The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is sponsoring an essay contest for Father’s Day, in honor of the valiant men who raised families while serving their country.

A post on the VA blog said: “We want to hear from wives, mothers, and children, about why you’re proud of your Veteran. Tell us about his service; stories of deployments; his fondest military memory; lessons you have learned; or perhaps you just want to write your Veteran a “thank you” letter—it’s up to you!”

Interested participants only need to write an essay, and send it in along with a photograph of the writer with their Veteran, or a family photo. Entries will need to include the Veteran’s name, branch of service, dates and location of their service, and what they are doing now, and these need to be sent to newmedia@va.gov by Monday, June  4, 2012.

Chosen essays will be featured on the front page of the VA blog.