Educational Outreach Program Veterans Appreciation Challenge seeking student entries

11/6/2023

The Army Educational Outreach Program (AEOP) Veterans Appreciation Challenge asks U.S. students in grades 4-12 to create a digital 3D model of a wearable pin to be 3D printed and distributed to U.S. veterans at the National Veterans Memorial Museum in Columbus. The pin should be original and designed to show appreciation or gratitude for veterans of any U.S. military service branch. 
To enter, please submit the following by Dec. 15:

• STL file of a 3D model (maximum 20 megabytes);
• Image of the design (digital image of the 3D model or a photo of a 3D print);
• Text description of the entry (maximum 150 words).

Entries will be judged by U.S. service members, veterans and volunteers for two grade-level categories (4-8 and 9-12).

The finalists will be announced March 7, 2024. The top 10 finalists in each grade-level category (20 finalists total) will get their designs 3D printed, glued to pin backs (if necessary) and presented to veterans who visit the museum. Finalists also will each receive five prints of their design and a $100 gift card toward a professional 3D print.

On April 3, 2024, the challenge will announce two grand prize winners who will win a trip for two to Columbus to attend a special event on Memorial Day at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum. Each winner also will receive a 3D printer donated to the school, library or organization of their choice.

For all entry requirements, please refer to the rules. View AEOP’s webpage with education resources to learn more about Veterans Day and 3D printing.