the American people," said Mr. Kuczma, founder of the "Intrepid" VFW post.

Second-place winner Sarah said she intends to study international business at the University of Pittsburgh.

In her entry, she reflects upon "an utmost reverence" she holds for veterans.

"I think to myself, 'I am just meeting this person now, but they have already put their life at risk for me ...'

"It is especially an honor for me to have a Veteran as my father. Not only has he provided for me throughout my entire life, but he has also ensured that I have been able to live in a country with so many opportunities available."

Benny has been a member of the school's Air Force junior ROTC and will attend the Kiski School next year on a Naval Academy Foundation grant.

He seeks an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis the following year.

The guidance department at West Mifflin High School provides numerous scholarship opportunities, he said, but this one stood out.

Contest winners were recognized at the school's senior awards ceremony May 23.