JEFFERSON CITY, MO — Today, Missouri Lieutenant Governor David Wasinger officially announced the student winners of the “Lieutenant Governor’s Award for American Patriotism.” Launched earlier this year to celebrate the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States, the contest invited K-12 students from across the state to reflect on their love of country and the principles of liberty that define the American experience. Out of hundreds of submissions from every corner of Missouri, students were selected for their exceptional reflections on the prompts: “I am proud to be an American because…” or “I love America because…” “Reading these letters has been a reminder that the spirit of 1776 is alive and well in the hearts of Missouri’s youth,” said Lieutenant Governor David Wasinger. “At a time when our history is often underappreciated, these students have shown a deep understanding of the blessings of freedom and the sacrifices made by our founders. I am incredibly proud of these young patriots and honored to recognize their voices as we approach our nation’s Semiquincentennial.”