State Fair seeks nominations for farmers who are military veterans |
|
DOSWELL—The State Fair of Virginia and Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co. are proud to sponsor the Virginia Veteran Farmer Recognition Award—celebrating the resilience, service and agricultural impact of Virginia veterans. The second annual award honors the invaluable contributions of veterans who have transitioned into farming or paused and returned to farming after serving in the military. “This contest seeks to celebrate veterans’ resilience, dedication and the unique perspectives they bring to agriculture,” explained Marlene Jolliffe, State Fair executive director. “The State Fair of Virginia Veteran Farmer Recognition Award is an opportunity to honor the stories of veterans who have found purpose and fulfillment in farming. By sharing their experiences, we can inspire others and foster a greater understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by those who have served our country.” Nominations can be made by family, friends and community members, or veterans can nominate themselves. Nomination questions will reflect on the experiences of veterans who have embraced farming as a second career or who paused their farming to serve in the military and then returned to it. Essays should focus on challenges faced during the transition from military to civilian life; the lessons learned through farming; and the impact of agriculture on their personal and community well-being. The contest is open to all Virginia veterans who are currently engaged in farming. Nomination forms can be found here. The deadline to nominate a veteran farmer is Sept. 1. One winner will be selected and recognized on Thursday, Oct. 1, at a special ceremony held during the State Fair. Veteran support organizations are invited to promote the ceremony’s services in the main stage entertainment tent from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Tables will not be provided. Accommodations include a parking pass and admission for two. There is no fee to participate. To commit, email kcox@meadoweventpark.com by Sept. 1. Click here to read more about last year’s honorees. The 2026 State Fair of Virginia will run from Sept. 25 through Oct. 4. Information is available at StateFairVa.org. The State Fair is held each fall at The Meadow Event Park in Caroline County and attracts over 200,000 fairgoers. The event celebrates the best of Virginia’s past, present and future through scholarship initiatives, creative programming and a focus on the commonwealth’s agriculture and natural resources industries. Contact Marlene Jolliffe, State Fair executive director, at 804-994-2802. |