MACHESNEY PARK, Ill. (WTVO) — A local veterans group has launched the 'Stars and Stripes Poetry Competition' at Harlem High School, inviting students to submit poems about the U.S. flag for a chance to win a $500 prize.

This is the first year for the competition, which aims to inspire high school students to learn more about the country through poetry. The competition is named in honor of Buzz Bloomster, a local veteran who passed away a few years ago and left funds to support the prize.

"To honor someone who's gone - it's a legacy. And to pass something down is a legacy. And where else do you start, but in the schools? It's a great opportunity for other kids, who don't have an opportunity in their homes, to see what veterans do," said Todd Burd, a volunteer for the LZ Peace Memorial.

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